Universal Makes Changes to Improve Park Experience

Yesterday, Universal made a big change to improve guests’ experience at their parks. Find out what has changed and if it will impact your visit.

Universal Orlando

5 Things Universal Does Better than Disney — Credit: Kate

Universal Studios Orlando is known for their amazing thrill rides, which consist of roller coasters and motion simulators. At Universal Studios parks you can discover rides, attractions, and a whole lot more that makes this the best theme park to visit for people looking for BIG thrills.

Universal’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, officially opens on May 22, 2025 (next week!)!

Universal lets people know that they aren’t about make-believe. They bring some of our favorite movies to life – including Minions, Harry Potter, and How to Train Your Dragon. These thrills are can’t miss fun.

New Change

New: Epic Universe May Open Sooner Than Expected! — Credit: Universal

Universal has made some big changes for their park guests. Starting yesterday, Thursday, May 15th, the designated in-park smoking locations have been relocated at almost all of the parks.

The designated in-park smoking locations have been relocated closer to the park exits to help improve guest flow and guest and Team Member comfort.

The new locations are:

Universal Studios – Outside the park exit, to the left near the Studio Archway
Islands of Adventure – Outside the park exit, opposite the Islands of Adventure Lighthouse
CityWalk – left of Red Coconut Club
Epic Universe – Near the park exit by the restrooms
Volcano Bay – Wave Village (East)

What Does This Mean for You?

Breaking: Big Change and Park Closure Coming to Universal Volcano Bay — Photo Credit: Kate

Volcano Bay will not relocate its designated in-park smoking location until after TapuTapu ends. TapuTapu will end on October 1st. You can read more about that and Volcano Bay’s scheduled closure for refurbishment HERE.

It is important to note that E-cigareets and vapes are treated the same as cigarettes and are only allowed in these locations.

All designated smoking locations will be moved outside of the parks, so be sure to budget time into your day if this is something you will utlize.

What do you think of Universal relocating the designated smoking locations to outside the parks? Do you like this change? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to share this post with your friends!