This May, you’ll have a new reason (as if you needed one) to visit Universal Orlando as the resort is set to debut its newest theme park, Epic Universe! Announced back in 2019, the much-anticipated park spans 750 acres and is one of the largest and most expensive in theme park history.
As the excitement builds for opening day, we’re getting a taste of what’s to come and all the incredible worlds that will be coming to life. Here’s everything you need to know about the Epic Universe.
When will Epic Universe open?
Universal’s newest theme park is set to open on May 22, 2025. The hotel adjacent to Epic Universe, the Helios Grand Hotel, is also accepting reservations for arrivals beginning April 16. Its proximity means you can step outside and right into the park!
Where will Epic Universe be located?
Epic Universe can be found on the south campus of Universal Orlando, about 15 minutes away from its other parks (Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay). The official address is 1001 Epic Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819. Check out the map below:
How to get tickets to Epic Universe
Tickets for Epic Universe are now on sale, including single and multi-day options. It’s important to note that park-hopping to or from the new park is not currently available. You can find more details here.
What are the themed lands in Epic Universe?
Epic Universe will transport guests into five brand-new, uniquely themed lands. What makes the park different from others are its mystical ‘portals,’ which will transport you to the following worlds:
- Celestial Park: The very first land you encounter you enter Epic Universe, with “astronomical and mythological elements,” lush gardens and fountains, a cosmic carousel, dueling coaster and more.
- Super Nintendo World: Based on the beloved Nintendo game series, you’ll find Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country here. In addition to adventures with Mario and friends, you’ll get to punch real-life blocks and interact with the environment thanks to ‘Power-Up Bands.’
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Set in 1920s Paris from the Fantastic Beasts films and the British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series, this world includes a massive circus show and interactive wand experiences to sharpen your spell-casting skills.
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk: Inspired by the popular film series, you can expect to find, well, tons of dragons! Explore the colorful Viking village, take to the skies or a battle at sea, and meet Toothless, Hiccup and friends.
- Dark Universe: Themed after Universal’s classic monsters, you’ll meet monsters and makers alike in the gothic village of Darkmoor. You’ll even find a windmill set ablaze, inspired by 1931’s “Frankenstein”!
What new rides can I look forward to at Epic Universe?
With the arrival of a new park, you’ll get to experience all-new rides, of course! Key ones include:
- Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry: One of the most anticipated rides at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, it will place you in a unique elevator system to travel deep into the Ministry’s many departments alongside Harry, Ron, Hermione and other familiar characters.
- Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment: This dark ride at Dark Universe combines uber-cool animatronics with mind-blowing special effects. The story centers around Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s experiments as a demonstration to control monsters goes awry. And yes, you’ll get to see Dracula, The Wolf Man, the Creature from the Black Lagoon and more!
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: Over at Super Nintendo World, you’ll find this augmented reality ride where you’ll get to compete in a real-life Mario Kart race, throwing shells and collecting coins to defeat Team Bowser! Each ride will have a different outcome too, so you won’t experience the same race twice.
- Mine-Cart Madness: Within Super Nintendo World’s Donkey Kong Country, you’ll enter the majestic Golden Temple, board a mine cart and “jump” across gaps in the tracks, making for a really cool effect!
- Fyre Drill: This interactive water ride in the Isle of Berk allows riders to help put out fires caused by dragons and shoot water cannons at other riders on boats.
- Stardust Racers: A dueling roller coaster in Celestial Park that reaches thrilling speeds of up to 62 mph. Board one of these “shooting stars” and experience cool features like its “Celestial Spin” and dazzling lights!
For the latest updates on Universal Epic Universe, you can follow the resort’s Instagram page or visit their website.