May 22, 2025
After nearly a decade of anticipation, Universal Orlando Resort has officially opened the gates to Universal Epic Universe, the first major theme park to debut in Orlando in 25 years. Heralded as one of the most immersive and innovative theme parks ever created, Epic Universe invites guests to explore five extraordinary worlds—each more awe-inspiring than the last.
The excitement surrounding today’s grand opening was palpable, with thousands of eager fans arriving as early as 6 a.m. By 8 a.m., the park came alive in a dazzling display of fireworks, fountains, and character appearances at each portal, marking the official start of a new chapter in Orlando's theme park history.
A Decade in the Making, Now Open to the World
“This is an incredibly exciting day as we officially unveil Universal Epic Universe to the world,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “Our teams have poured so much passion, vision, and dedication into this new park—and there is truly nothing like it in our universe.”
To celebrate the milestone, Universal hosted a star-studded gala the night before the public opening. Guests were treated to a Celestial Carpet arrival and a stunning show narrated by none other than Steven Spielberg. The evening culminated in a brilliant fireworks and drone display that spelled it out perfectly: EPIC.
The Five Worlds of Epic Universe
At the heart of Epic Universe is Celestial Park, a lush, starlit garden landscape that blends natural beauty with high-tech thrills. Guests can take flight on Stardust Racers, glide on the mesmerizing Constellation Carousel, or cool off at Astronomica, a whimsical water and play area.
Next is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, an enchanting dive into the 1920s Parisian wizarding world and the iconic British Ministry of Magic. Guests can cast spells in wizarding Paris, experience the groundbreaking attraction Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, and even savor a Butterbeer crepe.
Gamers will delight in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, featuring Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, the jungle-thrilling Mine-Cart Madness ride in Donkey Kong Country, and interactive Power-Up Band activities that let players collect coins and battle Bowser Jr.
Families will fall in love with How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, a vivid re-creation of the Viking world from the beloved films. From the aerial thrills of Hiccup’s Wing Gliders to the fiery live show The Untrainable Dragon, this realm brings dragons and Vikings to life like never before.
For those who crave chills and thrills, Dark Universe delivers gothic horror and monster mayhem. The terrifying Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment dares guests to venture through the catacombs, while Curse of the Werewolf offers high-speed family coaster fun. Guests can dine at Das Stakehaus or get monstrous makeovers in Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience.
Epic Beyond the Park
Anchoring the edge of the park is the stunning new Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a 500-room Mediterranean-inspired retreat complete with a rooftop bar, resort pool, and its own private entrance to the park.
With over 50 attractions, dining venues, and immersive experiences, Universal Epic Universe is more than a theme park—it’s a universe unto itself. Whether you’re casting spells in Paris, racing through the Mushroom Kingdom, or facing classic monsters in a haunted village, one thing is clear: the future of theme park entertainment has officially arrived in Orlando—and it’s absolutely EPIC.
Images by NBCUniversal
