Universal’s new resort ramps up theme park competition

Universal is opening its Epic Universe resort—a massive $7 billion expansion set on 750 acres—this week. It is shaking up Orlando’s theme park scene, dominated by Disney.

The new park is Universal’s biggest since The Wizarding World of Harry Potter land debuted in 2010. It was a big crowd attraction, boosting attendance by 36% then.

Epic Universe features five themed lands, including franchises like Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon and Nintendo video games.

Tickets start at $139, and early demand is strong, according to parent Comcast’s President Mike Cavanagh.

Universal also indicated expansions into Texas, Las Vegas and the UK. Disney still leads with four parks and two water parks compared to Universal’s three parks.

Universal also indicated expansions into Texas, Las Vegas and the UK. But Disney still leads with four parks and two water parks, compared to Universal’s three parks.