The gates to Universal Orlando Resort’s most ambitious theme park—Epic Universe—are about to open, and the excitement is undeniable. But beneath all the hype lies a question few expected to be asking:
Is The Legend of Zelda coming to Universal Orlando Resort?
There’s no official announcement, no press release. But a series of hidden-in-plain-sight details are pointing toward a future expansion based on Nintendo’s beloved fantasy franchise—and fans are piecing the clues together fast.
The Case for Hyrule: What’s Been Spotted at Epic Universe
Universal hasn’t said a word about bringing Zelda to its Florida parks—but the hints are becoming harder to ignore. Here’s what we know:
🔹 Themed Parking: “Hero” Section
Epic Universe’s parking lot is divided into themed sections, one of which is simply called “Hero.” Its emblem? A sword and shield—bearing a striking resemblance to the Master Sword and Hylian Shield. For many fans, that’s no coincidence.
🔹 Stained Glass Surprises
Inside the brand-new Super Star Store just outside Super Nintendo World, there’s a stunning array of stained-glass-style windows. Alongside Mario and Donkey Kong? Link, Zelda, and Ganon—a trio central to the Zelda franchise.
These images aren’t minor cameos—they’re large, artistic centerpieces, suggesting the IP has more of a presence than just a quick nod.
Legend of Zelda merchandise has arrived the Nintendo Store in Celestial Park.
Legend of Zelda merchandise has arrived the Nintendo Store in Celestial Park. #EpicUniverse @UniversalORL pic.twitter.com/aqze3UuOzz
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) May 20, 2025
🔹 The Hyrule Mosaic
Perhaps the most eye-catching clue is underfoot. In the center of the Super Star Store lies a floor mosaic featuring three properties: Mario, Donkey Kong, and… yes, Zelda. It’s bold, stylized, and firmly positions Zelda as a core part of Universal’s Nintendo presence.
🔹 New Merchandise Appears
Recently, Legend of Zelda-themed merchandise was spotted on sale inside the Epic Universe store—a first for the park. That alone raised eyebrows among superfans, as it marks a tangible step toward Zelda becoming a park brand.
Rumors Had Pointed Elsewhere—Until Now
For years, speculation swirled around a possible Zelda land replacing The Lost Continent in Islands of Adventure. With Poseidon’s Fury closed and the area aging out of favor, it seemed like a natural fit. Some leaks even suggested construction could begin as early as 2024.
But now, with these new Zelda teasers appearing in Epic Universe, that theory is being reexamined.
Why tease Zelda imagery so prominently in the new park—unless that’s where Hyrule is heading?
Expansion Pads Already in Place
Epic Universe was designed with growth in mind. Two major expansion areas are already mapped out, and one of them sits conveniently near Super Nintendo World. That makes it the perfect place for a new Zelda-themed zone if Universal wants to build out the Nintendo experience further.
Legend of Zelda references can be found in the Celestial Park Nintendo Store.
Legend of Zelda references can be found in the Celestial Park Nintendo Store. @UniversalORL #EpicUniverse pic.twitter.com/nOgPOygHKS
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) April 6, 2025
Even Universal Orlando President Karen Irwin recently teased that they’re “already planning for the next thing at Epic.” Could she be hinting at Zelda? Though no official concept art or ride details exist, fans can’t help but dream about what a Zelda land could offer:
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A walkable Hyrule Castle and surrounding kingdom
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Interactive quests or dungeons using AR technology
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A boat ride through Lake Hylia
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Rides themed to Epona, Sheikah technology, or iconic boss battles
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Restaurants styled after Kakariko Village or Lon Lon Ranch
Zelda has the depth, lore, and visual identity to match—if not rival—what Universal has already done with Mario and Donkey Kong.
Final Thoughts: A Master Plan in Motion at Epic Universe?
Universal has proven it loves to plant seeds before making big announcements. We saw it with Super Nintendo World. We saw it with Donkey Kong. And now, it seems we’re seeing it again—with The Legend of Zelda quietly emerging from the shadows.
Whether it’s coming to Epic Universe or another part of Universal Orlando Resort, the signs are growing clearer: Hyrule is likely on the horizon.
And if you’re walking through the park soon, keep your eyes peeled. Because the next time you pass that sword and shield—or see Link’s silhouette in stained glass—you might just be looking at the future of Universal’s next epic adventure.
