Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks isn't just another documentary – it's a front-row seat to the thrills, imagination, and the long legacy of Universal's famous theme parks. The much-awaited docuseries is officially hitting Peacock on Thursday, July 24, and it's coming as a three-part series.
From BTS to creative insights to never-before-seen footage, the docuseries takes a dive into what made Universal so iconic.
Expect exclusive interviews, iconic stories from iconic people, and a special look at the Epic Universe, i.e., Universal's boldest park yet.
A look inside: What Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks really explores and with whom
Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks has a clear mission, and that is to uncover how Universal turned its movie magic into real-world wonder. The documentary makes use of never-before-seen footage and conversations with the people who made everything happen.
You'll be hearing from famous Hollywood directors, executives, park creators, and celebs who helped make what the Universal theme park experience means to people all around the world today.
What makes this documentary stand out is the way it captures the evolution of Universal's parks. It journeys through the early attractions that first brought movie worlds into reality, then fast-forwards to the present moment, where Universal is preparing to open the most advanced theme park in the country.
Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks doesn't just tell a success story – rather, it shows how Universal kept reinventing the playbook, decade after decade.
The series also gives fans an exclusive countdown to Epic Universe, a next-generation park that's set to change everything with five imaginative lands and some of the most cutting-edge experiences ever created. It's a real-time look at the biggest theme park launch in over 25 years.
The release date, episode format, and where to watch
The wait is almost over because Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks releases on Peacock on July 24, and all three episodes will be available on day one. That means that the audience can watch the full docuseries in one sitting or take their time with each episode.
The documentary is produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio, with John Marks and Jon Strong acting as executive producers.
If you're already subscribed to Peacock, you're all set. If not, the platform has two plans: $7.99/month (with ads) and $13.99/month (no ads and offline access). Students also get a discounted rate of $1.99/month for one year, making this the perfect time to jump in.
However, Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks is a Peacock exclusive, so it won't be available on other streaming platforms. Earlier seasons or related Universal content might live elsewhere, but this documentary can only be streamed on Peacock.
Epic Universe gets the spotlight
While the documentary covers a lot of Universal's legacy, its final act shines a spotlight on something brand new: Epic Universe, the company's most ambitious park yet. Opening on May 22, this theme park represents a huge step forward. It covers 750 acres and includes five themed worlds, three hotels, and over 50 rides, dining options, and immersive experiences.
One of the highlights teased in the doc is the Dark Universe, a chilling land inspired by Universal's classic horror icons. Think gothic icons like Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy, and more.
There's also Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, and a magical zone based on The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The documentary not only reveals how these lands were built, but also takes viewers behind closed doors during final construction days and design approvals. The team behind the park takes big creative swings here, betting on bold ideas rather than tried-and-tested formulas.
That energy comes through clearly in Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks.
For anyone who grew up with movie magic or dreamed of stepping inside their favorite film, Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks is a must-watch. It's more than a look back – it's a celebration of innovation, risk-taking, and unforgettable experiences.
Streaming exclusively on Peacock starting July 24, this three-part documentary is Universal's story told like never before.