Should Disney Be Worried About Epic Universe?

Should Disney be worried about Epic Universe and its possible impact on Walt Disney World? Today I talk about my thoughts on why this could be Disneys worst nightmare.
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Thanks so much for watching today’s video, I hope you enjoyed it. Don’t forget to like and share the video, if you’re new consider subscribing. I really appreciate all the support and love that comes to Theme Park Obsession, it never goes unnoticed so thanks again for everything you do.
- Dylan
Thanks to Brandon G. for the animated logo*
Music from Epidemic Sound*

[@dinomirez]

All I’ve seen these past 5 years is Disney dropping the ball and Universal dunking it.

[@MannyEmm]

Great analogy!

[@MannyEmm]

Universal is slowly becoming the Place to go for the Theme Park Experience…and, it’s less expensive! They have hotels in the area as well!

[@MrMac1138]

Universal’s Parks are in bad shape. Tons of screen rides and a few lightly themed roller coasters. Anyone who thinks Universal is dunking is not paying attention. Epic Universe will be no different and it won’t impact Disney at all, but it will cause massive decline at the other twoUniversal parks. They are already cutting budgets and postponing plans. Not top of that, Peacock loses $2B a year and Comcast continues to lose subscribers and viewers. Universal is in rough shape and Epic will have only 11 rides. So no, Disney should not be scared. Disney is going to be investing heavily and I expect Epic will struggle to hit 10 million in a full year.

[@batshtcrazy5293]

​@@MrMac1138Disney adult alert! Alert! Alert! 😵‍💫

[@zjweele13]

In the past 5 years disney world opened galaxy edge, cosmic rewind and tron.

[@futrerockstar]

A universal trip also just sounds so much less stressful. Disney trips, especially with kids, feels so much more stressful than 5 years ago

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

No reservations, less time on your phone, no boarding groups and so on. It’s less stressful for sure.

[@notenoughcoffeeintheworld6037]

Agreed. We visit the ca parks and have been opting for legoland for this exact reason

[@ckbarry]

@@ThemeParkObsessionDDCouldn’t agree more. I’m primarily a DL girl (live in OR), but when I go to FL, we usually split our time. I don’t see a time when we wouldn’t go to WDW at all, but the ratio will definitely change. Also there’s just no contest between LLs and an Express Pass. Yes, Express is more, but you can go on a ride when it fits your schedule, not some asinine hour time slot 4 hours away. And if you buy neither, Universal still wins in that dept, because standby lines actually MOVE. Good job, Dylan.

[@jeremyrohr3876]

Legoland is almost the same price as Disneyland and the rides are not even close to as good ​@@notenoughcoffeeintheworld6037

[@countofdownable]

The last time I went to Orlando, I didn't bother with Disney. You can book Universal from your hotel, unlike Disney. Going Halloween 2025. May not bother with Disney again.

[@MistCLaneous]

There's something that feels ridiculous about the contrast of hearing the terms "strategically deploying capital" and "Toy Story Land" in the same statement haha

[@ckbarry]

😂👏👏

[@86wellacre]

Disney is the champion that got a little too comfortable and now has its competitor hot on its heels.

[@Lil_Angry_Bitch]

Disney is the Hare that was beat by the Tortoise.

[@paulglynn7210]

Disney only took 5 years to open a hall and a park at Epcot... universal is killing it and Disney should be scared

[@holllyrhode]

Disney doesnt need a new park they need to fix everything else

[@luvrtandem]

That’s for sure

[@TheBestDonutArmy]

First they need to update their 4 parks and then maybe consider adding a cool expansion to it to get the people and money flowing to their parks.

[@002mjr]

The problem with Disney is deeper…they fired a lot of their imagineers during Covid so they don’t have the talent. That talent was then hired by universal. Disney has been shortsighted since 2020. People also hate park reservations but Disney doesn’t care. They would rather lose those people to Universal.

[@batshtcrazy5293]

Add to that, the company stopped caring about it's customers waaaaay back in 2012. Maybe even before. It's just got worse before and right after the pandemic.

[@repboy1]

The game changer really was nostalgia . Disney had that for years when universal was new but now adults who went to universal as kids are now taking their kids . Kids also love TROLLS , MINIONS , SHREK , NINTENDO they are not going please can we see the country bears .

[@justimagine2403]

Shake in those mouse shoes Disney. Universal has you on the ropes. Epic Universe should mop the floor for theme park dollars. Go Universal !

[@AlanGuerra28]

I don’t think Universal will catch up to Disney any time soon

[@loserhl]

Pandora and Galaxy's Edge were never in response to Epic Universe. They were in response to Harry Potter at all of the Universal Parks. Iger is just trying to cover his and Chapek's over confidence and short shortsightedness about them being on top.

[@Lil_Angry_Bitch]

And Galaxy's Edge was an epic failure that only raised attendance by 200k.

[@Mrcruisefever1]

They should of never made : Bob Chapeck. ( Bob Paycheck ) as CEO - Because he did NOT cared about the company and didn’t cared the people - workers at all. / He also started the war against Florida ( Politics crap )

[@sky0kast0]

Nah bob was a fall guy he didn't have the power we thought he did at the time I wouldn't blame him for much other than Deadpool and wolverine

[@uss_cushing]

⁠@@Mrcruisefever1Iger expected Chapek to consult him on everything. Iger is the one who has made Disney into the second theme park in Florida while Universal has claimed the crown.

[@ZippyandOllie]

Like you said, nostalgia will only go so far. Disney needs to speed it up and listen to its customers. Disney will always be #1 for me, but lately, the park has been feeling like it’s only for the rich or elite.

[@AJsGuideToAwesomenessAndBeyond]

Disney World can hold a new section "Yoga Sessions With A Disney Character", that would be a new and unique experience to counter Epic Universe. They can also bring back the Life Size Suited Hulk!!! That would immediately equal the odds. Lol.

[@happydisneyteacher7557]

Annual Passholder at Disney World and Universal Orlando. Disney should be worried. Universal is opening lots of big ticket rides and lands. I love Guardians Cosmic Rewind, but now that Test Track will be down for 5 years, Epcot just lost a huge ride. I appreciate that I can just go to Universal, I have to plan and reserve to go to Disney. Disney needs to suck it up and get it together. Communicore is the perfect example of how they are trying to do things on the cheap. Also, Universal treats their annual passholders better. Get ready, Disney! It is going to hurt!

[@roycecharlton4924]

Yes. Yes, they should.

[@CLIFFLIX]

As WDW is crumbling over the next 5 years, I can hear Bob Iger blaming Bob Chapek, or "his predecessor" for all of this avalanche. You watch,..in the next few years of investor meetings, Bob will consistently attempt to pin everything on the pandemic and Chapek.

[@SneakyM68]

You are right on the money with your assessment. Our next amusement park choice is Universal and we usually do Disney once a year but it's so cost prohibitive that we will only go to one park per year and tbh we are burnt out on Disney a little bit. You are correct. Disney should be worried.

[@devdevthrills]

I have a lot of thoughts on this. Disney deserves lots of criticism. They’ve been wildly slow the last few years, they’ve cut entertainment, and focused on re-doing attractions instead of investing in new things. Lots to correct to get AP holders happy. Universal is doing things at an amazing rate right now! We are so lucky as consumers to see them poor on the investments. The next decade is going to be INSANE. Now, with both those in mind, I think it’s important to note that these are competitors in a unique industry, and they are both focused on different customer segments. There’s lots of overlap still, but Disney focuses on young families whereas Universal’s target market is older families (oversimplification, but to make the point). Looking at Epic Universe (or any of the Orlando parks), attractions for families with young kids is actually pretty small. There’s a couple things in HTTYD and Mario plus a splash pad. Universal definitely wants to draw in those customers, but they understand that the competition in Orlando for that market is heavy, so they are sticking with their customer - families on the older side. Around family decision-making for vacations in Orlando, it’s important to note that Orlando parks are less heavy on local attendance than most theme parks and rely heavily on tourism. While there will be families who travel to Orlando and now select Universal instead of Disney, there will also be a large influx of incremental visitors. These are new customers that are coming to Orlando now that previously may not have - people coming for Epic Universe. What benefits Disney here is that any incremental customers visiting Universal that also decide to visit Disney because they are there already is a huge win for Disney as well. It’s new customers they would not have had if Epic Universe didn’t exist. I don’t have access to either companies data, but I imagine both companies have done a lot of forecasting analysis of attendance and both will see an overall bump. It’s more likely the amount of times consumers will add a day at Disney will be greater than the amount of consumers who select one park only - and this is really only relevant to consumers who would have gone to Disney if Epic Universe wasn’t an option. That’s my best guess to the analysis without having access to the data. I work for a Big 4 consulting firm doing supply chain management and mergers and acquisitions consulting and have seen many similar business scenarios to this. I’d expect both companies to benefit, with Universal receiving majority of that benefit. I would be worried at Disney if there was nothing in the pipeline and the plan was to run course as is for the foreseeable future. However we know that isn’t the case, Disney will continue to invest. Not at Universals pace, universal will continue to gain ground. But with Disney’s brand it’s hard to see them struggling anytime soon. Good comparison is Disney is to Nike as Universal is to Adidas. Nike and Adidas appear to compete very closely, Adidas often snags top athlete deals and gives the impression of being on Nike’s heels. But looking into the business, customer loyalty, and brand strength, Nike is by far and away the stronger company in a better position and it’s not close. Universal is definitely closer to Disney than Adidas is to Nike, but there’s still quite a ways to go even if Disney does nothing for a couple years. Overall - yes we should be critical of Disney and slamming our fists in the table to get matching investments and speed. I think they could truly push the gap further if they actually put in some effort similar to what we see at the Tokyo resort. But from a business perspective I don’t see Disney needing to worry right now - that may change in a year when we see what actual consumer behavior is. What I think should be a worry though is if Universal is going to have the customer base to fill all 3 parks. I think they will and Epic Universe is going to absolutely crush their own expectations, but if I had to place worry somewhere, that’s where I’d put it. Or worry as customers that we aren’t getting the back and forth investments from each company that competition typically drives. It will be fascinating to see what happens! I’ll be all over their earnings calls and SEC filings the next couple years - and who knows maybe I’ll get on another consulting project with Universal Parks! Loved the video and your thoughts Dylan, respect them and you may very well be totally right! Such a fun time to discuss and debate, we are lucky consumers!

[@zack.might.dance4]

I'm planning a solo trip next year a few months after Epic Universe opens so if everything goes to plan, I'm gonna try to stay on both properties and try to do everything I can

[@LadyAarin]

I just love that Universal doesn't feel toddler oriented. I don't fear getting called a crazy "Universal Adult" the way "Disney Adults" are.😅 (No shame to Disney Adults, if I had the confidence, money and the tough nerves to be one I would lol. I just feel like Universal is more chill for letting your freak flag fly as an adult.)

[@JazzyLnae]

The only thing that is “toddler oriented” at Disney is Magic Kingdom. Disney overall caters to multiple generations of people which is why there are so many Disney Adults. Its also nostalgic.

[@jaykay1899]

@JazzyLnae I think the original comment is referencing more to the fact that Disney doesn’t have any big thrill rides. It has a few bigger coasters, but nothing as big as universal and it’s all family oriented. Theres some HUGE coasters at universal and it’s definitely more geared toward older audiences.

[@JerWHolley]

Universal is the Happies5 Place On Earth in 2025 when Epic Universe happens. While Disney cuts live entertainment and cheap re-theming Universal builds entire lands for a Theme Park and invests in more live entertainment.

[@frankiemoi]

You can already see WDW is losing the battle for summer crowds. There is a huge rumor that Magic Kingdom will be losing Tom Sawyers Island and Rivers of America for the big “Beyond Big Thunder Mountain” project. I really hope this is not the case. But if it is, this will be an extremely foolish move on Disney and I can see a revolt happening. Not to mention, T.B.A. Previews have NOT been going too well. Lots of downtime and delays. There is only nine days left until this attraction opens up to the masses and they can get the kinks worked out. Things are not looking too good for the mouse. Meanwhile across the street…

[@LChatmanFL]

I really hope Tom Sawyer's Island stays. It is such a unique place. An actual island with lots of cool places to hang out. Sometimes I choose MK just for TSI.

[@mitchellries256]

Pandora: The World of Avatar, Toy Story Land, and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge were supposed to be Disney's response to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Epic Universe wasn't even announced until after all those lands opened up, and Disney hasn't done anything that even compares to that level yet. So if you ask me, I think they should be more nervous about Universal than they've been before.

[@matias.alejandro]

Im not from the States, My first visit to Orlando was back in 2019. The level of stress of organising my visit to WDW was brutal in comparison to the overall experience I got at Universal. Im currently planning my next trip and im definitely not visiting WDW again. Universal seems way more exciting, friendly, easy to organise... and affordable these days! Disney should be worried, for sure, especially now that it feels only rich people have access to a decent experience at their parks.

[@themeparkamusement2214]

Bob Penny pinching Cheapskate was in charge and we are still paying the price for his bungling.

[@kevinmartin225]

Dylan excellent comparison video on Disney and universal. I was in Orlando last November and the only Disney thing I did was Disney springs and even that was dull. We did 2 days at universal and had an absolute ball, it had been 6 years since my last trip to Orlando. We didn’t stay on property but chose to stay at Lake Buena Vista. We are planning on going back towards the end of 2025 for universal and of course Epic Universal. I do like you outdoor office 😂😂

[@ES4406]

Always enjoy all your updates Dylan! Thankyou for saying alot of what we are seeing here in Florida.

[@ericsantoyo7455]

I love both Universal and Disney. I want them to both succeed. Hopefully Disney has something that will blow are minds if Universal starts to slow down a little. Btw, nice pumpkin shirt Dylan, love the spirit!!!

[@Supra_Mickey]

I think Disney is for sure needs to be worry. They have been falling off as a fan of Disney just doesn’t seem as great and feel bland they are losing out on stuff and will only rely on their name instead of getting better attractions

[@Koneko91]

I've never been to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando but I'm planning a trip and it does not include Walt Disney World... Trips are definitely expensive for a family of 7, so I want a trip that I can actually enjoy stress-free, without sacrificing an arm and a leg. Disney absolutely should be worried.

[@randolphwilliams2365]

Also at this point, if Disney wanted to be really smart and spend the big bucks they would just start duplicating everything they've done in Tokyo Disneyland Disney season Fantasy Springs and also spend the money to maintain and keep in condition the attractions that they already have. I'm confident that Americans would absolutely love Tokyo Disney seas and fantasy springs and would be glad to spend money for the quality. We're not getting Jack in America.

[@eddieg6436]

Dark Universe video just appeared!! …..it’s ALL ABOUT Dark Universe!!!

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

I’m so hyped! It’s going to be incredible.

[@frankcarrillo190]

I am staying in Disney in June 2024. I am shocked by how sparse the crowds are and how low the wait times are. I usually come to WDW in June. This year I quickly was able to see everything I wanted multiple times!

[@markimoofan1239]

i think what i like about universal is there fast past or whatever they call it, no dealing with genie plus its just a one time pay when u go and ride all day that is what i like about it :)

[@petermassey4808]

Prior to 2018 I would laugh when people suggested that Universal is catching up to Disney Parks. Since then my opinion has completely flip-flopped. Too many false promises, delayed projects, price hikes, and cheap reskins from Disney as of late. Consumers are catching on.

[@ryanmurphy9915]

When you hire based on looks and views instead of talent, this is what happens.

[@tufab3494]

I'm brazilian and never even considered staying at WDW, mostly because of the price and the distance from the city of Orlando itself, but I'll seriously consider the possibility of staying at Universal during the 2026 World Cup. I'll be able to easily go to anywhere in Orlando (specially the Camping World Stadium) and just next my door there will be 3 entire different theme parks. That's like 5 days of my trip without even needing to rent a car. Disney's 4 parks will sure be on my list, but only because I have the money to *_waste_* and really want to visit all of them in the same trip, but that won't be a financially smart decision, just one to make my inner child satisfied. In the past taking this decision (at least 3 Disney parks in the same trip) was a no brainer for most trips to Orlando, but after Epic Universe opens it will be just as I said: a "waste" of money that only those who really wanna visit all 4 parks b2b without needing to think about money will commit to.

[@ryannodal9309]

I just discovered your channel. Anyway I’m with you. I wish Disney would speed up the construction with their future projects. Also what has hurt Disney is the amount of budget cutting they’ve done and it has showed especially with Epcot

[@jamesjacobs4209]

Universal is going to eats Disney's lunch for at least the next 5 years. I bet Universal won't be setting on its laurels either. they added enough land to the existing Epic park to come up to 2,000 acres, more than double the current park size. They will probably be working on another land and they will not have to go at full speed to build it if they want or need to.

[@themeparkamusement2214]

It is not to late for Disney to respond. It's like playing defense on Micheal Jordan. You can't stop him, just slow him up. Epic's opening will be Epic. Then after 2 years, the newness will begin to fade. That is when Disney needs to have their new park or new rides opening. Plus Epic will pull more from their own parks traffic than Disney. Based on prior new park openings.

[@MelissaAndAlex]

Disney has taken away so many things from the wdw experience in 5 years it’s insane. The value continuously goes down.

[@maxickingdom]

7:42 Iger is also now in his 70s. He was supposed to retire back in 2021- actually well before that. But he kept putting it off. One big solution would be to have a fresher, younger face become the next CEO- one who really wants to get things done.

[@liamcollinson5695]

Disney should worry they are cutting back and cheaping out while universal looks to be sparing no money on epic universe

[@AaronValliere]

I’ve taken the family to Disney world 4 times our last trip we did a day at universal our next trip in 2026 we plan to stay at universal and do 1 day at magic kingdom.

[@chrisdominguez777]

Thank you! This is the most realistic analysis!

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

I try my best and I’m glad you liked it.

[@elitegaming3054]

Disney has been dropping the ball lately Universal will blow them out in the next 10 years they just bought more land and already planning ahead of epic universe

[@tamaeoverton533]

Hey Dylan, I was wondering if you have any information around the difference between Universal utilizing vendors to supply rides, that Universal then themes... vs Disney using imagineers to design and build the rides and the theming? I feel like this is a huge competitive advantage for Universal and a smart way to build parks. Focus on your core competencies in providing theming and show elements vs the ride vehicles. And, while Disney is cutting back on shows and entertainment, Universal is adding even more. As a theme park visitor, one of the things that stands out to me is how the entertainment is presented. At Universal, there are way more interactive elements, and everything is very immersive. With Disney, you get entertainment presented to you - you *see* it but don't really *participate* in it. And the theming isn't as immersive. Disneyland was the first theme park I visited, and the only one I went to for a number of years. But I got to visit Universal and was blown away by the immersion and interactivity. Disney needs to rethink their approach (particularly now, given the news about cutting back or eliminating shows) and step up their game.

[@rayray9571]

And why didn't Disney finish what they were gonna do at Star Wars land? They built a giant land for 2 rides not good

[@justinakiefer8505]

Love the video and want some tips on starting a vlog channel for me and Michael are thinking of moving to Florida just us together someday and want to meet you some day at Disney land and Bashgarders

[@maxickingdom]

1:58 It sure didn’t help that Disney had Chapek as CEO and head of the parks not too long ago.

[@VelocicoasterFanboy]

Yes

[@yoopergamer2121]

First off I need that shirt sir! 😮

[@ItsameBS]

20 years ago when I visited Orlando it was WDW majority with maybe one day at Universal. 10 years ago split time between WDW and Universal. Now it’s majority of time and staying at Universal. With maybe a day or two at a WDW park.

[@kotch35]

I think at the very least we'll see many families shortening their stays at WDW to spend a couple of their vacation days at Universal. The good news is that we'll probably see a lot more WDW hotel discounts in the next couple years lol

[@jannettehunter2930]

OK so - biggest Disney fan here. Grew up with Disneyland in Southern Cal. We now live in Vegas, but we still go to Disneyland every year. Our last trip to Orlando was a few years ago. We went to BOTH Disney and Universal...However, once Epic Universe opens, we are planning to go a year later JUST to Universal...and yes, we are planning on staying at the Helios Hotel at Epic Universe.

[@ellenkirby8366]

“If that’s the case, Bob…” 😂

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

lol 🤣

[@NickBrunet]

I want to stay at the hotel at Epic Universe. It’ll be expensive and probably sell out immediately but that would be SO cool!!!

[@jeffreymlukas]

3 new hotels.... The Helios is being built too.... all of which are a major accomplishment.

[@RocHopn]

I am in the south west, I visited DLR and WDW more than a handful of times. The Disney parks are stagnate right now. Nothing new and exciting the last few years, IMO, the value is no longer there, 85% of attractions are 40 years old plus. Yes, they are still fun, but the tech is outdated and they need an update. It's not cheap, I get it. However, paying a premium for old stuff? I don't mind if they had new stuff, MMRR is okay at best, no new tech, it's the same as ROTR. In order to stay on top, you have to innovate, and Disney just stopped innovating. Universal will lead the pack, Goodbye Disney, hello Universal.

[@frikitiki]

I was a Disney podcaster, I've been to all twelve parks. About this time 8 years ago I was in Shanghai for their grand opening. decided about a decade ago, when visiting Orlando, Universal was the first stop with Disney getting sloppy seconds. It was so much easier for planning. I now live in Orlando and in 2021 and 2022 it was so much easier to visit Universal without having to make reservations to go into the park. I have an AP for Universal and not Disney. When friends talk about visiting the area I recommend Universal over Disney because of the convenience and cost factor.

[@markchristianson8178]

Hell yeah i wish they would have one in LA toooooooo !!!!

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

Maybe LA will get some other expansions.

[@randolphwilliams2365]

Thank you for your comments

[@Mrcruisefever1]

Disney world , needs to be worried about Universal : Epic universe ( Dark Universe , family areas of the park ).

[@ellenkirby8366]

Great video. Universal is smashin’ it!

[@harlandtsosie2037]

What about SeaWorld Orlando? , and seaworld San Diego? & San Diego Zoo!

[@ericstratten5653]

In bad traffic, there is no "let's just pop down quickly to Hollywood Studios from Epic". 45 minute drive is not unheard of - EACH WAY (plus parking time and hassle, etc). Or, take a free bus to older Universal parks in 10 minutes on a dedicated bus lane.

[@Paulstar8004]

Disney should worry about sixflags with everything coming in the future

[@zarajenkins6948]

I cannot wait for Epic Universe! We always stay off property anyway at Sheraton Vistana on IDrive so only down the road from the new park, I'm sick of being disappointed by Disneys promises to unvest my money in them right now 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@terrirobinson3876]

Yes! And i agree with you, they are going to rest on their laurels.

[@Evansjd87]

I always stay at Universal property and Uber a couple times a to Disney. My family and I already spend more time at U.S.O. My nieces like it more. The resorts are a great quality for the price at Universal.

[@alyssareyes6409]

They built galaxy’s edge in a hurry because they needed to catch up to potter when pandora didnt cut it

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

And let’s hope that the same pace can be replicated for whatever they announce at D23 for the American parks. They have to step up the pace.

[@garrettviewegh9028]

It isn’t just theme parks like Epic Universe Disney should be worried about, do you know how many people will pay to go see an animated film based off another Nintendo property? Metroid, Kid Icarus, Star Fox, The Legend of Zelda, Pikmin, Pokémon, Castlevania, Smash Bros, Nintendo has the most iconic and memorable franchises in gaming. Gaming, something Disney won’t be able to hold a candle to with Nintendo. That, plus new Universal parks? Disney has some stiff competition.

[@conniekraus4581]

I don’t think it’s 100% the same market. As a teen, young adult I would have preferred what Universal offers, same as my teen grandkids do today. I have no interest in Universal or Kings Island anymore. I enjoy Disney now, solo. That bubble makes me feel safe as a solo senior. I want to shop, watch shows, eat & do some mild rides. That’s Disney.

[@elevenb6967]

Okay, but that's you. If you're old, of course you're not gonna want to ride intense roller coasters. And what's this "bubble" stuff? What does that even mean?

[@LChatmanFL]

​@@elevenb6967The bubble... Here is an example. 2 weeks ago I went to Epcot by myself. Went on a few rides, did China show, ate some food, etc. About 2pm I jumped on the Skyliner and rode it all the way to Art of Animation. Hung out there, grabbed a coffee, then took the Skyliner to Hollywood Studios. Did Rise of the Resistance, Star Tours and finished the night with Fantasmic. That's the bubble. You can do similar at UOR as long as your not in Endless Summer.

[@JM-er2yl]

@@elevenb6967 Old is a state of mind. I'm old and start my days at IOA with back to back rides on Velocicoaster.

[@themeparklunatic1996]

their are a lot of senior coaster enthusiasts so I do think universal will be getting more than what Disney is currently pulling in they rely on nostalgia way too much and haven't built any rides to cater to that nostalgic franchises

[@LChatmanFL]

@@elevenb6967 .

[@jocelynsantiago7154]

I love both Disney and Universal but with this Monster's Land opening we will definitely be going to Universal. We go every 1 to 3 years to one of the parks. The last time we did Disney was about three vacations ago and it just seems like they have nothing new to offer. So then we did Universal and next time we'll do Universal again to go to Epic Universe.

[@eleegs]

Yes. Now there is reason for multiple days at Universal. Before the two parks were really just one big park. There is only so much budget one can afford. DisneyWorld is more immersive due to its land scale. But attraction value is sparse as they are spread out and lines are way too long Disney’s shortcuts with Avengers campus and the junk fillers they put in Galaxy’s edge compared to Universal’s attention to detail in Harry Potter and Mario Land is evident. Disney’s last great upgrade was Pamdora

[@megmcguigan3857]

We just booked a February 2025 Orlando vacation. We decided to stay at Universal because you get way more bang for your buck than you do at Disney World. I priced French Quarter and it would have cost £1000 more just for the hotel. So, we are only going to do one or two days at Disney. Disney has totally dropped the ball and has become way, way too expensive even for DINKs like my husband and I.

[@KylertheDisneyandUniversalFan]

Bob Iger used to try to catch up to universal. Last late decade they did a bit better than universal. Disney made immersive lands and universal made cheap screen rides.

[@SheenaButt-xk5tv]

We're going to Orlando in 2026 instead of Disney world. We're staying at a universal resort....way cheaper than Disney. I've done Disney every year for the past 8yrs we're ready for something new.

[@arielperez3613]

If d23 doesn’t announce anything new then they should be worried. Why would people going on vacation choose Disney World when there’s nothing new to do or see?

[@ottot3221]

Jan 2026 (yep I wait a bit) I'll visit Orlando and will stay for 14 days at Universal Studios Resort. I won't spent any days in WDW. I once was a huge Disney fan but the past +10 years they are going downhill. Nothing they build could make me come over. Disney is DINO (Disney In Name Only) and the Disney I loved is long gone.

[@drock13]

Is there even any benefit to staying at a Disney Property? With Universal for you have tiers but the top 3 hotels get you unlimited express, I don’t even think Disney has express (I haven’t been since 2016 so correct me if that’s changed) meanwhile I visit universal each year for HHN at the very least. Disney thought they had a monopoly and they are about to lose so much market share.

[@heatherlp4818]

I’m already planning on spending more time at Universal than Disney World the next time I go out to Orlando. I’m an obsessed Disney fan too!

[@anthonymg73]

Deep 2025 Disney discounts coming

[@LChatmanFL]

100% agree. People don't have unlimited funds to do both. If EU is as good as it's shaping up to be, Disney will need to slash resort prices, do ticket special etc.

[@jeremybrown1598]

I For one think that it’s gonna be a Fairplay ask for Mickey it’s time to let the company go

[@kaijuguy19]

At this point Disney should be more then worried, they should be outright terrified on what Epic Universe will do to not only Walt Disney World but also to the entire company as a whole. Mostly because it's Disney's theme parks is what's keeping them afloat and their main revenue especially Walt Disney World since right now they're not in very good shape as a company so them not being more prudent about keeping the park alive and relevant is without a doubt going to do a lot to put them in even more bad shape that'll be hard to recover if not outright kill the park and/or the company even. What makes this all the more sad is that Disney took it's position in the theme park history for granted and thought no one can touch them which as we've seen with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter when it first opened a decade ago gave them a nasty reality check on that front. So one would think that would've been enough for Disney to take their competition in the theme park division more seriously but as we've seen they're letting history repeat itself again so unless they have an ace on their hole they're for sure going to lose their crown in the theme park industry at least in the USA and they'll have no one to blame but themselves.

[@DrStarlander]

The big change in Orlando visitation behavior is that many families who go to Orlando every year and concentrate on WDW but added a day or two max over at Universal are going to go to an every-other-year behavior, alternating between Disney and Universal. Staying at one resort is easiest and cheapest and there will be enough to do at each to justify a vacation, especially if Universal updates Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure at the same time Disney is building whatever they announce at D23 (in fact, Universal can likely get updates done in their first two parks faster than Disney can). The other issue Disney has is that in the next 3-4 years, Universal will have a "free run" with Epic Universe drawing new crowds to Universal while Disney will have nothing new to offer, and many of those families will be having their first deep-dive Universal vacations, for example staying in their hotels and spending several days there. That could cement new allegiance to Universal if Universal makes a great impression and families make great memories. That could change 10 or 20 years of future vacationing behavior. For that reason, Universal should be laying it on thick (e.g., training and investing) in terms of knocking it out of the park in customer service, to lock these new visitors in as new loyal Universal fans. The next big shoe to drop is if Universal launches (or acquires) into the cruise industry. They are in deep now with the resort so having a cruise component is a no-brainer. They can grab families whose kids are post-Disney age, and adults/couples that would not go on a Disney cruise, with plenty of cool IP for their ships...the JAWS pool bar?! 😃

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

You’re spot on. Disney will still be a destination for families but it won’t be as often now with a compelling new theme park. All of it could change again though when Disney opens something big, but Universals construction pace is dangerous for the mouse. It’s been heavily rumored that Uni will jump into the cruise business, I think right now though they are just expanding their footprint on land which I think is a good strategy.

[@dannygrau2983]

Yes Disney should be super worried. The clock is ticking.

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

All eyes will be on them at D23

[@jonathanrose829]

The decline of Disney has been going on for years and years. People will always want to visit Disney World,But less and less are choosing that option

[@Jsteng08]

Here it is Disney is more family driven were Universal is more thrill rides You can’t compare the two It’s two different demographics But Universal can thank Disney because Disney set the bar and Universal

[@NickBrunet]

D23 is literally them saying they are going to do something and then never make them. #teamUniversal.

[@BBQPitmaster626]

I don’t have an opinion on Orlando because I’ve never been. Here in California, Disneyland has way more to offer than Universal. I canceled my Universal Pass because it way too crowded. Not enjoyable if I am shoulder to shoulder with people. I feel like I can’t breathe lol

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

In this conversation it’s all about the Orlando market. I think Disneyland is a great resort when it comes to rides and what’s to do compared to Uni in Hollywood. It’s just a smaller park so comparing the two is like apples to oranges. But in Orlando it’s a different story.

[@3jrmrt634]

Harry Potter was a game changer for Universal AND Disney.

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

For sure. And the needle will continue to move once this park opens but the difference this time is now people have to make more difficult decisions on where they want to go.

[@mylessmith8059]

I don’t think it’s all doom and gloom for Disney that a lot of the KZbin comments have been saying. But Disney definitely needs a kick in their ass to make sure they get back to quality, especially in terms of maintenance. I don’t see a 5th park happening (where are you going to get the staff). But Qing they focus on quality with their expansions, I think Disney will be fine

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

Disney won’t go under or anything crazy, what’s going to happen is they will loose some market share for a couple quarters. Which is good as far as we are concerned because then they will invest heavily in new experiences. Win win for us. 😁

[@drewchaboo719]

Am so happy we going to a new theme park

[@8r33]

with the new epcot addition and the disaster that is tianas... Universal is hitting it out of the park. they are just bringing more and more creative things and just overall better entertainment. Universal has my money for now and i cant wait for epic.

[@nathancasillas6979]

I have fond childhood memories of both Disney World and Universal Studios properties. Disney was always my top pick and saw it as this unbeatable empire. Went back to the parks for the first time this year after a long decade and the way that Disney World has downgraded is baffling. Universal and Islands is now THE theme park destination to be at and with Epic Universe on the horizon, Disney must be shaking in their oversized Mickey boots by now.

[@finned958]

By taking a long time, Disney is actually wasting money. Fast construction is cheaper. Epcot has no increase in ride capacity. That’s why the park is so boring and stale. The worse thing for Disney is the fifth park. Since opening DHS and AK, they allowed them to rot in neglect. After 30 years, neither are full day parks with a full array of attractions and entertainment into the night. Buying a ticket is a waste of money. Universal’s value got a lot better. I spent a full day at USH with the new Nintendo World. Amazing experience and great food in Toadstool Cafe. This is just the beginning. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a disaster.

[@jeremyrohr3876]

Here's the thing. Universal does a lot more quickly than Disney as far as the parks. I feel like Universal does not make theme parks that are meant for all body types. I had this problem as a larger person going to Six Flags and Knott's. Disneyland would get my vote every time because I can ride EVERYTHING there I'm not too enthused about slapping a bunch of roller coasters with the most basic theming to the queues and acting like it's a major accomplishment. Is there going to be a ride at Epic Universe that will be like Rise of the Resistance? I feel like Universal does more to compete with six flags than they do to compete with Disney.

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

Epic Universe will have a couple rides that are as ambitious as Rise. The monsters ride and Harry Potter ride are supposed to be the most advanced they have ever made.

[@kelina365]

as a wdw cm i am SO excited for epic universe!!! literally will be there all the time. the ONLY reason why i go to wdw more than universal at the moment is because i work there LMAOOOO

[@ThemeParkObsessionDD]

lol hey the main entrance passes come in clutch for sure haha.

[@LChatmanFL]

Universities will have textbook lessons in business school about these Disney vs Universal yrs. I will say this. For the average person, not a theme park fan like we are, Disney still has the brand name. People still dream of the ultimate WDW vacation. If Disney can turn it around they should be able to hold ground a bit. With that said, Universal has already taken market share and that may never come back.

[@briangax7727]

Hello 👋🏻 happy Tuesday happy 🌮