As Hurricane Milton approaches the Florida coastline, major theme parks in the area are taking precautionary actions to safeguard guests and staff. As of October 7, Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando remains operational; however, online parking reservations for October 9 have been suspended. Guests hoping to visit Disney parks on that date will find a stark empty calendar indicating no availability—a shift that suggests an urgent response to the impending storm. While Disney parks are still open for the preceding days, visitors are advised to stay informed as the weather situation develops.
In an effort to prioritize the safety and well-being of its visitors, Disney has announced the closure of several accommodations, including the Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, which along with its dining and recreational areas, will close at 11 a.m. on Wednesday. Disney’s Copper Creek Cabins at the Wilderness Lodge and the Treehouse Villas at Saratoga Springs also face imminent closure. While the Treehouse Villas and Fort Wilderness may remain shut until Sunday, the Copper Creek Cabins could potentially reopen by Friday, but this will be contingent upon the storm’s trajectory and post-storm conditions.
Other Theme Parks on Alert
Close on the heels of Disney’s announcements, United Parks & Resorts has also initiated closures at its venues in preparation for the hurricane. Busch Gardens Tampa is set to close its doors from October 8 through October 10, reflecting a comprehensive response to the storm’s predicted impact. Discovery Cove is similarly enacting its storm policy, urging guests planning visits on October 9 and 10 to reach out to guest services for rescheduling assistance. This proactive communication underscores the importance of guest safety in the face of natural disasters.
Contrary to the closures, SeaWorld Orlando remains open for business, although company representatives have stated that they will keep a close eye on Hurricane Milton’s development. This reflects the unpredictable nature of hurricanes which can alter conditions rapidly. Attentiveness to weather patterns and guest safety remains a high priority, especially during hurricane season when volatile weather can lead to unexpected closures and rescheduling of activities.
Universal Orlando’s Steady Operations
Interestingly, Universal Orlando Resort appears to be weathering the storm more comfortably as they declared regular operations and hours continuing as normal. This decision might offer some reassurance to guests planning their visit during this tumultuous period. Regardless, visitors at all parks will benefit from staying updated on changing conditions as parks remain vigilant, monitoring the hurricane’s path and making real-time adjustments to operational policies.
While the excitement of visiting the theme parks usually reigns, the business’s focus turns toward safety in light of hurricane preparedness. As the region braces itself for Hurricane Milton, theme parks across Florida exemplify the balance between operational success and the paramount importance of guest and employee safety. Taking a moment to assess weather conditions and park policies can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.