Universal adding new park
Epic Universe coming to Orlando Resort.
Orlando Resort is about to be even more epic.
Universal’s Epic Universe, a new theme park planned for the resort, was announced Thursday.
A timeline for when construction will begin or when the new theme park will open has not been released, according to Florida Today, which is part of the USA TODAY Network.
This will be the fourth theme park at the resort. Universal’s Epic Universe will strive to “create an entirely new level of experience that forever changes theme park entertainment.”
Although specific details such as themes, rides or attractions remain under wraps, guests will be taken “on a journey where beloved stories expand into vibrant lands – and where that journey is as much a part of their adventure as the ultimate destination,” according to a press release announcing the new park.
The theme park will feature an entertainment center, hotels, shops, restaurants and more. It will be located a few miles from the existing resort.
“Our vision for Epic Universe is historic,” said Tom Williams, chairman and chief executive officer for Universal Parks & Resorts.
“It will build on everything we have done and become the most immersive and innovative theme park we have ever created. It is an investment in our business, our industry, our team members and our community.”
The new theme park will add an additional 14,000 employees, including professional, technical, culinary and other specialized positions.
Universal Orlando currently employees 25,000 people. The company conUniversal
tributes more than $302 million in annual state and local taxes – a number estimated to nearly double when the new theme park opens.
“Our new park represents the singlelargest investment Comcast NBCUniversal has made in its theme park business and in Florida overall,” said Brian L. Roberts, chairman and chief executive officer of Comcast Corporation.
“It reflects the tremendous excitement we have for the future of our theme park business and for our entire company’s future in Florida.”
Gov. Ron DeSantis was on hand for Thursday’s announcement.
“We look forward to the new level of entertainment and innovation Universal’s Epic Universe will bring to one of our state’s most important industries,” DeSantis said.
“We look forward to Universal’s continued contribution to our state’s economic growth and development.”
Universal Orlando’s current theme parks are Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay.
The resort includes popular attractions such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.