Universal Orlando just opened preview access to its brand-new theme park, Epic Universe — and yes, it’s REAL. If you’re planning a 2025 trip to Orlando, here’s why this surprise ticket drop should be on your radar (even if you’re mostly here for Mickey waffles and Dole Whip).
Whether you’re loyal to Disney or just theme park curious, this is a major moment in Central Florida travel — and we’ve got all the details you need to make the most of it.
Wait…Universal Just Soft-Launched a Whole New Park?
Yep. In classic Universal fashion, there was no livestream. No press release. No big “save the date” moment. But overnight, vacation packages began popping up on the Universal website offering preview access to Epic Universe, the resort’s long-teased, fully immersive fourth theme park.
If you’re wondering how this affects your own summer 2025 vacation planning — read on.
So What Is Epic Universe, Anyway?
Epic Universe is Universal’s biggest expansion ever. Think of it as their answer to Disneyland and Magic Kingdom combined — a park that reimagines what a “theme park” can be, with each land acting as a separate universe. It’s located just a short drive from the current Universal Orlando Resort.
There are five major themed lands, plus a stunning central hub called Celestial Park, where everything branches off like spokes from a glowing, galactic wheel.
Here’s what’s opening:
Celestial Park
This is the main entry point and daytime hangout, with gorgeous gardens, interactive fountains, a dual-launch racing coaster called Starfall Racers, and a glowing carousel. Think EPCOT meets Tomorrowland with a touch of fantasy.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Not another Diagon Alley — this is a whole new Harry Potter setting, inspired by the Ministry and Parisian wizard world from Fantastic Beasts. Expect lots of hidden effects, immersive storytelling, and — we hope — some magical snacks.
Super Nintendo World
YES, the same land from Universal Studios Hollywood is coming to Florida — plus more. Not only will you be able to ride Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, but Florida’s version includes an entire Donkey Kong Country section with the Mine Cart Madness coaster, food options themed to the Mushroom Kingdom, and interactive game areas via Power-Up Bands.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
This land looks made for families. There’s a dragon gliding coaster, a Viking boat ride, live stunt shows, and walk-through attractions with seriously impressive animatronics. Picture Animal Kingdom, but with fire-breathing friends.
Dark Universe
Horror fans, this one’s for you. Inspired by Universal’s classic monsters — Frankenstein, Dracula, the Wolfman — this land brings the gothic aesthetic and some serious thrills. The headliner? Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a dark ride rumored to use groundbreaking effects.
Will There Be Food?
This is Orlando — of course we asked.
While Universal hasn’t posted full menus yet, early concept art and construction updates confirm that each land will feature its own themed dining options. That means:
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Wizarding World sweets and savory pies (maybe a new take on Butterbeer?)
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Mushroom Kingdom meals and green-shell desserts
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Viking roasts and dragon-friendly snacks in Berk
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Creepy cocktails and laboratory-inspired plates in Dark Universe
We’ll be watching this very closely once menus start to drop!
So How Do You Get Preview Tickets?
Right now, Epic Universe previews are only available through Universal Orlando vacation packages — specifically ones that include hotel stays with preview access.
These started going live on Universal’s official booking site earlier today, with a virtual queue opening shortly after. Guests who book the qualifying packages can visit Epic Universe before its grand opening in 2026 — likely sometime in late summer or early fall 2025.
Note: Not all attractions or lands may be open during previews. This is a limited-time offer and preview dates may be staggered based on construction status.
What About That Hotel INSIDE the Park?
The Universal Helios Grand Hotel is part of this expansion too — and it’s inside Epic Universe. Literally. This luxury hotel sits right above Celestial Park, with direct access to the new park and potential views of nightly fireworks and fountains.
It’s Universal’s answer to hotels like the Grand Californian or the old Galactic Starcruiser concept — high-end, ultra-themed, and planted right in the middle of the action.
Should Disney Fans Care?
Here’s the thing: Even if your heart belongs to Cinderella Castle, Epic Universe is shaping up to be a game-changer in the Orlando vacation space. Whether you plan to add a day to your Disney trip or dedicate a full vacation to Universal, this sneak-preview window could be your chance to see it all before the crowds.
We’ll keep tracking developments, food updates, soft open dates, and everything in between — because this isn’t just a new land or ride.
It’s a whole new park. And it’s here.
