Universal Epic Universe and New Hotel Coming

Orlando is gearing up for an extraordinary 2025 with the highly anticipated debut of Universal Epic Universe and the opening of a new dual-branded hotel near the park. Universal Epic Universe will be the city’s first new theme park in over two decades, following the openings of Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 1998 and Universal’s Islands of Adventure in 1999.

Originally published on October 14th, 2024. Updated for accuracy.

Expected to open by Memorial Day Weekend (May 24th-26th, 2025), this state-of-the-art park is set to revolutionize the theme park industry with its unprecedented scale and innovative experiences.

Covering 750 acres, Universal Epic Universe will be Universal Orlando’s fourth theme park, located just a few miles from Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. Visitors can expect a level of immersion never seen before, with over 50 attractions, including Super Nintendo World, groundbreaking roller coasters, interactive entertainment, and world-class dining and shopping. The park’s extensive offering will make Orlando an even more sought-after vacation destination, transforming Universal Orlando into a weeklong adventure for visitors from around the globe.

While Universal has kept much of the park’s details under wraps, the excitement continues to build, and ticket sales are rumored to begin as early as this year. The announcement of a Memorial Day Weekend 2025 opening—reported by The Wall Street Journal—has generated even more buzz, as it suggests an earlier-than-anticipated start for this massive project. Originally scheduled for a summer 2025 launch, Universal’s commitment to completing the park ahead of schedule is a promising sign for Orlando’s booming tourism sector.

In addition to the park, Universal’s newest neighbor, a dual-branded EVEN Hotel and Staybridge Suites, is set to open in 2026, adding to the excitement of the area. Located on Universal Boulevard, this 288-room property will offer a blend of wellness amenities, including EVEN Hotels’ signature athletic studios and Staybridge Suites’ upscale, residential-style suites. The hotel will also include over 4,000 square feet of meeting space, an outdoor pool, and fresh dining options. Its proximity to Universal Epic Universe, the Orange County Convention Center, and other major attractions makes it a prime destination for both tourists and business travelers.

To learn more about EVEN Hotels and Staybridge Suites, visit IHG.com and download the IHG One Rewards mobile app for exclusive offers and loyalty benefits. This upcoming hotel will combine wellness and comfort, ensuring a perfect stay whether you’re visiting for business or to explore the exciting attractions nearby.

With Universal Epic Universe and this new hotel project, 2025 marks a new era for Orlando’s already world-renowned theme park landscape. Together, they promise to elevate the visitor experience, ensuring that Orlando remains the theme park capital of the world for years to come.