How to Train Your Dragon Roller Coaster at Epic Universe
The How to Train Your Dragon coaster is a major attraction at Epic Universe, a new theme park developed by Universal Destinations & Experiences, a division of Comcast-owned NBCUniversal. The project is part of a broader expansion of the Universal brand into a new multi-billion dollar resort complex in Orlando, Florida. The ride is based on the DreamWorks Animation franchise and is designed as a family-friendly coaster that blends themed storytelling with physical track elements. The park is being built on a large undeveloped tract near Universal Orlando Resort and represents one of the most significant capital projects in the company's recent history. Forbes coverage of Epic Universe investment
Ride Design and Theming
The coaster experience is built around the world of How to Train Your Dragon, featuring scenes, characters, and environments inspired by the films and franchise. The ride system is a launched family coaster with a mix of inversions, drops, and immersive show sets. Universal has used a combination of physical sets, animatronics, projection mapping, and lighting to create a themed journey that aligns with the franchise's tone and visual identity. The design aims to appeal to a broad demographic, including younger riders and families who may not tolerate intense thrills. NBCUniversal theme park portfolio
Epic Universe Project Timeline and Construction
Construction of Epic Universe has been advancing through multiple phases, with site preparation, infrastructure work, and building construction occurring in parallel. Universal has publicly shared updates on the park's progress through press releases and investor communications, noting key milestones such as structural completions and ride system installations. The How to Train Your Dragon coaster is one of the headline attractions that anchors the park's family and fantasy zone. Universal Orlando official updates
Phased Development Approach
The park is being developed in stages, with the first phase focusing on core lands, key rides, and infrastructure needed to open the resort to the public. Subsequent phases may add additional lands, hotels, and entertainment venues over time. This phased approach allows the company to manage capital expenditure while testing demand and refining operations before scaling further. The How to Train Your Dragon ride is positioned as an early anchor that helps define the park's identity and draw repeat visitation.
Financial and Strategic Context
Epic Universe is a major capital allocation decision for Comcast and NBCUniversal, with the total investment reflecting the company's confidence in long-term attendance and revenue growth from a new flagship resort. The project competes directly with other large-scale theme park developments in Florida and globally, including offerings from Disney and other operators. The How to Train Your Dragon coaster is part of a deliberate strategy to leverage proven intellectual property to reduce marketing risk and accelerate awareness among existing franchise fans. SEC filings and corporate disclosures
Revenue and Attendance Targets
Universal's parent company has framed Epic Universe as a way to capture incremental tourism demand in the Orlando market, which remains one of the most visited theme park regions in the world. The park's financial model relies on ticket sales, merchandise, food and beverage, and hotel occupancy across the integrated resort. Early projections and industry analysis suggest that a successful launch could meaningfully increase the company's parks and resorts revenue segment over the medium term. Bloomberg business analysis on Epic Universe