(This article has been updated with the latest information.)

A hurricane is on its way, raising concerns about its trajectory and the potential closure of theme parks in Florida.

Hurricane Helene was classified as a hurricane on Wednesday morning. The National Hurricane Center has cautioned that it will quickly evolve into a major hurricane as it moves across the eastern Gulf of Mexico. Current estimates suggest it will likely make landfall on Thursday evening in the eastern area of the Florida Panhandle, especially around the Big Bend region.

According to meteorologists, Helene’s effects will be felt statewide. While it does not seem to be on a direct path towards any Florida theme parks at the moment, visitors may still be questioning whether their planned trips will be disrupted. Below is the current status of each theme park along with their hurricane policies.

Is Disney World Closed Due to Hurricane Helene?

As of Wednesday, September 25, Disney World remains open; however, some attractions will be affected on Thursday.

Notably, Typhoon Lagoon water park and the miniature golf courses will be shut down on Thursday, September 26.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has also been canceled for Thursday, September 26.

Although the Magic Kingdom was originally set to close at 6 p.m. on Thursday due to the Halloween festivities, park officials have announced they will keep the park open until 8 p.m. for guests to enjoy additional time.

When Has Disney World Closed in the Past?

Since its opening in 1971, Disney World in Orlando has closed for hurricanes and national emergencies fewer than twelve times.

Here’s a list of instances when Disney World did not open:

• Hurricane Floyd in September 1999
• Hurricane Charley in August 2004
• Hurricane Frances in August 2004
• Hurricane Jeanne in August 2004
• Hurricane Matthew in October 2016
• Hurricane Irma in October 2017
• COVID-19 Pandemic, from May 15, 2020, to July 11, 2020
• Hurricane Ian in September 2022

Here’s a list of times Disney World closed early:

• Hurricane Elena in August 1985
• September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks

What Is Disney World’s Hurricane Policy? Can I Get a Refund?

Walt Disney World Resort’s website states that they will adjust their standard policies to offer refunds if a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for either the Orlando area or a guest’s home locale within seven days before their “scheduled arrival date”, provided the tickets and bookings were made directly through Disney. Additionally, guests can modify their dates.

For reservations made through third-party vendors, visitors will need to contact those suppliers directly.

Do People Evacuate to Disney World During Hurricanes?

In past hurricane events, Disney has provided special offers for those seeking a safe place to ride out the storm. For instance, during Hurricane Nicole in 2023, Disney offered evacuees 50% off their stays at Disney resort hotels on selected dates, with specific check-in times enforced.

Is Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure in Florida Closed for Hurricane Helene?

As of Wednesday, September 25, Universal Orlando theme parks are still open. However, Volcano Bay water park will close on Thursday, September 26.

The park’s officials have stated on social media that they are keeping a close watch on the storm’s developments.

Universal Studios’ Hurricane Policy

The Universal Orlando website conveys that while they “can’t guarantee the weather, your travel plans can still go smoothly.”

“In case a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center or a state of emergency is declared affecting the Orlando area or your location, within seven days of your arrival, you can contact our team beforehand to modify or cancel your Universal Parks & Resorts Vacation Package, hotel-only bookings, and Universal Orlando theme park tickets purchased directly from them, without incurring any cancellation or change fees.”

Is SeaWorld Orlando Closed for Hurricane Helene?

As of Wednesday, September 25, SeaWorld remains open to guests. They have not provided any updates regarding the hurricane’s impact.

Is Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Closed for Hurricane Helene?

On Wednesday, September 25, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced that it will be closed on Thursday, September 26. Patrons are advised to check the park’s website and social media for updates on reopening.

SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Hurricane Policy

SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which are operated by the same parent company, have historically closed their parks and provided refunds for visitors during the approach of hurricanes. They also extend expiration dates for annual passholders to compensate for any days closures.

Although these parks may remain open under adverse weather conditions, both websites highlight a “Weather-or-Not Assurance” plan for ticketholders.

This program guarantees the value of park admissions and is applicable year-round, addressing weather events like rain, lightning, extreme heat, wind, snow, and hail among others, according to park officials.

Limitations include:

• Weather-or-Not Assurance tickets do not cover: Pass Member admissions; complimentary tickets (including Weather-or-Not Assurance tickets); 14-Day Length of Stay tickets and packages; and Discovery Cove ticket packages.
• Some promotional/discounted tickets may not be eligible; verification at Guest Relations is recommended.

• Multi-day tickets are available.
• The Weather-or-Not Assurance is not applicable to parking fees or any extra products and experiences within the park.

To request a return visit, please visit Guest Relations at the park or submit your details online. Remember to have your original admission ticket or order number ready.

Is LEGOLAND Florida Closed Due to Hurricane Helene?

As of Wednesday, September 25, LEGOLAND remains open to visitors and plans to stay open on Thursday, September 26.

Hurricane Policy at LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND Florida emphasizes on their website that the safety of “guests and Model Citizens is our utmost priority.”

If a tropical storm or hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for Central Florida, or your locality, within a week before your arrival date, you can reschedule or cancel your visit to LEGOLAND Florida Resort without facing any penalties or fees from LEGOLAND or Merlin Entertainments.

This policy includes tickets for the LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, LEGOLAND Water Park, Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida, and various hotel bookings made directly through LEGOLAND Florida Resort or LEGOLAND Vacations, as well as partner hotel reservations and packages booked via LEGOLAND Vacations.