In the wake of Hurricane Milton, the iconic Orlando theme parks—Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando—are set to resume operations starting October 11. A stark testament to the resilience of these entertainment giants, both Disney and Universal have announced their plans to welcome guests back while prioritizing safety and damage evaluations. Disney World expressed gratitude for the minimal impact the storm had on its facilities and is currently assessing how best to restore normal operations in the aftermath.
Disney World has made special provisions for guests who faced disruptions due to the storm. Visitors with partially utilized multiday tickets will enjoy an extended expiration date, allowing them to use their tickets until October 11, 2025. This thoughtful gesture is intended to alleviate concerns and ensure that guests can plan visits without the added stress of time constraints. Meanwhile, Disney’s dining and shopping district, Disney Springs, will also reopen. This is an essential move, as it allows guests returning to the area to indulge in the unique culinary and shopping experiences that Disney Springs offers.
Universal Orlando Resort is poised to reactivate its attractions and CityWalk on the same day, making a swift return to normalcy. Particularly noteworthy is the continuation of Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, an event that draws large crowds every year. This shows the park’s commitment to maintaining its seasonal traditions despite the challenges posed by the recent storm. Guests who had tickets for the theme parks on October 10, or for Volcano Bay on the 9th or 10th, have had their admissions extended to be valid until December 18, 2024. This flexibility reflects Universal’s understanding of the uncertainty surrounding weather events and their impacts on tourism.
Similarly, SeaWorld Orlando, along with Aquatica Orlando and Discovery Cove, is set to reopen on October 11. However, they have chosen to cancel two popular events, Spooktacular and Howl-O-Scream, scheduled for that day. This decision highlights SeaWorld’s responsibility towards guest safety and ensures that they can deliver a consistent quality experience upon reopening. The company expressed appreciation for its animal care staff and other team members who remained on site throughout the hurricane, underscoring the importance of animal welfare and operational readiness.
Notably, Busch Gardens Tampa remains closed as the park continues to address potential impacts from Hurricane Milton. The lack of clarity regarding its reopening schedule underlines the unpredictability of natural disasters and their effects on various attractions.
As Orlando theme parks prepare to welcome back eager guests, the region showcases how resilience and adaptability are essential qualities in the face of unforeseen challenges. The proactive measures taken by these parks not only signify their dedication to guest experience but also reflect community spirit in supporting one another during difficult times.