Universal Orlando Resort will open Epic Universe once 2025 rolls around, a severe competition for Walt Disney World Resort.
Besides this massive new theme park, Universal is gearing up to remove entire lands, attractions, and experiences to move into new blockbuster intellectual properties.
Universal Orlando Resort Plans Major Overhaul of Attractions as Epic Universe Gears Up for 2025 Opening
Universal Orlando Resort, already a top destination for thrill-seekers and movie buffs, is on the cusp of a transformative era. With the highly anticipated opening of Epic Universe in 2025, the resort is preparing for an unprecedented expansion, which will include the closure of several beloved lands, attractions, and experiences across its existing parks.
While some fans may mourn the loss of these iconic areas, the changes signal a new chapter in Universal’s history, promising fresh adventures and state-of-the-art experiences that will redefine the Universal destination theme park landscape.
The centerpiece of Universal Orlando Resort’s expansion is Epic Universe, a massive new park that promises to take immersion to the next level. Set to open its gates in 2025, Universal Epic Universe will feature five meticulously crafted lands, each offering a unique blend of rides, experiences, and dining options that cater to both hardcore fans and casual visitors alike.
Dark Universe: A Land of Monsters
First up is Dark Universe, a gothic-inspired land that draws from Universal’s legendary monster movies. Here, guests will encounter iconic characters like Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster (and Frankenstein Manor), and the Wolfman in a series of attractions designed to thrill and terrify.
From a state-of-the-art dark ride that plunges guests into the heart of a classic horror story to an immersive dining experience that channels the eerie atmosphere of a haunted castle, Dark Universe at this new Universal Park promises to be a haven for macabre fans.
UNIVERSAL HAS REVEALED THE DARK UNIVERSE LAND ST EPIC UNIVERSE!!!!!! It looks like everything I could have dreamed This land will be an industry defining achievement for Epic Universe.
UNIVERSAL HAS REVEALED THE DARK UNIVERSE LAND ST EPIC UNIVERSE!!!!!!
It looks like everything I could have dreamed 🥹🥹🥹
This land will be an industry defining achievement for Epic Universe. pic.twitter.com/M9x8c14zMz
— Wallin Ballin (@wallin_ballin) June 20, 2024
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD: A Gamer’s Paradise
For those who grew up with a controller, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will be a dream. Already a hit in Japan, this vibrant land brings the world of Nintendo to life, offering guests the chance to enter their favorite games. Whether racing through a real-life Mario Kart course, exploring Princess Peach’s Castle, or grabbing a bite at Toadstool Cafe, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will provide a nostalgic yet cutting-edge experience that appeals to gamers of all ages.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Next, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter expands its magical reach with the Ministry of Magic. This new land invites guests to delve deeper into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, taking them on a journey through the inner workings of the British Ministry.
Expect jaw-dropping set pieces, interactive elements, and a signature attraction that allows guests to battle dark forces alongside their favorite characters. This new addition will be nothing short of spellbinding for fans of the Harry Potter series.
How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk
Venturing into the realm of animation, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk offers a land where dragons soar, and adventure awaits. Based on the beloved DreamWorks franchise, this land will transport guests to the Viking village of Berk, where they can embark on a thrilling roller coaster ride alongside Toothless, meet animatronic dragons, and dine at the Great Hall.
With its stunning landscapes and family-friendly appeal, Isle of Berk is poised to be a highlight for younger guests and families.
Celestial Park: A Journey to the Stars
Finally, Celestial Park promises a cosmic adventure unlike anything else. This original concept land will immerse guests in the mysteries of the universe, offering a mix of rides, attractions, and shows that explore the wonders of space. From a zero-gravity experience that simulates a journey through the cosmos to a futuristic dining venue that feels like a starship, Celestial Park will be a must-visit for those with a taste for the extraordinary.
Changes on the Horizon at Universal Orlando Resort
As Epic Universe prepares to welcome millions of visitors, Universal Orlando Resort is also planning significant changes to its existing parks. One of the most talked-about rumors centers around Universal Studios Florida, where The Simpsons Land is speculated to be on the chopping block.
The Simpsons Land: An End of an Era?
The Simpsons Land, home to attractions like The Simpsons Ride and Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl, has been a staple of Universal Studios Florida since its debut. However, with Disney now holding the rights to The Simpsons IP following its acquisition of 21st Century Fox, speculation is rife that this beloved area may soon make way for something new.
Parker’s Word on the Street: Springfield USA and The Simpsons Ride are rumored to be closing at Universal Studios Florida as early as 2025 to make way for new and exciting lands.
🚨 Parker's Word on the Street: Springfield USA and The Simpsons Ride are rumored to be closing at Universal Studios Florida as early as 2025 to make way for new and exciting lands.🎢✨ #UniversalStudios #TheSimpsons #ThemeParkNews pic.twitter.com/RMFxNkDkzL
— ThemeParkParker (@ThemeParkParker) August 28, 2024
While Universal has yet to confirm the closure, the possibility of losing The Simpsons Land has sparked both nostalgia and curiosity among fans. Removing such an iconic IP could pave the way for a new experience that aligns more closely with Universal’s evolving brand. Rumors suggest that the space could be repurposed for a new land, with potential themes ranging from classic Universal Monsters to entirely new intellectual properties (IPs) that are still under wraps.
Universal Orlando Resort – Islands of Adventure: The Next Frontier?
Over at Islands of Adventure, whispers of change are also in the air. Two areas that have been part of the park since its opening in 1999—Toon Lagoon and The Lost Continent—are rumored to face closure in the future.
Toon Lagoon: A Splashy Farewell?
Toon Lagoon, known for its water rides like Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls and Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, has long been a go-to spot for guests looking to cool off. However, as Universal looks to modernize its offerings, there are rumors that Toon Lagoon could be replaced by a land dedicated to a more contemporary and popular IP.
Speculation points to the possibility of a Pokémon-themed land, where guests could embark on interactive adventures to catch, train, and battle Pokémon in a real-world setting.
The Lost Continent: An Ancient World Reimagined?
Once a sprawling land of mythical creatures and ancient legends, the Lost Continent has already seen much of its space repurposed for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. Now, it seems the remaining area could be transformed yet again. One persistent rumor suggests that The Lost Continent could give way to a land inspired by The Lord of the Rings, where guests could explore Middle-earth and encounter characters like Gandalf, Frodo, and Aragorn.
Alternatively, some speculate that a Legend of Zelda-themed land could rise in its place, offering fans the chance to step into the shoes of Link and embark on epic quests.
The Legend of Zelda Producer Eiji Aonuma has been spotted wearing construction gear in an Instagram video for Universal Studios Orlando Epic Universe along with Shigeru Miyamoto! Does this mean a Zelda World is coming?! (credit to @TokyoGameLife)
The Legend of Zelda Producer Eiji Aonuma has been spotted wearing construction gear in an Instagram video for Universal Studios Orlando Epic Universe along with Shigeru Miyamoto!
Does this mean a Zelda World is coming?!
(credit to @TokyoGameLife) pic.twitter.com/Qe9WBp6xYN— Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) January 25, 2024
Marvel Super Hero Island: A Final Battle?
Another central area that could see changes is Marvel Super Hero Island. While the land has been a cornerstone of Islands of Adventure since the park’s opening, featuring attractions like The Incredible Hulk Coaster and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, its future is uncertain due to Disney’s ownership of Marvel.
Universal’s agreement with Marvel predates Disney’s acquisition of the comic book giant, allowing Universal to continue using the characters in its parks. However, with Disney now firmly in control of the Marvel brand, rumors persist that Marvel Super Hero Island’s days could be numbered. Should the land close, it would mark the end of an era for Universal Orlando Resort, but it could also usher in a new chapter by introducing a fresh, dynamic IP.
Some believe that a based on another famous comic book universe or a blockbuster film franchise could occur, ensuring that Universal continues offering high-octane thrills for years.
Current Closures: A Sign of Things to Come?
Universal Orlando Resort has already begun transforming, with several locations closing their doors to make way for new experiences. Among the most notable closures are the Hello Kitty Shop and the UNI VRS store, which recently closed.
Hello Kitty Shop and UNI VRS Store: Out with the Old
The closure of the Hello Kitty Shop and UNI VRS store has sparked speculation about what could be next for these spaces. While Universal has yet to announce what will replace these stores, many see the closures as a sign that the resort is gearing up for significant changes.
Whether these spaces will be repurposed for new retail experiences, attractions, or dining venues remains to be seen. Still, one thing is sure: Universal Orlando Resort is evolving, and fans can expect more surprises shortly.
The Future Looks Bright for Universal Orlando Resort
The future has never looked brighter as Universal Orlando Resort prepares to say goodbye to some of its most iconic attractions and lands. Epic Universe’s arrival in 2025 will bring with it a host of new experiences that promise to captivate guests and set new standards for theme park entertainment.
Meanwhile, the rumored closures and transformations at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure suggest that the resort is committed to staying ahead of the curve, continuously reinventing itself to offer the best possible experience for its guests.
For fans of Universal Orlando Resort, these changes represent a thrilling opportunity to experience something new and exciting with every visit. Whether it’s exploring the dark corridors of the Ministry of Magic, racing through the skies of Berk, or journeying to the farthest reaches of the galaxy, there’s no doubt that Universal is on the verge of a renaissance that will cement its place as one of the world’s premier vacation destinations.
Universal Orlando Resort: A New Era of Competition with Disney
With so many changes on the horizon, Universal Orlando Resort is positioning itself as a formidable competitor to Walt Disney World Resort.
The addition of Epic Universe and the potential new lands at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure will offer guests even more reasons to choose Universal over Disney. As the two entertainment giants continue to vie for the attention of millions of visitors each year, the winner will ultimately be the guests, who can look forward to an ever-expanding array of world-class experiences.
Ultimately, Universal Orlando Resort’s commitment to innovation and reinvention ensures that it will remain a must-visit destination for years. While the closure of beloved attractions may be bittersweet, the promise of what’s to come clarifies that Universal’s best days are still ahead.