After all construction was halted in 2020, Universal has decided to relaunch work on Epic Universe, the resort’s third theme park (or fourth, including Volcano Bay)! The new property is located just 3 miles from the rest of the Universal Orlando Resort.
Epic Universe was officially announced in August 2019 and was originally set to open in 2023.
While no lands or attractions were ever confirmed, rumored intellectual properties before work stopped included Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon, Universal Classic Monsters, and an expansion to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Plans may have changed during the construction halt, the below concept art may be out of date compared to what they’re working on now, but do correspond to images Universal themselves are still sharing.
Here are some closeups of that concept art. Let us know what you spot (Coasters, show buildings, a stadium of some sort, aqua amphitheater, etc. Help us figure this park out) :
You can also see large areas for future expansion, which will allow this already huge park to grow and add additional themed areas.
During the press conference announcing Epic Universe, Company officials stated that the new park could be the company’s largest investment ever and has the potential to be the state’s most expensive theme park ever.
In addition to a new theme park packed with attractions, Epic Universe will be a massive entertainment center including new hotels, shops and restaurants. The resumed construction project will infuse billions of dollars into the Florida economy, and also create more than 14,000 permanent jobs in addition to the thousands of jobs during its development.
“The restart of construction of Epic Universe is a terrific moment for our employees and for our theme park business in Florida,” said Brian L. Roberts, Chairman, and CEO of Comcast Corporation. “It is our single-largest investment in the state and represents our enthusiasm for the spectacular park and the economic opportunities it will generate.”
The Epic Universe project is shaping up to be a major boost for the Florida economy. “The resumption of the Epic Universe project couldn’t come at a better time,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings. “Our community has so many talented workers who will benefit from this massive project. I am confident it will deliver a huge economic boost to Orange County.”
Some photos of the Epic Universe construction site before the shutdown:
Demings also noted that Universal told him they are planning for an early 2025 grand opening of Epic Universe – two years later than initially planned. However, Universal has yet to formally announce an opening timeline.
“We are excited to begin work on Epic Universe again and for what this moment means for our industry, our community, our business, and our team members,” said Tom Williams, Chairman, and CEO for Universal Parks & Resorts. “Our confidence in our collective future is as strong as ever.”
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Let’s Hear From You
Are you surprised to see Epic Universe get back on track so soon? What themed lands are you most looking forward to, or hope will be added? Let’s hear your thoughts below!
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