There’s a new theme park in Orlando, and it’s going to be the must-see place of the summer. Universal Studios’ Epic Universe is officially opening in Orlando on May 22, becoming Universal’s fourth park.
Universal had a lot of big ideas for Epic Universe, and from what we have heard from everyone who has been inside, they delivered. The new park includes five different lands: Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon- Isle of Berk, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter- Ministry of Magic. Each land has a portal entrance, which will completely transport guests into a whole new world, separate from everything else.
“The idea was to bring you to these worlds you couldn’t otherwise possibly imagine,” Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal, said.
Super Nintendo world is for all the gamers, as it brings you into a world full of color and fun characters. Guests will even be able to earn points on power-up bands by interacting with different challenges found throughout. Dark Universe is perfect for any horror fan, bring the classic Universal monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and even the Invisible Man to life. Some of the amazing scenery includes the towering Frankenstein’s Manor, and the Burning Blade Tavern- a windmill that sporadically bursts into flames. Isle of Berk is based on the How to Train Your Dragon movie series and is a top choice for families. The land has several rides, an incredible show, and a character meeting spot that has been a tear-jerker for almost every guest. Universal has created a life-size Toothless animatronic, that guests get a chance to meet under the guidance of Hiccup. The Ministry of Magic is Universal’s third Harry Potter themed world, but instead of taking place in Britain, guests will be transported to the magical streets of Paris. This land has scenery of a massive scale, and a ride that some are calling the best they’ve ever been on, which takes you through the Ministry of Magic depicted in the films.
Celestial Park acts as a main hub in the park, where guests will break off into the different portals. This land, however, is not short on detail. The scenery is gorgeous with huge statues, a fountain, several different restaurants, and two rides, including a thrilling rollercoaster some are calling the best coaster in Orlando. Celestial Park also has something that has never been done before. Helios Grand Hotel is a hotel located within the park itself, with incredible views and its own entrance directly into Epic Universe for guests.
“All of the views are amazing. You really feel like you’re immersed in the entire theme park; you can reach out and touch a rollercoaster,” Jessica Iaconis, assistant director of Universal Creative, said.
Universal fans have been watching this park be built for almost six years, and excitement is high as we count down the weeks until opening. There have been several groups of people let inside already for special previews. It started with team member previews, followed by a special media day, and Universal annual passholder previews starting on April 17.
People have been raving about the incredible new merch, themed food, and rides that are unlike anything ever seen before. This park is a huge feat for Universal, and as far as we can tell, one of the best vacation spots Florida has to offer.