Epic Universe is the newest theme park at Universal Orlando Resort and marks the largest expansion project the complex has seen in decades. With its official opening scheduled for May 2025, the park is already considered a milestone in the history of entertainment in the United States, being the first major theme park to open in the country in over 25 years. The approximately $7 billion investment reflects Universal’s ambition to compete directly with Disney, offering an innovative, highly immersive experience with extensive use of cutting-edge technology.
Located about 4 miles (6.5 kilometers) south of Universal’s current parks, Epic Universe spans roughly 750 acres (over 300 hectares). Unlike other theme parks in Florida such as Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe introduces a new radial layout, organized into five distinct “worlds,” as each themed area is called. At the center lies Celestial Park, which serves as a central hub connecting the other four lands, each of which is completely self-contained. This design reinforces full immersion, with distinct entrances marking the transition between environments—quite a departure from the more open, interconnected layout of Universal’s traditional parks.
Universal has invested in state-of-the-art technology to deliver a seamless and immersive experience—from facial recognition lockers to reimagined family areas equipped with baby changing stations, water fountains, integrated bathrooms, and TVs. Another major highlight is the food experience: forget standard theme park fare. Each world features original and creative dining concepts, such as the Atlantic and the elegant Blue Dragon restaurants, both located in Celestial Park.
Explore the 5 Worlds of Epic Universe
- Celestial Park: The Heart of Epic Universe – Located at the center of the park, Celestial Park acts as a gateway to the themed worlds while offering its own attractions. Inspired by the cosmos, it blends futuristic gardens, sculptures, fountains with lighting effects, and immersive soundtracks. Visitors pass through this area as they move between worlds or take breaks for dining and rest. Highlights include the Stardust Racers roller coaster, with dual tracks simulating a race through the stars, and the Constellation Carousel, a creative take on the classic ride. Dining options include the underwater-themed Atlantic and the pan-Asian Blue Dragon restaurant.
- Super Nintendo World – One of the most anticipated lands, this area offers the most complete version yet of Universal’s collaboration with Nintendo. With 3D environments inspired by Mario, Donkey Kong, and Yoshi, guests are transported into a video game world filled with vivid colors and interactive elements. The flagship attraction is Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, a mixed-reality ride combining augmented reality with physical tracks. Families can also enjoy Yoshi’s Adventure and Mine-Cart Madness, a Donkey Kong-themed roller coaster simulating the jumps from the classic games. With interactive wristbands, guests collect virtual coins and unlock hidden features throughout the experience.
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – In this new take on the Harry Potter universe, the setting shifts to the Ministry of Magic, blending elements from the original books and the “Fantastic Beasts” franchise. Unlike previous areas that recreated wizarding villages, this land focuses on the political and institutional side of the magical world, featuring grand and intricate environments such as the Ministry’s atrium. The main ride, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, is a hybrid simulator that combines physical sets, tracks, and projections to guide guests on a secret mission through enchanted fireplaces. The area also hosts Cirque Arcanus, a live show featuring magical creatures and special effects in a theater setting. Themed shops offer more adult-oriented merchandise, including wizard IDs, formal robes, and upscale accessories.
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – Based on the beloved animated franchise, this world brings the Viking village of Berk to life with full-scale detail. Viking homes, ships, dragon sculptures, and natural sounds create a warm and whimsical atmosphere. The concept invites guests to become new island residents and train alongside dragons, blending a funfair with an immersive learning environment. Hiccup’s Wing Gliders simulates flying on a dragon, with suspended cars navigating dynamic tracks above the village. Fyre Drill is an interactive game where teams compete to extinguish fires using water cannons, mimicking village defense training. A major highlight is the live show The Untrainable Dragon, which features massive animatronic puppets, live actors, pyrotechnics, and a stirring soundtrack—a theatrical spectacle perfect for families and fans alike.
- Dark Universe: Monsters, Mystery, and Gothic Horror – This is Epic Universe’s most atmospheric land, dedicated to Universal’s classic monsters such as Frankenstein, Dracula, the Wolfman, and the Mummy. Shrouded in mist, the area features haunted villages and ruined buildings, leaning into a gothic style with a cinematic, modern twist. The signature attraction is Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a dark ride with practical effects and projections that immerse guests in a chaotic lab filled with monstrous experiments. Curse of the Werewolf is a high-thrill roller coaster with indoor/outdoor segments, strobe lights, and an intense soundtrack. This area is a must-visit for those seeking suspense, excitement, and a darker edge to their theme park experience.
Epic Universe: A Landmark for Tourism and Real Estate in Orlando
The opening of Epic Universe represents not only a new chapter for theme parks but also a strategic shift with major implications for tourism and real estate in Orlando. Featuring three integrated hotels—including the Helios Grand Hotel with exclusive park access—the new Universal complex raises the bar in hospitality, encourages longer stays, and strengthens Orlando’s global reputation as a top-tier entertainment destination.
Epic Universe is also sparking interest among investors and real estate professionals, particularly due to the expected appreciation of property values in the surrounding area and across Greater Orlando. With the city already welcoming around 75 million visitors annually—a figure likely to rise with the park’s debut—demand for alternative accommodations, especially vacation homes, is set to grow. This segment has emerged as one of the most attractive global real estate investments, drawing buyers interested in property value appreciation, short-term rental income, and the added benefit of owning a second home in one of the world’s most visited cities.
About CAP International
CAP International is a global real estate agency specializing in high-end properties in the Florida, with a strong presence in the Orlando market. As an independent brokerage, CAP closely follows major developments that impact the industry—such as the opening of Epic Universe—and offers tailored support to investors and families seeking to seize the opportunities arising from this exciting new hub. With local expertise, a commitment to excellence, and a curated portfolio, CAP is ready to guide you through every step of your international real estate journey.