Universal Orlando Resort has officially opened its long-awaited fourth theme park, Universal Epic Universe — a monumental addition marking the first major theme park debut in Orlando in 25 years.

The innovative park, which took over a decade to come to fruition, introduces five fully immersive themed lands, offering more than 50 attractions, dining options and retail experiences.

Thousands of guests gathered at the park as early as 6 a.m. on May 22 to be part of the celebration. At approximately 8 a.m., Epic Universe opened with fanfare including character appearances at each world’s portal, a fireworks show and a stunning fountain display.

An exclusive preview event was held the night before, with celebrities and creative partners walking the “Celestial Carpet” and a special narrated moment by Steven Spielberg, Creative Consultant for Universal Destinations and Experiences, that featured lighting effects, music, fountains, fireworks, and a concluding drone show that spelled out “EPIC.”

The five worlds of Epic Universe include:

Celestial Park

Serving as the entrance to Epic Universe, Celestial Park invites guests into an expansive area of lush gardens, waterways and vibrant architecture. Key attractions include:

• Stardust Racers, a dual-racing launch coaster reaching speeds of up to 62 mph
• Constellation Carousel, which glides forward, backward and rotates 360 degrees in a choreographed light show
• Astronomica, an interactive wet play zone designed as a compass rose leading to other areas of the park

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

The third installment of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is set in 1920s Paris from the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films and the British Ministry of Magic from the ‘Harry Potter’ film series. Guests are able to cast spells with interactive wands; watch Le Cirque Arcanus, a full-scale theatre show featuring magical creatures; dine on Butterbeer crepes at Café L’Air De La Sirène; and experience Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, a high-tech attraction set inside the Ministry of Magic.

Super Nintendo World 

For the first time in the U.S., Donkey Kong Country joins Super Mario Land in this vibrant world where visitors can compete in Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge; travel through Yoshi’s Adventure, which makes its U.S. debut at Epic Universe; careen through the jungle aboard mine carts in Mine-Cart Madness; savour culinary creations at Toadstool Café; and meet characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Donkey Kong.

Guests can also level up their play with a Power-Up Band, which allows them to collect digital coins by punching blocks and playing interactive activities, digital stamps on attractions, and earn digital keys to unlock an exclusive showdown against Bowser Jr.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Based on the beloved ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ films, this larger-than-life world is an authentic re-creation featuring Vikings and dragons living together in harmony. Here, guests can ride Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a family coaster with a dragon’s eye view of Berk; ride Dragon Racer’s Rally, which reaches heights of up to 67 feet; take in the dragon-filled live show, ‘The Untrainable Dragon,’ featuring characters like Hiccup, Toothless and Gobber; enjoy Mac & Cheese cones at Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel; and pose for photos with Dragon Rider, Hiccup.

Dark Universe

Inspired by classic Universal Monsters, Dark Universe offers gothic thrills and spooky surprises. Highlights include:

• Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a haunted house-style attraction with advanced effects
• Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning coaster for families
• Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, offering monster-inspired face paint and temporary tattoos
• Dining among vampire artefacts at Das Stakehaus
• Character encounters with the Bride of Frankenstein, The Invisible Man and more

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Located at the edge of Epic Universe, this 500-room Loews property blends Mediterranean elegance with theme park convenience. Hotel guests enjoy exclusive park access from the lobby (valid theme park admission required), along with a rooftop bar, dining venues and a resort-style pool with cabanas.

For more information, visit UniversalOrlando.com/Epic.

Source: Travelweek