Universal will open a fourth Orlando theme park next May

Orlando, Fla. (AP) — Universal Orlando Resort will Open its fourth theme park Just in time for Memorial Day the following year in Central Florida, the theme park capital of the United States stepped up competition against Disney.

Universal's Epic Universe will open to visitors on May 22 with themed areas based on Harry Potter, Super Nintendo and “How to Train Your Dragon,” as well as monster movie brands, Universal officials said Thursday.

“This is an important moment for our destination, and we are thrilled to welcome guests to Epic Universe next year,” said Karen Irwin, president and chief operating officer of Universal Orlando Resort.

The new theme park tickets and vacation packages go on sale next week. At first, visitors with multi-day passes will only be allowed to visit Universal Epic Universe on one day due to anticipated popularity. They can choose from three other parks – Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay Water Park – as part of multi-day ticket offers.

The park's newest hotel, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, will also open at the same time, joining 10 other hotels at the resort.

Universal's main competition in the Orlando area, Walt Disney World, also has four theme parks and plans to expand as well. Disney officials have hinted that Can invest up to 17 billion dollars in Florida resorts and add a fifth theme park.