Snaith’s research also found that Epic Universe will likely generate around $2 billion for the state of Florida in its first year of operation. It’s projected to create more than 17,500 new jobs in its first year of opening.

Guests ride Stardust Racers, a new dueling roller coaster ride, during a preview day for Universal Epic Universe on April 5, 2025. Orlando’s first new theme park in a generation is set to open to the public on May 22. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)

Universal Orlando has spent around $7 billion on its new theme park Epic Universe, and it shows. I was among hundreds of media members from across the world invited to preview the new park on Saturday.