Epic Universe Tourism and the Remarkable Rise of Disney World

Recent developments in Florida’s tourism scene highlight how the new Epic Universe theme park is reshaping the travel landscape, especially regarding its impact on Disney World and the local economy.

Epic Universe Impact on Tourism

Since the announcement and opening of Epic Universe, a noticeable shift in the theme park dynamics has been observed. This new attraction has garnered attention for its potential to redefine visitors’ experiences and boost overall tourism in the region.

In May 2025, records of tourism tax in Orange County, Florida, where both Universal Orlando Resort and Disney World are situated, reached unprecedented levels for that month. Notably, it coincided with the opening of Epic Universe, leading to a surge in popularity and visitor engagement.

The Orlando Sentinel reported that the tourism tax for June was a staggering $33.7 million, setting a new record for that month. As visitors flocked to the park, it became evident that Epic Universe substantially influenced these rising numbers. Furthermore, Comcast, Universal’s parent company, announced nearly a 20% increase in theme park revenue, suggesting the park is off to a fantastic start.

Disney World’s Remarkable Quarter

While the success of Epic Universe is often a focal point, it’s crucial to note that Disney World is also thriving. During Disney’s recent quarterly earnings call, a record quarter was announced for its Experiences division, including theme parks and Disney Cruise Line, boasting a revenue increase of 10% to $6.4 billion.

This growth stems from both Disneyland and Disney World, with attendance and per capita spending on the rise. Many assumed the allure of Epic Universe would siphon off visitors from Disney, but historical trends suggest a different narrative. New attractions often incite an increase in overall tourism rather than merely shifting visitors between parks.

While Epic Universe clearly attracted tourists to Florida, it seems many of them chose to indulge in the dual experiences offered by both Disney and Universal. The cooperation between these iconic attractions is certainly a positive sign for the tourism sector overall.

Key Highlights of the Explosion in Tourism

Record-breaking Tourist Tax Collection: Orange County recorded the highest collections in May and June 2025.
Expansion of Local Economy: Increased visitor numbers benefit local businesses and support job creation.
Disney’s Strong Performance: Despite competition, Disney World reported significant revenue growth during the same timeframe.

A Positive Impact on the Local Economy

The rise in tourism is not only beneficial to the parks but also positively impacts the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and transport services, including taxis and transfers, benefit immensely from the increased visitor traffic. Travelers seeking seamless transport options to and from the parks can turn to platforms like LocalsRide.com, which offers the ability to choose specific vehicles, view details like make and model, and enjoy unmatched transparency compared to traditional booking methods.

The Future of Florida’s Tourism Landscape

With Epic Universe and Disney World both achieving record success, the outlook for Florida’s tourism industry appears bright. Not only will these attractions continue to draw in throngs of tourists, but they also contribute significantly to the surrounding economy. This manifests as lower fares for taxis and transfers as service providers compete to accommodate the surge of visitors.

Conclusion

In summary, the emergence of Epic Universe has sparked a significant uptick in tourism in Florida, bringing along its own set of challenges and opportunities. Disney World, rather than suffering, is also capitalizing on this tourism boom, showcasing its resilience through record revenues. As travelers explore their options for getting around, platforms like LocalsRide.com provide a user-friendly solution for booking transfers, car rentals, and more. The transparency and flexibility of this platform empower users to make informed travel decisions without breaking the bank.

As the Florida tourism landscape continues to evolve, remember, even the best reviews can’t truly compare to personal experience. On LocalsRide, options to hire a car with a driver from verified providers at reasonable prices are at your fingertips, helping you decide without any unnecessary surprises. The wealth of choices and affordable rates allows you to take advantage of this vibrant tourism boom. For a hassle-free trip and the best offers, book your ride at LocalsRide.com now!