Since opening in 1990, Universal Studios Orlando has become a cornerstone of global entertainment, welcoming 10 million visitors each year across its trio of parks: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. In 2019, the company unveiled plans for a fourth theme park — a bold vision that, six years later, has now been brought to life. Epic Universe marks the first entirely new park in Orlando for 25 years and represents a staggering $7.5 billion (£5.5 billion) investment. Universal Destinations and Experiences CEO, Mark Woodbury, described it during launch week as “the most technologically advanced park in the world”.
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The park features five immersive worlds connected via a central hub, Celestial Park: How to Train Your Dragon’s Isle of Berk, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. With 11 rides and cutting-edge visual effects, guests can expect high-speed thrills, interactive adventures, and themed environments that rival anything seen before. Each world is entered through its own portal, complete with tailored soundtracks and intricate theming — none more vibrant than Super Nintendo World, where the cheerful chaos of the Mario universe comes alive in full colour and sound.
Standout rides include Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, the dual-track thrill of Stardust Racers, and the water-soaking Fyre Drill — a welcome relief in Florida’s humid climate. Bowser’s Challenge, a fully immersive Mario Kart-inspired attraction, allows riders to step into the game via augmented reality tech. Yet it’s the spine-tingling Dark Universe that steals the show: a gothic masterpiece best experienced at night. Monsters Unchained, set within the laboratory of Dr Victoria Frankenstein, delivers an unpredictable ride each time, as guests are spun, lifted and hurled through a horror-laden escape from vengeful monsters.
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Equally compelling is the Ministry of Magic experience, which recreates the Harry Potter films’ magical government building with astonishing detail. Guests queue to enter through the green-tiled Metro-Floo network before plunging into a motion-based journey through various departments and a dramatic trial featuring Dolores Umbridge. Add to this two theatrical spectacles — The Untrainable Dragon and Le Cirque Arcanus — and a wide variety of immersive dining, from Viking feasts at Mead Hall to seafood at the upscale Atlantic restaurant. Accommodation options include the luxurious Helios Grand Hotel, offering park views and private access, or more budget-friendly choices like Stella Nova and Terra Luna. For those seeking the ultimate theme park experience, Epic Universe sets a new standard — but with only one-day tickets available throughout 2025, advance planning is essential.
