Universal Challenges Disney With Epic Launch

Universal has officially launched Epic Universe, a $7 billion theme park project that doubles the size of its Orlando resort. The opening signals a bold new phase in the global theme park arms race, pitting Universal directly against Disney in Central Florida’s tourism hub.

Spanning 750 acres, Epic Universe features five new themed lands, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon’s Isle of Berk, Celestial Park, and the horror-inspired Dark Universe. It’s Universal’s largest single investment since Comcast acquired the brand in 2011.

The park uses state-of-the-art technology, has over 160 patents, and represents the first major U.S. theme park to open in over two decades. Universal’s ambition is to transform its Orlando complex into a full-week destination.

With new parks also underway in Texas, Las Vegas, and the UK, Comcast is betting big on theme parks to drive growth, as is Disney. Together, they’re reshaping the entertainment travel market.

Epic Universe is open to the public and offers both single-day and multi-park ticket options. The launch comes at a time of strong consumer interest, despite broader economic uncertainty.