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You might recall that Universal Orlando Resort announced a fourth theme park called Universal Epic Universe in summer 2019. Since then, we've learned smaller snippets of info, such as the confirmation of Super Nintendo World and a first look at sister hotels, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort. On Jan. 30, 2024, Universal made its biggest announcement yet about this brand-new theme park — confirming that it will be home to over 50 unique experiences within five incredibly themed worlds once it opens in May 2025. Not only have all five worlds now been fully revealed ... but also, tickets are on sale now! You can save BIG on your Universal Epic Universe tickets when you purchase through Undercover Tourist, up to $79 per ticket! While there are still more exciting details to come as we gear up for the opening of Universal Epic Universe, here is what we know so far — and you can bet we'll keep you updated as we learn more. Here we go!
What We Know About Universal Epic Universe
Universal Epic Universe promises to "take guests on a journey where beloved stories expand into vibrant lands." A game-changer for theme park entertainment, Epic Universe will present a level of immersion and innovation that you won't find anywhere — transporting you to expansive worlds that are nothing short of epic. The addition of this incredible fourth park will transform Universal Orlando Resort into a vacation destination we know we won't want to leave. (A week at Universal Orlando to explore all four parks? Yes, please!)
Download our infographic for an overview of the five Epic Universe worlds. Wherever your story takes you, your journey will begin by walking through the Emerald Gate and the Chronos device at the entrance to Epic Universe. Harnessing the energy of the Universe that powers Celestial Park — "the world between worlds" — Chronos allows Universal to open the portal to other epic worlds.
When Does Epic Universe Open?
Epic Universe will open May 22, 2025.
Epic Universe Tickets
SAVE UP TO $79
Undercover Tourist offers big savings on Universal Epic Universe tickets!
During the initial phase of Epic Universe-inclusive tickets, only multi-day tickets for 3 days or longer that include one-day admission to Epic Universe are available. Additional product offerings — including single-day and other multi-day tickets for Universal Epic Universe — will be offered at a later date before the park opens.
You can either purchase park-to-park tickets which will grant you admission to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure theme parks on the same day, or base tickets which will grant you admission to either Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure each day. Both of these ticket types include one separate day of admission to Epic Universe. Check out our Epic Universe ticket guide for everything you need to know when purchasing!
As of Oct. 24, 2024, annual passholders can purchase a 1-Day Universal Epic Universe Ticket Add-On to visit the newest park before 1-Day Epic Universe Tickets become available to the general public.
When you purchase your multi-day ticket for 3 days or longer, you will not need to specify the date that you plan to visit Epic Universe. You'll just need to indicate the first date that you would like your overall ticket to be valid and you'll be able to visit any of the parks beginning on that date.
Other offerings launching at a later date before the park opens include Express Passes, VIP Tour experiences and My Universal Photo products. Florida Resident ticket options will also become available at a later date.
For a recap, you can download our Tickets Overview infographic on how to get tickets to Epic Universe.
Reservations are currently available for Universal Stella Nova Resort (opening Jan. 21, 2025), Universal Terra Nova Resort (opening March 25, 2025) and Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel (opening May 22, 2025).
Celestial Park
An imaginative world full of gardens, waterfalls and nature trail-like pathways, Celestial Park "puts the 'park' back in 'theme park." Admire the architecture inspired by astrology and mythology, as you stroll through the living gardens. Additionally, when you're ready to reenter the real world at the end of the night, you'll experience an epic transformation as the entire area lights up in a breathtaking display. This is the place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the frogciting worlds around you.
Hungry for more? Well, you're in luck! We also know what you'll get to enjoy while exploring the ethereal Celestial Park:
- Stardust Racers: A dual-launch racing coaster that will send you dashing in the skies, Stardust Racers reaches speeds up to 62 miles per hour and heights up to 133 feet along 5,000 feet of track. This thrilling coaster experience features a "Celestial Spin," in which the two coaster vehicles execute an inverted crisscross maneuver. Oh ... and be sure to ride again at night as the coaster is covered with hundreds of points of light that make the vehicles look like shooting comets in the night sky. (Psst! If you're a true Universal fan, don't froget to take a look on the back of each coaster vehicle for some "outatime" Easter eggs!)
- Constellation Carousel: The grand centerpiece of Celestial Park, you'll board a celestial creature that glides forward, backward and even 360 degrees, as if you're riding on constellations within the Milky Way! The ride is also covered with hundreds of lights.
- Astronomica: An interactive wet-play area, Astrononimca doubles as a giant compass rose to the many wonders of Epic Universe. With crystal blue fountains that spring to life and dance around guests, this is another attraction you're going to want to come back to once the sun sets.
- Atlantic Restaurant: Surrounded by the shimmering waters of Neptune's pool and lined with floor-to-ceiling Victorian glass walls, Atlantic is a full-service "surf and turf" restaurant set inside a breathtaking glass aquarium. Enjoy the freshest seafood as you take in captivating views of Celestial Park.
- The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant: The Blue Dragon, a full-service restaurant, will serve authentic flavors from China, Southeast Asia and Japan. Be prepared to dine under the constellations with dancing lanterns accented by neon dragons as vibrant as the delectable menu. Need a break from the bustle? Grab a seat at the cozy Tiger Bar for a drink.
- The Oak & Star Tavern: Indulge in some savory barbecue.
- Pizza Moon: Enjoy a tasty menu featuring a variety of pizzas and more.
- Nintendo Super Star Store: Guests can shop for an assortment of goodies from Super Nintendo World.
- Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets: Satisfy your cravings with a unique selection of sweet treats and more!
Now ... how about we talk about those "epic worlds" I mentioned earlier?
Super Nintendo World
As previously announced, Super Nintendo World will allow guests to become players in the Nintendo-themed land, blurring the lines between reality and video games. It won't be the first Super Nintendo World — Universal Studios Japan opened its version in March 2021 and Universal Studios Hollywood opened its own version in 2023 (hop over to our full post for all of the deets!). Mamma Mia, we can't wait to see how this land will play out (literally)! Get ready to step through that iconic green pipe and discover a new way to play as you enter the worlds of favorite characters, such as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Donkey Kong.
From adventurous attractions to interactive challenges, here's everything you can explore in Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country:
- Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge: This ride uses augmented reality, projection mapping technology and more to make you feel as though you've stepped right inside the popular Mario Kart video game. Join Team Mario as you race against Team Bowser in hopes of winning the Golden Cup. (Jump over to our post about Mario Kart at Universal Studios Hollywood so you know what to expect.)
- Yoshi's Adventure: Take in spectacular views of Super Mario Land on this family-friendly ride as you venture into various Mushroom Kingdom landscapes with Yoshis while searching for glowing eggs.
- Mine-Cart Madness: Navigate through the jungle on a mine cart to help Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong protect the golden banana. This family coaster features a unique ride system that will make you feel like you're bursting out of a barrel or jumping over gaps in the track!
- Toadstool Cafe: Chef Toad and his staff are working hard on culinary creations inspired by characters and elements from Super Mario, including Mario and Luigi-themed burgers, Super Mushroom Soup, Fire Flower Spaghetti and Meatballs and more. (Read more about the Hollywood version here.)
- Other Dining Locations: Get a quick snack from walk-up locations such as Yoshi's Snack Island and Turbo Boost Treats. Donkey Kong Country will also have some special menu items.
- Power-Up Bands: Throughout Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country, level up your gaming experience with themed Power-Up Bands that allow you to collect coins, find fun surprises and complete challenges so you can have an epic showdown with Bowser Jr.
- Character Greetings: Meet Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad throughout the Mushroom Kingdom.
- 1-UP Factory and Mario Motors: Shop for souvenirs, apparel, toys and more at these retail locations.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic
Universal Orlando has conjured up another chapter of the beloved Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Prepare to enter a different era in this all-new land that blends 1920s wizarding Paris from the "Fantastic Beasts" films with the iconic 1990s British Ministry of Magic from the "Harry Potter" series. From Grindelwald's rise to power to Voldemort's demise, this Epic Universe world blends these beloved stories, opening up the Wizarding World on a global scale.
Once you step through the Epic Universe portal, you're immediately transported to 1920s Paris. The bustling stone streets of Place Cachée, the popular shopping district in wizarding Paris, are lined with Haussmannian buildings, shops, cafes and ... a circus. For the first time ever within the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can travel across countries and timelines by using the Métro-Floo for an adventure at the British Ministry of Magic with Harry, Ron and Hermione.
We wish we could use a Time Turner RIGHT NOW ... but unfortunately, we muggles will have to wait. Here's what we know so far:
- Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry: The story behind this main attraction takes place shortly after the Battle of Hogwarts and Voldemort's followers are on trial. However, Dolores Umbridge has other plans — with the help of Death Eaters Yaxley, Carrow and Macnair, she escapes. It's up to you, Harry, Hermione, Ron and Higgledy (Umbridge's former house elf) to stop her before she can repair a broken Time Turner in the Department of Mysteries that she wants to use to bring Voldemort back. Using state-of-the-art technology, you will board omnidirectional lifts that will propel you up, down, forward, backward, sideways and more throughout the chase.
- Le Cirque Arcanus: Experience a full-scale theatre experience with live performers, aerialists, puppetry, special effects, and of course, fantastic beasts. The show follows Ringmaster Skender, who has stolen Newt Scamander's magical suitcase full of creatures, such as a Demiguise, Zouwu, Kelpie and Mooncalves. Skender's assistant, Gwenlyn, attempts to rescue these magical animals before Skender takes control of them forever.
- Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique: Artisan wandmaker Cosme Acajor is known for crafting the world's finest wands. At this Parisian wand shop, you'll find a selection of unique interactive wands, as well as imports from Ollivanders. As you explore the streets of Paris, you can cast spells at various locations and interact with fantastic beasts, such as Nifflers, Bowtruckles and a Demiguise.
- Café L'Air De La Sirène: This charming cafe will serve French sandwiches, plats du jour and desserts. Be sure to look for hidden details of fantastic beasts in the cafe's tile and mosaic designs.
- Le Gobelet Noir: If you wish to go unnoticed, the shadowy corners of Place Cachée houses this mysterious dining establishment where international dark witches and wizards escape the watchful eyes of the Paris Ministry.
- Bar Moonshine: American witches and wizards will find a taste of home here at Bar Moonshine. In addition to beers, wines and cocktails, you'll spot U.S. Quidditch team pennants and other wizarding Americana items.
- Bièraubeurre Cart: Can't forget to indulge with a Butterbeer in the Wizarding World!
- Entertainment: Throughout Place Cachée, you may run into other visitors and officials, including exchange students from Hogwarts and Ilvermorny Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry, an auror from the Ministére des Affaires Magiques de la France and talking portraits.
- Shopping: Pick up wizarding gear and memorabilia in Les Galeries Mirifiques, shop for sweets at K. Rammelle and get a souvenir from the Metro-Floo gift shop, Tour En Floo.
Hop over to our full post on the Ministry of Magic to learn more!
How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk
Have you ever wanted to soar with dragons? Well, all your greatest Viking dreams are about to come true! Step inside the home of Hiccup, Astrid and our favorite winged fury, Toothless, and explore a colorful utopia based on the wildly popular film franchise. Prepare to embark on an unfrogettable adventure!
Set in between the second and third films during the golden age of harmony between Vikings and dragons, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk will be the largest of the four worlds surrounding Celestial Park. A visual and sensory masterpiece showcasing handmade Viking-size features, this awe-inspiring eighth-century village will be home to five jaw-dropping attractions for dragon trainers of all ages and so much more:
- Hiccup's Wing Gliders: How about a "test drive"? Hop aboard Hiccup's new glider contraption for a dragon's eye view of Berk. This family coaster aboard a winged flying machine will launch aspiring Dragon Riders into the sky and take them on one wild adventure!
- The Untrainable Dragon: Similar to the show at Universal Beijing Resort but set during a different time period, this breathtaking live stage show will pit Berk's beloved Vikings against their greatest match yet, The Untrainable Dragon. Cast your eyes to the skies and be prepared to see Toothless take flight right above your head.
- Dragon Racer's Rally: So you want to be a Dragon Racer? Well, this is your chance to practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls. Join Snotlout and Astrid on this high-thrill flying attraction that can be as wild or as mild as you want it to be.
- Fyre Drill: Ever the chaotic duo, twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut have transformed Berk's Fyre Skööl into an epic boat battle. Prepare to outscore and outsoak your fellow Vikings while hitting over 130 moving targets. We can't promise you'll leave the lagoon dry ...
- Viking Training Camp: Junior Vikings don't have to miss out on all the dragon training fun! In this sprawling kids' play area, aspiring dragon riders will get to discover all types of dragons as they climb, slide and explore their way through this interactive adventure camp hosted by Fishlegs, Isle of Berk's resident dragon expert.
- Character Greetings: This is the moment you've been waiting for. Honor the bond between Viking and dragon at Haddock Paddock where you'll be able to meet Hiccup and Toothless. Keep your eyes peeled because you may see other iconic characters and dragons, both on the ground and in the sky.
- Mead Hall: The beating heart of Berk, this larger-than-life dining space hewn from mountain rock is where you'll be able to feast like a Viking on hearty meals. Wash down your food with unique beers and mead created just for this fast-casual restaurant!
Universal will be releasing more details on Isle of Berk's dining and merchandise in the future, so stay tuned!
Dark Universe
Hold your breath and prepare to enter a dark, new world of monsters. Dark Universe will breathe new life into the classic Universal Monster family — such as introducing the experiments of one Dr. Victoria Frankenstein — and reimagine the creatures you know and love in an ominous and unfrogettable experience.
As soon as you step through the foreboding portal crackling with electricity, you'll enter the mysterious village of Darkmoor. Home to monsters, monster makers, monster hunters and villagers just trying to survive, Dark Universe takes place in the present day, in a world where all the Universal Monster stories are real and have hoppened. Darkmoor is the terrifying result. Here's all the pulse-pounding thrills and spine-tingling chills that await you in this eerily immersive world:
- Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment: The gates of Frankenstein Manor are open and Dr. Victoria Frankenstein has invited you to witness a demonstration of her ability to control monsters. Things go awry, however, when Dracula unleashes a horde of enraged creatures. Strap in for "one of the scariest rides" Universal has ever created.
- Curse of the Werewolf: Upon arriving at the colorful encampment of The Guild of Mystics, the all-knowing seer, Maleva, has warned you that you bear the mark of the werewolf. Prepare to speed through the forest on this family spinning coaster where you'll come face-to-fangs with the beasts and dodge razor-sharp claws in the old Darkmoor armory.
- Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience: Take a seat and relax. You're in the skillful hands of Darkmoor's talented monster makers. It's here in Dr. Septimus Pretorius' old lab where you can showcase your fandom and let your inner monster shine with elaborate face paint and temporary tattoos.
- Meet the Monsters: Say, cheese! It's the moment you've been waiting for. Dr. Victoria Frankenstein's Monster, the alluring Bride of Frankenstein, Ygor (Victoria's devoted assistant) and The Invisible Man are just dying to meet you. Also, be sure to keep your ears open as a roaming musician wanders the village, serenading guests with eerie tunes of old.
- Das Stakehaus: Deep in the catacombs of Darkmoor, swarms of bloodthirsty vampires reside. Their familiars — ever loyal — have taken to fattening up their masters' prey in the land above (*wink wink*). Enjoy kebabs, burgers, sandwiches and ribs at this fast-casual restaurant rife with classical artwork and relics that hint at the dark opulence of the world below.
- The Burning Blade Tavern: A beloved watering hole for Darkmoor's resident monster hunters, The Hounds, this restaurant will serve up burgers, bratwurst and more as its faithful patrons recall tales of how they won their cherished "trophies." A dark eatery decorated with monster heads, the embers of the past still burn bright in this decrepit old mill ...
- De Lacey's Cottage: The amiable homestead where the original Frankenstein's Monster once received sustenance and friendship now serves up succulent sweets and savory treats for those who come to visit, such as cinnamon bread, ice cream, twisted taters and more.
- Pretorius' Scientific Oddities: While the village of Darkmoor will always live on in your heart, don't froget to take home a more physical memento. You'll be able to score commemorative merchandise at Pretorius' Scientific Oddities and other retail locations throughout Dark Universe.
Hotels at Universal Epic Universe
After a whirlwind day of pipe warping, spell casting, dragon training and monster hunting, you're going to need a place to rest your head. Luckily, Epic Universe is not short on accommodations!
Universal Helios Grand Hotel
Located inside Epic Universe at the end of Celestial Park, Helios Grand Hotel will transport you to "a world where the heavens and earth unite." Named after the Greek God of the Sun, this full-service hotel is inspired by the Mediterranean and features cosmic characteristics throughout its decor. With 500 guest rooms, incredible views and its very own entrance into the theme park, Helios Grand is a unique addition to the Universal Orlando hotel portfolio. It will open May 22, 2025. Bookings are available now through Undercover Tourist!
Universal Stella Nova Resort & Universal Terra Luna Resort
Each featuring 750 guest rooms and tranquil accommodations in the resort's Prime Value category, Universal Stella Nova Resort will open Jan. 21, 2025, and Universal Terra Luna Resort will open March 25, 2025. Universal Stella Nova takes its inspiration from distant galaxies, new stars and the vastness of the universe. This teal and purple celestial oasis even represents its own galaxy with a black hole vortex porte-cochère. Universal Terra Luna, on the other hand, is painted in gold and green and takes inspiration from the diverse and awe-inspiring planetary elements of the universe. Both hotels are now available to book through Undercover Tourist!
Just like all the other hotels on Universal Orlando property, guests staying at these hotels will be able to take advantage of Early Park Admission (which will expand to include Epic Universe from the park's Grand Opening date onward), resort-wide charging privileges and more. Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, Universal Volcano Bay and Universal CityWalk will also be accessible from the new hotels via convenient and complimentary shuttles. More frogciting details will be revealed at a later date, so stay tuned!
Where Is Universal Epic Universe?
Epic Universe will be located on a 750-acre site near the Orange County Convention Center, just south of Sand Lake Road and east of Universal Boulevard. It's about 12 minutes away from the main Universal Orlando Resort site. It will become the largest Universal park in the United States. The new footprint will nearly double Universal's total available acreage! Universal says guests will be able to take Universal Orlando transportation between Universal Epic Universe and its existing properties.
Universal Orlando Resort is currently home to three parks — Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay water theme park. It's also home to entertainment, shopping and dining destination Universal CityWalk as well as eight resort hotels. Its two newest, collectively known as Universal Endless Summer Resort, are about midway between the Universal CityWalk area and Universal Epic Universe.
What are you most excited about at Epic Universe? Share your reactions in the comments below!
Related: What's Coming to Disney World and Universal in 2024 and Beyond
Hoppy planning!
