After 25 years, the U.S. will welcome a brand-new, large-scale theme park, as Universal's Epic Universe is set to open its gates on May 22, 2025, in Orlando, Florida.
After 25 years, the U.S. will welcome a brand-new, large-scale theme park, as Universal's Epic Universe is set to open its gates on May 22, 2025, in Orlando, Florida. This highly anticipated addition to the Universal Parks & Resorts family is not just another attraction; it marks the first major, entirely new theme park in the U.S. in over two decades. Universal has invested around $7 billion into the development of Epic Universe, making it the largest Universal park in the world, covering a sprawling 750 acres.
This new park is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy. According to Casandra Matej, CEO of Visit Orlando, research from Sean Snaith, director of the University of Central Florida's Institute for Economic Forecasting, suggests that Epic Universe could generate $2 billion in revenue for Florida in its first year alone. Additionally, it could create over 17,500 new jobs across the country, further solidifying Orlando's status as a global hub for tourism and entertainment.
Five Themed Worlds to Explore
Epic Universe will be home to five major themed worlds, each offering a completely immersive experience. Among them is the Celestial Park, which features Stardust Racers, a thrilling dueling roller coaster. Guests will also explore the mysterious and darker corners of the Dark Universe and step into the magical world of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. For fans of Super Nintendo, the park introduces Super Nintendo World, where visitors can interact with their favorite characters and games from the Mario universe. Finally, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will bring the world of Vikings and dragons to life in an interactive, visually stunning area.
Epic Universe offers a unique opportunity for Harry Potter fans, as it will be the third Harry Potter-related theme park in the area. In addition to The Ministry of Magic section within the new park, fans can visit Hogsmeade at Universal's Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, both of which remain open.
Impact on the Surrounding Area
The arrival of Epic Universe is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the Orlando area, even beyond the park itself. Matej believes that the new attraction will create a “rising tide” that benefits all businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and even Disney-branded parks, which are just a short drive away. The competition between Disney and Universal has always been a key driver in the local economy, and Epic Universe will undoubtedly elevate the entire region, bringing more visitors and business to all areas of Orlando's entertainment sector.
Attractions and Dining Experiences
Epic Universe isn’t just about exciting rides and attractions; the park will also offer a variety of restaurants and dining experiences. Notably, Atlantic is a waterside, seafood-centric restaurant that features a mostly glass exterior, designed to resemble a giant aquarium. This stunning eatery will provide guests with an immersive dining experience, combining delicious food with breathtaking views of the park's water features.
The park will also offer a variety of roller coasters, including the aforementioned Stardust Racers, a high-speed dueling coaster in Celestial Park. With multiple boat rides and interactive elements, there will be something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to families with younger children.
Looking Ahead
With the opening of Universal Epic Universe, the world-class entertainment options in Orlando continue to expand. The park is set to become a major destination for both tourists and locals, offering an entirely new level of immersion and interactivity in the theme park world. From the futuristic technology that powers the rides to the beloved franchises like Harry Potter and Super Mario, this new park promises to be an exciting addition to the Universal portfolio and a landmark event in the history of U.S. theme parks.
As the countdown to May 22 draws near, anticipation continues to build for Universal Epic Universe. Whether you’re a fan of thrilling roller coasters, enchanting wizardry, or iconic video game characters, the park is poised to deliver unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages.
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