Universal Orlando Resort has confirmed plans for a new indoor roller coaster at its latest theme park, with construction already underway.
The yet-to-be-named attraction will introduce an original story inspired by Universal’s iconic Monsters franchise, adding another thrill ride to the area alongside the award-winning Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. Although an opening date has not been confirmed, Universal says the project is already under construction, with guests expected to experience the attraction in the years ahead.
The announcement comes just over 18 months after Epic Universe opened, marking the first major new theme park to debut in Orlando in 25 years.
The new attraction will be located next to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, one of the headline attractions in Dark Universe.
Universal has confirmed that the indoor coaster will feature an entirely new storyline inspired by the Universal Monsters franchise, which includes familiar characters such as Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, the Wolf Man and the Bride of Frankenstein.
A representative for Universal described the announcement as an exciting addition to Epic Universe, confirming: “The attraction will immerse guests in an all-new story inspired by the iconic Universal Monsters franchise.”
Beyond its indoor format and connection to the Monsters universe, few technical details have been revealed. Universal has not yet announced the coaster’s name, manufacturer, ride system, track layout or other specifications.
The company has also refrained from providing a specific opening year, instead stating that the attraction is planned to open in the years ahead.
Construction is already underway, however, indicating that the new project is progressing beyond the announcement stage. The development will add to the collection of attractions in Dark Universe, which currently features Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and the spinning family coaster Curse of the Werewolf.
Expanding the portal of monsters
Dark Universe is one of five themed worlds at Universal Epic Universe, immersing visitors in the fictional village of Darkmoor, where classic Universal Monsters and a new generation of supernatural characters inhabit a dark, atmospheric environment.
The land draws on the studio’s extensive history of horror films, with Dracula, the Wolf Man, Frankenstein’s Monster, the Bride of Frankenstein and the Mummy among the characters brought into the experience.
Its headline attraction, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, takes visitors deep into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor, where Dr Victoria Frankenstein’s experiments have resulted in a monster revolt.
Guests encounter a collection of Universal’s legendary creatures, including Dracula, the Wolf Man and the Mummy, as they attempt to escape the unfolding chaos. The attraction received a 2025 THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Attraction category.
Alongside the dark ride, Curse of the Werewolf offers a different type of experience. The spinning family roller coaster takes visitors through the forest surrounding Darkmoor, where they must attempt to escape the werewolves before becoming one themselves.
The themed area also features the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, where guests can receive elaborate monster-inspired face paint and temporary tattoos, as well as character encounters with the Bride of Frankenstein, the Invisible Man and Ygor.
Dining is provided by Das Stakehaus, a restaurant surrounded by vampire artwork and artefacts, while the wider land features additional themed food and beverage locations.
The new indoor coaster will therefore join an established collection of attractions built around Universal’s classic horror properties, although its specific characters and storyline remain under wraps.
Universal Orlando prepares for its next chapter
Universal Epic Universe officially opened on 22 May 2025, becoming Universal Orlando Resort’s fourth theme park and the first major theme park to open in Orlando in 25 years.
Described by Universal as its most ambitious theme park development to date, the park introduced five distinct themed worlds, each accessed through a dedicated portal from the central Celestial Park.
Alongside Dark Universe, the other areas are The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.
The upcoming Epic Universe coaster announcement represents an early addition to the park’s development following its opening, with Universal already confirming further projects across its wider Orlando destination.
Other forthcoming developments include a reimagined Universal Horror Make-Up Show featuring Blumhouse at Universal Studios Florida, planned to open later in 2026.
The resort is also preparing for the arrival of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, a high-speed roller coaster at Universal Studios Florida in 2027, alongside a new signature full-service restaurant in the Jurassic Park area of Universal Islands of Adventure.
At Universal CityWalk, country music star Luke Combs’ Category 10 entertainment and music venue is also scheduled to open in late 2027.
While these projects will be spread across the wider resort, the new Dark Universe coaster represents the latest development specifically for Epic Universe.
New Chief Brand & Commercial Officer
The coaster announcement follows a recent leadership change at Universal Destinations & Experiences, with the company appointing Luc Bondar as its new Chief Brand & Commercial Officer.
The appointment sees Bondar succeed Alice Norsworthy, who plans to retire at the end of the year after more than 18 years in leadership roles with Universal. Bondar formally began his new position on 19 October.
Previously Chief Operating Officer and President of MileagePlus at United Airlines, Bondar brings experience across marketing, customer loyalty, digital capabilities, commercial operations and strategic partnerships.
His responsibilities at Universal include overseeing brand strategy, creative and marketing, demand generation, sales, pricing and revenue management, alongside commercial operations and analytics.
Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said the appointment would support the company’s ambitions as its portfolio continues to grow.
He said: “Luc is an accomplished leader who brings a strong combination of global brand strategy and commercial experience, a deep understanding of the consumer and expertise in using technology and data to identify new growth opportunities while deepening relationships with guests and fans.”
Bondar’s appointment comes as Universal continues to expand its international portfolio and develop new experiences across its destinations. The construction of a new indoor coaster in Dark Universe provides another addition to the park’s developing attraction line-up, with further information about the ride expected to be announced by Universal at a later stage.
