Universal Orlando Resort Expands with Epic Universe and New Hotel Experiences
Universal Orlando Resort is entering an exciting new chapter with the debut of Universal Epic Universe and the continued development of the surrounding area. The resort now boasts three theme parks, a water park, the vibrant CityWalk entertainment district, and 11 on-site hotels. As a result, guests are extending their stays to take full advantage of everything the destination has to offer.
A Growing International Audience
In a previous interview with blooloop, Eric Marshall, Senior Vice President of North American Destination Sales at Universal Destinations and Experiences, revealed that international visitors now account for 30% of the resort’s attendance. Package holidays remain a key component of Universal’s sales strategy, particularly for overseas markets.
To support the launch of Epic Universe, Universal has partnered with British Airways Holidays to offer exclusive vacation packages tailored to UK travelers. This collaboration highlights the resort’s commitment to making travel planning seamless and accessible for international guests.
British Airways Holidays: The Official UK Launch Partner
British Airways Holidays has been named the official UK holiday launch partner for Universal Epic Universe. Andrew Flintham, Managing Director of British Airways Holidays, shared that the partnership will include editorial, marketing, and advertising efforts throughout 2025 to raise awareness of the new park and the benefits of booking through British Airways Holidays.
Flintham emphasized the convenience of booking an Epic Universe trip through British Airways Holidays, with bundled options for flights, hotels, car rentals, and park tickets. Additional perks include low deposits, flexible payments, bonus Avios, generous luggage allowances, and 24-hour customer support.
According to the 2025 British Airways Holidays Travel Trends Report, 32% of UK travelers plan to book accommodations based on available activities and experiences. Interest in Orlando surged by 11% following the announcement of Epic Universe, underscoring the destination’s growing appeal.
A Trusted Partnership with Broad Reach
Alison Montague, Vice President and Managing Director for International Sales and Marketing EMEA at Universal Destinations and Experiences, praised the renewed partnership with British Airways Holidays. She noted the brand’s strong connection with UK families and leisure travelers, as well as its ability to reach new audiences through innovative marketing campaigns.
Montague added that British Airways Holidays brings a level of quality and trust that aligns with Universal’s brand values. Together, the two companies aim to deliver not just a destination, but a complete and unforgettable holiday experience.
Why Tour Operator Partnerships Matter
Universal’s collaboration with tour operators like British Airways Holidays is designed to simplify the vacation planning process. Guests can book flights, accommodations at any of Universal’s 11 hotels, and park tickets—including access to Epic Universe—all in one place.
Montague explained that tour operators play a crucial role in shaping travel decisions. Their expertise and established customer relationships help Universal reach travelers during the dreaming and planning stages of their journey. These partnerships ultimately enhance the guest experience while driving visitation to the resort.
Epic Universe Tickets Now Available
Travelers can now book their 2026 holidays to Universal Epic Universe through British Airways Holidays. Packages include flight + hotel and/or car rental options, with the ability to add park tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood as well.
The Universal Orlando 3-Park Explorer PLUS 1-Day Epic Universe Ticket is valid for arrivals starting 22 May 2025. It offers 14 days of unlimited access to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, plus one-day admission to Epic Universe.
For 2026, the Universal Orlando All Parks Ticket will provide up to 14 days of park-to-park access across all four parks, including Epic Universe.
New Hotels Enhance the Guest Experience
Universal Orlando Resort now offers 11,000 hotel rooms across Value, Prime Value, and Signature categories. The three newest hotels—Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Terra Luna, and Stella Nova—are located near Epic Universe and offer convenient access to the park via a dedicated bus lane or walking paths.
Universal Helios Grand Hotel
Opening alongside Epic Universe on 22 May 2025, Universal Helios Grand Hotel is located within the gates of the new park. Guests will enjoy exclusive views and a dedicated park entrance. The hotel features 500 rooms, including 35 suites and 14 How to Train Your Dragon-themed kids’ rooms.
Designed by the same team behind Celestial Park, the hotel draws inspiration from Greek mythology and Mediterranean aesthetics. Dining options include Flora Tavern, a casual lobby restaurant, and Bar Helios, a rooftop venue with panoramic views—perfect for watching space shuttle launches.
Terra Luna and Stella Nova
Universal’s two newest Prime Value hotels, Terra Luna and Stella Nova, offer affordable accommodations with a cosmic twist. Terra Luna opened on 25 March 2025 and features 750 rooms. Both hotels include pools, quick-service dining, cafes, and retail shops. Stella Nova also offers a walking path to Epic Universe.
A New Era for Universal Orlando Resort
With the launch of Epic Universe and the addition of new hotels, Universal Orlando Resort is evolving into a premier global destination for immersive, multi-day vacations. Strategic partnerships like the one with British Airways Holidays are making it easier than ever for UK travelers to experience the magic.
As Universal continues to expand its offerings and enhance the guest experience, it’s clear that the resort is poised for a bold and exciting future.
See also:
– The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe
– All 11 rides at Universal Epic Universe
– 5 top takeaways from Universal Epic Universe
Source: blooloop.com