25 EPIC things happening at Universal Orlando Resort in 2025

2025 is going to be THE YEAR for the Universal Orlando Resort, but its not all about Universal Epic Universe. A quarter of a century in, this theme park resort is set to redefine itself resort-wide with new offerings and plans for the future. From openings to offerings you might have missed and even the destruction of older rides, here are 25 EPIC things coming to Universal Orlando Resort in 2025.

1. Rock The Universe – Florida’s Biggest Christian Music Festival

Universal Studios Florida is hosting the largest Christian Music Festival in the entire state. This annual worship-based event is coming up soon: Jan. 24 & 25. Along with the concerts, weekend ticket packages include theme park access for a pretty fair discount.

2. The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant debuts

A new Pan-Asian eatery will open May 22, 2025 at Celestial Park inside of Universal Epic Universe. This location will offer Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisine in a highly-themed atmosphere. For those looking for the next best theme park cocktail, The Tiger Bar may have your upcoming favorite.

3. The destruction of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

The longstanding thrill ride, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, will be fading away from the Universal Studios Florida skyline (this news isn’t as epic). Universal confirmed that the last month to enjoy this ride is September, 2025. News of this closure quickly swept the theme park side of social media, and we appreciate that Universal was upfront and early about closure times and expectations.

Rumors suggest that Intamin, a world-renowned ride manufacturer, will be taking on the work for the replacement. Intamin built the VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure for the Universal Orlando Resort.

4. Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval returns

Another annual event, but each year its offerings are updated (new food, drinks and artists). Loud party music, new, fresh flavors and a vibrant parade. The artist list for the weekend concerts hasn’t been announced yet, but stay tuned. Everyone has their favorites, but personally I think the coolest part of this event is the chance to ride on a parade float and toss beads. Those looking to jump on a float have a few options:

• Stay tuned for a Universal Orlando Annual Pass email to reserve your spot
• Get on waiting list, day-of, for chance to ride along
• Purchase a Mardi Gras package with food and float riding included

5. Stella Nova hotel opens

The first of three hotels opening as part of the Universal Epic Universe expansion, Universal Stella Nova. This Loews hotel is in the Prime Value category for Universal Orlando Resort accommodations. This hotel will offer early admission to Universal Orlando Resort parks, including Volcano Bay and Universal Epic Universe.

Current room rates for Summer 2025 have this hotel around $250 a night, or $150 for Florida Residents and Universal Orlando Annual Passholders. This hotel will have walking access to Universal Epic Universe as well as bus transportation to Universal CityWalk (which has access to the rest of the Universal Orlando Resort).

Stay tuned to EYNTK.info and our socials for updates as we will staying at this hotel during its opening week.

6. More immersive Tribute Stores

While we haven’t yet been told what this year’s Tribute Stores entail, we can be confident that Universal isn’t going to stop them anytime soon. In the past three years, these stores have gotten to an incredible level of immersion and storytelling. From spring themes of Mardi Gras to summer’s Universal blockbusters, the Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store and the Christmas versions – these stores are nothing short of fantastic.

If you are in the parks, even if from out of state and visiting for a day, we believe these stores are worth your time to visit and explore – especially since they don’t last for long.

7. Le Gobelet Noir – new dining in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Imagine a secluded bar, teeming with magic-weiding witches and wizards. Ok, now stop imagining, because it debuts May 22, 2025 inside of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. This new land at Universal Epic Universe is much more than just a new ride, and this eatery proves that.

If you have ever visited Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, you know that it is one of (if not the best) themed lands ever created for a theme park. That level of immersion is being amplified for this new Harry Potter themed area, and it includes this new dining location, Le Gobelet Noir.

Universal Creative has so far been very vague about this location, simply stating, “In the shadowy corners of Place Cachée is a mysterious timeworn auberge, where international Dark witches and wizards gather to escape the prying eyes of the Paris Ministry and have a hearty meal over hushed conversation. Menu offerings include starters such as soups and salads as well as a variety of entrées and desserts.” We have much to learn, but we know this eatery debuts in less than six months.

8. Orlando Informer will buy out the entire park – again

Now hold on, because this may seem like an ad, but it’s not. As a theme park fan who has enjoyed these events, I feel I have to let you know about them in case you are unaware. Multiple times a year the Orlando Informer company will buy out Universal Studios Florida & Universal Islands of Adventure and sell exclusive tickets.

These Orlando Informer Meetup tickets included unlimited food, short wait times, tons of entertainment and a theme park with a limited capacity. Now, as this isn’t an ad, I can also tell you – this is not the cheapest way to visit the parks. These tickets are priced higher than a one day ticket. As of the writing of this article, a meetup ticket for February 28, 2025 is $239 before taxes and fees.

But, with a heightened entry fee comes a heightened experience. That means fewer people, more rides in less time and the convenience of just grabbing food and drink items whenever you want. As seen in the picture above, our family went and enjoyed it. We got soaked, the skies opened up and it poured on us for hours. Even still, my mom says it is one of her favorite theme park memories.

9. Terra Luna hotel opening

The sister hotel of Stella Nova, the Universal Terra Luna hotel will open on March 25, 2025. Outside of some theming and layout changes, this hotel will be very similar to Stella Nova. The same perks and pricing applies to this resort. And, both hotels will feature a vibrant, tiled exterior.

You can join our Universal Epic Universe theme park Facebook group to stay up to date on these hotels, the theme parks and more.

10. The return of Universal Mega Movie Parade

Returning April, 2025, the Universal Mega Movie Parade will once again bring modern and classic live action and animated films to the streets of Universal Studios Florida. This show initially debuted in summer of 2024 and continued to grow throughout the fall.

The show went away during the holiday season to allow the Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s to take the stage. After the parades of Mardi Gras have stopped their party, Universal Mega Movie Parade will return.

12. Universally 90’s themed event – benefiting Give Kids The World charity

The Universal Orlando Resort and Give Kids The World are teaming up for a special one-night-only block party event to support WISH kids and their families. If you don’t know, Give Kids The World Village is an incredible charity that supports kids with life threatening illnesses. They work 24/7, 365 days a year to make memories happen for those who choose Central Florida as their WISH destination.

As stated on the Give Kids The World EventBrite site, “Put on your favorite 90’s outfit, turn up the alternative music, and join us on Saturday, February 1st, 2025. for a slammin’ block party as we celebrate Give Kids The World and Universal Orlando Resort’s 30-year partnership of fulfilling wishes and making amazing memories.” This event will include:

• A block party at Universal’s CityWalk with all-inclusive food, drinks and entertainment.
• Exclusive after-hours attraction access in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the Flight of the Hippogriff.

13. Halloween Horror Nights 34

Halloween Horror Nights will be returning in August, 2025. While we have almost zero details so far, although we can expect the continuation of 10 haunted houses, five scare zones, one main show, themed bars and roaming entertainment. As this is the 34th year, we don’t anticipate the return of major HHN Icons from year’s past. You can expect the return of fan favorites, possibly Jack the Clown, Chance or others, in 2026.

This year’s event is sure to include big intellectual property with rumors of Stranger Things, the Terrifier franchise, a major musical artist and Five Nights at Freddy’s. None of this is currently confirmed, stay tuned for updates.

14. Special performances by Alice Cooper, Larry The Cable Guy, Howie Mandel & More

At Universal CityWalk is the Hard Rock Live Orlando venue. This space hosts musical and comedic performances multiple times a week. To name a few, you can purchase tickets to see:

• Howie Mandel
• Larry the Cable Guy
• Joe Gatto
• The Yuridia: Sin Llorar US Tour
• Alice Cooper: Too Close for Comfort
• Kathleen Madigan: The Day Drinking Tour

15. Two new Nintendo themed areas at Super Nintendo World

Not one, but two brand new Nintendo themed areas will debut on May 22, 2025 at Universal Epic Universe. While Super Nintendo World has already debuted at Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood, the Universal Orlando Resort is getting the best of them all.

Super Nintendo World will be divided into two spaces, one themed to Mario and his adventures and the other to Donkey Kong and his adventures. Both lands will offer their own rides, dining spaces and merchandise, but both will be accessible from the same portal at Universal Epic Universe.

If you want to learn more in-depth info on this space, we did a deep-dive article on revealed details and what visitors can expect.

16. A new way to buy the famous Butterbeer drink without a park ticket

Opening in the first-half of 2025, Universal CityWalk will debut a new Harry Potter themed experience center. While merchandise and photo-ops are expected, we are most excited about the confirmation of Butterbeer sales. Until this new store’s opening, Butterbeer has been locked away, only available to those visiting the theme parks at the Universal Orlando Resort.

But soon, anyone who visits Universal CityWalk will have a chance to enjoy the hot, cold or frozen version of this drink. As arguably the most well known Universal foodie item, Butterbeer has become world-famous for its distinct flavor. In the parks, you can buy this treat in many ways, including as a drink, ice-cream, fudge, candy and more.

2025 will bring this drink to even more of the masses. And with CityWalk parking being free after 6pm (excluding select dates and during Halloween Horror Nights) this means that anyone, regardless of buying a ticket, can access this drink for much, much cheaper.

17. The Atlantic fine dining experience will open in Celestial Park

Even more food is on the way. This time in the form of fine dining, with a view of Celestial Park at Universal Epic Universe. Universal describes the Atlantic as such, “Across the shimmering waters of the Neptune pool in Celestial Park, Atlantic is an undersea culinary fantasy. Inside glass walls reminiscent of an enormous Victorian aquarium, starfish dwell peacefully with serene, illuminated fish swimming above you. Indulge in exceptional seafood and steaks or enjoy a cocktail at the lively Aquaria Bar.”

Fine dining isn’t new to theme parks, but it is something we are watching closely for Universal Epic Universe. The Atlantic is one of the centerpieces of Celestial Park, and this food needs to be done just right to uphold the fanciful descriptions and architecture it is coming with.

18. A brand new Harry Potter themed land will magically appear

Yet another Harry Potter themed land will open, this time themed to 1920’s France and the Ministry of Magic. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will offer one massive ride, themed entertainment, new shops and dining, as well as new interactive wand experiences.

This will also now turn the Universal Orlando Resort into the only theme park destination in the world with a trilogy of Harry Potter themed lands and experiences. Guests will get to visit and live in the world of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.

19. The Universal Helios Grand Hotel will debut

Opening alongside Universal Epic Universe on May 22, 2025, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel is the new shining star of the Universal Orlando Resort hotels. Built into the very park itself, this new hotel will be an integral part of Universal Epic Universe, offering unparalleled views and ease of access.

This hotel will also be operated by Loews, and will be in the Signature Collection of hotel offerings at the resort. Standard room rates during Summer 2025 range from $500 to $1800, depending on the room or suite type. This hotel will have a pool area, a rooftop bar and restaurant and its own special entrance into Universal Epic Universe.

20. An immersive How To Train Your Dragon Land will open

The How To Train Your Dragon franchise is coming to Orlando with How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. A full land dedicated to dragons, family rides, viking inspired eateries, a broadway-style show and more. From construction testing alone, this land looks like it will be incredibly vibrant and energetic.

Guests will be able to go on three different attractions, each with their own level of storytelling and thrill. There is the family coaster, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, which will soar and glide over the land. Those hot Florida days can be blasted away on the water attraction, Fyre Drill. And, towering in the land, is the not-so-flat flat ride, Dragon Racer’s Rally.

While not yet confirmed by Universal, dragon themed drone testing has been seen above the park. We don’t want to say 100% yet, but it is widely believed that “dragons” will take off over the park during select times of the day.

21. The Chronos will align with planets to transport you to other worlds

The Chronos will move and illuminate as “planets align,” allowing you as a guest to be transported to the lands of Universal Epic Universe. And, it isn’t just a marketing term, the Chronos will actually move, as seen in testing footage.

The Universal Orlando Resort PR team has given out Chronos models to select influencers, news outlets and media. This large-scale model actually holds coins to represent each of the park’s lands. I said it before, but I am saying it again, Universal, I will buy this from you the day you put it on sale.

The Chronos will be the grand entrance of the park, unless you are entering from the exclusive entrance at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel. As guests head under this Chronos, they will enter Celestial Park and get their first full view of this brand new park. The Chronos’ design is an integral part of the park’s overarching story.

22. Christmas returns with Grinchmas, Macy’s Parade, Hogwarts Castle & More

The holiday season just ended, but when planning a vacation, 10 months away is not so far. Earl the Squirrel, Santa Claus and the Grinch will be back in 2025 for more holiday festivities and antics.

EYNTK.info spoke with FOX 35 on this year’s top Christmas offerings at the theme parks in Florida. We had to mention the Universal Orlando Resort, whose events continue to gain in popularity – especially the Grinch’s meet and greet.

23. Dark Universe will debut with Universal’s first “PG-13” level ride

A horror fan’s dream come true. Universal Epic Universe will debut with Dark Universe (yes those two both having Universe in their names is sure to confuse people) on May 22, 2025. Alongside incredible new thematic effects, this land will have two thrilling rides, themed dining with vampires, a place for kids and adults to be transformed into monsters, roaming entertainment and more.

Universal has described the lands main ride, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, as their first ever PG-13 style attraction. Be prepared to be face-to-face with many of Universal’s Classic Monsters in a fun, yet scary new way. Universal has already shown off some of their high-speed animatronics for the ride. And rumors have suggested a level of immersion we haven’t yet seen from Universal Creative, from the exterior to the queue and following us onto the ride itself.

24. Universal will continue testing rides, shows and restaurants

Up until the opening, Universal Epic Universe will continue testing – and we hope to catch some of it. Thanks to Bioreconstruct on X, and many others, we have been able to keep up with the construction of this truly (pun incoming) EPIC new park.

From videos to articles and social media posts, we are keeping an eye on this new park and what we can expect on day one and beyond. Again, you can join our Universal Epic Universe theme park Facebook group to stay up to date.

25. Universal Epic Universe will have its grand opening

While not the end of the year, this will feel like the grand finale moment. Universal Epic Universe will debut – a brand new, world class theme park in the heart of Florida. Hundreds of weeks, thousands of workers and billions of dollars later, this park will open with five lands, four coasters, three hotels and millions of new memories to be made.

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And that is 25 EPIC things that are happening at the Universal Orlando Resort in 2025. It is going to be a year filled with new offerings, big changes and special events. What are you most excited for?