Tag: Epic Universe

  • Epic Universe Ignites Record Tourism, Lifts Both Universal and Disney in Florida

    Epic Universe Ignites Record Tourism, Lifts Both Universal and Disney in Florida

    A New Universe Arrives

    Central Florida has a fresh gravitational pull, and it’s called Epic Universe—the first new U.S. theme park built by Universal since Islands of Adventure opened in 1999. After welcoming guests in May 2025, the park has blasted past expectations, drawing crowds big enough to set new county tax records and rewrite company earnings reports.

    What Is Epic Universe?

    Epic Universe sits on a 750-acre expansion south of the original Universal Orlando Resort. Highlights include:

    • A Super Nintendo World twice the size of Hollywood’s version
    • How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk with a family-friendly coaster
    • A classic-monster-themed land, Dark Universe
    • Multiple on-site hotels, plus Universal’s first true nighttime spectacular outside its lagoon shows

    With wider pathways, lush landscaping, and a “hub-and-spoke” layout, the park is designed to keep crowds moving and spending.

    Early Impact on Central Florida Tourism

    • Orange County tourist development tax hit an all-time high of $33.7 million in June—money collected mainly from hotel stays.
    • Parent company Comcast reported a 19.6 % jump in theme-park revenue quarter-over-quarter.
    • Area hotels near International Drive now report summer occupancy rates pushing 90 %, rivaling pre-pandemic peaks.

    Why Universal’s Success Doesn’t Hurt Disney

    Industry watchers once feared guests would choose Epic Universe instead of Walt Disney World. Reality says otherwise:

    • Disney’s Experiences division posted 10 % higher revenue ($6.4 billion) the same quarter Epic Universe opened.
    • Travel agents note that most families book park-hopper vacations, splitting days between Universal and Disney to maximize IP-driven attractions—from Mario to Mickey.
    • Orlando International Airport handled 7 % more passengers year-over-year, underscoring a bigger tourism pie rather than a sliced-up one.

    Universal Parks Strategy: More Than Just Rides

    Universal is leaning on a three-pronged approach:

    1. Blockbuster intellectual property (Nintendo, DreamWorks, Universal Monsters).
    2. Technology-rich experiences like augmented-reality Mario Kart and trackless dark rides.
    3. Integrated resorts—three new hotels connect directly to Epic Universe via pedestrian bridges, keeping guests on Universal property longer.

    For Universal, Epic Universe isn’t just a park; it’s a beachhead for extended stays, higher guest spending, and brand loyalty that stretches worldwide—from Hollywood to Japan, soon to Texas and Las Vegas.

    What This Means for Travelers

    • Longer Orlando trips: Travel packages are already inching from five to seven nights.
    • Dynamic ticket pricing: Expect peak-time surcharges at both Universal and Disney as demand surges.
    • Transportation upgrades: Orange County fast-tracked road widening near Sand Lake Road, and Brightline is eyeing an I-Drive station to shuttle visitors between Miami and the theme-park corridor.

    Looking Ahead

    Universal’s Epic Universe shows that adding high-caliber attractions can lift the entire destination. If the momentum continues, look for:

    • Disney to accelerate its own expansion plans (think Magic Kingdom’s “beyond Big Thunder” project).
    • Legoland Florida and SeaWorld to piggyback on the tourist tide with new coasters and IP partnerships.
    • Increased international marketing, positioning Orlando as a multi-park “tourism galaxy.”

    Epic Universe proves there’s room in the cosmos for more than one superstar. For now, Central Florida—and the tourists flocking there—are the real winners.

    Source: CinemaBlend

  • NBC Sets Airdate for “Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe,” a Deep Dive into Universal Orlando’s Next Mega-Park

    NBC Sets Airdate for “Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe,” a Deep Dive into Universal Orlando’s Next Mega-Park

    A Prime-Time Ticket to Universal’s Future

    NBC just announced that a brand-new TV special, “Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe,” will hit the airwaves on August 20. The one-hour documentary promises a backstage pass to Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated third gate, Epic Universe, slated to open on May 22, 2025.

    What the Documentary Will Cover

    • Never-before-seen concept art and model footage of the park’s five themed worlds.
    • Interviews with Universal Creative leads about ride tech, storytelling, and park layout.
    • Sneak peeks at still-under-wraps attractions, including rumored next-gen roller coasters.

    NBC is leaning into cross-promotion here—Universal Parks & Resorts and NBC share the same parent company, Comcast, so expect slick production values and plenty of hype.

    Why Epic Universe Is Such a Big Deal

    First New U.S. Universal Park in 25 Years

    The last entirely new Universal park on American soil was Islands of Adventure in 1999. Epic Universe marks Universal’s boldest U.S. expansion since then.

    Five Immersive Lands (So Far)

    1. Celestial Park – the park’s central hub with sweeping gardens and a massive dueling coaster.
    2. The Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic – a 1920s Paris meets classic Ministry mash-up for Harry Potter fans.
    3. Super Nintendo World – a bigger, expanded version of the Mario-themed land that wowed crowds in Japan and Hollywood.
    4. How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – family-friendly coasters and interactive dragon playgrounds.
    5. Dark Universe – Universal Monsters reimagined for the 21st century, rumored to feature a groundbreaking dark ride.

    A Game-Changer for Orlando Tourism

    Greater Orlando already draws over 70 million visitors a year. Analysts predict Epic Universe could push that number even higher by creating a true multi-day, multi-park resort that rivals Walt Disney World in scale.

    Universal Parks’ Global Strategy

    Universal has been on a roll:

    • Universal Studios Beijing opened in 2021 with blockbuster IP like Transformers and Jurassic World.
    • A smaller kids-focused park is in the works for Frisco, Texas.
    • A horror-centric year-round experience is coming to Las Vegas.

    By stacking diverse offerings—from regional concepts to global mega-parks—Universal is hedging against economic shifts while capitalizing on its deep film catalog.

    What to Watch For on August 20

    1. Ride System Reveals – Will we finally see POV footage of that dual-launch coaster rumored for Celestial Park?
    2. Land-to-Land Transitions – Universal claims each world will be so immersive you won’t see the others. How will that work in practice?
    3. Tech Innovations – Projection-mapping ceilings, trackless rides, and interactive wristbands are all rumored. Expect teases.

    Final Thoughts

    If you’re a theme-park junkie—or just curious about the next big thing in Orlando tourism—mark your calendar. The documentary should add fuel to the growing fan theories about Epic Universe and show how Universal Parks keep upping the game worldwide.

    Ready for a cosmic coaster or a run through Peach’s Castle? August 20 might give us our clearest picture yet.

    Source: Inside Universal

  • Epic Universe: Universal’s $7 Billion Bet to Shake Up Florida’s Theme Park Wars

    Epic Universe: Universal’s $7 Billion Bet to Shake Up Florida’s Theme Park Wars

    A New Star in Orlando’s Theme Park Galaxy

    Universal Orlando Resort is getting its biggest expansion ever: Epic Universe, a 750-acre park scheduled to open in 2025. Comcast’s NBCUniversal is investing roughly $7 billion to build five highly themed lands:

    • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
    • Super Nintendo World
    • How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
    • A classic monsters zone rumored as Dark Universe
    • A celestial-themed Central Hub complete with a cutting-edge roller coaster and deluxe hotel

    When the gates swing open, analysts expect 9.5 million visitors in the first full year—with room to climb to 13 million annually once the buzz settles.

    Why This Matters for Universal Parks

    Universal has quietly transformed itself from Disney’s little-brother competitor into a global contender:

    1. Accelerated Expansion – From Beijing (2021) to the smaller Universal Kids Resort announced for Texas, the company is spreading its IP-powered formula worldwide.
    2. Diversified Destinations – The upcoming Universal Horror Unleashed haunt in Las Vegas and a planned UK resort show how Universal is looking beyond the traditional multi-day park model.
    3. Content Synergy – Owning the rights to Mario, Harry Potter (through Warner Bros. partnership), and DreamWorks dragons gives Universal a playbook full of franchises with built-in fan bases.

    Epic Universe is the clearest expression yet of this strategy. By packing in brand-new intellectual properties, Universal is betting that fans will travel specifically for Mario Kart races, wand duels in the British Ministry, and dragon flights over Berk.

    Disney vs. Universal: The Attendance Tug-of-War

    In 2023, Disney’s four Florida parks drew 48.8 million guests, more than double Universal Orlando’s 19.8 million. But research group Tourism Economics predicts Epic Universe could pull about 1 million visitors away from Disney in 2026 alone.

    Disney isn’t standing still. The Mouse has rolled out Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, TRON Lightcycle / Run, and a Moana walk-through, plus aggressive ticket discounts during slower weeks. Still, if Epic Universe hits its goals, Orlando’s overall attendance pie will grow—and Universal’s slice could get a lot bigger.

    Tech and Immersion: The New Arms Race

    • Augmented Reality Rides – Following the success of Super Nintendo World in Hollywood and Japan, Epic Universe’s Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge will pair real sets with AR visors.
    • Story-Driven Queues – Universal pioneered queue-less shopping in the Wizarding World and interactive wands; expect even deeper narrative layers here.
    • Hotel Integration – A 500-room flagship hotel sits inside the park’s "celestial" hub, blurring the line between lodging and attraction.

    Economic Hurdles and Local Impact

    Building a mega-park during high inflation is a gamble. Yet tourism officials project 14,000 construction jobs and two billion dollars in regional economic activity before opening day, followed by thousands of permanent roles.

    Bottom Line

    Epic Universe cements Universal’s status as a serious challenger to Disney’s decades-long domination of Central Florida. If Comcast’s biggest theme-park bet pays off, the ripple effect will be felt across all Universal parks, from California to Japan—and give theme-park fans more reasons than ever to plan an Orlando pilgrimage.

    Source: Reuters

  • Epic Universe Could Open Ahead of Schedule—and The Ministry of Magic is Front and Center

    Epic Universe Could Open Ahead of Schedule—and The Ministry of Magic is Front and Center

    A Surprise Speed-Up for Universal Orlando

    Rumors are swirling that Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort’s new theme park, may greet guests earlier than the previously announced 2025 opening. A report in The Wall Street Journal, echoed by FOX 35 Orlando, hints that construction is running smoothly enough to shave months off the timeline. For theme-park fans and Orlando’s tourism economy, that’s huge news.

    What Exactly Is Epic Universe?

    Epic Universe will be Universal’s fourth gate in Central Florida, adding a brand-new campus of rides, hotels, and entertainment about two miles south of the existing parks. Think of it as a “choose-your-own-adventure” layout: each themed land branches off a central hub, giving guests the sense of entering completely different worlds.

    Confirmed Highlights

    • A next-generation Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic land
    • An on-site 400-room resort hotel connected directly to the park

    Strongly Rumored Lands

    • Super Nintendo World (with Mario Kart and Donkey Kong rides)
    • How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk
    • A classic-horror inspired Universal Monsters village

    Universal hasn’t officially confirmed every land, but permits, concept art leaks, and trademark filings paint a pretty clear picture.

    Wizarding World 3.0: The Ministry of Magic

    The Ministry of Magic area will be the third major Wizarding World installation (after Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley). According to Universal, guests will:

    • Floo-powder into a Parisian wizarding square straight from the Fantastic Beasts films
    • Walk corridors lined with enchanted fireplaces, towering elevators, and moving memos
    • Encounter story moments set in both 1920s Paris and the late-’90s British Ministry
      Expect immersive shops, interactive wands, and at least one E-ticket attraction rumored to combine trackless vehicles with large-format projection and practical sets. In short, it’s catnip for Potterheads and casual fans alike.

    Why an Earlier Opening Matters

    1. Tourism Boost: Orlando drew over 74 million visitors last year. A new park could push that figure even higher, creating thousands of jobs.
    2. Competitive Heat: Disney’s Magic Kingdom remains the world’s most-visited park. Universal’s early grand opening could capture vacationers before Disney’s upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Beyond Big Thunder expansions.
    3. Annual Passholder Gold: Universal is likely to offer preview days for passholders, driving new sales and renewals.

    Planning Tips—Even If Dates Shift

    • Book flexible lodging near International Drive; nightly rates jump once opening dates are locked.
    • Follow Universal’s social media and email blasts for grand-opening registration.
    • Save vacation days for late 2024 through mid-2025; soft-opening “technical rehearsals” often pop up with only a few weeks’ notice.

    The Big Picture for Universal Parks

    Epic Universe isn’t happening in a vacuum. Universal is simultaneously building:

    • Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas
    • Horror Unleashed year-round haunt in Las Vegas
    • Ongoing expansions at Universal Studios Hollywood, including SNW and a Fast & Furious coaster
      These projects signal Comcast NBCUniversal’s aggressive strategy to grow its parks division into a global powerhouse. By fast-tracking Epic Universe, the company hopes to keep the momentum rolling—and keep your vacation dollars in Universal hotels, restaurants, and gift shops.

    Final Thoughts

    Whether Epic Universe opens a few months early or right on schedule, the mere possibility has already cranked fan excitement to eleven. Between state-of-the-art rides and the first-ever Ministry of Magic land, Universal is betting big—and it looks like the wager is paying off.

    Source: FOX 35 Orlando

  • Universal Orlando’s New “4 Parks” Ad Teases the Arrival of Epic Universe in 2025

    Universal Orlando’s New “4 Parks” Ad Teases the Arrival of Epic Universe in 2025

    A Cosmic Commercial Drop

    Universal Orlando just rolled out a fresh TV spot called “Welcome to the Four Parks of Universal Orlando Resort.” If you blinked, you might have missed it—yet the 30-second sizzle reel contains our clearest look so far at the resort’s next big leap: Epic Universe, opening May 22, 2025.

    What Shows Up in the Ad?

    • A green flash ushers viewers through swirling portals to four distinct destinations.
    • Quick shots reveal familiar icons from Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay before rocketing into all-new footage of Epic Universe.
    • The teaser showcases:
      • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
      • Super Nintendo World (yes, the Mario Kart ride is coming east!)
      • Dark Universe, a moody land inspired by classic Universal Monsters

    It’s just a taste, yet it confirms that the long-rumored lands are locked in.

    Meet Universal Orlando’s Four Parks

    1. Universal Studios Florida – home to Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Diagon Alley, and cinematic thrills.
    2. Islands of Adventure – where Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure and VelociCoaster push coaster tech to the edge.
    3. Volcano Bay – the water-themed “park-aqua” crowned by Krakatau volcano.
    4. Epic Universe – the newcomer designed as a separate campus south of the current resort.

    Epic Universe: What We Know So Far

    Land Headline Attraction
    Celestial Park (hub) Starfall Racers dueling coaster & constellation-themed gardens
    The Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic An immersive Paris-to-London Floo-Network dark ride
    Super Nintendo World Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge AR race & Yoshi’s Adventure family ride
    How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk Multi-launch family coaster & interactive boat battle
    Dark Universe Monster-chase dark ride rumored to rival Rise of the Resistance

    Universal is also building at least two on-site hotels nearby, including the Helios Grand Hotel, offering guests a private entrance to the park.

    Why This Expansion Matters

    • Competitive Heat – Disney’s “Beyond Big Thunder” project is still on the drawing board, giving Universal a head start in the Central Florida arms race.
    • Economic Boost – Orange County estimates Epic Universe could generate over 14,000 permanent jobs.
    • Tech Leap – Expect next-gen ride systems (trackless vehicles, interactive power-ups) and bi-directional coaster launches.

    Planning Tips for Fans

    1. Budget for Park-to-Park: To ride Hogwarts Express and warp through a green pipe, plan on multi-day tickets.
    2. Stay On-Site: Premier hotels still grant Unlimited Express. If Helios Grand repeats that perk, it could be worth the splurge.
    3. Timeline Watch: Soft openings often start months early—keep spring 2025 weekends flexible.

    Final Thoughts

    Universal’s new ad isn’t just marketing—it’s a mission statement. The resort is officially entering the four-park club, joining only a handful of multi-gate destinations worldwide. If the hype reel is any indication, Epic Universe could live up to its name—and give theme-park fans a whole new solar system to explore.

    Source: Inside Universal

  • Epic Universe: Universal’s Bold New Theme Park Takes on Disney

    Epic Universe: Universal’s Bold New Theme Park Takes on Disney

    A New Contender in the Theme Park Arena

    Universal Orlando Resort is set to redefine the theme park landscape with its upcoming Epic Universe, a monumental $7 billion expansion. This ambitious project, rolling out across 750 acres, is Universal’s largest investment since Comcast’s takeover in 2011. With its eyes set on challenging the dominance of Walt Disney World in Florida, Epic Universe is sure to shake things up in the Sunshine State.

    Immersive Worlds Await

    Epic Universe promises a one-of-a-kind experience with its five immersive themed lands. Visitors can look forward to exploring:

    • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic: Dive into the magical world of wizards and witches.
    • Super Nintendo World: Step into a vibrant, interactive gaming universe.
    • How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk: Embark on adventures in a land of dragons.

    These lands are designed to captivate and transport guests into fantastical realms, offering experiences that rival any other theme park.

    The Competitive Landscape

    In 2026, analysts project that Epic Universe could attract 9.5 million visitors, potentially pulling around 1 million visitors from Disney parks. With future attendance possibly reaching 13 million annually, this expansion is a strategic move in Comcast’s broader growth plan, which includes other ventures like Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas and Universal Kids Resort in Texas.

    Disney’s Response

    Amidst these developments, Disney is not standing idly by. It continues to enhance its offerings, introducing new rides and discounts to keep visitors engaged. In 2023, Disney’s Florida parks attracted 48.8 million visitors, more than double Universal’s 19.8 million. However, with Epic Universe on the horizon, the dynamics in Orlando’s theme park scene are poised for change.

    The Road Ahead

    Despite economic uncertainties, Comcast is committed to investing in immersive experiences, betting big on the future of entertainment tourism. The opening of Epic Universe marks a pivotal moment in the theme park industry, promising to reshape the competitive landscape.

    For more details, check out the full story on Reuters.

  • Disney Extends Olive Branch to Universal on Epic Universe Debut

    Disney Extends Olive Branch to Universal on Epic Universe Debut

    Disney’s Friendly Gesture to Universal

    In a surprising yet heartwarming move, Jeff Vahle, President of Walt Disney World, took to Instagram to extend his congratulations to Universal Destinations & Experiences on the grand opening of their much-anticipated theme park, Epic Universe. This public acknowledgment marks a significant shift from Disney’s usual silence regarding its competitor’s developments.

    Breaking the Silence

    Historically, Disney has kept mum about Universal’s ventures, a strategy many interpreted as a means to downplay competition. However, Vahle’s post echoes a nostalgic sentiment reminiscent of the time Disney welcomed the opening of Universal Studios Florida with a newspaper ad decades ago. This act of camaraderie suggests a recognition that the success of one theme park can benefit the entire Orlando tourism ecosystem.

    The Bigger Picture

    So, what does this mean for Disney Parks? Despite lacking a new mega-attraction to directly rival Epic Universe, Disney is not resting on its laurels. The House of Mouse is investing in various ongoing and upcoming projects designed to enhance visitor experience and keep Disney World as the premier choice for family vacations.

    The Impact on Orlando Tourism

    Epic Universe’s opening is expected to draw even more visitors to Orlando, and not just to Universal. Savvy tourists often plan to enjoy both Disney and Universal parks, making the new attractions a win-win for all involved. Visitors benefit from a richer theme park experience, and the local economy receives a boost from increased tourism.

    In essence, Vahle’s congratulatory message may seem like a small gesture, but it represents a larger understanding that collaboration and friendly competition can thrive side by side, ultimately enriching the industry and the guest experience.

    For more details, check out the full story on CinemaBlend.

  • Universal’s Epic Universe: A Game-Changer in Florida’s Theme Park Scene

    Universal’s Epic Universe: A Game-Changer in Florida’s Theme Park Scene

    Universal’s Bold Move: Enter Epic Universe

    Universal Orlando Resort is set to make waves in the theme park industry with its ambitious new venture, Epic Universe. This substantial $7 billion project represents the largest investment Universal has made since Comcast acquired the company in 2011. It’s not just a park; it’s an entire universe of experiences designed to captivate and entertain.

    What’s in Store at Epic Universe?

    Epic Universe promises to be a game-changer with its sprawling 750-acre expanse. The park will feature five immersive themed lands, including:

    • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic: Dive into the magical world of Harry Potter like never before.
    • Super Nintendo World: Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of your favorite Nintendo characters.
    • How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk: Experience the adventure of the beloved movie franchise.

    The Competitive Edge

    The opening of Epic Universe is expected to draw significant attention, potentially attracting 9.5 million visitors in its inaugural year, 2026. Analysts speculate that this influx could lead to as many as 1 million visitors being diverted from Disney parks.

    Disney, a longstanding leader in the Florida theme park scene, is not sitting idle. With 48.8 million visitors in 2023, Disney remains a powerhouse, but Universal’s new venture could disrupt the status quo. To counter, Disney has been enhancing its attractions and offering discounts to keep guests coming back.

    Broader Strategy and Future Prospects

    This expansion is part of a broader strategy by Comcast to diversify and strengthen its theme park offerings. With new projects like Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas and a Universal Kids Resort in Texas, Comcast is clearly committed to immersive, family-friendly entertainment.

    Globally, the company is also planning a new theme park resort in the UK, indicating a robust global expansion strategy.

    Economic Considerations

    Despite the economic risks associated with such large-scale projects, Universal’s commitment to this expansion underscores its confidence in the long-term viability of theme parks as a lucrative business model. With anticipated attendance potentially reaching 13 million annually, Epic Universe is poised to be a significant player in the industry.

    Conclusion

    The launch of Epic Universe is set to reshape the competitive landscape of Orlando’s theme park market. As Universal continues to innovate and expand, the battle for theme park supremacy between Universal and Disney promises to be both exciting and beneficial for consumers, offering a wider array of attractions and experiences.

    For more details, read the full article on Reuters.

  • Universal Orlando Teases New Attractions Post-Epic Universe

    Universal Orlando Teases New Attractions Post-Epic Universe

    Universal Orlando Resort is buzzing with excitement as it prepares for the grand opening of its much-anticipated Epic Universe theme park on May 22, 2025. But that’s not where the excitement ends. Insiders are hinting at a slate of innovative attractions in development for every Universal park, promising even more adventure for theme park enthusiasts.

    A New Era for Universal Parks

    Karen Irwin, the President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort, expressed how the resort is on the brink of a new era. “There are already so many things in the works now,” she said. This means guests can expect not only the groundbreaking experiences of Epic Universe but also fresh attractions across existing parks.

    The Epic Universe itself is set to be a game-changer, touted as one of the largest theme park expansions in history. It will bring new lands, rides, and experiences that capitalize on popular franchises and cutting-edge technology. But Universal’s vision doesn’t stop there.

    What Lies Ahead?

    While specific details remain under wraps, the promise of new attractions suggests a dynamic future. Universal parks are known for their immersive environments and state-of-the-art attractions. With this expansion, Universal aims to push the boundaries of innovation and guest experience even further.

    The focus seems to be on creating environments that transport guests into their favorite stories and adventures, a hallmark of Universal’s approach. This commitment to storytelling and technology ensures that fans will find something new and exciting on every visit.

    The Bigger Picture

    Universal’s expansion efforts align with a broader trend in the theme park industry where parks are increasingly leveraging intellectual properties to attract visitors. This strategy not only draws fans of specific franchises but also keeps the parks fresh and relevant in a competitive market.

    As we look forward to 2025 and beyond, it’s clear that Universal parks are set to redefine the theme park experience, offering guests more than just rides, but full-scale adventures.

    Stay tuned for more updates as Universal continues to unveil its ambitious plans.

    Read more at NBC Insider

  • Epic Universe: A New Chapter in Theme Park Adventures

    Epic Universe: A New Chapter in Theme Park Adventures

    A New Era for Universal Parks

    Orlando is set to welcome a thrilling new addition to its theme park family with the opening of Epic Universe. This marks the first major expansion in over 25 years for Universal Orlando Resort, effectively doubling its size. As a part of Comcast’s ambitious vision, Epic Universe is designed to fuse beloved storylines with cutting-edge technology, promising visitors a blend of nostalgia and innovation.

    The Worlds Within Epic Universe

    Celestial Park

    Upon entering, guests are greeted by Celestial Park, an enchanting area featuring lush gardens and scenic waterways. The centerpiece here is Stardust Racers, the park’s fastest roller coaster, which promises an adrenaline-pumping start to your adventure.

    Super Nintendo World

    Fans of Mario and Donkey Kong rejoice! This immersive land brings these iconic characters to life, featuring augmented reality rides that put you in the driver’s seat of Mario Kart races and Donkey Kong adventures.

    Isle of Berk

    Step into the world of Vikings and dragons in the Isle of Berk. This area showcases animatronic dragons and water-based attractions inspired by the popular ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ series, making it a hit with families.

    Dark Universe

    A nod to Universal’s classic monster films, Dark Universe offers a chilling experience with its high-tech horror ride. Encounter legendary figures like Frankenstein and Dracula in a setting that blends eerie atmosphere with modern thrills.

    Wizarding World’s Ministry of Magic

    This magical land merges the elegance of 1920s Paris with the charm of 1990s London. The signature ride centers around the infamous Dolores Umbridge, adding a unique twist to the Harry Potter universe.

    The Impact on Universal Parks

    Epic Universe is poised to redefine theme park experiences not only in Orlando but globally. By integrating beloved franchises with modern technological advancements, it signals a shift towards more interactive and immersive storytelling in theme parks. This move is expected to set new standards and potentially influence future developments in Universal Parks worldwide.

    For families and fans of all ages, Epic Universe promises not just a visit, but a journey into the worlds of imagination and adventure that have captured hearts across generations.

    Source: Reuters