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Universal Orlando Resort is about to get even bigger, and it’s not just an expansion—it’s an entire new park! The long-awaited Epic Universe is set to open its gates to the public in 2025, promising an exciting new chapter in Universal's ever-expanding entertainment empire. From immersive new lands to cutting-edge attractions, Epic Universe is shaping up to be a must-see destination for theme park lovers. Let’s dive into everything we know about this bold new addition to Universal Orlando Resort!
Universal’s Epic Universe is designed to offer guests a completely new level of immersive experiences, building upon the success of its other parks—Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay. Set to open on May 22, 2025, Epic Universe is being developed on a sprawling 750-acre site that is about 1.5 miles away from the main Universal Orlando Resort area, with an entirely new entrance and parking structure.
While Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure are rooted in Hollywood and comic book-inspired stories, Epic Universe will focus on an eclectic mix of new intellectual properties (IPs), brand-new lands, and high-tech attractions that promise to blur the lines between fiction and reality. It will be a whole new world of fun, adventure, and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

New Themed Lands and Attractions

1. Celestial Park

Your journey begins in Celestial Park, the largest of the five worlds and the beating heart behind Universal Epic Universe. Here, the resident Celestians have found a way to harness the universe’s power through The Chronos, a stunning machine that can open portals into four dynamic new worlds. Art and technology intertwine in a series of stunning gardens, fountains, restaurants and rides, the likes of which have never been seen in Orlando.

Little ones can find their footing at Astronomica, a massive interactive fountain and compass in the heart of the park. Thrill-seeking wanderers can streak through the cosmos on Stardust Racers, a dazzling dual-launch coaster that mimics comets in the night sky. And explorers of all ages are welcome to waltz among the stars on Constellation Carousel. Whether you’re racing through the sky or relaxing in the park’s 26 beautiful gardens, you won’t want to miss Celestial Park.

Fine dining and even finer views await at Victorian-themed Atlantic Restaurant, where you can dine on steak and seafood as shimmering mechanical fish swim overheard. Or for a change of scenery, savor authentic Pan-Asian flavors and cocktails in the ethereal neon glow of The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant.

Overlooking Celestial Park is the all-new Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, a spectacular property that opens right into Universal Epic Universe. More on that in a moment. For now, let’s journey clockwise through the portals, starting with…

2. Super Nintendo World

Jump into the action at Super Nintendo World™, where you can play your way through two immersive, interactive areas: Super Mario Land™ and Donkey Kong Country™. Purchase a Power-Up Band to play games, keep score, collect coins, unlock hidden elements and see how you stack up on the supersized leaderboard.

You can also meet favorite characters, see what Toad is cooking at Toadstool Cafe™, chow down at Yoshi’s Snack Island™ and Turbo Boost Treats, and experience your favorite games brought to life through three new, family-friendly rides.

Show your stuff on Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge, where you can ride through iconic courses, throw shells and collect digital coins to beat Team Bowser. Help Yoshi search Mount Beanpole for three glowing eggs in Yoshi’s Adventure™. And don’t miss Mine-Cart Madness™, a groundbreaking family coaster where you’ll hurtle around corners, leap over broken tracks and help Donkey Kong protect the Golden Banana.

3. Dark Universe

Explore twisted tales of terror at Dark Universe, where Universal Classic Monsters roam and monstrous new characters come to light. Blend in if you can with a monster makeover, or seek refuge with The Hounds, legendary monster hunters who hold court at The Burning Blade Tavern. Just watch out for vampires and their familiars at Das Stakehouse, or you might find yourself on the menu.

Go deeper into the village of Darkmoor to brave new rides like Curse of the Werewolf, a family-friendly, spinning coaster that sends you howling through dark and dangerous woods. Or, face the rage of Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a first-of-its-kind attraction hosted in the manor of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein.

You can also spot classic monster lore like the Burning Windmill from the Frankenstein films, shop for ghoulish gear at Pretorious’ Scientific Oddities, and even visit De Lacey’s Cottage for soul-warming sustenance.

4. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Ministry of Magic

New wonders await at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Ministry of Magic™, where you can experience beloved locales from multiple wizarding eras. First, step into wizarding Place Cachée to explore 1920s Paris as it appears in the Fantastic Beasts films. See mesmerizing creatures, aerialists, puppeteers and more at Le Cirque Arcanus™, the first indoor stage show ever devised for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™.

Dine on French cuisine at Café L’aire De La Sirène™, unwind with a delicious Bièraubeurre, or join Dark witches and wizards at Le Gobelet Noir. Bar Moonshine offers a cheerier take, serving beer, wine and cocktails amid U.S. memorabilia and Quidditch team pennants.

Then, visit the square’s finest shops for un petit souvenir. You’ll find exquisite haute couture wands at Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique™, which you can use to cast spells, enchant objects and interact with fantastic beasts throughout the land. Discover more wizarding gear and memorabilia in Les Galeries Mirifiques, satisfy your sweet tooth at K. Rammelle confectionary, or snag Ministry of Magic-inspired items at the Tour En Floo gift shop.

Then, take the Métro-Floo directly to the British Ministry of Magic, where Dolores Umbridge™ is about to stand trial for crimes committed against the wizarding world. There’s just one problem: Umbridge has escaped! Harry, Ron and Hermione need your help to capture her — and her Death Eater friends — before she can bring back the time of Lord Voldemort™. Join them aboard Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™, a groundbreaking new attraction of massive scale.

5. How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk

Finally, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk is a colorful Viking world where you can soar like a dragon, feast like a Viking, and join in the hilarity and wonder of DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon trilogy. Play your way through three new rides, marvel at a dragon-filled stage spectacular, meet your favorite characters and learn the ropes in a training camp made just for Junior Vikings.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is a family coaster that simulates the feeling of flying on a dragon, while Dragon Racer’s Rally sends you spinning through the air. Spin for the win or just go with the flow to customize your race experience. You can also make a splash on Fyre Drill, a gamified boat ride where you’ll compete against the opposing team to soak flame-like targets. Junior Vikings can learn the ropes in an interactive Viking Training Camp. And everyone can find something to love at The Untrainable Dragon, a heartwarming show complete with captivating musical numbers, breathtaking sets and life-sized dragons soaring overhead. You can also meet your favorite dragons throughout the land.

Fuel up between adventures at Mead Hall, Spit Fyre Grill and Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel, and showcase your accomplishments with specialty merchandise from four can’t-miss shops.

New Hotels opening!

The Universal Helios Grand Hotel draws its inspiration from Greek mythology, art, and architecture, but with a modern, futuristic twist. The name “Helios” refers to the ancient Greek god of the sun, which fits perfectly with the hotel’s bright, airy aesthetic and emphasis on high-end luxury. Expect the resort to showcase clean, sleek lines, grandiose design elements, and a blend of classical Greek influences combined with a futuristic, high-tech atmosphere.

The hotel’s design will likely incorporate elements such as columns, marble finishes, luxurious lounges, and reflective pools, all while maintaining a forward-thinking vibe. Imagine walking through grand atriums and corridors inspired by ancient Greece, but with futuristic lighting, smart technology, and interactive features that make the hotel feel both timeless and ahead of its time.

Luxury Accommodation with Unmatched Amenities

The Universal Helios Grand Hotel will offer a range of luxury accommodations, with rooms designed for both comfort and style. Guests can expect spacious rooms featuring high-end finishes, stunning views, and top-notch amenities that make the hotel a destination in itself.

  • Guest Rooms & Suites: Whether you’re looking for a spacious standard room or a lavish suite, Universal Helios Grand will provide a variety of options, all equipped with the latest in-room technology. Expect smart features such as voice-controlled lighting, climate control, and entertainment systems, as well as luxurious bedding and upscale toiletries. For those seeking a truly VIP experience, the hotel will also offer exclusive suites with private balconies and premium views of the surrounding area.

  • High-Tech Features: In line with the futuristic theme of the hotel, rooms will likely be outfitted with smart devices that allow guests to control various elements of their environment with ease. From adjustable lighting to personalized entertainment options, technology will be seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the stay.

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