News Summary
Universal’s Epic Universe, Orlando’s newest theme park, is struggling with operational challenges leading to low guest satisfaction ratings since its launch. Despite an average Google rating of 3.8 stars, it lags behind nearby parks like Magic Kingdom and SeaWorld. Extended wait times and technical issues have been the primary sources of guest dissatisfaction. Universal Destinations & Experiences acknowledges the situation while planning improvements and future expansions to enhance the visitor experience.
Orlando, Florida – Universal’s Epic Universe, the newest theme park in Orlando, has encountered operational challenges resulting in lower guest satisfaction ratings since its opening on May 22, 2025. Nearly four months after the official launch, which included a preview period for Team Members and selected media, the park’s performance is under scrutiny as guest ratings fluctuate significantly across various review platforms.
As of September 3, 2025, Epic Universe holds an average Google rating of 3.8 stars based on 2,588 reviews. In contrast, popular theme parks in the region have significantly higher ratings, with Fun Spot America at 4.5 stars, Magic Kingdom at 4.6 stars, SeaWorld Orlando at 4.4 stars, and Legoland Florida Resort also at 4.4 stars. The ratings drop further on Yelp, where Epic Universe has a 3.1-star rating, and an even lower 2.2 stars on Tripadvisor.
The theme park faces criticism primarily focused on extended wait times and technical issues. Many guests have reported waiting up to two hours for rides, causing frustration and dissatisfaction. Reviews indicate that numerous visitors could only enjoy a limited number of attractions due to these delays and frequent ride closures. Operational inefficiencies have seen rides reportedly down for extended periods, contributing to an overall negative guest experience.
Some guests have highlighted that the early entry privileges offered to them did not provide any significant advantage due to ride closures and excessively long queues. Analysis of guest feedback suggests that utilizing Universal Express Pass may be essential for those looking to maximize their day at the park amidst these challenges.
Comparatively, other Universal parks also reflect better satisfaction ratings; Islands of Adventure boasts a Google rating of 4.7 stars with Yelp and Tripadvisor ratings at 4.0 and 4.6 stars, respectively, while Universal Studios Florida maintains similar ratings of 4.7, 3.5, and 4.3 across the same platforms. This stark difference suggests that Epic Universe has substantial ground to cover if it aims to compete effectively with both nearby attractions and its own sibling parks.
Despite these early struggles, the CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences has described the park’s initial performance as strong while recognizing the typical challenges linked with opening a new attraction. The company plans to adapt its offerings and improve guest experience as part of a strategy to encourage longer vacation stays for visitors. Mark Woodbury has mentioned a focus on future expansions, indicating that new attractions and possibly a sixth themed area are in the pipeline.
Despite its current ratings and reviews, Epic Universe is projected to draw more visitors as operational issues improve. The park’s management is optimistic that as challenges are addressed and new attractions are introduced, guest experiences will enhance, leading to more favorable ratings in the future.
The operational challenges facing Epic Universe serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in launching a new theme park, as new attractions and visitor engagement strategies will play a pivotal role in establishing this park as a worthy competitor on the Orlando theme park landscape.
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Additional Resources
- WDWNT: Epic Universe Ranked Low Major Rankings
- Wikipedia: Epic Universe
- Orlando Sentinel: Epic Universe Update
- Google Search: Universal Epic Universe
- Deadline: Universal Theme Parks Epic Universe
- Google Scholar: Universal theme parks
- Blog Mickey: Epic Universe Market Share Gaining on Disney World
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Universal Studios
- WESH: Possible Sixth World at Epic Universe
- Google News: Epic Universe Orlando
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.
