Universal Epic Universe has been named to TIME’s World’s Greatest Places of 2026, with the magazine recognizing the 110-acre park as one of the most extraordinary destinations on the planet, less than a year after its opening at Universal Orlando Resort.
What TIME Said About Epic Universe. TIME did not hand out the recognition gently. The magazine acknowledged the obvious skepticism upfront, noting that Orlando hardly seemed to need another marquee attraction, then made the case that doubts fade fast once you are inside the park. The write-up called out the immersive portal entry system as a defining feature, singling out the green warp pipe leading into Super Nintendo World’s Mushroom Kingdom as a standout moment.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic drew particular attention for its 1920s Parisian streetscapes, which TIME described as showstopper-level design. The Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ride also got a nod for keeping guests entertained through the queue with talking portraits and animatronics. For thrill seekers, Stardust Racers — a dual-launch coaster hitting speeds up to 62 miles per hour — was highlighted as the park’s most intense ride experience.
The recognition also extended beyond the park itself. Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews property with a dedicated park entrance and early admission for guests, was called out as the most luxurious of the three new Universal hotels that opened alongside Epic Universe in 2025.
TIME’s World’s Greatest Places list carries real weight. It is not a fan poll or a theme park industry award — it is editorial recognition from one of the most widely read publications in the world, and it reaches an audience well beyond the usual theme park enthusiast base. For Universal Orlando, landing on that list in the park’s first year of operation is a meaningful validation of the multi-billion dollar bet the company made building the first major new theme park in the United States in a quarter century.
For visitors planning a trip to Orlando, it also adds another data point to a question a lot of people are actively asking right now — whether Epic Universe is worth adding to a vacation that might already include Walt Disney World. TIME’s answer, essentially, is yes.
Universal Asked Passholders If They’d Pay Double for Epic Universe Access
What Is Currently Open at Epic Universe
The park’s five themed worlds include Super Nintendo World, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, and Celestial Park. Universal Orlando’s full resort now spans four theme parks, 11 resort hotels, and a nighttime entertainment complex.
Upcoming seasonal events at Universal Orlando include Volcano Bay Nights on select nights from May 3 through August 21, Halloween Horror Nights from August 28 through November 1, and the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort running November 14 through January 3.
TIME Just Named Universal Epic Universe One of the Greatest Places in the World
For more theme park and entertainment coverage, visit fantasylandnews.com and join the Realm at fantasylandnews.com/the-realm.
