In a brand new video forward of the grand opening of Epic Universe, Karen Irwin, President & COO of Common Orlando pitches their three theme parks, water park, leisure district, and resorts as a vacation spot resort. She additionally reveals that Common is already trying down the street, past Epic Universe at what’s subsequent in 2026 and past.
That is the newest in a line of latest appearances aimed toward each producing pleasure about Common Orlando, and cementing it as an equal to Walt Disney World worthy of trip time, and never only a diversion. We’ll cowl that over the course of this submit, however let’s begin with Irwin’s quote about Common Orlando’s future growth plans:
“There are already so many issues within the works now. We’ve got a slate of latest points of interest that had been already in growth on for each one in every of our parks. We’re already planning the subsequent factor at Epic!”
This follows a latest piece within the New York Occasions, “Common’s Theme Parks, Lengthy in Disney’s Shadow, Increase at Dizzying Tempo.” The article is actually what the headline suggests, spelling out how Common goes after Disney with new parks in Florida and Texas. plus growth elsewhere and new points of interest at its present gates.
The quick model of the story is that when Mark Woodbury turned Common’s theme park chief in 2022, he noticed a fair greater alternative to elevate Common out of Disney’s shadow after the theme parks had turn out to be a shock development engine for NBCUniversal. “How will we turn out to be the vacation spot of alternative in every of the markets that we function in and in the entire markets that we select to broaden into?” he mentioned throughout an interview with NYT.
This isn’t hyperbole. Common is within the midst of unprecedented growth, even earlier than Epic Universe. The corporate opened one other fully-fledged theme park, Common Studios Beijing, just some years in the past. Along with Epic Universe, the Florida advanced has debuted a number of resorts and new points of interest lately.
Then there’s the upcoming Common Youngsters Resort in Texas, new everlasting Halloween Horror Nights-style expertise in Las Vegas, and recently-opened Tremendous Nintendo Worlds in California and Osaka, Japan. Common additionally has plans for “Depraved” points of interest, growth in Hollywood, and a serious park for Britain, too.
“We’re going to roll these out throughout the nation and the world,” Woodbury instructed the NYT when describing the cheaper regional ideas slated for Las Vegas and Texas. With regard to Epic Universe, he hopes to reverse a longstanding enterprise dynamic with Walt Disney World. Woodbury needs households to view the Common Orlando Resort as a weeklong vacation spot and never only a one- or two-day add-on to a Disney trip. “We wish folks to consider us first,” he mentioned.
The clear takeaway from latest media is that NBCUniversal has excessive expectations for Epic Universe, sees ample alternatives for additional development of its theme park enterprise, and can proceed to maneuver aggressively to seize extra market share from Disney (one thing that has already occurred within the final decade).
Turning to commentary, this sentiment doesn’t shock me within the least. Common management expressing this now additionally doesn’t imply it’ll occur. A lot hinges Epic Universe and the way nicely it’s acquired upon opening. Particularly, whether or not its first couple of seasons exceed investor expectations or fall quick. Not whether or not followers prefer it or if Common executives do a public victory lap, each of that are givens.
In some ways, the debut of Epic Universe jogs my memory of the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Clearly, the size and scope are greater–however so too are the stakes. No matter statements on the time by The Bobs, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge fell wanting inner expectations. There’s a purpose why we by no means heard one other phrase about Galaxy’s Edge coming to Paris, because it was shelved earlier than COVID.
Should you can do not forget that far again, you would possibly recall rumors that different tasks for Walt Disney World had been already on skinny ice–or nixed totally–pre-COVID. Clearly, the closures exacerbated all the things and resulted in much more cancellations, however it’s probably not the purpose to relitigate the impression of COVID on Disney’s growth. It’s that what Common is planning in the present day might find yourself being very totally different primarily based on how the primary yr goes with Epic Universe. I’m not suggesting a preemptive cutback–I’m saying that the vary of outcomes remains to be unknown. Ambitions may very well be scaled down…or ramped up. Each are doable!
Whether or not it really happens or not–and no matter ambition ranges–growth and reimaginings want to occur at Common Orlando.
I’ve but to expertise it, so clearly I can’t communicate to the “want” for extra points of interest at Epic Universe. On paper, the trip roster does look on the sunshine aspect to me, however that’s pretty typical of latest theme parks post-Euro Disneyland. The one latest exception to this has been Shanghai Disneyland, which was an anomaly.
In any other case, the identical criticism may very well be levied at Hong Kong Disneyland, Animal Kingdom, Disney California Journey, and even the beloved Tokyo DisneySea at opening. Heck, you may make the identical critique about Animal Kingdom in the present day, over 20 years after it opened. Epic Universe does have loads of growth pads between its worlds, and I think at the least a kind of will likely be put to make use of earlier than 2030. Actually, I’m extra curious as to whether or not they’ll have to deal with crowd circulate constraints first.
Enlargement at Epic Universe strikes me as a very good ‘drawback’ to have. If that’s fast-tracked, it’ll presumably be that the park is such a smash success that it wants extra to assist soak up crowds and improve capability. It’ll be on account of overwhelming demand and considerations about Common leaving cash on the desk, not the opposite method round. Form of like what we’re presently seeing at Magic Kingdom, however with a brand new park as an alternative of a 50+ yr previous one.
However, redevelopment on the two present gates, particularly Common Studios Florida, is crucial. It wants to occur, and as quickly as doable.
At any time when followers hype up Epic Universe and declare that it’s going to be what places Common Orlando excessive to assert Walt Disney World’s throne, or no matter, I can’t assist however surprise after they final visited Common Studios Florida. To explain a number of of its lands as in want of refreshes can be an understatement. It makes Tomorrowland at Disneyland appear to be a reasonably good land. Dino-Rama can be proper at dwelling in USF. (Okay okay, maybe that’s going too far.)
Common Studios Florida has acquired a few placemaking tasks lately, neither of that are something particular. Incremental enhancements achieved shortly and cheaply, so at the least there’s that. Islands of Journey is mostly in higher form with a greater trip roster and superior placemaking, however comparable (albeit far more restrained) criticisms may very well be levied at that park, too.
The “drawback” that Common Orlando goes to have is that, the higher Epic Universe is, the more serious the 2 present theme parks will look by comparability. The present plan is to push dear trip packages to “pressure” folks to go to Common Studios Florida and Islands of Journey, however that’ll solely work for thus lengthy.
Finally, natural demand goes to do its factor. And it’s secure to say that, when that does occur, attendance at Common Studios Florida and (to a lesser extent) Islands of Journey will drop for a few years. There will likely be some cannibalization of attendance, which is to be anticipated.
How unhealthy it’ll be in all probability depends upon the standard disparity between Epic Universe and the present gates, phrase of mouth amongst vacationers who go to Common Orlando for the primary time within the subsequent couple of years, what Common Orlando does within the meantime to assist entice visitors to USF and IoA, and what Walt Disney World does to seize those self same vacationers’ time and {dollars}.
We already know that Rip Experience Rockit is being changed. It’s additionally our understanding that Common Orlando intends upon returning to its cadence of an annual new main opening. That is in step with latest precedent previous to Epic Universe, and with what executives have recommended on earnings calls and in interviews. It’s additionally what Walt Disney World will likely be doing as soon as once more beginning in 2027. There’s each purpose to imagine the opponents will undertake an analogous strategy. Epic Universe will likely be the marketable attract Central Florida for a few years, however Common clearly doesn’t need their pipeline working dry as Disney begins bringing new points of interest and lands on-line.
There are rumors that Springfield is subsequent on the chopping block, to get replaced by a Pokémon-themed space. With out understanding something or having any insider connections, my guess is that Common Orlando will transfer as shortly as doable to construct new Nintendo points of interest in every of the present parks. Nintendo goes to be the marquee draw that will get households reserving journeys to Orlando, so Common would possibly as nicely borrow a web page from its personal Harry Potter playbook and unfold Nintendo out amongst all 3 gates. That’s much more efficient of a method to entice vacationers to go to all three parks than forcing them to purchase packages. Gotta catch ’em all!
Want journey planning suggestions and complete recommendation to your go to to Central Florida? Make sure that to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for all the things about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for all the things about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
Your Ideas
What do you consider the bold plans for additions at Common Orlando? Count on it’ll be full steam forward on growth and redevelopment at Epic Universe, Islands of Journey, and Common Studios Florida? Do you agree or disagree with our evaluation in regards to the want for brand new points of interest and refreshed areas on the two present gates? Any questions we may also help you reply? Listening to your suggestions—even while you disagree with us—is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
In a brand new video forward of the grand opening of Epic Universe, Karen Irwin, President & COO of Common Orlando pitches their three theme parks, water park, leisure district, and resorts as a vacation spot resort. She additionally reveals that Common is already trying down the street, past Epic Universe at what’s subsequent in 2026 and past.
That is the newest in a line of latest appearances aimed toward each producing pleasure about Common Orlando, and cementing it as an equal to Walt Disney World worthy of trip time, and never only a diversion. We’ll cowl that over the course of this submit, however let’s begin with Irwin’s quote about Common Orlando’s future growth plans:
“There are already so many issues within the works now. We’ve got a slate of latest points of interest that had been already in growth on for each one in every of our parks. We’re already planning the subsequent factor at Epic!”
This follows a latest piece within the New York Occasions, “Common’s Theme Parks, Lengthy in Disney’s Shadow, Increase at Dizzying Tempo.” The article is actually what the headline suggests, spelling out how Common goes after Disney with new parks in Florida and Texas. plus growth elsewhere and new points of interest at its present gates.
The quick model of the story is that when Mark Woodbury turned Common’s theme park chief in 2022, he noticed a fair greater alternative to elevate Common out of Disney’s shadow after the theme parks had turn out to be a shock development engine for NBCUniversal. “How will we turn out to be the vacation spot of alternative in every of the markets that we function in and in the entire markets that we select to broaden into?” he mentioned throughout an interview with NYT.
This isn’t hyperbole. Common is within the midst of unprecedented growth, even earlier than Epic Universe. The corporate opened one other fully-fledged theme park, Common Studios Beijing, just some years in the past. Along with Epic Universe, the Florida advanced has debuted a number of resorts and new points of interest lately.
Then there’s the upcoming Common Youngsters Resort in Texas, new everlasting Halloween Horror Nights-style expertise in Las Vegas, and recently-opened Tremendous Nintendo Worlds in California and Osaka, Japan. Common additionally has plans for “Depraved” points of interest, growth in Hollywood, and a serious park for Britain, too.
“We’re going to roll these out throughout the nation and the world,” Woodbury instructed the NYT when describing the cheaper regional ideas slated for Las Vegas and Texas. With regard to Epic Universe, he hopes to reverse a longstanding enterprise dynamic with Walt Disney World. Woodbury needs households to view the Common Orlando Resort as a weeklong vacation spot and never only a one- or two-day add-on to a Disney trip. “We wish folks to consider us first,” he mentioned.
The clear takeaway from latest media is that NBCUniversal has excessive expectations for Epic Universe, sees ample alternatives for additional development of its theme park enterprise, and can proceed to maneuver aggressively to seize extra market share from Disney (one thing that has already occurred within the final decade).
Turning to commentary, this sentiment doesn’t shock me within the least. Common management expressing this now additionally doesn’t imply it’ll occur. A lot hinges Epic Universe and the way nicely it’s acquired upon opening. Particularly, whether or not its first couple of seasons exceed investor expectations or fall quick. Not whether or not followers prefer it or if Common executives do a public victory lap, each of that are givens.
In some ways, the debut of Epic Universe jogs my memory of the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Clearly, the size and scope are greater–however so too are the stakes. No matter statements on the time by The Bobs, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge fell wanting inner expectations. There’s a purpose why we by no means heard one other phrase about Galaxy’s Edge coming to Paris, because it was shelved earlier than COVID.
Should you can do not forget that far again, you would possibly recall rumors that different tasks for Walt Disney World had been already on skinny ice–or nixed totally–pre-COVID. Clearly, the closures exacerbated all the things and resulted in much more cancellations, however it’s probably not the purpose to relitigate the impression of COVID on Disney’s growth. It’s that what Common is planning in the present day might find yourself being very totally different primarily based on how the primary yr goes with Epic Universe. I’m not suggesting a preemptive cutback–I’m saying that the vary of outcomes remains to be unknown. Ambitions may very well be scaled down…or ramped up. Each are doable!
Whether or not it really happens or not–and no matter ambition ranges–growth and reimaginings want to occur at Common Orlando.
I’ve but to expertise it, so clearly I can’t communicate to the “want” for extra points of interest at Epic Universe. On paper, the trip roster does look on the sunshine aspect to me, however that’s pretty typical of latest theme parks post-Euro Disneyland. The one latest exception to this has been Shanghai Disneyland, which was an anomaly.
In any other case, the identical criticism may very well be levied at Hong Kong Disneyland, Animal Kingdom, Disney California Journey, and even the beloved Tokyo DisneySea at opening. Heck, you may make the identical critique about Animal Kingdom in the present day, over 20 years after it opened. Epic Universe does have loads of growth pads between its worlds, and I think at the least a kind of will likely be put to make use of earlier than 2030. Actually, I’m extra curious as to whether or not they’ll have to deal with crowd circulate constraints first.
Enlargement at Epic Universe strikes me as a very good ‘drawback’ to have. If that’s fast-tracked, it’ll presumably be that the park is such a smash success that it wants extra to assist soak up crowds and improve capability. It’ll be on account of overwhelming demand and considerations about Common leaving cash on the desk, not the opposite method round. Form of like what we’re presently seeing at Magic Kingdom, however with a brand new park as an alternative of a 50+ yr previous one.
However, redevelopment on the two present gates, particularly Common Studios Florida, is crucial. It wants to occur, and as quickly as doable.
At any time when followers hype up Epic Universe and declare that it’s going to be what places Common Orlando excessive to assert Walt Disney World’s throne, or no matter, I can’t assist however surprise after they final visited Common Studios Florida. To explain a number of of its lands as in want of refreshes can be an understatement. It makes Tomorrowland at Disneyland appear to be a reasonably good land. Dino-Rama can be proper at dwelling in USF. (Okay okay, maybe that’s going too far.)
Common Studios Florida has acquired a few placemaking tasks lately, neither of that are something particular. Incremental enhancements achieved shortly and cheaply, so at the least there’s that. Islands of Journey is mostly in higher form with a greater trip roster and superior placemaking, however comparable (albeit far more restrained) criticisms may very well be levied at that park, too.
The “drawback” that Common Orlando goes to have is that, the higher Epic Universe is, the more serious the 2 present theme parks will look by comparability. The present plan is to push dear trip packages to “pressure” folks to go to Common Studios Florida and Islands of Journey, however that’ll solely work for thus lengthy.
Finally, natural demand goes to do its factor. And it’s secure to say that, when that does occur, attendance at Common Studios Florida and (to a lesser extent) Islands of Journey will drop for a few years. There will likely be some cannibalization of attendance, which is to be anticipated.
How unhealthy it’ll be in all probability depends upon the standard disparity between Epic Universe and the present gates, phrase of mouth amongst vacationers who go to Common Orlando for the primary time within the subsequent couple of years, what Common Orlando does within the meantime to assist entice visitors to USF and IoA, and what Walt Disney World does to seize those self same vacationers’ time and {dollars}.
We already know that Rip Experience Rockit is being changed. It’s additionally our understanding that Common Orlando intends upon returning to its cadence of an annual new main opening. That is in step with latest precedent previous to Epic Universe, and with what executives have recommended on earnings calls and in interviews. It’s additionally what Walt Disney World will likely be doing as soon as once more beginning in 2027. There’s each purpose to imagine the opponents will undertake an analogous strategy. Epic Universe will likely be the marketable attract Central Florida for a few years, however Common clearly doesn’t need their pipeline working dry as Disney begins bringing new points of interest and lands on-line.
There are rumors that Springfield is subsequent on the chopping block, to get replaced by a Pokémon-themed space. With out understanding something or having any insider connections, my guess is that Common Orlando will transfer as shortly as doable to construct new Nintendo points of interest in every of the present parks. Nintendo goes to be the marquee draw that will get households reserving journeys to Orlando, so Common would possibly as nicely borrow a web page from its personal Harry Potter playbook and unfold Nintendo out amongst all 3 gates. That’s much more efficient of a method to entice vacationers to go to all three parks than forcing them to purchase packages. Gotta catch ’em all!
Want journey planning suggestions and complete recommendation to your go to to Central Florida? Make sure that to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for all the things about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for all the things about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
Your Ideas
What do you consider the bold plans for additions at Common Orlando? Count on it’ll be full steam forward on growth and redevelopment at Epic Universe, Islands of Journey, and Common Studios Florida? Do you agree or disagree with our evaluation in regards to the want for brand new points of interest and refreshed areas on the two present gates? Any questions we may also help you reply? Listening to your suggestions—even while you disagree with us—is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
In a brand new video forward of the grand opening of Epic Universe, Karen Irwin, President & COO of Common Orlando pitches their three theme parks, water park, leisure district, and resorts as a vacation spot resort. She additionally reveals that Common is already trying down the street, past Epic Universe at what’s subsequent in 2026 and past.
That is the newest in a line of latest appearances aimed toward each producing pleasure about Common Orlando, and cementing it as an equal to Walt Disney World worthy of trip time, and never only a diversion. We’ll cowl that over the course of this submit, however let’s begin with Irwin’s quote about Common Orlando’s future growth plans:
“There are already so many issues within the works now. We’ve got a slate of latest points of interest that had been already in growth on for each one in every of our parks. We’re already planning the subsequent factor at Epic!”
This follows a latest piece within the New York Occasions, “Common’s Theme Parks, Lengthy in Disney’s Shadow, Increase at Dizzying Tempo.” The article is actually what the headline suggests, spelling out how Common goes after Disney with new parks in Florida and Texas. plus growth elsewhere and new points of interest at its present gates.
The quick model of the story is that when Mark Woodbury turned Common’s theme park chief in 2022, he noticed a fair greater alternative to elevate Common out of Disney’s shadow after the theme parks had turn out to be a shock development engine for NBCUniversal. “How will we turn out to be the vacation spot of alternative in every of the markets that we function in and in the entire markets that we select to broaden into?” he mentioned throughout an interview with NYT.
This isn’t hyperbole. Common is within the midst of unprecedented growth, even earlier than Epic Universe. The corporate opened one other fully-fledged theme park, Common Studios Beijing, just some years in the past. Along with Epic Universe, the Florida advanced has debuted a number of resorts and new points of interest lately.
Then there’s the upcoming Common Youngsters Resort in Texas, new everlasting Halloween Horror Nights-style expertise in Las Vegas, and recently-opened Tremendous Nintendo Worlds in California and Osaka, Japan. Common additionally has plans for “Depraved” points of interest, growth in Hollywood, and a serious park for Britain, too.
“We’re going to roll these out throughout the nation and the world,” Woodbury instructed the NYT when describing the cheaper regional ideas slated for Las Vegas and Texas. With regard to Epic Universe, he hopes to reverse a longstanding enterprise dynamic with Walt Disney World. Woodbury needs households to view the Common Orlando Resort as a weeklong vacation spot and never only a one- or two-day add-on to a Disney trip. “We wish folks to consider us first,” he mentioned.
The clear takeaway from latest media is that NBCUniversal has excessive expectations for Epic Universe, sees ample alternatives for additional development of its theme park enterprise, and can proceed to maneuver aggressively to seize extra market share from Disney (one thing that has already occurred within the final decade).
Turning to commentary, this sentiment doesn’t shock me within the least. Common management expressing this now additionally doesn’t imply it’ll occur. A lot hinges Epic Universe and the way nicely it’s acquired upon opening. Particularly, whether or not its first couple of seasons exceed investor expectations or fall quick. Not whether or not followers prefer it or if Common executives do a public victory lap, each of that are givens.
In some ways, the debut of Epic Universe jogs my memory of the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Clearly, the size and scope are greater–however so too are the stakes. No matter statements on the time by The Bobs, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge fell wanting inner expectations. There’s a purpose why we by no means heard one other phrase about Galaxy’s Edge coming to Paris, because it was shelved earlier than COVID.
Should you can do not forget that far again, you would possibly recall rumors that different tasks for Walt Disney World had been already on skinny ice–or nixed totally–pre-COVID. Clearly, the closures exacerbated all the things and resulted in much more cancellations, however it’s probably not the purpose to relitigate the impression of COVID on Disney’s growth. It’s that what Common is planning in the present day might find yourself being very totally different primarily based on how the primary yr goes with Epic Universe. I’m not suggesting a preemptive cutback–I’m saying that the vary of outcomes remains to be unknown. Ambitions may very well be scaled down…or ramped up. Each are doable!
Whether or not it really happens or not–and no matter ambition ranges–growth and reimaginings want to occur at Common Orlando.
I’ve but to expertise it, so clearly I can’t communicate to the “want” for extra points of interest at Epic Universe. On paper, the trip roster does look on the sunshine aspect to me, however that’s pretty typical of latest theme parks post-Euro Disneyland. The one latest exception to this has been Shanghai Disneyland, which was an anomaly.
In any other case, the identical criticism may very well be levied at Hong Kong Disneyland, Animal Kingdom, Disney California Journey, and even the beloved Tokyo DisneySea at opening. Heck, you may make the identical critique about Animal Kingdom in the present day, over 20 years after it opened. Epic Universe does have loads of growth pads between its worlds, and I think at the least a kind of will likely be put to make use of earlier than 2030. Actually, I’m extra curious as to whether or not they’ll have to deal with crowd circulate constraints first.
Enlargement at Epic Universe strikes me as a very good ‘drawback’ to have. If that’s fast-tracked, it’ll presumably be that the park is such a smash success that it wants extra to assist soak up crowds and improve capability. It’ll be on account of overwhelming demand and considerations about Common leaving cash on the desk, not the opposite method round. Form of like what we’re presently seeing at Magic Kingdom, however with a brand new park as an alternative of a 50+ yr previous one.
However, redevelopment on the two present gates, particularly Common Studios Florida, is crucial. It wants to occur, and as quickly as doable.
At any time when followers hype up Epic Universe and declare that it’s going to be what places Common Orlando excessive to assert Walt Disney World’s throne, or no matter, I can’t assist however surprise after they final visited Common Studios Florida. To explain a number of of its lands as in want of refreshes can be an understatement. It makes Tomorrowland at Disneyland appear to be a reasonably good land. Dino-Rama can be proper at dwelling in USF. (Okay okay, maybe that’s going too far.)
Common Studios Florida has acquired a few placemaking tasks lately, neither of that are something particular. Incremental enhancements achieved shortly and cheaply, so at the least there’s that. Islands of Journey is mostly in higher form with a greater trip roster and superior placemaking, however comparable (albeit far more restrained) criticisms may very well be levied at that park, too.
The “drawback” that Common Orlando goes to have is that, the higher Epic Universe is, the more serious the 2 present theme parks will look by comparability. The present plan is to push dear trip packages to “pressure” folks to go to Common Studios Florida and Islands of Journey, however that’ll solely work for thus lengthy.
Finally, natural demand goes to do its factor. And it’s secure to say that, when that does occur, attendance at Common Studios Florida and (to a lesser extent) Islands of Journey will drop for a few years. There will likely be some cannibalization of attendance, which is to be anticipated.
How unhealthy it’ll be in all probability depends upon the standard disparity between Epic Universe and the present gates, phrase of mouth amongst vacationers who go to Common Orlando for the primary time within the subsequent couple of years, what Common Orlando does within the meantime to assist entice visitors to USF and IoA, and what Walt Disney World does to seize those self same vacationers’ time and {dollars}.
We already know that Rip Experience Rockit is being changed. It’s additionally our understanding that Common Orlando intends upon returning to its cadence of an annual new main opening. That is in step with latest precedent previous to Epic Universe, and with what executives have recommended on earnings calls and in interviews. It’s additionally what Walt Disney World will likely be doing as soon as once more beginning in 2027. There’s each purpose to imagine the opponents will undertake an analogous strategy. Epic Universe will likely be the marketable attract Central Florida for a few years, however Common clearly doesn’t need their pipeline working dry as Disney begins bringing new points of interest and lands on-line.
There are rumors that Springfield is subsequent on the chopping block, to get replaced by a Pokémon-themed space. With out understanding something or having any insider connections, my guess is that Common Orlando will transfer as shortly as doable to construct new Nintendo points of interest in every of the present parks. Nintendo goes to be the marquee draw that will get households reserving journeys to Orlando, so Common would possibly as nicely borrow a web page from its personal Harry Potter playbook and unfold Nintendo out amongst all 3 gates. That’s much more efficient of a method to entice vacationers to go to all three parks than forcing them to purchase packages. Gotta catch ’em all!
Want journey planning suggestions and complete recommendation to your go to to Central Florida? Make sure that to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for all the things about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for all the things about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
Your Ideas
What do you consider the bold plans for additions at Common Orlando? Count on it’ll be full steam forward on growth and redevelopment at Epic Universe, Islands of Journey, and Common Studios Florida? Do you agree or disagree with our evaluation in regards to the want for brand new points of interest and refreshed areas on the two present gates? Any questions we may also help you reply? Listening to your suggestions—even while you disagree with us—is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
In a brand new video forward of the grand opening of Epic Universe, Karen Irwin, President & COO of Common Orlando pitches their three theme parks, water park, leisure district, and resorts as a vacation spot resort. She additionally reveals that Common is already trying down the street, past Epic Universe at what’s subsequent in 2026 and past.
That is the newest in a line of latest appearances aimed toward each producing pleasure about Common Orlando, and cementing it as an equal to Walt Disney World worthy of trip time, and never only a diversion. We’ll cowl that over the course of this submit, however let’s begin with Irwin’s quote about Common Orlando’s future growth plans:
“There are already so many issues within the works now. We’ve got a slate of latest points of interest that had been already in growth on for each one in every of our parks. We’re already planning the subsequent factor at Epic!”
This follows a latest piece within the New York Occasions, “Common’s Theme Parks, Lengthy in Disney’s Shadow, Increase at Dizzying Tempo.” The article is actually what the headline suggests, spelling out how Common goes after Disney with new parks in Florida and Texas. plus growth elsewhere and new points of interest at its present gates.
The quick model of the story is that when Mark Woodbury turned Common’s theme park chief in 2022, he noticed a fair greater alternative to elevate Common out of Disney’s shadow after the theme parks had turn out to be a shock development engine for NBCUniversal. “How will we turn out to be the vacation spot of alternative in every of the markets that we function in and in the entire markets that we select to broaden into?” he mentioned throughout an interview with NYT.
This isn’t hyperbole. Common is within the midst of unprecedented growth, even earlier than Epic Universe. The corporate opened one other fully-fledged theme park, Common Studios Beijing, just some years in the past. Along with Epic Universe, the Florida advanced has debuted a number of resorts and new points of interest lately.
Then there’s the upcoming Common Youngsters Resort in Texas, new everlasting Halloween Horror Nights-style expertise in Las Vegas, and recently-opened Tremendous Nintendo Worlds in California and Osaka, Japan. Common additionally has plans for “Depraved” points of interest, growth in Hollywood, and a serious park for Britain, too.
“We’re going to roll these out throughout the nation and the world,” Woodbury instructed the NYT when describing the cheaper regional ideas slated for Las Vegas and Texas. With regard to Epic Universe, he hopes to reverse a longstanding enterprise dynamic with Walt Disney World. Woodbury needs households to view the Common Orlando Resort as a weeklong vacation spot and never only a one- or two-day add-on to a Disney trip. “We wish folks to consider us first,” he mentioned.
The clear takeaway from latest media is that NBCUniversal has excessive expectations for Epic Universe, sees ample alternatives for additional development of its theme park enterprise, and can proceed to maneuver aggressively to seize extra market share from Disney (one thing that has already occurred within the final decade).
Turning to commentary, this sentiment doesn’t shock me within the least. Common management expressing this now additionally doesn’t imply it’ll occur. A lot hinges Epic Universe and the way nicely it’s acquired upon opening. Particularly, whether or not its first couple of seasons exceed investor expectations or fall quick. Not whether or not followers prefer it or if Common executives do a public victory lap, each of that are givens.
In some ways, the debut of Epic Universe jogs my memory of the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Clearly, the size and scope are greater–however so too are the stakes. No matter statements on the time by The Bobs, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge fell wanting inner expectations. There’s a purpose why we by no means heard one other phrase about Galaxy’s Edge coming to Paris, because it was shelved earlier than COVID.
Should you can do not forget that far again, you would possibly recall rumors that different tasks for Walt Disney World had been already on skinny ice–or nixed totally–pre-COVID. Clearly, the closures exacerbated all the things and resulted in much more cancellations, however it’s probably not the purpose to relitigate the impression of COVID on Disney’s growth. It’s that what Common is planning in the present day might find yourself being very totally different primarily based on how the primary yr goes with Epic Universe. I’m not suggesting a preemptive cutback–I’m saying that the vary of outcomes remains to be unknown. Ambitions may very well be scaled down…or ramped up. Each are doable!
Whether or not it really happens or not–and no matter ambition ranges–growth and reimaginings want to occur at Common Orlando.
I’ve but to expertise it, so clearly I can’t communicate to the “want” for extra points of interest at Epic Universe. On paper, the trip roster does look on the sunshine aspect to me, however that’s pretty typical of latest theme parks post-Euro Disneyland. The one latest exception to this has been Shanghai Disneyland, which was an anomaly.
In any other case, the identical criticism may very well be levied at Hong Kong Disneyland, Animal Kingdom, Disney California Journey, and even the beloved Tokyo DisneySea at opening. Heck, you may make the identical critique about Animal Kingdom in the present day, over 20 years after it opened. Epic Universe does have loads of growth pads between its worlds, and I think at the least a kind of will likely be put to make use of earlier than 2030. Actually, I’m extra curious as to whether or not they’ll have to deal with crowd circulate constraints first.
Enlargement at Epic Universe strikes me as a very good ‘drawback’ to have. If that’s fast-tracked, it’ll presumably be that the park is such a smash success that it wants extra to assist soak up crowds and improve capability. It’ll be on account of overwhelming demand and considerations about Common leaving cash on the desk, not the opposite method round. Form of like what we’re presently seeing at Magic Kingdom, however with a brand new park as an alternative of a 50+ yr previous one.
However, redevelopment on the two present gates, particularly Common Studios Florida, is crucial. It wants to occur, and as quickly as doable.
At any time when followers hype up Epic Universe and declare that it’s going to be what places Common Orlando excessive to assert Walt Disney World’s throne, or no matter, I can’t assist however surprise after they final visited Common Studios Florida. To explain a number of of its lands as in want of refreshes can be an understatement. It makes Tomorrowland at Disneyland appear to be a reasonably good land. Dino-Rama can be proper at dwelling in USF. (Okay okay, maybe that’s going too far.)
Common Studios Florida has acquired a few placemaking tasks lately, neither of that are something particular. Incremental enhancements achieved shortly and cheaply, so at the least there’s that. Islands of Journey is mostly in higher form with a greater trip roster and superior placemaking, however comparable (albeit far more restrained) criticisms may very well be levied at that park, too.
The “drawback” that Common Orlando goes to have is that, the higher Epic Universe is, the more serious the 2 present theme parks will look by comparability. The present plan is to push dear trip packages to “pressure” folks to go to Common Studios Florida and Islands of Journey, however that’ll solely work for thus lengthy.
Finally, natural demand goes to do its factor. And it’s secure to say that, when that does occur, attendance at Common Studios Florida and (to a lesser extent) Islands of Journey will drop for a few years. There will likely be some cannibalization of attendance, which is to be anticipated.
How unhealthy it’ll be in all probability depends upon the standard disparity between Epic Universe and the present gates, phrase of mouth amongst vacationers who go to Common Orlando for the primary time within the subsequent couple of years, what Common Orlando does within the meantime to assist entice visitors to USF and IoA, and what Walt Disney World does to seize those self same vacationers’ time and {dollars}.
We already know that Rip Experience Rockit is being changed. It’s additionally our understanding that Common Orlando intends upon returning to its cadence of an annual new main opening. That is in step with latest precedent previous to Epic Universe, and with what executives have recommended on earnings calls and in interviews. It’s additionally what Walt Disney World will likely be doing as soon as once more beginning in 2027. There’s each purpose to imagine the opponents will undertake an analogous strategy. Epic Universe will likely be the marketable attract Central Florida for a few years, however Common clearly doesn’t need their pipeline working dry as Disney begins bringing new points of interest and lands on-line.
There are rumors that Springfield is subsequent on the chopping block, to get replaced by a Pokémon-themed space. With out understanding something or having any insider connections, my guess is that Common Orlando will transfer as shortly as doable to construct new Nintendo points of interest in every of the present parks. Nintendo goes to be the marquee draw that will get households reserving journeys to Orlando, so Common would possibly as nicely borrow a web page from its personal Harry Potter playbook and unfold Nintendo out amongst all 3 gates. That’s much more efficient of a method to entice vacationers to go to all three parks than forcing them to purchase packages. Gotta catch ’em all!
Want journey planning suggestions and complete recommendation to your go to to Central Florida? Make sure that to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for all the things about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for all the things about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
Your Ideas
What do you consider the bold plans for additions at Common Orlando? Count on it’ll be full steam forward on growth and redevelopment at Epic Universe, Islands of Journey, and Common Studios Florida? Do you agree or disagree with our evaluation in regards to the want for brand new points of interest and refreshed areas on the two present gates? Any questions we may also help you reply? Listening to your suggestions—even while you disagree with us—is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
