A big storm is headed toward Florida. Hurricane Helene is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to Central Florida.
For those wanting to visit the theme parks, one of the top questions is whether the attractions and parks will close. Although Central Florida is not expected to be in the storm’s direct path, the parks are monitoring the weather and making adjustments to their operations.
Below is a list of attractions and theme parks that have announced closures or other operational changes or issued statements about the storm.
BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY
Busch Gardens will be closed Thursday (Sept. 26) due to the storm. The park released an update on social media:
“After reviewing the latest route of Hurricane Helene and to ensure the safety of our ambassadors, guests, and animals, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will be closed Thursday, Sept. 26. Guests are encouraged to check our website and follow our social media channels for updates on park reopening.”
Adventure Island water park will also be closed on Thursday.
Both the theme park and the water park are expected to reopen on Friday.
SEAWORLD ORLANDO
SeaWorld Orlando will close at 2 p.m. on Thursday due to the storm. The theme park is expected to reopen on Friday.
Aquatica Orlando and Discovery Cove are both closed on Thursday and expected to resume normal operations on Friday.
UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Volcano Bay, Universal’s water park, will be closed Thursday and is expected to reopen on Friday.
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida is canceled for Thursday. The after-hours event is expected to resume on Friday.
Universal Studios Florida will close at 5 p.m. on Thursday, while Islands of Adventure will close at 8 p.m. Universal CityWalk will close early at 8 p.m.
For the latest updates, visit Universal Orlando’s website.
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon will be closed on Thursday, according to the Disney World website. The water park is expected to reopen on Friday. Disney’s two miniature golf courses—Disney’s Fantasia Gardens and Winter Summerland—will also be closed Thursday.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for Thursday has been canceled. Magic Kingdom, which was scheduled to close at 6 p.m. for the event, will remain open until 8 p.m.
The rest of Disney World is expected to be open on Thursday as normal. The resort posted an update on its website saying it’s “closely monitoring the storm.”
“Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the storm as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members.”
For the latest updates, visit the Disney World website.
