News Summary
After four months of operation, Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, is exceeding projections with impressive attendance and visitor spending. CEO Mark Woodbury shared details about the park’s performance, including potential plans for a sixth themed land, set for future growth. With over 750 acres available for development, Universal is also expanding globally with new attractions in Japan and a resort in Texas. The strategic layout fosters flexibility, ensuring a dynamic visitor experience as Universal adapts to changing demands.
Orlando, Florida
Four months after the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe, the theme park is already surpassing expectations, as reported by the CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences. Mark Woodbury highlighted impressive performance metrics regarding visitor spending on food and merchandise, as well as overall attendance figures.
The attendance at Epic Universe surpasses that of Universal’s other two parks, reflecting its premium status among them. This success has been facilitated by the park’s strategic layout and the allocation of 750 acres of land in Orange County specifically for its development.
Current Status and Future Potential
The five immersive worlds within Epic Universe currently occupy just over 100 acres, leaving ample space for potential expansion in the future. Woodbury mentioned ongoing discussions about introducing a sixth land, which could be themed around the popular musical “Wicked.” This concept stems from observations of “Wicked” sets designed for the park.
Designed with greenfield space between existing attractions, the park has built-in flexibility for future growth. Multiple attractions are currently in development, not only at Epic Universe but throughout other Universal parks worldwide. This initiative is part of a long-range plan that aims to introduce new experiences over the next decade.
Future Attractions and Expansions
Details have not been disclosed regarding a new ride intended to replace the permanently closed Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket. This development is just one component of Universal’s broader expansion strategy, which includes a new park in London targeted to open in 2031. Research suggests that over 93% of the local community supports this London project.
In addition, Universal Studios Japan is also gearing up for significant growth as the country focuses on bolstering its tourism industry. New attractions aimed at horror themes and younger audiences are in the works, including the year-round Universal Horror Unleashed experience set to open in Las Vegas.
Furthermore, a new Universal Kids Resort is scheduled to launch in Frisco, Texas, next year. This resort aims to provide accessible and enjoyable experiences targeted at families with children aged three to eight.
Looking Ahead
The expansion plans extend beyond current projects, with a Horror Unleashed event projected to take place in Chicago in 2028. The strategic growth of Universal’s parks across the globe reflects a commitment to meeting changing consumer demands and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
As Universal continues to innovate and expand, its focus on incorporating new themes and attractions promises to keep the entertainment landscape dynamic, ultimately aiming to cater to a diverse audience.
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Additional Resources
- WESH: Universal Executive Talks Possible Sixth World at Epic Universe
- Wikipedia: Universal Studios
- Deadline: Universal Theme Parks Epic Universe
- Google Search: Universal Epic Universe
- OC Register: Universal Studios Teases Plans for Wicked Attractions
- Google Scholar: Universal Orlando Expansion
- KTLA: Universal Studios Teases Possible Wicked Theme Park
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theme Parks
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
