Universal Epic Universe opens to the public in Orlando, Florida, on May 22, 2025. Team members are currently testing park operations for the media and others.

It’s apparent in the tunnel-like “portal” entries into each land, stunning landscapes like the towering statues in Celestial Park or the new Helios hotel, the first one to be situated within a theme park itself. With its fountains and statues and hemispherical domes, the giant palace would look at home in Las Vegas.

Orlando may be best known for its incredible theme parks, but it's increasingly a city where the hotels and resorts are becoming attractions in and of themselves. When you stay at one of these over-the-top fun hotels in Orlando, you might even have a hard time peeling your kids away for a day at Disney World or Universal Studios.