Universal’s Epic Universe could give a $2 billion boost to Florida’s economy
Universal’s new Epic Universe theme park is betting on Mario, magic, and mega-attractions to usher in a new era of Florida tourism.
The new Orlando park, which opens May 22, is projected to generate $2 billion for Florida and create more than 17,500 new jobs — just in its first year. Epic is Florida’s first major new theme park in 25 years, and the centerpiece of Universal’s strategy to spice up its parks business as revenue and foot traffic have softened in recent quarters.
Epic Universe, first announced in 2019, is rumored to have cost about $7 billion, making it the single largest investment Universal’s parent company Comcast has made in its theme parks division and in Florida overall. The park showcases Universal’s deep IP library, including Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to draw in both domestic and international visitors.
Epic’s opening could also create ripple effects across the state, putting pressure on rivals like Disney to refresh their own offerings (or at least get its rides working again) as competition for guests (and their wallets) heat up.
Epic Universe, first announced in 2019, is rumored to have cost about $7 billion, making it the single largest investment Universal’s parent company Comcast has made in its theme parks division and in Florida overall. The park showcases Universal’s deep IP library, including Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to draw in both domestic and international visitors.
Epic’s opening could also create ripple effects across the state, putting pressure on rivals like Disney to refresh their own offerings (or at least get its rides working again) as competition for guests (and their wallets) heat up.
