The countdown has begun. Epic Universe, Orlando’s newest theme park, is set to open on May 22, 2025. This highly anticipated expansion by Universal Orlando promises cutting-edge technology, immersive lands, and thrilling rides.
Location and Transportation
Epic Universe is being built between Sand Lake Road and Universal Boulevard, just 2.5 miles southeast of Universal Orlando’s existing parks. To help guests navigate between parks, Universal will run shuttle buses, and open-air parking will be available for visitors heading directly to Epic.
Five Immersive Lands
Epic Universe will have five themed lands, connected by rounded gateways called portals.
- Celestial Park – The entry point featuring a carousel and a high-speed roller coaster.
- Super Nintendo World – Home to Mine-Cart Madness, a Donkey Kong-themed coaster.
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – Featuring Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a ride soaring over the land.
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – Themed around a Dolores Umbridge trial escape ride.
- Dark Universe – A horror-inspired area featuring Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.
Thrilling Rides and Attractions
- Four roller coasters will be spread across the park.
- Mine-Cart Madness will give riders the illusion of leaping over broken tracks.
- Stardust Racers in Celestial Park will be a dual-launch racing coaster.
- Curse of the Werewolf in Dark Universe will feature spinning ride vehicles.
- Animatronics and robotics will be used in rides, enhancing realism.
Ticket Prices and Availability
- Multiday Universal Orlando tickets include a one-day pass to Epic Universe.
- Universal annual passholders can buy one-day tickets separately.
- Prices vary by date, with $122 being the lowest posted price for 2025.
- More ticket options, including Express Passes, will be released soon.
Technological Advancements
Epic Universe is being marketed as Universal’s most technologically advanced park. Visitors can expect:
- Facial recognition technology for seamless entry.
- Robotic drones and interactive elements in rides.
- Power-Up Bands in Super Nintendo World, unlocking hidden in-game content.
Dining and Hotels
- Themed restaurants include:
- Mead Hall (Viking-inspired in Isle of Berk).
- Das Stakehaus (Vampire-themed dining in Dark Universe).
- Toadstool Café (Mushroom-themed food in Super Nintendo World).
- Butterbeer will be available in the Wizarding World.
- Hotels near Epic Universe:
- Stella Nova (Opened in January).
- Terra Luna (Opening next month).
- Grand Helios (Exclusive park entrance and rooftop bar).
Traffic and Accessibility
- A multimillion-dollar Kirkman Road extension is under construction to improve access.
- Experts expect traffic congestion near the park, especially on Universal Boulevard.
Final Thoughts
As the 100-day countdown begins, many details remain unknown. Questions about firework shows, early park access, and Express Pass options are still unanswered. However, industry experts believe Universal will be ready.
Epic Universe is gearing up to redefine theme park experiences with its high-tech attractions, immersive storytelling, and ambitious expansion. Fans and thrill-seekers will finally step into this next-generation park on May 22, 2025.