Melissa Donovan
Orlando is about to experience a historic transformation in 2025, and there’s no better reason to get excited than the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe. This major new addition to Universal Orlando Resort promises to reshape the landscape of theme parks in the area, with attractions and experiences that will rival anything we’ve seen before. For the first time in nearly three decades, Orlando will welcome a massive, from-the-ground-up park, following the success of Disney’s Animal Kingdom (1998) and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (1999). Universal Epic Universe, set to open on May 22, 2025, will mark a thrilling new chapter for visitors and theme park lovers alike.
Universal Epic Universe: A Game-Changer for Orlando
Universal Epic Universe will take the theme park experience to an entirely new level, with five uniquely themed lands packed with innovative attractions, rides, and experiences. This highly anticipated addition is expected to become a major player in the competitive Orlando tourism market. Here’s a sneak peek at the lands you’ll get to explore when the park opens:
- Dark Universe: A thrilling experience based on Universal’s iconic classic monsters, this land will give you a chance to step into the darker side of storytelling.
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk: Soar through the skies and explore the world of dragons in this exciting and immersive land.
- Super Nintendo World: The colorful world of Mario and friends comes to life with a variety of interactive rides, games, and experiences.
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic: Fans of the Harry Potter series can delve deeper into the wizarding world, with new attractions focused on the Ministry of Magic.
- Celestial Park: A stunning entryway filled with interactive moments, restaurants, and exciting attractions for all ages.
In addition to these exciting lands, Epic Universe will feature multiple roller coasters, dark rides, immersive shows, interactive experiences, and a selection of themed restaurants. Every corner of the park is designed to captivate your senses and transport you into the heart of each world. Immersion is the key word here, making this a theme park experience unlike any other.
Stay Close to the Action: New Hotels Near Universal Epic Universe
To complement this new expansion, Universal will be opening three brand-new hotels to cater to guests visiting Epic Universe. These hotels are set to offer unparalleled convenience and world-class amenities:
- Stella Nova: Opening on January 21, 2025, this hotel will provide easy access to the new theme park and will set the stage for the excitement ahead.
- Terra Luna: Opening March 25, 2025, this hotel will bring even more accommodation options to Orlando.
- The Helios Grand: The closest of all the hotels, The Helios Grand will open its doors on May 22, 2025, and feature a dedicated entrance to the new theme park.
These hotels ensure that visitors will be able to stay just steps away from all the action, offering a seamless experience that’s perfect for families, thrill-seekers, and Harry Potter fans alike.
Epic Universe Merchandise Available at Orlando International Airport
If you can’t wait to dive into the world of Epic Universe, there’s good news! Orlando International Airport now has an Epic Universe store located in Terminal B, Level 3. This store is the only one at the airport to feature exclusive Epic Universe merchandise, including items from all five lands of the new park. You can shop for Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and more, all before you even leave the airport! If you miss the store at the airport, you can also find Epic Universe merchandise at Universal Orlando’s online shop and the Epic Universe Preview Center at Universal Orlando CityWalk.
Disney’s 2025 Additions: More Magic in the Works
While Universal Epic Universe takes center stage, Disney is also gearing up for a fantastic year ahead in 2025. At Walt Disney World, visitors can look forward to:
- Epcot: A new lounge inside Spaceship Earth will offer amazing views of the World Celebration Gardens and nightly fireworks, opening in the spring.
- Hollywood Studios: Two new stage shows will make their debut in the summer: Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After and The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure.
- Magic Kingdom: A new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, will light up the streets, while Test Track at Epcot will also get an exciting upgrade.
- Animal Kingdom: The Zootopia: Better Zoogether! 3D show will take center stage at the Tree of Life Theater later in the year.
Though Disney has some big plans for 2025, including expansions based on Monsters, Inc., Cars, and a villain-centric land, these additions won’t arrive until later years.
Other Exciting 2025 Additions Across Orlando
Orlando’s theme park scene isn’t the only one making waves in 2025. Here are other exciting additions happening around the city:
- SeaWorld Orlando: A new Arctic-themed flying theater experience will open in the spring, bringing a new level of adventure to the park.
- Sea Life Florida Aquarium: Join the Legoland Florida Resort lineup in Winter Haven this spring with a new aquarium experience.
- Blue Man Group: A brand-new show will premiere at Icon Park on April 3, 2025.
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A kid-friendly “immersive adventure realm” with rainforest theming and a new animal habitat will debut this spring.
- Kennedy Space Center: The Gantry at LC-39 will open in early 2025, featuring interactive displays, rocket-building experiences, and a viewing area for live launches.
- Orlando Science Center: Major renovations will begin at the Dr. Phillips CineDome, with the new space set to open in 2026.
A Year to Remember for Orlando Tourism
2025 will undoubtedly be a landmark year for Orlando’s tourism scene. With Universal Epic Universe taking center stage, alongside exciting updates from Disney and other major theme parks, there’s no shortage of new experiences awaiting visitors. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a Harry Potter fan, or a family looking for fun, Orlando will have something for everyone. Don’t miss out—start planning your visit today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in 2025!
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