Universal Orlando is just over a year away from launching its biggest expansion yet—Epic Universe—a brand-new theme park set to open in May 2025. Featuring entirely new lands, groundbreaking attractions, and a luxury hotel inside the park, Epic Universe is expected to take Universal to the next level in the theme park industry. However, as excitement builds for the opening, visitors to Universal’s existing parks have started noticing something else: price increases.
Over the past several months, Universal has quietly raised food and beverage prices at several locations across Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, with speculation growing that this is just the beginning of broader cost adjustments in preparation for Epic Universe’s arrival.
Food and Beverage Costs Are on the Rise
Recently, guests have pointed out that quick-service meals across Universal Orlando have gone up in price, with locations like Minion Cafe and the Wizarding World restaurants Leaky Cauldron and Three Broomsticks seeing an increase of about a dollar per entrée. While theme park food price hikes are nothing new, the reasoning behind these increases is drawing attention.
Universal is reportedly adjusting the cost of existing food options to better align with Epic Universe’s pricing structure. One of the new park’s dining spots, Spit Fyre Grill, has meal prices even higher than Disney’s Satu’li Canteen, which has long been considered one of the more expensive quick-service locations in Orlando.
In preparation for Epic Universe, @UniversalORL has increased pricing on Food & Beverage
+$1.00 on Minion Cafe Entrees
+$1.00 at Leaky Cauldron/Three Broomstick Entrees
+$0.50 for cheeseburgers, tacos
+$0.30 for pizza slices pic.twitter.com/PAxERVAjKQ— AndrewOfPeace (@AndrewOfPeace) March 4, 2025
This suggests that Universal is preparing guests for a higher cost experience across the board, conditioning visitors to accept increased pricing ahead of Epic Universe’s grand opening.
A Shift Toward a More Premium Experience?
For years, Universal has positioned itself as a slightly more affordable alternative to Walt Disney World. However, with the addition of Epic Universe, there is growing speculation that Universal is shifting toward a premium pricing model similar to its competition.
Epic Universe is expected to offer an elevated experience, with new technology, themed lands based on franchises like How to Train Your Dragon and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and even a luxury on-site hotel. Some believe that the park’s pricing structure will reflect this high-end experience, but the fact that prices at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure are also increasing raises questions about whether Universal is changing its overall pricing strategy.
Will Ticket Prices Go Up Next?
While food prices have been the first to change, many are wondering if ticket prices will be next. Currently, a one-day, one-park ticket to Universal Orlando ranges between $109 and $159 depending on demand. But with a fourth theme park entering the mix, it’s likely that Universal will introduce new multi-park ticket options at a higher cost.
Annual Passholders may also see major changes, whether that means a new pass tier including Epic Universe or increased prices on existing passes. Universal has been known for aggressive dynamic pricing, so a major ticket adjustment before May 2025 wouldn’t be surprising.
Will Rising Costs Impact Guest Satisfaction?
Many fans have criticized Disney World’s rising costs over the years, but despite those complaints, the parks remain packed. Universal is likely counting on a similar trend. While guests may notice and grumble about the rising costs, the excitement surrounding Epic Universe’s attractions will likely outweigh the frustration.
At the end of the day, Universal is banking on demand—and if Epic Universe delivers on its promise of cutting-edge attractions and immersive experiences, guests may ultimately decide the higher prices are worth it.
