Florida opens its biggest theme park in 25 years, Epic Universe

On 22 May 2025, Universal Orlando Resort officially opened its new theme park, Epic Universe, in Florida. The opening was marked by appearances from famous characters, fireworks, a fountain show, a procession of celebrities and special guests along the "Celestial Walkway," and a narrated ceremony featuring legendary director Steven Spielberg.

Universal has called Epic Universe one of the most technologically advanced and exciting theme parks built in the past 25 years. The project was in development for more than a decade and consists of five themed lands, each entered through a special "portal." Each land offers guests unforgettable experiences and unique adventures.

Celestial Park

The park's central land, Celestial Park, resembles a classic city park with gardens, canals, and promenades. It features numerous shops and restaurants, along with three rides:

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• Stardust Racers – dueling roller coasters reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h;
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• Constellation Carousel – a unique carousel that moves forward, backward, and rotates 360 degrees to music and light;
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• Astronomica – an interactive water play area shaped like a giant compass.
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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

The third themed land of "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" recreates 1920s Paris from the "Fantastic Beasts" film series and the British Ministry of Magic from the classic film franchise. Guests can use interactive magic wands, watch the Le Cirque Arcanus show, sample unusual desserts at Café L'Air De La Sirène, and take part in "Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry," Universal's most technologically advanced ride to date.

Super Nintendo World

This land is dedicated to the world of Nintendo video games, including Super Mario Land and, for the first time in the US, Donkey Kong Country. Guests can ride Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and Yoshi's Adventure, as well as Donkey Kong Mine-Cart Madness. Toadstool Cafe provides dining, and game characters — Mario, Luigi, Toad, Princess Peach, and Donkey Kong — greet guests throughout the land.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

This land is inspired by the dragon and Viking films, offering the family-friendly Hiccup's Wing Gliders ride, the extreme Dragon Racer's Rally with turns up to 20 metres high, and a live show. Guests can grab a bite at Hooligan's Grog & Gruel.

Dark Universe

This land is steeped in the atmosphere of the gloomy town of Darkmoor, filled with the horrors of classic monsters: Dracula, the Wolf Man, Frankenstein's Monster, and his bride. Orlando's scariest ride, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, is here. In Curse of the Werewolf, guests will try not to turn into werewolves, though those who want to can get themed makeup and tattoos. Das Stakehaus café offers unusual dishes.

Accommodation

Next to Epic Universe is the 500-room Universal Helios Grand hotel, with a Mediterranean atmosphere. The hotel offers restaurants, a pool with cabanas, a rooftop bar overlooking the park, and a separate park entrance for hotel guests (a valid ticket is required).