Today marks a monumental milestone as Universal Orlando Resort officially opens the gates to Universal Epic Universe – its most ambitious and immersive theme park to date, and the first major park to debut in Orlando in over 25 years. This groundbreaking destination catapults guests into five awe-inspiring worlds that deliver experiences beyond imagination: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe.
The excitement was palpable as thousands of eager fans poured into the park as early as 6 a.m., ready to witness history in the making. At approximately 8 a.m., Epic Universe officially opened with a spectacular celebration featuring character appearances at each portal, dazzling fireworks, a choreographed fountain show, and more.
“This is a truly exhilarating moment as we introduce Universal Epic Universe to the world,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “This park is the result of nearly ten years of passion, creativity, and hard work. There’s truly nothing else like it.”
The celebration began the night before with an exclusive, star-studded gala. Guests walked the Celestial Carpet, including celebrities, filmmakers, creative partners, and other VIPs. The evening culminated in a breathtaking show narrated by Steven Spielberg, Creative Consultant for Universal Destinations and Experiences, with lights, music, fireworks—and an epic drone finale spelling out a single, perfect word: EPIC.
A Decade in the Making
Universal Epic Universe redefines theme park immersion with next-level innovation across five richly detailed worlds. Through majestic portals, guests enter a universe packed with over 50 unique experiences, from thrilling rides and live entertainment to mouthwatering dining and immersive shopping.
Explore the Five Realms of Epic Adventure:
Celestial Park
The centerpiece of Epic Universe, Celestial Park welcomes guests with lush gardens, flowing waterways, and stargazing paths. This awe-inspiring entry sets the tone for the park’s wonders and includes:
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Stardust Racers – a dual-launch racing coaster that hits speeds of up to 62 mph.
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Constellation Carousel – a dazzling, one-of-a-kind carousel with graceful spins and choreographed movements.
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Astronomica – a playful, interactive splash zone and giant compass rose pointing toward other worlds.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Set in 1920s wizarding Paris and the British Ministry of Magic, this third chapter of the Wizarding World brings spellbinding adventures to life:
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Cast spells with interactive wands throughout the magical streets.
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Watch Le Cirque Arcanus, a spectacular magical circus show.
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Indulge in treats like Butterbeer crepes at Café L’Air De La Sirène.
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Enter Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, Universal’s most advanced attraction yet.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
Step inside the game and explore two vibrant lands: Super Mario Land and, for the first time in the U.S., Donkey Kong Country. Fans can:
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Race through Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.
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Embark on Yoshi’s Adventure, also debuting in the U.S.
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Brave jungle mine carts in Mine-Cart Madness.
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Dine at Toadstool Cafe, meet beloved characters, and level up with a Power-Up Band for interactive fun and hidden secrets.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
Soar above the sea cliffs of Berk in this faithful re-creation of the dragon-filled Viking world:
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Glide through the skies on Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a family coaster with stunning views.
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Train like a Viking with aerial spins on Dragon Racer’s Rally.
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Enjoy a live-action spectacle in The Untrainable Dragon show.
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Feast on Viking-style eats, meet Toothless, and explore the island’s bustling village.
Dark Universe
Step into an eerie, gothic world where classic monsters rise again – and meet some new ones:
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Dare to enter Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, the most terrifying attraction Universal has ever created.
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Spin through the forest on Curse of the Werewolf, a family coaster with a bite.
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Transform your look at Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience.
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Dine at Das Stakehaus, surrounded by vampire lore and artifacts.
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Encounter legends like Dracula, The Invisible Man, and the Bride of Frankenstein.
Where Luxury Meets Adventure
Capping off the experience is the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a 500-room Mediterranean-inspired escape with direct access to the park, upscale dining, a rooftop bar, a poolside retreat, and views that overlook all the epic action (valid park admission required).
For more details, visit: www.universalorlando.com/epicuniverse
Let the epic adventure begin — the universe has never looked like this.