Could this be bigger than Disney? Epic Universe opens in Florida

Universal Orlando Resort will officially open its newest theme park, Epic Universe, to the public on Thursday, May 22, just in time for Memorial Day weekend in the United States. This marks the fourth expansion of the Universal Orlando complex and the first major theme park opening in Florida in over 25 years.

Located southwest of downtown Orlando, Epic Universe offers a fully immersive experience with attractions based on popular franchises such as Harry Potter, Super Nintendo, How to Train Your Dragon, and Universal Monsters. With this launch, Universal aims to strengthen its position against Walt Disney World Resort, solidifying Orlando’s status as one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

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Multibillion-dollar investment and high expectations

Epic Universe was first announced in 2019. While official figures have not been released, experts like Dennis Speigel of International Theme Park Services estimate the total investment at around $7.7 billion. Comcast, the parent company of NBCUniversal, reported $8.6 billion in revenue from its theme park division in 2024.

The park is expected to give a significant boost to the local economy. Orlando, often dubbed the "Theme Park Capital of the World," welcomed over 75 million visitors in 2024, according to Visit Orlando. Its President and CEO, Casandra Matej, described the opening of Epic Universe as a “major milestone” for the region, with the potential to attract up to 8 million visitors annually.

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Five immersive worlds and diverse attractions

Epic Universe is divided into five themed lands. Celestial Park acts as the main entrance and the central hub of the park. Visitors can explore areas like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, set in 1920s Paris and inspired by both the Fantastic Beasts films and the original Harry Potter saga; Super Nintendo World, featuring interactive elements and a Mario Kart ride with augmented reality; and Isle of Berk, based on the How to Train Your Dragon film series.

Another highlight is Dark Universe, described as the most mysterious part of Epic Universe. It immerses guests in the lore of classic monsters such as Dracula, the Wolfman, and Frankenstein. Each land features its own themed attractions, dining, and shopping options, offering visitors a fully immersive experience.

Hours and admission prices

General admission prices for Epic Universe start at $139 for adults and $134 for children, excluding taxes. Prices vary depending on the date, so checking Universal Orlando’s official website before planning a visit is recommended.

Park hours range from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (EST), although these may vary daily. Visitors are encouraged to consult the park’s calendar in advance to make the most of their experience.