Celestial Park at Epic Universe: A New Kind of Theme Park Hub?

Watch the video and discover the surprising influences behind Epic Universe’s central land: Celestial Park.

Celestial Park Explained!

Universal’s Epic Universe is already being hailed as a game-changer in theme park design, and at the heart of it all is Celestial Park—a central hub that may redefine how we think about themed environments. In my latest video, I take you on a deep dive into what makes this space so compelling, and how it draws from some truly unexpected sources.

The satays/fountain of Luna with boulders and trees. The Epic Universe Chronos tower is in the background. There is a cloudy blue sky in the background. This is one of the two central fountains in Celestial Park at Epic Universe — Luna, the Goddess of the Moon.

Celestial Park isn’t just a pretty plaza with fountains and shops. It’s layered with meaning and inspiration, from the golden age of World’s Fairs to Victorian-era pleasure gardens and even the grand seaside piers of 19th-century Victorian Britain. There’s a story here, a deliberate design meant to evoke progress, celebration, and human potential.

But I won’t give it all away here.

Why Watch the Video Essay?

In the video, I explore how the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the 1939 New York World’s Fair helped shape the optimistic architecture and entertainment philosophy behind Celestial Park. You’ll also get a taste of how the space connects to places like Vauxhall Gardens and even Disneyland’s own thematic lineage. And there’s a central tie to World Showcase at Epcot.

If you’re a fan of theme park history, storytelling through design, or just want to understand why Epic Universe Celestial Park might be one of the most important themed areas in decades, this is the video for you.

The fountain.statue of Helios holding a bow and arrow. There are border surrounding it and clear, blue water cascades and pools around the fountain. The Grand Celestial Hotel is in the background. Celestial Park — Helios, the God of the Sun.

Watch the video now and let me know what you think. Have you noticed these connections? Are you as excited about Epic Universe as I am?

Celestial Park at Epic Universe: A New Kind of Theme Park Hub?