Five worlds. Fifty rides. One giant leap for theme park-kind.
Today marks the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe, the first new theme park in Florida in over 25 years. Located in Orlando, this $7 billion project spans 750 acres and introduces five distinct, immersive worlds, each offering unique attractions, dining, and entertainment experiences.
Celestial Park: The Gateway to Adventure
Serving as the central hub, Celestial Park welcomes guests with lush gardens, interactive fountains, and the park’s fastest roller coaster, Stardust Racers. This area sets the tone for the epic adventures that await in the surrounding worlds.
Super Nintendo World: Gaming Comes to Life
Step into the Mushroom Kingdom through a giant green warp pipe and immerse yourself in the world of Super Mario. Highlights include:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: An augmented reality ride that puts you in a high-speed race against Bowser.
- Mine-Cart Madness: A Donkey Kong-themed coaster featuring innovative track designs that create the illusion of jumping broken tracks.
- Yoshi’s Adventure: A family-friendly ride through the Mushroom Kingdom.
Don’t forget to grab a Power-Up Band to collect digital coins and interact with the environment.
“It’s like someone gave your childhood
a billion-dollar budget and said, ‘Go wild.’”
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Explore the magical world of Harry Potter in this new addition that combines elements from the “Fantastic Beasts” series and the original Harry Potter films. The centerpiece attraction, “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry,” is a high-tech motion simulator ride set in the 1990s Ministry of Magic.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
Fly with dragons and experience Viking adventures in this land inspired by the beloved animated films. Attractions include:
- Hiccup’s Wing Gliders: A family-friendly coaster simulating dragon flight.
- Fyre Drill: An interactive boat battle experience.
- The Untrainable Dragon: A live show featuring animatronic dragons.
Enjoy themed dining at Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel, offering unique items like Mac & Cheese Cones.
Dark Universe: Classic Monsters Reimagined
For those seeking thrills, Dark Universe brings classic Universal Monsters to life in a gothic setting. Key attractions include:
- Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment: A high-tech dark ride featuring encounters with Dracula, the Wolfman, and other legendary creatures.
- Curse of the Werewolf: A spinning coaster offering a hair-raising experience.
Dine at Das Stakehaus and enjoy themed beverages like the bubbling Monocane Mocktail.
Dining and Merchandise
Epic Universe offers over 100 unique menu items across 30 dining locations, each themed to its respective world. From the Mario Burger at Super Nintendo World’s Toadstool Cafe to the glittery Northern Lights Martini at Celestial Park’s Atlantic restaurant, there’s something for every palate.
Exclusive grand opening merchandise is available, including themed apparel, pins, and collectibles representing each of the five worlds.
Plan Your Visit
- Opening Date: May 22, 2025
- Tickets: Single-day tickets start at $139, with express passes available to reduce wait times.
- Location: Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida.
Be prepared for large crowds and extended wait times, especially for popular attractions like “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry,” which has reported wait times up to five hours.
