Though Universal’s plans for a new theme park hit a bit of a speedbump in 2020, it looks like this project is fully back on track, with Universal recently sharing some brand new details about what to expect from this upcoming project, including new details about how big the park will be, what lands will be featured, and when it might open. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Universal’s Epic Universe will be anchored by the biggest Universal theme park in North America
When it was first announced in 2019, the plans for Universal’s Epic Universe certainly looked impressive, but we didn’t get any real details about the scope of the project. However, it has now been confirmed that when Universal completes its new theme park project it will officially be the biggest Universal theme park in North America, beating out Universal Studios Florida, which is 125 acres.
2. Three IP-driven lands have been confirmed
One of the biggest draws for Universal’s Epic Universe will be Super Nintendo World, and it looks like it has now been confirmed that this theme park will also have themed lands based on IPs from both Illumination ( which has produced hits like the Despicable Me and The Secret Life of Pets series) and DreamWorks Animation (Which is known for Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon). Though it has long-been assumed that this new park would feature another expansion of the blockbuster Wizarding World of Harry Potter lands, this has not been confirmed yet.
3. Universal is looking to challenge Walt Disney World directly
Right now a lot of visitors to the Orlando area spend several days at Walt Disney World, and then “add on” a visit to Universal while they’re in town. However, according to NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Sell, the goal with the addition of Universal’s Epic Universe, is to flip this trend, making Universal Orlando Resort its own weeklong destination, taking share from other attractions in Orlando in the process. In addition, because of the building site’s proximity to the Orange County Convention Center, Universal is hoping to capture some of the visiting business market as well with this new park and resort.
4. There is still no target opening date
Thought Universal’s Epic Universe was originally targeting a 2023 opening date when work was halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 Pandemic this project was pushed back indefinitely. And though construction work has resumed, Universal has not said when the new target opening date is for Universal’s Epic Universe, simply stating that they are looking to debut this new project “in a couple of years”.
