Epic things are coming to Orlando.

In just over a month, Universal will unveil its newest theme park, Epic Universe, marking the first major theme park opening in the Florida area in 25 years and signaling a transformative shift in Orlando’s tourism landscape. Spanning 750 acres, Epic Universe is the largest of Universal's properties, featuring five themed worlds, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Celestial Park, and Dark Universe. This addition is anticipated not only to enhance Universal’s revenue but also to significantly impact the local economy, which has long relied on tourism as its primary income source. In 2023, Orlando attracted over 74 million visitors, contributing to about 50% of the total sales tax revenue in Orange County. Casandra Matej, the CEO of Visit Orlando, emphasizes the positive financial implications of Epic Universe, suggesting it will prompt a domino effect of economic benefits across the community. Comcast, Universal’s parent company, has invested approximately $7 billion in this project, which is the largest single investment in its theme park history. As preparations ramp up for the grand opening on May 22, the park is expected to create over 17,500 jobs and deliver an estimated $2 billion in the first year alone. Additionally, the influx of visitors is expected to extend their stay in Orlando, further benefiting local businesses through hotel bookings, dining, and shopping. Notably, theme park competition is also likely to rise, with projections indicating that the opening of Epic Universe could boost attendance for existing parks like Disney. Ultimately, this development represents a significant milestone not just for Universal and its set of iconic franchises, but for the broader Central Florida economy. Furthermore, with the anticipation of its attractions, especially those connecting visitors to beloved franchises, the park's opening is generating excitement amidst significant expectations. In summary, Epic Universe stands poised to redefine Orlando’s appeal as a leading destination for entertainment and tourism, merging familiar fandoms with innovations in theme park design and guest experience.