Universal Epic Universe Opens in Orlando with Epic New Worlds and Attractions

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This announcement concerns the official launch event for Universal Orlando Resort’s newest attraction, Epic Universe.

Get ready for thrilling journeys ahead! Today, the Universal Orlando Resort unveils its latest attraction, Universal Epic Universe, marking the inauguration of a groundbreaking theme park that represents one of the most imaginative and immersive parks ever constructed. This is the first significant theme park to be launched in Orlando in a quarter-century. The cutting-edge theme park will take visitors on a trip to five captivating realms brimming with extraordinary experiences that surpass even the wildest dreams: 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.

A multitude of eager visitors flocked to the theme park as early as 6 o’clock in the morning, showcasing the high levels of excitement and eagerness leading up to the grand opening of the park. Approximately eight hours later, at around 8 a.m., Universal Epic Universe was unveiled with a spectacular, memorable event that included special character appearances at every entrance, dazzling fireworks, captivating water displays, and much more.

Today marks an exceptionally thrilling moment as Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort, presents Universal Epic Universe to the global audience. Epic Universe represents the fruit of almost a decade’s labor. The teams have infused this new park with immense passion, creativity, and commitment, crafting something truly unique within our cosmos.

Last night, Universal Orlando held a glittering, high-profile event to unveil its latest attraction. This event saw celebrities, talent from movies that inspired the realms of Epic Universe, essential collaborators who contributed to the creation of this theme park, and other distinguished guests arriving in grand style on Celestial Carpets.

At the end of the night, guests were treated to an unforgettable climax, a spectacular event narrated by Steven Spielberg, Creative Consultant for Universal Destinations and Experiences. This moment filled the entire park with a stunning light show, fountains, and fireworks synchronized to a moving soundtrack that paid tribute to the immersive realms of the park. The highlight was an incredible drone display that encapsulated the whole evening in just one word: EPIC.

As a cinema enthusiast, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the grandeur of Universal Epic Universe for over a decade now. This isn’t just another theme park; it’s the magnum opus of Universal Destinations and Experiences, setting new standards for immersion and innovation in the realm of theme parks.

Imagine stepping through a magnificent portal that whiskes you away to five sprawling worlds, each brimming with over 50 unique experiences! From heart-pounding attractions and electrifying entertainment, to mouthwatering cuisine and themed shopping, every aspect has been meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey that’s nothing short of epic.

The five imaginative worlds of Epic Universe include:

Celestial Park

At the core of Epic Universe lies Celestial Park, the initial world visitors step into at our newly built amusement park. Sprawling across lush gardens, winding waterways, and leisurely walkways, Celestial Park embodies the essence of a “theme park,” offering endless exploration, fun, and excitement in every corner. Here, you’ll find numerous dining and shopping spots, as well as three exhilarating attractions.

The main area of Epic Universe is called Celestial Park. This is the first part guests visit at our new amusement park. It has beautiful gardens, streams, and paths to walk on. It really feels like a traditional park, but with lots of things to discover, enjoy, and get excited about. In this area, there are many places to eat and shop, as well as three fun attractions.

  • Stardust Racers – a dual-racing launch coaster that sends guests rocketing through the skies at speeds up to 62 mph;
  • Constellation Carousel – a first-of-its-kind carousel that glides forward, backward – and even makes 360-degree rotations – in a choreographed dance of music and starlight;
  • Astronomica – an interactive wet play area that doubles as a giant compass rose to the many wonders of Epic Universe.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

In Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Fantastic Beasts” and “Harry Potter” movie franchises, the third part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is planned for a 1920s Parisian setting, blending elements from the wizarding community as portrayed in the “Fantastic Beasts” films with those from the British Ministry of Magic seen in the “Harry Potter” series.

Guests visiting this spectacular new world can:

  • Cast dazzling spells throughout the magical streets of wizarding Paris using interactive wands
  • Encounter fantastic beasts at a traveling circus in the full-scale theatre experience, Le Cirque Arcanus
  • Enjoy delectable cuisine, including the Butterbeer crepe at Café L’Air De La Sirène
  • Embark on a thrilling adventure set inside the iconic British Ministry of Magic in Universal’s most technologically advanced attraction yet – Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
  • And so much more.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Visitors will have the opportunity to dive right into the thrilling settings of popular video game universes, such as Super Mario Land and (for the first time in the U.S.) Donkey Kong Country, within SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.

In this colorful and kinetic world, guests can:

  • Join Team Mario to battle Team Bowser for the Golden Cup in Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
  • Travel through Mushroom Kingdom landscapes in search of glowing eggs on Yoshi’s Adventure, which also makes its U.S. debut at Epic Universe
  • Careen through the jungle aboard mine carts on a thrilling adventure inspired by the world of Donkey Kong Country video games in Mine-Cart Madness
  • Enjoy culinary creations crafted by Chef Toad in Toadstool Cafe
  • Meet and greet Mario, Luigi, Toad and Princess Peach in Super Mario Land, and Donkey Kong in Donkey Kong Country
  • And so much more!

Visitors can elevate their enjoyment and gameplay in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD using a Power-Up Band, enabling them to accumulate digital coins by punching ? Blocks, engage in interactive games; collect digital badges at attractions; acquire digital keys for a unique clash with Bowser Jr.; and uncover other secret treasures.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

In a striking portrayal, this expansive setting mirrors the charm, wit, and grandeur found in the adored How to Train Your Dragon series, offering a faithful representation of the rough, rocky landscape inhabited by boisterous Vikings and spirited dragons who coexist in uproarious unity.

Guests will see what it’s like to live amongst dragons as they enjoy Viking-sized adventures like:

  • Launching into the sky for a dragon’s eye view of Berk on the family-friendly thrill coaster, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders
  • Practicing aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on Viking-made dragon-riding trainers that reach heights up to 67 feet in the air on Dragon Racer’s Rally
  • Embarking on an unforgettable journey with beloved characters Hiccup, Toothless, Gobber and Astrid in the dragon-filled live show, The Untrainable Dragon
  • Savoring the wildly popular Mac & Cheese cones at Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel
  • And so much more!

Visitors additionally have the opportunity to come face-to-face with the valiant Dragon Rider, Hiccup, and even snap a picture alongside his amiable Night Fury, Toothless. Furthermore, they can mingle with other recognizable Vikings as they delve deeper into Berk.

Dark Universe

As a passionate cinephile, I find myself immersed in a chilling universe where timeless tales of eerie mythology, such as Dracula, The Wolf Man, Frankenstein’s Monster, the Bride of Frankenstein, and many others, spring to life. Alongside these legendary creatures, a fresh breed of monsters and characters emerge, breathing new life into this ominous realm.

While exploring the ruined town of Darkmoor, travelers will face fearsome encounters such as:

  • Journeying deep into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor while trying to evade the grasps of Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Mummy and others in Universal Orlando’s most terrifying attraction yet, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
  • Racing to escape the werewolves before they become one themselves on the spinning family coaster, Curse of the Werewolf
  • Becoming fashionably monstrous with elaborate face paint and temporary tattoos in Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience
  • Enjoying a delicious meal while surrounded by vampire artwork and artifacts in Das Stakehaus
  • Meeting monsters like the Bride of Frankenstein, The Invisible Man, Ygor and even Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s Monster
  • And so much more!

Located at the boundary of Epic Universe lies Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews establishment. This 500-room haven is inspired by the Mediterranean and offers multiple dining choices, a pool area reminiscent of a resort with cabanas, a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of Epic Universe, and a theme park entrance directly from the lobby for hotel guests (park admission required).

To learn more about Universal Epic Universe after its grand opening, please check out the details at universalorlando.com/epicuniverse.

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2025-05-23 16:08