Goodbye to E.T. And Jurassic Park: Universal Orlando Closing Opening Day Rides in 2026

Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure may be saying farewell to two opening day attractions in 2026 as they prepare for a lengthy overhaul that will either make or break the fanbase.

A large T. rex roars near the Jurassic Park area at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, with lush palm trees, round buildings, and the park’s red and yellow sign in the foreground at Islands of Adventure at Universal. — Credit: Inside The Magic

Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure To Say Farewell To Opening Day Attractions, Rumors Suggest

It’s the kind of chatter that sends theme park fans into a frenzy. Imagine walking into Universal Orlando, heading straight for a beloved classic, and discovering the attraction is suddenly closed for months—maybe even longer. That’s the reality some guests might face in the near future if new refurbishment rumors prove true.

Theme park refurbishments are nothing new, of course, but when the spotlight turns to iconic rides—ones tied deeply to childhood memories and franchise nostalgia—the conversation becomes electric. The whispers circulating online have fans both anxious and intrigued, especially given Universal’s track record of updating older attractions in bold ways.

So what exactly is going on with two of Universal Orlando’s most treasured rides, and what should fans expect if these rumors pan out? Let’s dig in.

A digitally edited image shows the alien E.T. and a boy standing in front of the iconic Universal Studios globe in a theme park. The background features Universal's amusement park structures, including the ABC Grill restaurant. The sky is clear with a few clouds. — Credit: Inside The Magic

What’s New: Rumors of “Mummy-Style” Refurbishments

According to a recent discussion on Inside Universal forums, user Jwhee shared that both Jurassic Park River Adventure and E.T. Adventure are “lined up” for extensive refurbishments in 2026.

“This [Jurassic Park River Adventure] and ET are lined up for major Mummy-style refurbs. Not sure which one is coming first though. I’ve heard our new [thing] for 2026 might be a stage show, but not totally confident in it.”

The phrase “Mummy-style refurb” is what raised eyebrows. Universal’s Revenge of the Mummy underwent a seven-month closure during its refurbishment, with major technical and show upgrades. If Jurassic Park River Adventure or E.T. Adventure face similar overhauls, fans could be looking at extended downtime.

For now, the only confirmed refurbishment is Jurassic Park River Adventure’s closure in January 2025. No E.T. refurbishment has been officially announced.

Elliot gazes at a vibrant movie poster featuring an E.T. the extraterrestrial with a glowing finger, set against a backdrop of a suburban neighborhood and a starlit sky. This image has become a classic Universal attraction. — Credit: Inside The Magic

How to Experience These Rides Before Any Closures

If these rumors become reality, you’ll want to experience both attractions while you still can. Here’s how:

Jurassic Park River Adventure: Best ridden in the morning when lines are shorter, or late afternoon after the crowds migrate to Hogsmeade. Be prepared to get soaked—ponchos help if you don’t want to walk around wet.
E.T. Adventure: Use the single rider line if available, and don’t forget to listen for your name at the end—one of the last personalized touches in a Universal attraction.
Mobile app hacks: Check ride wait times and closures in real time. Universal updates the app frequently, so you’ll know instantly if the ride is down for weather or technical reasons.

An aerial view of Islands of Adventure with the Jurassic Park River Adventure attraction to the right. — Credit: Inside The Magic

Hidden Hacks Only Frequent Visitors Know

Jurassic Park River Adventure: The splash zone viewing area offers a fun (and dry) way to watch boats drop—perfect for photos and TikTok videos.
E.T. Adventure: Ask team members about the ride’s original preshow film featuring Steven Spielberg—it’s not always available, but sometimes resurfaces for nostalgic fans.
Timing: Both attractions see lighter crowds during parades or special nighttime shows.

Guests ride Jurassic Park River Adventure — Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Why This Matters to Universal Fans

The idea of refurbishing rides like Jurassic Park River Adventure and E.T. Adventure isn’t just about upkeep—it’s about legacy. Both rides represent the golden era of Universal attractions, where storytelling, practical effects, and film nostalgia reigned supreme.

For some, E.T. Adventure is the last surviving piece of Universal Studios Florida’s opening-day lineup. For others, Jurassic Park River Adventure is a rite of passage, blending thrills with movie magic. Extended closures could leave emotional gaps for fans, while simultaneously sparking excitement about what updates might bring.

If history is any guide, a long refurbishment could mean modern effects, refreshed animatronics, and enhanced storytelling—changes that make classics feel both preserved and reborn.

A large rotating globe with the word "Universal" prominently displayed stands as the iconic entrance landmark for Universal Land. It is surrounded by lush greenery, mist, and white fences, with palm trees and park attractions visible in the background. — Credit: Aditya Vyas on Unsplash

The Bottom Line for Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure Guests

While nothing is confirmed beyond Jurassic Park River Adventure’s scheduled 2025 closure, the rumors for 2026 should be taken with caution. Theme park plans often shift, but if these refurbishments happen, fans may see Universal’s most beloved rides disappear for months at a time.

Until then, the best advice is simple: ride them while you can, soak up the nostalgia, and keep an eye out for official announcements.