The journey of creating Epic Universe has been nothing short of incredible, and thanks to Bioreconstruct on Twitter, we’ve been able to watch the transformation unfold before our eyes. What began as an empty plot of land is now quickly shaping up to become one of the most exciting and immersive theme park experiences Universal has ever created. Here’s a look back at the major milestones of this epic journey:

2021: The Early Stages

January 22, 2021 – A Blank Canvas:

The first aerial photos of Universal Epic Universe reveal a vast, empty plot of land. Other than early groundwork, the space is little more than bare dirt, marking the beginning of Universal’s most ambitious expansion yet.

October 21, 2021 – Land Outlines Emerging

As construction gains momentum, the first outlines of the park’s five lands begin to take shape. Roads and backstage access points are being paved, providing construction crews with entry to different areas of the site. The sheer scale of the park starts to become more apparent.

December 19, 2021 – Shaping the Future

Land grading and reshaping efforts are in full swing. The construction team focuses on preparing the terrain to support the park’s massive foundations, ensuring the site is ready for the next phases of development. The transformation from an empty lot to a theme park in the making has officially begun.

2022: Foundations Take Shape

As Universal Epic Universe moved into 2022, the park’s transformation became even more tangible. This was the year when foundations turned into structures, coasters began rising, and entire lands took shape. Let’s break down the major milestones from this exciting phase of construction!

January 9, 2022 – Water Features Begin to Take Shape

The first signs of Celestial Park’s iconic waterways emerge as three central water features begin construction. Meanwhile, early work on Super Nintendo World and the Isle of Berk can be spotted in aerial images.

February 18, 2022 – Concrete Forms for Super Nintendo World

The concrete forms for Super Nintendo World begin to rise, marking the first clear outlines of this immersive land. Over in Dark Universe, grading starts for the Monsters Unchained attraction, setting the stage for the land’s eerie and gothic atmosphere.

March 18, 2022 – Broad Construction Across Lands

Activity is now visible in nearly every corner of Epic Universe. While Super Nintendo World leads in development, progress ramps up across Celestial Park, Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and the Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic.

April 2, 2022 – Super Nintendo World Takes Form

Major structures for Donkey Kong Country and Yoshi’s Adventure start appearing, giving fans a first glimpse at the interactive Nintendo-inspired attractions.

April 29, 2022 – Ministry of Magic Foundations

Construction crews lay the foundations for the Wizarding World’s Ministry of Magic. Meanwhile, the lake area undergoes reshaping, with speculation that it will serve as a fireworks launch site for nighttime spectaculars.

May 13, 2022 – Dragon Coaster Excavation Begins

Excavation begins for Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a massive coaster set on the Isle of Berk. At the same time, more work is being done to enhance the water features throughout Celestial Park.

May 27, 2022 – Steel Framework for Ministry of Magic

The first steel framework for the Ministry of Magic attraction rises, marking the start of vertical construction for this much-anticipated land.

June 10, 2022 – Classic Monsters Show Building

The Monsters Unchained show building takes shape as crews install its roller coaster foundations. Meanwhile, the Celestial Park fountain—a future park centerpiece—begins installation.

July 8, 2022 – Roof Installations

Roofing is fully installed on the Ministry of Magic show building, while roofing work for Monsters Unchained in Dark Universe kicks off.

August 5, 2022 – Isle of Berk Columns Rise

Six massive columns for the Isle of Berk’s Mead Hall are erected, further defining this How to Train Your Dragon land. Over in Celestial Park, work progresses on the water features that will bring the park’s cosmic aesthetic to life.

September 30, 2022 – Hurricane Ian Disrupts, but Recovery Begins

Hurricane Ian causes temporary flooding on the construction site, halting progress. However, by October 9, recovery efforts are successful, and construction resumes full speed ahead.

November 11, 2022 – Paving Begins

The paving of Epic Blvd and the transportation plaza begins, bringing a critical layer of infrastructure to the guest arrival experience.

December 9, 2022 – Coaster Tracks for Stardust Racers

The first coaster track sections for Stardust Racers are installed, marking a major milestone for this dual-racing coaster. Meanwhile, the entrance to Epic Universe begins to take shape, offering the first real glimpse of how guests will enter the park.

2023: The Park Rises

By 2023, Universal Epic Universe was no longer just a collection of steel beams and dirt—it was rapidly becoming a fully realized theme park. Major attractions saw their tracks completed, theming was installed across multiple lands, and ride testing began. Let’s break down the biggest milestones from this exciting year of progress!

January 3, 2023

Construction teams expand the tracks for both Stardust Racers and Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, bringing these coasters closer to completion. Meanwhile, the Grand Helios Hotel’s underpass begins construction, integrating the hotel seamlessly with the park.

February 3, 2023

The track for Curse of the Werewolf, the roller coaster in Dark Universe, is fully completed. Over in the Isle of Berk, towering dragon statues begin to take shape, enhancing the immersive world of How to Train Your Dragon.

March 3, 2023

The main structure for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge becomes visible inside Super Nintendo World, giving fans a glimpse of the flagship attraction of the land.

April 14, 2023

Framing for the Constellation Carousel kicks off, marking another milestone in Celestial Park. Meanwhile, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders completes its full track circuit, paving the way for ride testing.

May 8, 2023 – Aerial overview highlights:

• Epic Universe entrance (at #1)
• Atlantic Restaurant (at #2)
• Constellation Carousel  (at #3)
• Celestial Park fountain show fountain (at #4)
• Progress on Stardust Racers, Isle of Berk, Super Nintendo World at (#5,#6,#7)

June 18, 2023

• Stella Nova & Terra Luna Hotels rise south of the park. 
• Pilings for the raised roundabout at Kirkman Rd & Epic Blvd are placed. 
• The final ribs of the Constellation Carousel are installed, bringing the whimsical ride structure to completion.

July 7, 2023 – Space-Themed Hotels Progress

Stella Nova and Terra Luna, the space-themed Universal Resorts, are showcased in new photos. These hotels feature dichromatic, color-changing exteriors, creating a stunning futuristic effect.

July 27, 2023 – Aerial View from ICON Park

A panoramic photo from The Wheel at ICON Park offers a stunning construction overview, showcasing the scale and progress of Epic Universe.

August 18, 2023 – Details in Isle of Berk & Dark Universe

• More trees are added to Isle of Berk and Dark Universe, adding depth to the immersive landscapes.
• Stylized roofs begin forming on the Isle of Berk.
• Security/admission structures at the park entrance take shape.
• The Sacre Coeur-style turrets at the Ministry of Magic and its portal entryway start rising.

September 1, 2023 – Theming and Hurricane Impacts

• Foam blocks arrive in Super Nintendo World, bringing Bowser’s Castle and other set pieces to life.
• A minecart train is spotted at Mine Cart Madness in Donkey Kong Country.
• Stormy weather and a hurricane caused temporary flooding, but recovery efforts quickly restored the site.

September 29, 2023 – Park Markers Emerge

New construction photos reveal park layout markers, including key front (the big central arrow) and center (the small right arrow) reference poles, which are crucial for finalizing the overall park design.

October 13, 2023 – Testing & Construction Details

• Hiccup’s Wing Gliders begin to reach testing, ensuring safe clearance for riders.
• Concrete forms for the Atlantic Restaurant take shape.
• Scaffolding is added for Stardust Racers’ theming, hinting at its cosmic aesthetic.

October 27, 2023 – Coaster & Theming Advancements

• A fabric-covered ride vehicle is spotted for Curse of the Werewolf.
• Curved framing is added in front of Stardust Racers, enhancing the ride’s launch area.
• The Gateway Arch (Chronos) for the Epic Universe entrance starts assembly, setting the stage for a grand entryway.
• More Ministry of Magic turrets emerge, adding intricate details to this Wizarding World land.

November 4, 2023 – Dark Universe Portal Revealed

The mysterious portal leading into the Dark Universe is unveiled, featuring spooky, gothic architecture, further setting the monstrous tone of the land.

November 23, 2023 – Testing & Water Features

• Dragon Racers Rally and Curse of the Werewolf begin ride testing.
• Water fills the bay at the Isle of Berk, bringing the seaside Viking village to life.
• The Fyre Drill route is mapped out, adding a new interactive element to the Isle of Berk.

December 6, 2023 – Nighttime Testing

A nighttime photo shows Dragon Racers Rally testing and fountain surfaces are in progress in Celestial Park, signaling the park’s continued rise.

2024: The Portals Awaken

With less than a year until Universal Epic Universe opens its gates, 2024 marks the final stretch of construction. From ride testing to hotel lighting tests, every detail is being fine-tuned for the park’s grand debut.

January 16, 2024 – 2024 Countdown Begins

• A stunning aerial photo captures Epic Universe, showcasing the massive scope of the park as it nears completion.
• Universal begins rolling out promotional videos, offering first glimpses of each land and hotel, building anticipation for the opening.

January 27, 2024 – Mine Cart Madness Construction

• Donkey Kong Country sees major theming progress for Mine Cart Madness.
  • #1: Staging of additional wall elements, shaping the attraction’s environment.
  • #2: Blue-painted theming models add depth and detail to the immersive land.

February 3, 2024 – Super Nintendo World Testing

• Test dummies appear on Yoshi’s Adventure, signaling the start of ride testing inside Super Nintendo World.
• Mount Beanpole receives the finishing touches, adding iconic Nintendo elements to the landscape.

February 9, 2024 – Stella Nova Resort at Twilight

Stella Nova Resort comes alive at twilight, with exterior lighting effects transforming the space-themed hotel into a celestial wonder.

March 10, 2024 – Super Nintendo World Progress

• Aerial shots showcase significant progress on:
  • Mount Beanpole’s exterior
  • Yoshi’s Adventure’s track and scenery
  • Bowser’s Castle theming

April 14, 2024 – Fyre Drill Ride Layout

• Aerial images capture the layout of Fyre Drill, a family-friendly water ride where guests aim for water cannons to put out dragon-started fires.
  • The ride features interactive targets, adding a fun and engaging experience.

April 26, 2024 – Stella Nova’s Star-Lit Exterior

Nighttime lighting tests illuminate Stella Nova’s celestial façade with glowing windows and starry effects, adding a cosmic atmosphere to the resort.

May 24, 2024 – One-Year Countdown Begins

A wide-angle aerial view highlights the major progress across Epic Universe, marking one year until the park’s official grand opening on May 22, 2025.

June 27, 2024 – Terra Luna Resort Lighting Test

Terra Luna Resort, Stella Nova’s sister hotel, undergoes a starry lighting test, ensuring the space-themed resort’s exterior is ready for guests.

July 1, 2024 – Stardust Racers Reflection

A mirror glass reflection shot captures Stardust Racers at twilight, highlighting the sleek, futuristic aesthetic of the coaster and its surrounding skyline.

August 23, 2024 – Bowser Sculpture at Mario Kart Entrance

Aerial shots reveal the construction of a massive Bowser sculpture at the entrance of Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, further enhancing the entrance to Bowser’s Castle.

September 22, 2024 – Helios Grand Hotel Construction

A breathtaking sunset photo showcases both the ongoing construction of Helios Grand Hotel and progress on the mountain peak of Mead Hall in the Isle of Berk.

October 25, 2024 – Isle of Berk Construction Progress

• A new aerial view captures major progress in the Isle of Berk:
  • Hiccup’s Wing Gliders testing
  • Viking Training Camp theming
  • Mead Hall’s final details
  • The dragon weather vane is installed atop the portal entrance, adding a majestic finishing touch.

November 22, 2024 – Stella Nova Resort Completion

Just 60 days before opening, Stella Nova Resort is fully finished, with a completed pool area and guest-ready exteriors.

December 21, 2024 – Aerial Photo of Epic Universe

A high-altitude aerial shot (1,800 ft) reveals:

• The Meteor Astropub sign is staged for installation, marking the final Celestial Park details.
• The grass is planted across various areas, adding natural vibrancy.
• Harry Potter expansion pad is visible, hinting at future Wizarding World developments.
• Trees were added to the Ministry of Magic queue, enhancing the immersive experience.
• Universal marquee at Epic Blvd installed, welcoming future guests!

2025: The Final Countdown Begins

The year 2025 is here, and Universal Epic Universe is on the brink of opening! With the park’s grand debut just a few months away, the final touches are being placed on rides, hotels, and infrastructure.

January 25, 2025 – Epic Universe Illuminates the Night

• A breathtaking nighttime aerial view showcases the fully illuminated Chronos gateway, the park’s majestic entrance arch.
• The admission podiums are being installed at the entrance, signaling one of the last steps before the park welcomes guests.

February 14, 2025 – Traffic Circle Nears Completion

• The raised traffic circle at Kirkman Road and Epic Blvd is nearing completion.
• Lane markings are set to be added soon, ensuring smooth access for guests arriving at the park.
• Currently, ground-level traffic remains limited to bus transportation between Stella Nova Resort and CityWalk.

With just a few months left, Epic Universe is set to dazzle guests with its immersive lands, world-class attractions, and cosmic-themed resorts. The countdown to the grand opening continues!

March 28 2025- Epic Universe with 55 Days to Go

• In this overhead photo, you can see Epic Universe as the countdown ticks down to 55 days to go before grand opening. Final touches are being completed before previews and technical rehearsals
  • Circles being raised above the Hemisphere Stage Viewing
  • A windmill in Isle of Berk being lowered for service
  • Work on almost all of the portals being completed
  • Even some show buildings having their painted murals be revealed.

April 5 2025- Epic Universe Open For Team Member Previews

Epic Universe begins the first of many special Team Member Previews days. Seen here are Universal Team Members walking through Donkey Kong Country.

April 18 2025- The Cosmos Fountains Come to Life

In this photo, you can see Epic Universe testing their beautiful Cosmos Fountains located in front of the Helios Grand Hotel. This photo was taken from inside the Grand Helios Hotel just below the Bar Helios around 3 am.

April 29 2025- Dark Universe Gate Closed before Early Entry for Hotel Guests

In this photo, you can see the portal for the Dark Universe is closed off by a gate. It is noted that each portal has a gate similar to this, uniquely designed to the theme of the portal. This was taken about 15 minutes before Epic Universe opened for guest previews.

Conclusion

The transformation of Universal Epic Universe from an empty lot to a fully immersive theme park has been nothing short of extraordinary. With just weeks left until the grand opening, the excitement is reaching its peak!

As the park nears its completion, it’s clear that every corner of Epic Universe will offer something special—from the thrilling rides and attractions to the stunning hotels and delicious dining experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the mystical realms of Super Nintendo World, the mysterious corridors of the Ministry of Magic, or the action-packed thrills of the Stardust Racers, the Epic Universe journey is bound to be unforgettable.

Now, it’s your turn! 

Which land are you most excited to explore when the gates open?
What food items are you looking forward to trying at the resort?
Drop your thoughts below, and let’s continue this EPIC conversation!

_{Credit for the images used goes to Universal Orlando (official site) and Bioreconstruct on Twitter/X (@bioreconstruct).}