Universal Epic Universe Opens: Five Worlds of Adventure

Universal Orlando Resort unveiled its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe, inviting guests into five immersive worlds. As Orlando’s first major theme park in 25 years, it delivers innovative experiences and drew thousands of visitors on opening day.

A Milestone for Universal Orlando

Universal Epic Universe transforms Universal Orlando Resort into a destination with four theme parks, promising a week of thrilling adventures. Crowds gathered as early as 6 a.m. to witness the opening. At 8 a.m., the park launched with a ceremony featuring characters at each world’s portal, fireworks, and a captivating fountain show. Karen Irwin, President of Universal Orlando Resort, stated: “Epic Universe reflects a decade of passion and dedication.” The evening prior, an exclusive event welcomed celebrities and partners on the “Celestial Carpet.” Steven Spielberg led a spectacular display of lighting, fountains, and a drone show, marking the park’s grand debut.

Celestial Park: The Heart of Adventure

The park encompasses five worlds offering over 50 experiences, accessible through majestic portals. Celestial Park greets guests with sprawling gardens and tranquil waterways. Thrill-seekers ride Stardust Racers, a dual-track coaster reaching speeds up to 62 mph with a catapult launch. The Constellation Carousel glides forward, backward, and in 360-degree spins, set to music and starlight. Astronomica, an interactive wet-play area, doubles as a compass rose, sparking playful exploration. Restaurants and shops enhance the vibrant atmosphere.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Magic in Paris and London

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic transports guests to 1920s Paris and the British Ministry of Magic. Visitors wield interactive wands to cast spells in Paris’s enchanted streets and marvel at fantastic beasts in the Le Cirque Arcanus circus show. The cutting-edge attraction Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry delivers an exhilarating adventure. Café L’Air de la Sirène serves Butterbeer crêpes and other magical dishes, enriching the experience.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD: Video Games Come Alive

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD brings Super Mario and Donkey Kong to life. Guests compete for the Golden Cup in Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and explore the Mushroom Kingdom in Yoshi’s Adventure, debuting in the U.S. Mine-Cart Madness races through Donkey Kong’s jungle. Visitors meet Mario, Luigi, Toad, Princess Peach, and Donkey Kong. Power-Up Bands allow collecting digital coins by hitting ? Blocks, engaging in interactive activities, and unlocking a showdown with Bowser Jr. Toadstool Café offers culinary creations.

Isle of Berk: Soaring with Dragons

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk immerses guests in a rugged world of Vikings and dragons. Hiccup’s Wing Gliders offers a dragon’s-eye view of Berk, while Dragon Racer’s Rally features acrobatic maneuvers at heights up to 65 feet. The Untrainable Dragon live show captivates with Hiccup, Toothless, Astrid, and Gobber. Guests meet Hiccup, pose for photos with Toothless, and encounter other Vikings. Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel serves crowd-pleasing Mac-&-Cheese Cones.

Dark Universe: Encounters with Monsters

Dark Universe revives legends like Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, and the Bride of Frankenstein. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment plunges guests into the manor’s catacombs, evading Dracula, the Wolf Man, and the Mummy. Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning family coaster, thrills all ages. The Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience crafts monstrous looks with makeup and temporary tattoos. Das Stakehaus serves dishes amid vampire art. Visitors encounter the Bride of Frankenstein, the Invisible Man, Ygor, and Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s monster.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel: Comfort by the Park

The Universal Helios Grand Hotel, with 500 Mediterranean-inspired rooms, sits at the park’s edge. It offers dining options, a resort-style pool with cabanas, a rooftop bar overlooking Epic Universe, and an exclusive park entrance from the lobby for hotel guests with valid park tickets.