Everything we know about Universal Epic Universe Theme Park opening 2025 in Orlando - A Complete Guide!

Get ready folks. In 2025, Universal Epic Universe will forever change the theme park map of Orlando, with Universal promising an innovative new theme park beyond anything you've experienced before.

Universal Epic Universe started out as a doodle on a piece of napkin. “Here’s a layout of how this could work,” said Mark Woodbury back in 2016. At the time, Universal’s current CEO was president of Universal Creative and had just tasked his team with setting up a brainstorm session with one topic on the agenda: “What would we create if we had the opportunity to build another domestic park?” 

As it turns out, a whole new universe...

Universal Orlando Resort officially announced back in August 2019 that they were building a brand new theme park in Orlando. The park will be the fourth theme park at Universal Orlando, including the themed water park Volcano Bay.

Originally scheduled to open in 2024, Universal quickly began construction of the new Universal Epic Universe but was delayed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, work resumed in March 2021, with the delay pushing the opening to 2025.

As for what's inside the new theme park, until now Universal have remained pretty tight lipped about their plans, other that official revealing that the new them park would include Super Nintendo World, officials have not given anything away.

As construction moved along, buildings could be seen taking shape, roller coasters began rising into the sky, and thanks to permits filled with Orange County, we pretty much knew what was coming in the new theme park even with Universal remaining quiet, until now...

On Tuesday, January 30, 2024 Universal Orlando Resort finally shared details on its currently under construction theme park, revealing lots of details on the new park.

Details for Universal Epic Universe are now on the Universal Orlando website and app, Universal's socials have even started to promote the new park, so we can pretty much guarantee a media blitz from now until the park opens next year!

So... lets take a deep dive into the new Universal Epic Universe!!

We will update the information on this page as we get closer to the opening of Universal Epic Universe, so keep checking back for the latest on this exciting new theme park in Orlando.

What Do We Know About Universal Epic Universe?

Universal Orlando Resort say that Universal Epic Universe will be a game changer for theme park entertainment, creating its most ambitious theme park yet.

Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion and innovation that is unmatched – transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attraction, entertainment, dining and shopping experiences that come together to create an unforgettable adventure that is nothing short of epic!

The addition of Universal Orlando’s fourth theme park will also transform the award-winning resort into a weeklong vacation destination filled with the most compelling experiences imaginable.

What is Universal Epic Universe?

Let’s start with the basics. Epic Universe is Universal Orlando Resort’s fourth theme park, built on 750 acres of land, just a few miles from Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay.

This new offering will transport guests to expansive, vivid worlds filled with awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, hotels, dining and more. 

How do you get to Epic? Instead of parking in the main parking garage and accessing the theme parks through Universal CityWalk, you’ll drive directly to where the new theme park is located. There will also be complimentary transportation connecting the entire Universal Orlando Resort.

From ground-breaking technology to an innovative racing roller coaster, to five different worlds connected through mystical portals, Epic is transformational on so many levels. 

“Epic is the future meeting the present,” says Gabriela Lander, director of Facility Design for Universal Creative, who’s been involved in the Epic project (what at the time was being called the “new project”) since the very first brainstorm session. “We’ll have a park where we’ll be able to walk through nature and be guided by the stars, surrounded by iconic elements that materialize dreams into immersive worlds of epic stories, and with a level of technology that will take the experience to a new level,” she adds.

Inspired by the exploration of unknown worlds, the theme park offers an entirely new level of experience by putting guests into five fully-themed worlds. “We’re telling stories that resonate with our guests, immersing them right from the front gate,” says Steve Tatham, the executive creative director for Universal Epic Universe, who moved back to Orlando from Osaka, Japan, to work on this project. “Universal redefined theme-park entertainment forever. We’re setting a new standard, and that’s what it means to be a modern theme park,” he adds. 

Can you imagine what it must feel like to work on a project for so long, not be able to talk about it, and then finally start to see it come to life? “It’s one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” says Gabriela. “This amazing park went from an idea to a design, and from there to a full construction site, where everyday you see new parts being built or installed. The amount of talent invested in producing a new theme park that goes above and beyond what we have already done, is a humbling and heart-filling experience.” She attributes the greatness of Epic Universe to the diverse talent involved in its creation. “It’s a direct reflection of the multitude of cultures, races, religions, abilities, backgrounds and genders represented in this project through our Team Members,” says Gabriela.

How will Universal Epic Universe work?

Epic Universe is made up of five different worlds, all connected through Celestial Park, the first world you’ll experience once you walk through the Emerald Gate and the Chronos device at the entrance to Epic. “In our story, Chronos is this giant machine used to harness the energy of the Universe that powers all of Celestial Park, allowing us to open the portals to other worlds,” explains Adam Rivest, executive producer for Celestial Park.

He has worked at Universal for 24 years and was actually the one who set up that first-ever brainstorm about Epic almost a decade ago — yes, the same meeting Gabriela was in, and where they got to see the plot of the land laid out on the table. Full circle.

Once you’re in Celestial Park, you’ll have access to four portals, which are tall, obelisk-like structures, that take you into the other fully-themed, immersive worlds. And they are

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk

Dark Universe

“Never before have guests been able to immerse themselves in these stories as deeply as they do when crossing the thresholds of the four portals,” Steve says. “They’ll come face-to-face with scary monsters, they’ll tame dragons and encounter new magical eras.” And these narratives all exist within one giant — you guessed it — epic universe.

“There’s a little bit for everybody,” Adam adds. “We’ve got worlds that are more geared toward children, some that are more geared toward the adventurous, others that are geared more toward adults. There’s a nice mix and within each world there’s also levels of demographic and appeal.”

What is inside each portal (land) at Universal Epic Universe?

Officially Universal have not expanded on any of the lands just yet, other than Celestial Park, and yes, we have included all the details on Celestial Park here, but we have also included what is expected to be in each land. This information will be updated as we get official details from Universal Orlando.

Celestial Park

Simply put, Celestial Park is a world between worlds, where everything begins and ends. Celestial Park holds the entrance (portals) to the other immersive areas of the theme park (worlds) and it’s also where you’ll find some of the best restaurants on property, must-do attractions, retail options and the most unique hotel in Universal’s portfolio.

It was created as a space for people to (re)connect with each other and with nature. “We’ve made a conscious effort to put the park back into theme park, and made sure not to design it with lots of concrete and asphalt streets,” says Adam. 

Celestial Park also has a transformative function between day and night — during the day, it’s this beautiful, lush living garden with spectacular fountains, and at night, the entire area lights up and transforms into a completely different environment. It’s breathtaking.  

Within the narrative created around the lore of Epic Universe, Celestial Park is the center of an ever-evolving universe that, throughout centuries, people — artists, musicians, explorers, adventurers, inventors — have visited for inspiration and connection, and maybe left a little piece of them behind. 

“And I think that’s what’s really at the emotional core of it: our desire to belong, to connect, to meet new people, to discover new places, to have experiences. That’s what sets off great explorers, why people climb mountains, why they go on adventures. And also why they go through these portals,” says Steve.

Here’s everything you can find in Celestial Park:

What to Ride in Celestial Park

Constellation Carousel

This beautiful carousel has a wonderful spin to it — quite literally. It may seem like a traditional carousel, with an array of celestial creatures to choose from, but as it goes round and round, the creatures are also turning 360 degrees, making you feel like you’re caught within the Milky Way, riding on constellations through the galaxy. 

“Constellation Carousel is the most enchanting carousel ever made,” says Gabriela. “The design, the colors and tones, the dome that will cover it… well, all the elements used in this experience are the perfect combination to create a unique moment while enjoying Epic. The traditional carousel of our childhood is being redefined by the stars!” The ride is also covered in hundreds of points of starlight, creating a breathtaking cosmic ambiance.

Starfall Racers

“Celestial Park is all about the heavens, you know? And on Starfall Racers you’re physically riding the embodiment of a comet,” says Adam. This attraction is a racing dual-launch coaster that goes at 62 mph and reaches a max height of 133 feet. “While it’s giant and looks really intimidating at first, it’s designed to feel like an old wooden coaster, but smooth as a button. So, you’ll rise up in your seat and get those zero G feels,” says Adam. “Although there are a couple signature moves in there, most of the 1.8 mile track is a side-by-side race between two comets to see who gets to the end first,” he adds. With no break zones, by the way. 

Riding it at night will be an attraction in itself — because the coaster is covered with hundreds of points of light, the vehicles look like shooting comets racing across the sky. Plus Universal say that there is an easter egg on each coaster vehicle that is a gift for true Universal fans... Truly outatime! 

Astronomica

At the center of Celestial Park lies Astronomica, an interactive wet-play attraction designed as a compass rose that points to the portals and attractions around Epic. A pro tip? Make sure you stop by at night too, as Astronomica comes alive with light, color and music! 

Where to Eat in Celestial Park

Celestial Park will house two visually breathtaking restaurants, Atlantic and The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant. “These two venues set the tone for what our culinary mission continues to be: quality fresh food with amazing storytelling,” says Chef Robert Martinez Jr., executive chef at Universal Orlando Resort. “I feel like my whole career has been leading up to the Epic Universe project. For me there is nothing more fulfilling than being part of a project from its inception and watching it blossom into an amazing atmosphere with delicious food.”

When creating the menus for the restaurants around Epic, the Food & Beverage team took all guests into consideration, making sure to cover dietary restrictions and preferences. 

“Once upon a time, food played a part in the Universal experience, but today, in some cases, the food is the experience!” says Chef Martinez.

Additional “must-eat” locations within Celestial Park include The Oak & Star Tavern, where guests can enjoy savory barbecue, Pizza Moon, which will serve up a tasty menu featuring a variety of pizzas, and more

Atlantic Restaurant

Nestled in the middle of Celestial Park, Atlantic is Chef Martinez’s “precious gem.” The restaurant is surrounded by the shimmering waters of Neptune’s pool and has floor-to-ceiling Victorian glass walls. “It gives our guests the illusion of dining in an ‘out of this world’ glass aquarium,” says Chef Martinez. The name probably already gave it away, but you’ll be able to find the freshest seafood and typical — and not so typical — surf and turf options on the menu. Table for one, please!

The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant  

Blue Dragon is a legitimate flavor bomb. Staying true to the electric neon dragons that snake the interior of the dining room, the restaurant has a vibrant and delectable menu. “Our guests will have the chance to enjoy flavors from China, Southeast Asia and Japan, all while dining under the constellations, as lanterns dance overhead in this beautiful indoor courtyard,” says Chef Martinez. If you need a break from the bustling environment, grab a seat at the cozy Tiger Bar for a drink or two.

Where to Shop in Celestial Park

There will be plenty of retail options for you to stock up on souvenirs through Celestial Park!

Nintendo Super Star Store

Incredibly detailed retail locations, including the Nintendo Super Star Store, where guests can shop an assortment of merchandise themed to Super Nintendo World.

Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets

Here guests can satisfy their cravings with a unique selection of sweet treats, and more

What can we expect inside each portal?

Now onto each portal and what is withing them! Universal have not officially revealed what is inside each land but thanks to permits filed with Orange County and ariel photographs taken by the infamous bioreconstruct on X we have put together what you can expect inside each land!

We will update the information here as we get details from Universal!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Here guests will discover a different era of the wizarding world in an all-new land that blends 1920s wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures’ Fantastic Beasts films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series.

What to Ride in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Battle of the Ministry of Magic

The centerpiece of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic is a massive dark ride, rumored to be named Battle of the Ministry of Magic. This ride will take guests inside the Ministry of Magic in London as seen in the Fantastic Beasts movies where we will encounter  the villainous Dolores Umbridge.

Guests are expected to enter the Ministry of Magic by using the Floo Network, where you will enter a large hallway through a magical fireplace! The ride system for the huge attraction is expected to be an updated version of the SCOOP ride vehicle which Universal Orlando currently use on the attractions, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and Transformers: The Ride 3D.

The Circus Arcanus Theater Show

Within the Paris area in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic there will be an large-scale indoor theater show set within The Circus Arcanus big top tent, as seen in the second Fantastic Beasts film, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.

Where to Eat in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Not much is known about the food offerings here just yet, other than there will be two dining locations within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.

Where to Shop in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Much like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade in Universal's Islands of Adventure, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will contain multiple retail locations, expect a cauldron shop, clothing shop, pub, quidditch shop, candy shop, and more.

The retail locations are expected to be in the Paris section of the land and will include a new wand shop, Baguettes Magiques de Cosme Acajor, which is expected to be similar to Ollivanders, but with different magic wands, each packaged within triangular boxes.

Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World is where guests will enter the iconic green pipe and discover a new way to play as they step into the worlds of beloved characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Donkey Kong.

What to Ride in Super Nintendo World

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge is an augmented reality dark ride. There is already versions of this attraction in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood. The ride is primarily based on the Mario Kart 8 video game. The ride uses practical sets and augmented reality images shown in glasses to bring guests directly into the world of the popular spin-off video game series.

Yoshi’s Adventure

Yoshi's Adventure is an omnimover ride themed after the Yoshi character and spin-off series. There is already a version of this fun ride in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan.

Mine Cart Madness

Universal Studios Japan has announced a Donkey Kong expansion for Super Nintendo World including Mine Cart Madness, a version of the Donkey Kong coaster currently under construction at Universal Epic Universe.

On this new coaster the fun starts when you get blasted out of a barrel cannon at the Golden Temple! Hop into a mine cart and go for a thrilling ride through the jungle! You’ll even leap across a collapsed track! This series of unpredictable thrills will make you scream with excitement! Join Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong in this race through the jungle on a wild adventure to protect the Golden Banana from the Tiki Tak Tribe!

This coaster will be a "boom" coaster," where a boom arm connects the coaster vehicle to the track underneath the in such a way that it looks like a coaster is floating above the ground. This will allow Universal to make it look like the coaster is jumping missing track segments on a false track above the real coaster track.

Where to Eat in Super Nintendo World

Toadstool Cafe

The main dining location within Orlando's Super Nintendo World will be a quick service restaurant, Toadstool Cafe which will have space for 344 diners.

Pit Stop Popcorn and Yoshi’s Snack Island

There will also be two snack counter locations within Super Nintendo World, expected to be named Pit Stop Popcorn and Yoshi’s Snack Island.

Where to Shop in Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World is expected to have two retail locations within the land, together with several retail carts.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

This is where guests can soar with dragons in a colorful world filled with Viking adventures based on the wildly popular How to Train Your Dragon film franchise.

What to Ride in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will feature three rides including a massive roller coaster.

Family Launch Coaster

The centerpiece of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will be a massive double launch Intamin launch family coaster themed around the titular dragons in the popular movie franchise with the ride vehicles expected to be themed to dragons.

Boat Ride

A family-friend boat ride themed to Viking boats manufactured by Mack will also be included in this new land. The ride known Asas a Splash Battle ride features interactive canons on each vehicle that will allow riders to fire water from each boat. Guests along the banks of the attraction will also be able to operate water canons, firing at the Viking ships as they pass.

Twin Sky Fly Ride - Dragon Racer Rally

A third ride within How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will be a set of two Gerstlauer manufactured Sky Fly flat rides. Riders will be able to control how thrilling their ride will be. Using levers attached to their seat, a rider can decide whether they want to rotate their individual seat around, going completely upside-down or not, and for as many times as you can fit into each ride!

Theater Show

 How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will also include a huge theater with a capacity of 985. It is rumored that the show will combine live actors, large-scale puppetry, moving set pieces, and screen-based media.

Where to Eat in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

The Great Hall

The main dining location within How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will be a large quick-serve restaurant with space for 244 diners inside, and space for a further 204 seats guests in an outdoor covered patio.

Where to Shop in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

There will be several retail location throughout How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk including a candy store.

Dark Universe

This is where guests encounter everything from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to the shadowy landscape where monsters roam in a world of myth and mystery.

What to Ride in Dark Universe

Universal Monsters Dark Ride

Much secrecy surrounds Dark Universe’s main attraction which is rumored to be a massive dark ride set in Frankenstein’s Manor, The ride system here will feature the Kuka Arm ride system as used in the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction at Island's. of Adventure.

Wolfman Spinning Family Coaster

Yet another roller coaster in Universal Epic Universe will be within Dark Universe. Expected to be a Mack family spinning roller coaster, this ride will be themed to the Wolfman.

Where to Eat in Dark Universe

Stake House

The centerpiece restaurant in Dark Universe will feature a large 362 seat tavern-style restaurant built around a massive tree carved with monster iconography with the roots of the tree growing through the village.

Windmill Dining Location

The land will also include a smaller 64 seat dining/bar location. Designed to look like the windmill from the original Frankenstein film, this will be another quick service location.

Where to Shop in Dark Universe

There is expected to be one main retail location, possibly named Oddities & Monstrosities.

Where to Stay in Universal Epic Universe

Universal Epic Universe will open in 2025 alongside three new hotels — yes, three new hotels: Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort. 

Helios Grand Hotel

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a full-service hotel for guests looking to go all-out during their Universal Orlando Resort stay. Named after the God of the Sun, Helios is where the heavens and earth unite: it’s adorned with celestial patterns and constellation details in the decor and has a casual, elegant Mediterranean-inspired feel throughout.

The coolest thing about the hotel is that it is walking-distance from Epic and has a dedicated and exclusive entrance into Celestial Park, making it one of the most unique properties in the Universal Orlando hotel portfolio. “From the hotel our guests will be able to enjoy the view of the beautiful gardens and natural wonders, and witness with advantage how they turn from a day event to a starry vision,” says Gabriela. 

Universal Stella Nova Resort & Universal Terra Luna Resort

Galaxies and planets inspire these sister hotels. They’re related in concept, but offer two different experiences...

Stella Nova is highlighted in teal and purple colors and represents its own galaxy with a black hole vortex porte-cochère while Terra Luna is highlighted in gold and green. Stella is inspired by the infinite vastness of the unknown universe and Terra is inspired by the thrill of pushing the limits of discovery.

Both hotels will have 750 guest-rooms, resort-style amenities and several food and drink options. The exterior facades of the hotels are layered with thousands of dichroic panels, with every panel slightly unique, which makes the facade ever-changing depending on where you stand, time of day and weather.

Universal Stella Nova Resort

Universal Stella Nova Resort will open on January 21, 2025.

Guests of Universal Stella Nova Resort will enjoy complimentary transportation to the parks and Universal CityWalk, so you’ll be free to travel back and forth to your resort anytime.

You’ll also enjoy Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Volcano Bay up to one hour before the parks open (valid theme park admission required. Select attractions).

You’ll even get complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout Universal Orlando Resort directly to your hotel. And your room key gives you resort-wide charging privileges throughout Universal Orlando Resort.

Available accommodations at Universal Stella Nova Resort will include standard rooms that can accommodate up to four guests.

Standard Rooms offer 315 square feet, 2 queen beds, a flat screen TV, mini-refrigerator and coffee maker.

Universal Stella Nova Resort will have on-site food and beverage outlets, including a three-meal restaurant, lobby bar, coffee outlet with grab-n-go items, and a pool bar and grill.

Three-Meal Quick Service Restaurant

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this convenient dining room will offer a selection of American classics.

Coffee Bar and Grab-and-Go

On the go and ready to roll, pop in for coffee ice cream, and cold drinks.

Pool Bar and Grill

When hunger strikes at the pool, this is the place to chow down on burgers, quesadillas, and salads, and wash it down with an adult beverage (must be 21+ with valid ID).

Pizza Delivery

You can’t go wrong with pizza, especially when it's delivered right to your room. When hunger strikes, fresh-made pizza can be ordered and delivered directly to the guests.

Lobby Bar

Classic cocktails infused with carious smoke & air complexities. (must be 21+ with valid ID)

Universal Terra Luna Resort

Universal Terra Luna Resort will open later than Universal Stella Nova Resort, opening its doors on February 25, 2025.

Guests of Universal Terra Luna Resort enjoy complimentary transportation to the parks and Universal CityWalk, so you’ll be free to travel back and forth to your resort anytime.

You’ll also enjoy Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Volcano Bay up to one hour before the parks open (valid theme park admission required. Select attractions.).

You’ll even get complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout Universal Orlando Resort directly to your hotel. And your room key gives you resort-wide charging privileges throughout Universal Orlando Resort.

Similar to Universal Stella Nova Resort, Universal Terra Luna Resort will also offer rooms that can accommodate up to four guests.

Standard Rooms offer 315 square feet, 2 queen beds, a flat-screen TV, a mini-refrigerator, and a coffee maker.

Universal Terra Luna Resort has on-site food and beverage outlets, including a three-meal quick service restaurant, lobby bar, coffee outlet with grab-n-go items, and a pool bar and grill.

Three-Meal Quick Service Restaurant

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are a breeze at this three-meal quick-service restaurant, offering American classics like burgers, paninis, fried chicken, and pasta.

Coffee Bar and Grab-and-Go

At the Grab & Go Coffee Bar in the lobby, guests will find a selection of refrigerated food and drinks as well as ice cream scooped to order, and coffee made to order.

Pool Bar and Grill

Enjoy poolside favorites featuring a full-service bar, beer, wine, and a menu that includes burgers, quesadillas, and salads.

Pizza Delivery

When hunger strikes, fresh-made pizza can be ordered and delivered directly to your room.

Lobby Bar

Lobby bar featuring craft cocktails curated with a focus on photo-synthetic ingredients and vegetation-derived spirits

“Epic is not just an idea; it is a living, breathing entity that we are creating here in Orlando, and so many people have been nurturing it along the way,” says Adam. “So it’s just really exciting that we’re about to share this park with the world.”

More details about Universal Epic Universe – including the debut of an interactive preview center at Universal CityWalk later this year that will offer a sneak peek at the new theme park – will be revealed in the months ahead.

For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.

For the latest Universal Orlando news click here, and for all the latest news from Orlando's theme parks click here.

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