Despite the fact that Universal Orlando has managed to get up and running in the midst of dealing with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, the resort has begun to make some questionable changes to its daily operations. Word around the parks is that Universal Orlando plans to temporarily close select attractions at both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

The closures, which are scheduled to take effect starting August 9th, 2020, include the following;

Universal Studios Florida

  • A Day in the Park with Barney
  • Fast & Furious: Supercharged
  • Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
  • Fear Factor Live

Islands of Adventure

  • Poseidon’s Fury
  • Storm Force Accelatron

While the above attractions are not necessarily showstoppers for Universal Orlando, they do help provide an array of options for guests.

A Universal Orlando spokesperson was reported claiming ” As we continue to evaluate our offerings during this phase of our reopening, we’ve decided to focus on our marquee guest experiences.”

Universal is working to move employees who work at those attractions to other areas at the resort.

The key word here is “temporary.” However, a timeline for when the attractions would reopen was not given.

But, that is not the only change coming to Universal Orlando. Beginning as soon as August 2nd, 2020, Universal Studios Florida will be open from 9 AM to 5 PM each day. Islands of Adventure will be open from 10 AM to 6 PM. The parks had previously been operating from 9 AM to 6 PM. It is safe to assume that these updated operating hours are due to financials, which seem to be driving all theme park motivation these days.

Universal Orlando reopened its theme parks in early June 2020 with limited capacity. In addition, new safety measures were put in place, including mandatory face masks, temperature checks and social distancing protocols.

So, what are your thoughts on Universal Orlando's plans to temporarily close select attractions and decrease operating hours, eh? If Orlando-based theme parks are going to make a comeback, when do you expect this will take place?