Universal Orlando’s newest theme park is already earning global recognition. Epic Universe has officially been named one of TIME Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places of 2026,” highlighting the park as one of the most exciting destinations on the planet.
The prestigious annual list celebrates extraordinary travel experiences around the world, placing Universal’s newest park alongside some of the most remarkable locations in international tourism.
Universal Orlando Resort continues to make headlines as Epic Universe, the resort’s newest theme park, has officially been named one of TIME Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places of 2026.” The recognition places the ambitious theme park among the top destinations worldwide, shaping the future of travel.
The annual list from TIME highlights the most extraordinary places to visit around the world, selected through nominations from global correspondents, travel experts, and contributors who identify destinations offering unique experiences and innovation in tourism.
For Universal Orlando, the recognition marks another major milestone for the park, which opened in May 2025 as the first major theme park to debut in the United States in more than two decades.
A New Era for Universal Orlando
Epic Universe represents Universal’s most ambitious theme park project to date. Located just a few miles from the existing Universal Orlando parks, the new destination dramatically expands the resort, featuring five immersive lands connected by portal-style gateways.
Each land transports guests to a completely different world, featuring attractions, restaurants, and entertainment inspired by some of the most recognizable franchises.
The park includes:
- Celestial Park – the central hub featuring gardens, fountains, and the dual-launch coaster Stardust Racers
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – a new Harry Potter land set in wizarding Paris and the British Ministry of Magic
- SUPER NINTENDO WORLD – featuring attractions inspired by Mario and Donkey Kong
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – a family-friendly land where guests can encounter dragons and explore Viking culture
- Dark Universe – a gothic world inspired by Universal’s classic monsters
One of the park’s most talked-about attractions is Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, a large-scale dark ride that blends physical sets, motion technology, and storytelling to place guests inside the wizarding government headquarters.
Why Epic Universe Earned the Recognition
According to TIME, Epic Universe earned its place on the list for its immersive design and innovative “portal” concept, which allows guests to step seamlessly from one themed universe into another.
The park has drawn praise from visitors and travel experts alike for its ambitious scale, cutting-edge attractions, and the way each land fully transports guests into its story-driven environment.
TIME’s recognition further highlights how Epic Universe is reshaping the theme park landscape and reinforcing Orlando’s status as the theme park capital of the world.
A Destination That’s Just Getting Started
Since opening, Epic Universe has quickly become one of the most talked-about destinations in the industry, attracting travelers from around the globe eager to experience Universal’s newest theme park.
With its groundbreaking lands, high-tech attractions, and immersive storytelling, it’s easy to see why Epic Universe has already secured a place among the World’s Greatest Places of 2026.
And for anyone planning their next visit to Universal Orlando, the award serves as yet another reason to step through the portals and experience the park for themselves.
Have you visited Epic Universe yet? Let us know which land you’re most excited to explore!
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