News Summary
Universal’s Epic Universe is set to open on May 22, promising an exciting addition to Orlando’s attractions. The expansive 750-acre park will feature five distinct worlds, including Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. With the opening, Universal is also hiring an additional 14,000 staff members, benefiting the local economy significantly. This new theme park is expected to attract millions of visitors in its first year, boosting tourism and intensifying competition with Disney and other attractions in the area.
Exciting Times for Orlando as Epic Universe Ready to Open in May
Orlando is about to get a whole lot more exciting with the highly anticipated opening of Universal’s Epic Universe, set for May 22. This massive theme park is taking shape and is sure to be the talk of the town. Spanning an impressive 750 acres, it will feature five distinct worlds that promise to whisk visitors away into different realms of adventure and imagination.
What’s in Store at Epic Universe?
Guests can look forward to exploring neighborhoods like Super Nintendo World, where beloved video game characters come to life. Plus, there’s the How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, where fans of the series can experience the magic of dragons flying overhead. For those who love the ominous, the Dark Universe is set to feature thrilling attractions linked to classic monster movies. But wait, there’s more! Celestial Park and an exciting experience in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic will round things out, enticing Harry Potter fans from around the globe.
Construction is already visible, with roller coasters and themed structures popping up across the site. This buzz around construction is palpable in the city, heightening the anticipation for the grand opening.
A Job Boom on the Horizon
Economy Ready for a Boost
The opening of Epic Universe is expected to give the local economy a significant boost. Universal currently contributes around $302 million in annual state and local taxes, but that figure is anticipated to nearly double with the park’s debut. Interestingly, past data indicates that openings of new theme parks have consistently led to increases in the Tourist Development Tax (TDT). For example, the launch of Disney’s Animal Kingdom back in 1998 saw an 8% increase in TDT, while the Islands of Adventure produced a 2% increase shortly after its opening. These upward trends highlight the significant economic ripple effect that new attractions can have.
More Choices for Visitors
With Epic Universe joining the fray, Orlando’s numerous attractions are set to diversify even more for the 75 million annual visitors that flock to the city. Economic experts expect to see an uptick in guests flying into the local international airport and spending more at restaurants, shops, and hotels nearby as a result. This vibrancy will add to Orlando’s appeal as a premier tourist destination.
Keeping the Competition Alive
Competition among theme parks is heating up as well, with Walt Disney World also planning expansions, including a villains-themed area and thrilling new rides based on popular movies like Cars, Indiana Jones, and Encanto. This rivalry is expected to push both entities to innovate further, thereby benefiting the Central Florida economy.
What’s Next for Orlando?
Industry specialists are optimistic, predicting that Epic Universe might attract a minimum of 6 million guests in its first year alone. This potential shift in tourism dynamics showcases that Orlando is not just a destination for fun but also a growing hub for economic development.
The opening of Epic Universe marks a thrilling new chapter not just for Universal, but for Orlando and its surrounding communities too. As the big day approaches, excitement is building, and everyone is eager to see what magic unfolds in May. Let the countdown to adventure begin!
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Additional Resources
- WFTV: Epic Universe Promises to Boost Central Florida’s Economy
- FTBOA: Gantt Talks Economic Impact
- Business Insider: Universal’s Epic Universe and Its Impact
- Wikipedia: Orlando
- Google Search: Florida economy
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.
