Universal is making waves in Orlando with the upcoming launch of its much-anticipated Epic Universe theme park, a $7 billion project that has doubled the size of the resort. Spanning an additional 750 acres, the expansion introduces five exciting new lands inspired by popular films and games, either owned or licensed by Universal.
These new immersive worlds include:
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
- Super Nintendo World
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
- Celestial Park
- Dark Universe
This is Universal’s biggest investment in its parks since Comcast took over in 2011. Analysts believe this bold move poses a strong challenge to Walt Disney World, which last saw a major expansion in 2019.
Why Comcast Is Betting Big on the Epic Universe Theme Park
“This is the one area of the entertainment business that hasn’t been affected by screen fatigue. People still love experiencing these parks in person,” said Comcast President Mike Cavanaugh in an interview.
Comcast sees its parks division as a key driver of future growth. Alongside the Epic Universe theme park, the company is launching new attractions:
- Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas (August 2024), featuring horror movie-inspired haunted houses
- Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, is opening next year with themes from Shrek, Minions, and SpongeBob
These expansions show Universal’s goal to reach new audiences and markets, including plans for its first-ever European park in the UK.
What Makes the Epic Universe Theme Park a Game-Changer
Epic Universe could draw 9.5 million visitors in 2026 alone, according to analyst Craig Moffett. That could generate over $1.3 billion in revenue. Some of that growth will likely come at the expense of Disney’s parks, which may lose up to 1 million visitors over the next two years.
In the long term, Moffett believes Epic Universe could attract up to 13 million guests annually—more than Universal’s existing Orlando parks.
TD Cowen analyst Doug Creutz noted, “In the long run, it makes Orlando an even more appealing vacation destination. That could benefit both Universal and Disney.”
A Look Back: Universal’s Winning Streak Since Harry Potter
Universal’s success in theme parks began gaining serious traction with the launch of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in 2010. The Diagon Alley expansion followed in 2014, turning Universal into a serious player in the theme park industry.
Craig Moffett credits the Harry Potter-themed attractions for sparking a “winning streak” that continues with the Epic Universe theme park.
Disney Isn’t Standing Still Amid the Epic Universe Theme Park Buzz
Disney is not ignoring the challenge. In response, it has been upgrading Walt Disney World with fresh attractions like:
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT (2022)
- TRON Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom (2023)
Disney also plans to invest $60 billion over the next decade in its parks and cruise lines to maintain its competitive edge. In April, it introduced half-price tickets for kids and discounted payment plans for Florida residents.
Despite the fierce competition, Disney reports that bookings at its Florida parks remain strong for the next two fiscal quarters.
Final Thoughts: What the Epic Universe Theme Park Means for Orlando
The launch of the Epic Universe theme park not only strengthens Universal’s standing but also raises the bar for theme park experiences in Orlando. With its innovative lands and family-friendly offerings, the park promises to be a top draw for tourists worldwide.
As Universal and Disney go head-to-head, visitors can expect even more reasons to visit Orlando in the years to come. If you want to stay tuned with latest world news, then keep on reading 10X Times News.
