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Universal Unveils Epic Universe Preview Center

June 9, 2024 • 05:24 PM • By Avery Matteo

Universal Orlando's CityWalk offers a look at the upcoming park's layout

The entrance to the Epic Universe Preview Center on Universal Orlando's CityWalk. Credit: Avery Matteo

Universal Orlando has unveiled its Epic Universe Preview Center on CityWalk, which offers a sophisticated glimpse into the Epic Universe park set to open in 2025. Central to the preview is an intricately detailed model of the entire park, providing an in-depth look at the innovative attractions and experiences that will define Universal's third gate.

To enhance the visitor experience, the Epic Universe Preview Center encourages guests to utilize the Epic Universe Preview AR app. This innovative tool allows users to scan designated portions of the park model marked by AR signs, bringing attractions and dining locations to life on their smartphones through augmented reality.

What to Expect

Epic Universe is designed around five uniquely themed lands, which are accessible via portals. At the heart of the park lies Celestial Park, the main hub featuring elegant gardens, dynamic fountains, a charming carousel, and Stardust Racers, a steel dueling coaster from Mack Rides.

Stardust Racers, a Mack Rides steel dueling coaster set to debut in 2025, can be brought to life using Universal's new Epic Preview Center AR mobile app. Credit: Avery Matteo

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will transport guests to the Viking world of the popular film franchise. Young visitors can participate in Viking Training Camp within an adventure play area, experience what it feels like to be a flying dragon on the Hiccup's Wing Gliders attraction, and witness dragons in flight during a live show called The Untrainable Dragon.

Dark Universe presents a shadowy landscape inspired by classic Universal monsters. This area features attractions centered around Dr. Victoria Frankenstein's groundbreaking experiments and encounters with other legendary creatures, offering a uniquely eerie experience.

The Dark Universe land will have an ominous atmosphere and feature the Universal Classic Monsters. Credit: Avery Matteo

Super Nintendo World promises cutting-edge rides, themed retail shops, and engaging dining experiences. The land will also feature Donkey Kong Country, which will house the highly anticipated Mine-Cart Madness coaster.

The Mine-Cart Madness coaster, which tasks guests with helping Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on their quest to protect a golden banana, will be featured in Super Nintendo World's Donkey Kong Country area. Credit: Avery Matteo

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic transports visitors to the magical realms of 1920s Paris and the British Ministry of Magic. This section is expected to offer guests new attractions and immersive theming aligned with the Harry Potter films.

A portal depicting concept art of the Ministry of Magic offers a sneak peek into what can be expected from the new land. Credit: Avery Matteo

Avery Matteo is the associate editor of Funworld at IAAPA. An Orlando-based writer and editor with more than four years of experience supporting educational institutions, nonprofits, and associations, she is honored to spend her days illuminating the people and experiences that comprise the attractions industry. In her free time, she enjoys traveling to new attractions across the globe. Connect with her on LinkedIn.