Melissa Donovan
Universal announced Thursday that its highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park will open on May 22, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, just in time for Memorial Day weekend. Spanning 750 acres, this park will be the company’s fourth theme park in Orlando and represents the largest investment Comcast has made in its theme parks, as noted by CEO Brian Roberts during its announcement in 2019.
A Diverse Array of Themed Worlds
Epic Universe promises to deliver thrilling experiences across five uniquely themed worlds:
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
Transforming Orlando into a Destination
The addition of Epic Universe allows Universal to shift its resort into a weeklong travel destination. This aligns with the existing attractions, including the neighboring waterpark Volcano Bay.
“This is such a pivotal moment for our destination, and we’re thrilled to welcome guests to Epic Universe next year,” Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Orlando Resort said. “With the addition of this spectacular new theme park, our guests will embark on an unforgettable vacation experience with a week’s worth of thrills that will be nothing short of epic.”
Overcoming Challenges
Construction of Epic Universe faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a halt in July 2020. However, work resumed in March 2021, allowing the project to progress towards its grand opening.
Guest Accommodations and Ticket Sales
Epic Universe will open at the same time as the Loews Hotels’ Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a 500-room property with a dedicated entrance to the park for guests. The hotel will begin taking reservations on October 22.
Also beginning October 22, Universal will offer multiday ticket packages, allowing visitors to purchase three-, four-, or five-day admission to Universal Orlando Resort, including one-day access to Epic Universe. For example, three-day tickets could range from $375 to $555 per person depending on dates.
Annual passholders can buy single-day tickets starting October 24 before they become available to the general public, who will be able to purchase tickets in the months leading up to the park’s openings.
What to Look Forward to
Celestial Park
The first entrance into Epic Universe, Celestial Park will greet guests with food and shopping opportunities, racing coasters, and portals into the other worlds.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Ministry of Magic will expand on the Harry Potter universe, capturing the essence of both 1920s Paris from the Fantastic Beasts franchise and the 1990s British Ministry where iconic characters faced Voldemort. A highlight will be the attraction “Battle at the Ministry,” where guests can join Harry, Ron, and Hermione in an omnidirectional lift, fighting against, Death Eaters while entering the Ministry’s atrium via the Floo Network. This will join existing Harry Potter areas, including Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Super Nintendo World
Inspired by its successful counterparts in Hollywood and Japan, Super Nintendo World will feature attractions like “Bowser’s Challenge” and “Mine-Cart Madness with Donkey Kong,” bringing beloved Nintendo characters to life.
How to Train Your Dragon
Fans of the How to Train Your Dragon franchise can look forward to a Viking village, a family roller coaster titled “Hiccup’s Wing Gliders,” a water ride, and a live show, immersing guests in the adventures of Hiccup and Toothless.
Dark Universe
This eerie realm will feature “Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment,” thrusting guests into a thrilling monster revolt and delivering a unique experience filled with suspense and excitement.
With Epic Universe on the horizon, Universal is set to revolutionize the theme park experience in Orlando. Combining immersive attractions, diverse themed worlds, and convenient accommodations, Epic Universe promises to be an unforgettable addition to Universal’s portfolio, creating lasting memories for families and fans alike.
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