Universal’s Epic Universe is set to be the most immersive and technologically advanced theme park in Orlando. This highly anticipated new addition to Universal Orlando Resort promises thrilling attractions, delicious dining, unique shopping, and luxurious hotels – all brought together to create unforgettable experiences for guests.Slated to begin opening in January 2025, Epic Universe will take guests on adventures in vibrant themed lands filled with extraordinary sights and culturally diverse experiences. The park will feature popular franchises like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and more.
Table of Contents
- Themed Lands and Attractions
- Celestial Park
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
- Super Nintendo World
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
- Dark Universe
- Design
- Hotels
- Universal Stella Nova Resort
- Universal Terra Luna Resort
- Universal Helios Grand Hotel
- Transportation
- Shopping and Dining
- Restaurants
- Shops
- Technology and Innovation
- Ride Systems
- App Intregration
- Themeing & Special Effects
- Sustainability
- Guest Services
- Events
- Extras
- Universal CityWalk
- Proximity to Epic Universe
- Express Pass
- Staying Up to Date
- Special Offers and Deals
- Universal Rewards Visa Card
- Conclusion
Themed Lands and Attractions
Epic Universe will feature five distinct lands for guests to explore, each filled with innovative attractions, entertainment, restaurants, and shops.
Celestial Park
Serving as the gateway land to Epic Universe, Celestial Park surrounds guests in lush gardens with shimmering waters.
Attractions:
- Starfall Racers – A unique dual-launching racing roller coaster with riders divided into two competing ride vehicles vying to be the first to cross the finish line. This coaster performs an inverted loop, a first for Universal Orlando.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Inspired by the Ministry of Magic from the beloved Harry Potter books and films, this land pulls guests into the wizarding world of the 1920s.
Attractions:
- Ministry of Magic Forbidden Forest Coaster – An indoor/outdoor roller coaster weaving through the mysterious Forbidden Forest.
Super Nintendo World
Guests will feel like they’ve stepped inside the iconic and vibrant world of Nintendo video games.
Attractions:
- Mario Kart: Bowser Challenge – A ride using augmented reality technology and actual set pieces to put riders in the middle of a Mario Kart race.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
Viking ships, dragons, and panoramic views transport visitors to the Isle of Berk made famous in the How to Train Your Dragon animated film series.
Attractions:
- Hiccup’s Wing Gliders – Prepare to soar alongside Hiccup and Toothless on this family coaster, reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour as you glide around the island of Berk.
- Dragon Racer’s Rally – Here, guests can control the intensity of their experience, performing high-flying, gravity-defying maneuvers and barrel rolls on Viking-made dragon-riding trainers that reach heights of up to 67 feet.
- Fyre Drill – Get ready for a wet-and-wild boat battle in this thrilling attraction, where you’ll compete against fellow Vikings in a quest to douse raging fires.
- Viking Training Camp – Climb, slide, and explore your way through this sprawling interactive play camp, learning everything you need to know about dragons and what it takes to be a true Viking warrior.
- The Untrainable Dragon – Don’t miss this live show, where you’ll witness the incredible bond between Vikings and their fierce, fire-breathing companions.
Dark Universe
Inspired by Universal’s classic monster films, Dark Universe will offer an eerie yet captivating Gothic atmosphere with sights and sounds that bring the chilling tales to life.
Design
Central Hub – Celestial Park
- Acts as the main entrance and central hub of the park with a garden theme featuring lush landscapes, flowing waterways, and mythological architecture
- Will have its own attractions like the Constellation Carousel and Starfall Racers rollercoaster
- Leads into the four themed lands – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe
Themed Lands
- Each land completely isolated from the others, can only access via the central hub
- Very intricately detailed immersive themeing to transport guests into each world
- Use of innovative ride systems and special effects to enhance experiences
Overall Design
- Massive 750-acre site, making it one of Universal’s largest parks
- Themeing and environments designed for exploration and discovery
- Integration of energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices
- Three on-site themed hotels including one, Helios Grand Hotel, located inside the park itself with direct access
The architecture and environments of Epic Universe are meant to be highly imaginative and intricately detailed to fully immerse guests. The central hub Celestial Park sets the tone with its fantastical astronomy-inspired theming leading into the four isolated lands. Innovative ride systems and rich themeing throughout enhance the sense of discovering new worlds.
Hotels
Epic Universe will have three on-site hotels for visitors to stay at during their vacation.
Universal Stella Nova Resort (Opening January 21, 2025)
This galactic-themed 750-room hotel will feature:
- A 10,000 square foot pool
- Hot tub
- Splash pad
- Game room
- Quick service restaurant
- Transportation: Complimentary shuttle buses to the theme parks and CityWalk
- Early Park Admission
- Shopping: Universal Studios store onsite
- Amenities: Pool, splash pad, hot tub, game room, restaurants
- Room Key Benefits: Resort-wide charging privileges
Universal Terra Luna Resort (Opening January 21, 2025)
Also featuring 750 rooms, this resort’s theme will revolve around planetary elements of the universe.
- Massive pool
- Hot tub
- Game room
- Tabletop seating areas
- Quick service restaurant
- Transportation: Complimentary shuttle buses to the theme parks and CityWalk
- Early Park Admission
- Shopping: Universal Studios store onsite
- Amenities: Massive pool with pop-up jets, hot tub, game room, restaurants
- Room Key Benefits: Resort-wide charging privileges
Universal Helios Grand Hotel
Located inside Epic Universe itself, the 500 rooms at Helios Grand Hotel will offer premium amenities and park views. As the only on-site hotel with direct theme park access, it provides ultimate convenience and exclusivity.
- Transportation: Dedicated and exclusive entrance into Epic Universe theme park
- Early Park Admission likely but unconfirmed
- Shopping: Details pending
- Amenities: Details pending but promises unique views and amenities
- Room Key Benefits: Details pending
Transportation
The Epic Universe hotels will offer complimentary transportation via shuttle buses to take visitors between the new theme park, Universal’s existing parks (Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay), and Universal CityWalk.
Shopping and Dining
Diverse dining and shopping experiences will be integrated throughout Epic Universe’s five lands. Some highlights include:
Restaurants:
- The Oak & Star Tavern (Celestial Park) – Hearty pub fare and craft beers served in an old English-style tavern.
- Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant (Celestial Park) – Authentic Asian dishes like sushi, noodle bowls, and more.
Shops:
- Borgin & Burkes (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic) – Specialty magical items referencing the dark Knockturn Alley shop from Harry Potter.
- Scribbulus Writing Implements (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic) – Quills, ink, parchment, and other writing supplies.
And much more! With over 50 dining and shopping locations, Epic Universe will offer extensive options to satisfy every taste and interest.
Technology and Innovation
Universal’s Epic Universe will showcase cutting-edge technology and innovation through several aspects:
- Ride Systems: Many of the attractions will feature advanced ride systems including launch coasters for acceleration and inverted coasters for unique ride experiences. The use of augmented and virtual reality across multiple rides adds a heightened level of immersion.
- App Integration: Universal Orlando’s mobile app will likely integrate with the Epic Universe, allowing for interactive experiences, mobile food ordering, virtual queues, and more convenience.
- Theming and Special Effects: Detailed physical sets combined with projection mapping, animatronics, lighting, and special effects will bring each themed land to life with an unparalleled level of realism.
Sustainability
Universal has stated Epic Universe will incorporate sustainable and eco-friendly practices throughout its construction and operation:
- LEED Certified Buildings: Many of the buildings aim to achieve LEED certification through efficient design, renewable energy, and waste reduction.
- Solar Panels: Rooftop solar panels will help generate clean electricity.
- Electric Vehicle Charging: Charging stations will be available for electric vehicles.
Guest Services
Epic Universe plans to provide exceptional guest service through various offerings:
- Child Swap: Allowing one parent to wait with a child while the other rides, then switch without having to wait in line again.
- Rider Switch: Same concept but for older guests who don’t meet height requirements together. Enables taking turns riding.
- Nursing Facilities: Designated nursing areas will be available for mothers.
- First Aid: Each park will have trained medical staff and areas for guests needing minor medical attention.
Events
Special events expected at the new park include:
- Grand Opening Celebration: Marking the first phase opening likely in January 2025 with ceremonies, media coverage, and commemorative merchandise.
- Annual Passholder Previews: Exclusive first access events before official opening dates.
- Holiday Events: Special holiday festivities and entertainment during events like Halloween Horror Nights and Christmas celebrations.
Extras
Universal CityWalk
- Located adjacent to Universal’s existing theme parks, about 2 miles from Epic Universe
- Dining and entertainment district with restaurants, shops, clubs and more
Proximity to Epic Universe
- Complimentary shuttle transportation will be provided between CityWalk and Epic Universe
- Easy access via car – located just off Kirkman Road, south of Sand Lake Road
Express Pass
- Universal Express Pass offers shorter lines at participating rides
- Details on availability and implementation at Epic Universe’s attractions is still forthcoming
Staying Updated
- Follow Universal Orlando Resort’s social media channels and blog
- Check the Universal Orlando website for official announcements
- An interactive preview center for Epic Universe will open at CityWalk later this year
- Check back here for new updates
Special Offers and Deals
- Florida residents can get multi-day tickets starting at $225 per night plus tax. There is also a buy 2 days, get 2 days free ticket offer starting at $330.99 per adult.
- There is a Universal Orlando vacation package offer that includes 4 nights hotel, 3-park preferred annual passes, and a bundle & save discount.
- Military members can purchase a Military Freedom Pass, giving them theme park access most days in 2024.
- Universal is offering a “Stay More, Save More” hotel offer where guests can save up to 10% on hotels stays of 5 nights or more. Rates start at $162 per night plus tax.
- Guests can get an extra $50 off Universal Orlando vacation packages when booking.
- Universal Orlando Annual Passholders get special 2024 calendar-year discounts and benefits like exclusive food options and early park admission.
- Costco members can save up to 20% on Universal Studios theme park tickets.
Universal Rewards Visa Card
The recently launched Universal Rewards Visa Card provides guests with a new way to pay for their Universal Orlando vacation while earning rewards and enjoying special perks. Cardholder benefits include:
- 10% off select food, beverage, and merchandise purchases
- Access to a VIP Lounge at the theme parks
- Earn $100 statement credit after spending $500 in the first 90 days
- 3% back on qualifying Universal purchases
- 2% back on qualifying travel purchases
- 1% back on all other purchases
The Universal Rewards Visa Card will enhance any Universal Orlando vacation with money-saving perks and exclusive extras.
Conclusion
With innovative attractions taking beloved stories to new heights, delicious dining, one-of-a-kind shopping, luxurious on-site hotels, and seamless transportation, Universal’s Epic Universe is set to deliver next-level theme park experiences beginning in 2025. This expansive and immersive new addition to Universal Orlando Resort promises unforgettable adventures for all who enter through its gates.
