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Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Opens, Marking a New Era in Theme Parks

The $7.7 billion park debuts as the first major Florida theme park in over 25 years, offering five immersive worlds and challenging Disney’s dominance.

The portal at the entrance of Universal Epic Universe theme park ahead of the grand opening ceremony in Orlando, Florida, U.S. May 20, 2025. REUTERS/Marco Bello
People enter “Super Nintendo World” portal at Universal Epic Universe theme park ahead of the grand opening ceremony in Orlando, Florida, U.S. May 20, 2025.
FILE – In this Aug. 5, 2019 file photo, guests cool off under a water mist by the globe at Universal Studios City Walk at Universal Studios Florida in Orlando, Fla. In the wake of the coronavirus crisis, the company that owns Universal theme parks around the world says it’s delaying construction on a fourth theme park in Florida and that the opening of a Nintendo-themed park in Japan will be pushed back by a few months. Comcast CEO Brian Roberts said Thursday, April 30, 2020 that the company was delaying construction on its fourth park at Orlando Universal Resort. The Epic Universe theme park was announced last year to great fanfare.

Overview

  • Epic Universe officially opened to the public on May 22, 2025, introducing five themed lands, including Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Dark Universe.
  • The 750-acre park is Universal’s largest investment since 2011, with an estimated cost of $7.7 billion, doubling the size of Universal Orlando Resort.
  • Ticket prices begin at $139 for adults, with early reports showing high demand and long wait times, including up to five hours for marquee attractions.
  • Analysts predict the park could draw 9.5 million visitors by 2026, increasing competition with Disney World while boosting Orlando’s tourism economy.
  • Epic Universe features cutting-edge attractions like the Harry Potter Ministry of Magic ride and the Stardust Racers dual roller coaster, showcasing advanced technology.