Universal Epic Universe is still the new kid on the Orlando block, and it is already making room for something new. Universal Orlando Resort announced today that an all-new indoor roller coaster is coming to Dark Universe, the spooky land inspired by the classic Universal Monsters. So, a new Universal Epic Universe indoor coaster is coming to Dark Universe. See what we know and why 2027 is a good year to book a Universal Orlando Resort vacation.
Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort
Construction is already underway, and while Universal has not shared an opening date, the announcement lands alongside a packed lineup of new rides, shows, dining and entertainment arriving across the resort over the next year. If you have been waiting for the right moment to plan a Universal Orlando vacation, the case for 2027 (and every year after it) just got a lot stronger.
What We Know About the New Epic Universe Indoor Coaster
Here is what Universal has confirmed so far:
- Type: An all-new indoor roller coaster.
- Location: Dark Universe at Epic Universe, right next to the award-winning Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.
- Story: An all-new storyline inspired by the iconic Universal Monsters franchise.
- Status: Construction has already started.
- Opening: Planned for “the years ahead.” No specific year has been announced.
That is the full list for now. Universal says it will reveal more details later, so we still don’t know which “officially” monsters will star, how intense the ride will be, or what the height requirement will be. Sure, we expect it to be about the Bride of Frankenstein and a family-style coaster. However, nothing is confirmed at this point!
Our honest take: an indoor coaster is a smart fit for Central Florida. Summer storms and afternoon lightning can shut down outdoor coasters, so a weatherproof thrill ride is a welcome addition for families planning trips during the rainy season.
A Quick Refresher on Dark Universe
Dark Universe is one of five worlds at Epic Universe, alongside Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic, and How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk. It drops guests into the gothic village of Darkmoor, where Universal’s classic monsters lurk around every corner.
The land is anchored by Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a dark ride that has quickly become one of the most talked about attractions in the park, plus the outdoor family coaster Curse of the Werewolf. A second coaster gives Dark Universe more capacity and more reasons to linger in one of Epic Universe’s most detailed lands.
New to Epic Universe? Our complete overview of Universal Orlando’s newest theme park walks through every world, the must do rides and how to plan your first visit.
Five Reasons to Book a Universal Orlando Vacation in 2027 and Beyond
Photo by Jon Self
The Dark Universe coaster is just the latest piece of a very busy pipeline. Here is what Universal Orlando Resort has coming over the next year alone, and why it adds up to a great time to book.
1. Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift (2027, Universal Studios Florida)
The headline thrill of 2027 is Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, a high speed roller coaster opening at Universal Studios Florida. For families with coaster fans, this is the ride to plan around next year. Get the full rundown in our guide to Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Florida.
2. The Reimagined Universal Horror Make-Up Show Featuring Blumhouse
Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort
A park classic is coming back with a new partner. The reimagined Universal Horror Make-Up Show featuring Blumhouse is set to open later this year at Universal Studios Florida, which means it should be up and running for anyone visiting in 2027. Expect the same mix of gross out gags and behind the scenes movie magic that made the original a fan favorite, now with a modern horror twist.
3. A New Signature Restaurant in Jurassic Park (2027, Islands of Adventure)
Foodies, take note. Universal Islands of Adventure is adding a new signature full service restaurant in Jurassic Park in 2027. Table service options inside the parks are limited, so a brand new sit down spot is a big deal for guests who want a real break from the heat in the middle of a park day.
4. Luke Combs’ Category 10 at Universal CityWalk (Late 2027)
Country music fans get their own reason to visit. Luke Combs’ Category 10, a music and entertainment venue, is slated to open at Universal CityWalk in late 2027. Since CityWalk does not require park admission, it is an easy add on for an evening after the parks close.
5. Epic Universe Keeps Getting Bigger (With the Epic Universe Indoor Coaster)
Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort
Universal is clearly investing in Epic Universe for the long haul, and the new Dark Universe coaster proves the park will keep evolving. Book a trip in 2027 to see everything that is open now, then plan a return visit once the new coaster debuts. Repeat Universal fans know there is always something new to come back for.
Should You Wait for the New Epic Universe Indoor Coaster Before Booking?
In a word, no. Universal has only said the coaster will open “in the years ahead,” and new attractions rarely arrive on a guaranteed schedule. Epic Universe is already a full day (or more) of world class attractions, and 2027 brings Hollywood Drift, a new Jurassic Park restaurant and Category 10 to the rest of the resort. The smarter move is to book a 2027 trip now and treat the new Epic Universe roller coaster as a great excuse for your next Universal vacation.
Planning Tips for a 2027 Universal Orlando Vacation
Photo by Jon Self
- Pick the right dates. Crowds, weather and pricing all swing throughout the year. Our breakdown of the best times to visit Universal Orlando Resort will help you find the sweet spot.
- Arrive early at Epic Universe. Monsters Unchained and the other headliners build long lines fast. Our Epic Universe rope drop strategy shows you where to head first.
- Plan your mornings at the other parks too. New attractions like Hollywood Drift will draw big crowds when they open. Our Universal Orlando rope drop strategy guide covers Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
- Decide on Express Pass early. Express can be a game changer on busy days, but it is not right for every trip. See our take on whether the Epic Universe Express Pass is worth it.
- Allow more than one day for Epic Universe. With five worlds and new additions on the way, many families find one day feels rushed.
Epic Universe Indoor Coaster: Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new Epic Universe indoor coaster open?
Universal has not announced an opening date. The company says the coaster will open in the years ahead and that construction is already underway.
Where is the new coaster located?
It is being built in Dark Universe, next to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.
What will the Epic Universe indoor coaster be about?
Universal says it will feature an all new story inspired by the Universal Monsters franchise. Specific characters and story details have not been revealed.
What else is new at Universal Orlando in 2027?
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Florida, a new signature full service restaurant in Jurassic Park at Islands of Adventure, and Luke Combs’ Category 10 at CityWalk in late 2027. The reimagined Universal Horror Make-Up Show featuring Blumhouse is expected to open later in 2026.
Is 2027 a good year to visit Universal Orlando?
Yes. With Epic Universe settling into its second full year and several major additions opening across the resort, 2027 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years to visit.
Book Your 2027 Universal Orlando Vacation with Universal Family Vacations
Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort
With a growing Epic Universe, a brand-new coaster at Universal Studios Florida, and fresh dining and entertainment across the resort, there has never been more to see at Universal Orlando. The question is not whether to go. It is when, where to stay, and how to see it all without spending half your vacation in line.
That is where Universal Family Vacations comes in. Our agents know Universal Orlando Resort inside and out, and we can help you:
- Pick travel dates that balance crowds, weather and price
- Choose the right on site hotel for your budget and park perks
- Find the best ticket option, including how many days to give Epic Universe
- Decide whether Express Pass makes sense for your trip
- Build a split stay with Walt Disney World if you want both resorts in one vacation
- Keep an eye out for Universal offers and package deals that fit your dates
Whether you are planning to ride Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift in its first year or want to be among the first in line when the new Dark Universe coaster opens, we will handle the details so you can focus on the fun.
Ready to start planning? Request your Universal Orlando vacation quote from Universal Family Vacations today.
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