Hey Universal Vacationers! It’s happening—Universal Orlando just filed the first permits that confirm what many fans have been hoping for: the Phase Two expansion of Epic Universe is officially underway. This isn’t just background chatter. We’ve got the documents, the square footage, and the signs of construction. Epic Universe is about to grow.
Quick Glance: Phase Two Expansion of Epic Universe
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Project 915 | New construction permits filed; 30,337 sq. ft. building on 40,178 sq. ft. site |
| Location | Expansion pad between Super Nintendo World and Celestial Park |
| Purpose | Not confirmed; could be a dark ride, theater, or mixed-use venue |
| Project 914 | Two new restaurants coming in 2026, potentially Italian and Mexican cuisine |
| Fireworks & Drones | Still in development; may be delayed by 2024 drone incident investigation |
| Flying Dragons | Drone tech for Isle of Berk nearly ready, per Universal Creative |
| Parade Building | Expected to be built behind Dark Universe, not near Project 915 |
Project 915: First Clues from New Permits
Let’s start with what’s confirmed. Universal submitted vertical construction permits with Orange County under the name Project 915. The filings cover two main footprints—one for 40,178 square feet of total site work, and another with a 30,337-square-foot building.
According to the language in the permits, this work will involve relocating and installing utilities, grading the land, and pouring a new building foundation. In short, they’re building something entirely new from the ground up.
While Universal hasn’t said what’s going there, the size alone rules out anything minor. A structure over 30,000 square feet could easily house a dark ride, theater, or a mix of attractions and dining.
Where Is Project 915 Going?
Permit documents and site maps suggest the new building will sit on a cleared expansion pad between Super Nintendo World and the entrance to Celestial Park. That’s a prime location—backstage and just outside any existing themed portal.
Originally, this spot was rumored to be for a parade building. But newer permits show that structure moving to the back of the park behind Dark Universe, closer to the Universal Helios Grand Hotel. That means this central expansion pad is now open for something else entirely.
And with that much square footage, there’s a lot they could do.
What Project 915 Might Actually Be (Speculation)
Let’s be clear—Universal hasn’t revealed the purpose of Project 915. But based on the size, location, and connection to Celestial Park, we can make a few educated guesses.
This could be a new dark ride, a permanent show theater, or even a multi-use space that blends shopping and dining. Because the site isn’t located inside one of the themed lands (portals), it would likely be part of Celestial Park, making it more flexible in theme and style.
Until more permits drop—or Universal makes an official announcement—this is all speculative. But if you’re into watching the park evolve in real time, this is the kind of clue that matters.
Project 914: Phase Two Dining Confirmed for 2026
Now let’s shift to something Universal has confirmed. A second project, known in permits as Project 914, is bringing two new dining locations to the front of Epic Universe.
Signs posted on the construction site tease “A galaxy of flavors and culinary delights” arriving in 2026. And the new permits provide even more detail: full interior construction is happening right now.
The restaurant will include themed interiors, partitioned dining areas, custom ceilings, specialty furniture, and all the kitchen and food service equipment you’d expect. Some minor structural changes to the existing shell are also included.
According to Alicia Stella, of Orlando Park Stop, Team Members working inside the park say the space may be split in half, with one side offering Italian dishes and the other serving Mexican cuisine. That could change, of course—but if true, it adds more international variety to the park’s already diverse menu.
What’s Going on with Fireworks and Flying Dragons?
There’s been a lot of curiosity around the expected nighttime entertainment at Epic Universe—especially fireworks and drones. So far, there’s no nightly show… but that doesn’t mean it’s off the table.
In a recent interview with the Orlando Weekly, Anitra Pritchard, Senior Manager of Show Direction at Epic Universe, said that fireworks are still being actively developed. According to reports, Universal is still weighing the best approach.
One possible reason for the delay? The 2024 drone accident that sparked a federal investigation. While that incident didn’t involve Universal, it may be causing extra caution behind the scenes—especially since drone technology is expected to play a role in the eventual night show.
The same delay appears to be affecting the long-hyped flying dragons in the Isle of Berk. In a recent interview with The Orange County Register, Universal Creative said they’re “right at the threshold” of releasing the dragon drones. They just aren’t quite ready.
As for infrastructure, we’ve seen temporary fireworks during the media preview night before the park’s grand opening. But a permanent launch site still hasn’t been finished. Pipes are visible in the ground behind the Helios Grand Hotel, suggesting early utility work may already be underway.
What the Phase Two Expansion of Epic Universe Means for Guests
With Project 915 and Project 914 both in motion, Universal is making it clear that Epic Universe is a platform for continuous growth. New dining, new construction, and future entertainment are all in the pipeline—and this is just the beginning.
Back in March 2025, Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort, confirmed that more was coming:
“There are already so many things in the works now. We have a slate of new attractions that were already in development for every one of our parks. We’re already planning for the next thing at Epic!”
She wasn’t kidding.
So… What Do You Think Project 915 Could Be?
Now it’s your turn. Based on the permits, size, and location, what do you think Universal is building next?
Could it be a show? A dark ride? A new concept we haven’t seen before?
Let us know your prediction by tagging us @DisMornings on social to join the conversation.
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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