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Tropical Storm Nicole: When will Disney World, Universal Orlando reopen?

By FOX 35 News Staff
Updated  November 10, 2022 10:03pm EST
Hurricane Nicole
FOX 35 Orlando

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ORLANDO, Fla. - Walt Disney World Resort closed its theme parks early ahead of Hurricane Nicole, but does plan to reopen its theme parks on Thursday, Nov. 10. Nicole has since been downgraded to a tropical storm.

Disney said in an updated statement on Wednesday night that it plans to reopen all of its theme parks on Thursday afternoon in a phased approach – and a few hours later than their typical opening times.

Here is when Disney's theme parks will reopen

  • Magic Kingdom Park: Noon to 6 p.m. (Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is scheduled for 7 p.m. to midnight.)
  • EPCOT: 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 2 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Disney added that all of its nighttime shows, including Fantastic! at Hollywood Studios, Disney Enchantment at Magic Kingdom, and Harmonious at EPCOT will be canceled on Thursday. 

Bus transportation will begin 30 minutes before the theme parks reopen, Disney said.

Disney World guests stranded at resort during vacation

A family staying at Walt Disney World trying to extend their stay after a canceled flight say Disney won't make any new reservations.

For those in town with trips planned at Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, or over at Busch Gardens in Tampa, here is a look at their opening plans.

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal reopened its theme parks to hotel guests only late Thursday afternoon, but said it would reopen normally on Friday, Nov. 11.

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando closed its water park and theme park on Wednesday, and said both would remain closed on Thursday, Nov. 10. SeaWorld said it intends to reopen its parks on Friday, Nov. 11. 

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens, which is owned by SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, closed on Wednesday, and will remain closed on Thursday, Nov. 10. It also plans to reopen on Friday, Nov. 11.

Central Florida Zoo

The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens will remain closed on Friday.  The attraction in Sanford, Florida tweeted that updates about reopening will be posted on its social media channels

Brevard Zoo

The Brevard Zoo said Wednesday that it planned to reopen on Friday, November 11, pending any possible damage.