What to Do if Bad Weather Disrupts Your Universal Orlando Trip?

October 6, 2024

Planning a vacation to Universal Orlando is exciting, but when Florida weather takes a turn—like with the recent Hurricane Helene and the incoming Hurricane Milton—you might be wondering, “What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule my trip?” Let’s break down Universal Orlando’s policies and what you can do to protect your plans.

Traveling from Out of State? Here’s What You Should Know

If you’re coming to Universal Orlando from out of state, their hurricane policy is pretty straightforward. Universal allows you to reschedule or cancel your vacation without any change or cancellation fees if a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center, or if a state of emergency is declared either in Orlando or where you live. But—and this is key—you need to make these changes within seven days of your scheduled arrival. This flexibility applies to Universal vacation packages, theme park tickets, and hotel-only accommodations as long as they were booked through Universal directly. Just keep in mind that any airline fees are separate and may still apply depending on your booking terms​.

If you booked your trip through a third-party service, you’ll need to check with them directly regarding their cancellation or refund policies. Every booking site has its own set of rules, so be sure to contact them sooner rather than later to avoid any surprises.

Staying at a Universal Resort? Here’s What to Expect

If you’ve opted to stay at one of Universal’s on-site hotels, rest assured that the same policy applies—no cancellation or modification fees as long as you booked directly through Universal Orlando. However, it’s important to note that if you made your reservation after a hurricane warning was issued, you may not be eligible for these fee waivers. This is a great reason to stay informed about upcoming weather alerts, especially during hurricane season​.

If you do need to reschedule, Universal will do their best to place you back in the same hotel for your new dates, but availability and rates aren’t guaranteed. So, the earlier you act, the better.

Staying Safe at Universal Orlando During Bad Weather

Florida’s weather can be unpredictable, and safety is a top priority when storms approach. Here are a few tips to ensure you stay safe at the parks:

• Check the Forecast: Always keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to your trip and while you’re there. This will give you a heads-up for any severe weather, so you can adjust plans accordingly.

• Prepare for Rain: Florida rain showers can be sudden. Bringing a poncho, umbrella, or quick-dry clothing will help you stay comfortable during brief downpours without cutting your fun short.

• Follow Staff Instructions: If a storm gets severe, Universal will take appropriate safety measures, including closing outdoor rides. Always listen to park announcements and follow staff instructions for safety procedures. Indoor attractions typically stay open, so there’s still plenty to enjoy even when it rains.

• Seek Shelter: In the event of dangerous weather conditions (such as lightning), seek shelter in one of the many covered areas throughout the parks. Universal has designated safe areas and will guide you if needed​.

  
  

Having Fun Despite the Weather

Don’t let a bit of rain or even a storm ruin your trip! Universal Orlando has plenty of ways to enjoy the park no matter what the weather is doing:

• Indoor Attractions: Most of Universal’s rides and shows are indoors, so even if outdoor rides are closed, you can still experience fan favorites like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Transformers: The Ride 3D, and The Simpsons Ride. Plus, the lines for indoor attractions often get shorter when it rains, giving you more time to explore the park without long waits.

• Explore Universal CityWalk: If the weather really takes a turn, head to Universal CityWalk for dining, shopping, and entertainment. CityWalk offers everything from restaurants like Toothsome Chocolate Emporium to movie theaters and mini-golf, so you can take a break from the rain in style​.

• Enjoy a Resort Day: If you’re staying at one of Universal’s on-site hotels and the weather isn’t cooperating, take advantage of the resort’s amenities. Whether it’s relaxing at the spa, enjoying the game rooms, or dining at the hotel’s restaurants, you can still make the most of your vacation day without stepping foot outside in the rain.

  
  

What Happens If You’re Already at the Park?

Now, if you’ve already made it to Orlando and the bad weather hits, Universal Orlando will typically keep indoor attractions open while temporarily closing outdoor rides for safety reasons. In cases of extreme weather, such as a full hurricane hitting the area, Universal may close the park entirely, but that’s a rare scenario. If the park does close, expect updates from Universal staff and through their website​.

How to Contact Universal for Rescheduling or Cancellations

If you need to make any changes to your trip, it’s best to contact Universal’s Guest Services as soon as possible at 877-801-9720. Their team is well-prepared to assist with any weather-related concerns and help you with rescheduling or cancellations without hassle.

In Summary

Universal Orlando’s policy is designed to give you peace of mind when planning your trip. If bad weather rolls in, whether it’s a tropical storm or a full hurricane, you’ve got options to cancel or reschedule without penalties, as long as you stay within the seven-day window before your arrival. And even if the weather dampens your day, there are still plenty of ways to stay safe and have fun at the park. Make sure to check official weather updates and stay informed to make the best decisions for your vacation.