Disney World To Be Abandoned for 24-Hours in 2025: Here's Why

With Universal Orlando Resort’s new Epic Universe set to open on May 22, 2025, Disney World might be in for an unprecedented lull.

Epic Universe Opening to Leave Disney World Nearly Deserted for a Day

Industry experts predict that crowds will pour into Universal’s groundbreaking theme park, leaving Disney World unusually quiet—something nearly unheard of in Orlando’s bustling theme park scene.

Magic Kingdom the day Epic Universe opens: pic.twitter.com/Rmbh43Z7EO

— Mickey Central 🎃 (@Mickey_Central) October 24, 2024

In what promises to be one of the most significant theme park unveilings in recent years, Universal’s Epic Universe is expected to attract not only Orlando locals but fans from around the world. This colossal project, boasting new immersive worlds, cutting-edge technology, and a slew of never-before-seen attractions, has already generated intense anticipation.

When it finally opens its gates, all eyes—and attendance figures—are set to shift in Universal’s direction. For Disney, this means a probable lull, perhaps even an uncharacteristic stillness, that could extend for at least 24 hours and possibly longer as guests flock to the newest theme park in town.

What to Expect at Epic Universe

Epic Universe is unlike anything Orlando has seen. The park promises multiple immersive lands, each anchored by its own set of exclusive attractions. From a highly anticipated Super Nintendo World, where guests can interact with characters from the Mario franchise, to rumored new experiences based on beloved movies, the park has something for all ages and interests.

A major highlight is its use of advanced technology. From augmented reality experiences to innovative ride mechanics, Epic Universe will present a new level of immersion that Universal hopes will reset expectations in theme park entertainment.

By offering attractions and experiences that Disney doesn’t currently have, Universal aims to pull in a diverse crowd, from die-hard thrill-seekers to families looking for unique, high-quality entertainment.

This new addition is also conveniently located just a short drive from Disney World, meaning fans will not have to venture far to experience both parks. However, Epic Universe’s opening-day appeal will likely override Disney’s usual draw, as even passholders and Orlando residents turn their attention to this long-awaited debut.

Disney World’s Response: Playing the Long Game

Disney World isn’t exactly idling while Universal garners attention. Disney has been quietly investing in technology and guest experience enhancements that it hopes will pay off in the long run. The company’s recent foray into artificial intelligence (AI) for interactive experiences and storytelling in its parks signals a shift toward high-tech, guest-centered entertainment.

However, these innovations aren’t expected to be fully implemented by May 2025, which could make it difficult for Disney to counterbalance Universal’s sudden spike in interest.

This isn’t the first time Disney and Universal have gone head-to-head. The two Orlando giants have been competing for decades, from Universal’s introduction of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Disney’s ambitious Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Each has managed to bring in massive crowds by leveraging exclusive content and franchises. The difference this time is that Universal’s Epic Universe is designed to be an entirely new park rather than an addition to its existing lineup, giving it an edge over past expansions and positioning it as a game-changer for the industry.

The Impact on Disney World’s Visitor Numbers

For a destination that rarely sees a drop in foot traffic, Disney World may look surprisingly empty come May 22. While crowd levels may not dip to record lows, some analysts believe Disney will see its least busy day of 2025. Many Disney regulars—annual passholders, local visitors, and even die-hard fans—are expected to make the switch to Epic Universe, at least for the initial thrill.

Hotels around Universal Orlando are already preparing for a massive influx, with many properties reporting high demand and some selling out for the opening weekend. Disney, meanwhile, has yet to announce any counter-promotions or discounts for that day, and it’s possible they’ll take a “wait and see” approach, recognizing that most of Orlando will be absorbed by Universal’s grand opening.

This unique moment offers Disney a chance to test new strategies without the usual crowd pressure, and they may use this downtime to push app-based features, such as Genie+ and Lightning Lane, even more effectively. But regardless of what Disney has planned, it’s clear that the brand faces a rare situation: sharing—or perhaps ceding—Orlando’s theme park spotlight.

The Anticipated ‘Lull’ at Disney: An Opportunity in Disguise?

While Disney World may experience a rare lull, this could be an unexpected opportunity. Disney could use the quiet to conduct maintenance, refresh certain attractions, and even test newer crowd management methods.

Attractions notorious for long waits, like Space Mountain and Avatar Flight of Passage, may see some of the shortest lines in years, giving the Disney die-hards who do stick around a unique experience.

For guests interested in a more relaxed Disney World experience, May 22 could be an ideal day to visit. For perhaps the first time in years, Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, U.S.A., may not be teeming with visitors at every turn, offering a tranquil environment for those looking to escape the rush.

This reprieve might just offer an alternative kind of magic for Disney’s dedicated fans, allowing them to experience their favorite park in a way that has become increasingly rare.

Epic Universe vs. Disney World: The Long-Term Outlook

Though Disney may lose ground for a day or two, the company’s long-term strategy seems focused on quality over novelty. With recent announcements hinting at a continued commitment to storytelling and technological advancements, Disney appears ready to stay the course while Universal takes the spotlight.

Upcoming developments, such as Disney’s planned AI-powered interactive experiences, show the company’s dedication to redefining guest engagement in ways that are distinct from Universal’s approach.

While Universal captures attention with fresh attractions, Disney’s reliance on nostalgia and emotional connection continues to resonate with its audience. Families who grew up on Disney’s brand and characters often return out of tradition, a loyalty that can weather even a high-profile opening at Universal.

Additionally, Disney’s ownership of powerhouse intellectual properties—Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar—gives them a formidable advantage. These are franchises that Universal will struggle to replicate in terms of cultural impact and fan loyalty.

The Battle for Theme Park Dominance Continues

The opening of Epic Universe represents a turning point in the Disney-Universal rivalry, and both companies are likely to see the effects for years. This event could signal a shift in the dynamics of Orlando tourism, with Universal now standing on even footing with Disney in the public eye.

May 22 Will Be a Day That Wil Live in Infamy

This rivalry has pushed both parks to innovate continuously, benefiting fans who get to experience new and updated attractions more frequently. Disney’s “wait and see” approach might look cautious, but history shows the company has no plans to sit idle.

After all, Disney’s position as the original Orlando theme park juggernaut was built on its capacity to evolve, responding to competition not in haste, but in groundbreaking strides.

For now, however, Universal’s Epic Universe will claim the spotlight as Orlando’s new entertainment epicenter. In May 2025, all roads—at least for one day—lead to Epic Universe, leaving Disney with a rare chance to observe the storm from a distance.

But as Disney has shown time and again, Orlando’s theme park landscape isn’t static, and what one park gains, the other often seeks to match or surpass. This pause in Disney’s usual bustle might just be the calm before Disney’s next game-changing move.

So with Epic Universe opening up on May 22, that might be the best time to visit Walt Disney World Resort, as the crowds will likely be nonexistent as everyone will be flooding the gates to Universal’s new theme park.

But again, things could also go the other way, and droves of people might end up flocking to the House of Mouse instead. What are your thoughts on May 22; do you think Disney World will be a ghost town? Comment below and let Inside The Magic know!