Universal Orlando wins big at industry awards, Disney World flops

Universal Orlando‍ Dominates Industry Awards ⁤as Disney World Snubbed

ORLANDO, FL -⁣ September⁤ 9, 2025 – Universal Orlando resort swept the prestigious ‍Golden Ticket Awards‍ this weekend,⁢ securing seven wins including “best Theme Park,”⁤ while Walt Disney⁤ World Resort failed⁣ to ⁢claim a single top honour – a stunning‍ reversal of fortune in the theme park industry. The results, announced Saturday⁢ evening, signal a potential shift in the competitive landscape⁤ of Orlando’s tourism sector.

The Golden Ticket Awards,often ‍considered the “Oscars” of the ⁤theme park world,are voted on ‌annually​ by a panel of⁤ industry experts,enthusiasts,and theme park travelers. Universal’s ​accolades‍ included‌ wins for Best‍ new Ride (Universal Epic Universe),‌ Best Dark Ride ​(Harry Potter and the ​Escape⁤ from Gringotts), and Best Roller Coaster (Velocicoaster).This⁢ marks the first ⁤time in over a decade that a ‌single resort has claimed the “Best Theme Park” title outright, ⁤traditionally dominated by Disney.

“This is a testament to the incredible work of ‌our team and the immersive ⁣experiences we ​strive to create for our guests,” said Universal Orlando spokesperson, ⁣Karen Irwin, in a statement released Sunday.”We’re constantly ⁢innovating and pushing the boundaries ⁣of what’s ‍possible in ⁣theme park entertainment, and ⁣this recognition is incredibly rewarding.”

Disney World, historically a perennial⁣ frontrunner in the awards, saw its parks largely absent from ‍the top categories. While Epcot received ‌a nomination for “Best Food ⁤& Beverage,” it did not secure a win. Industry analysts attribute Disney’s lackluster performance to a combination of factors,including⁢ ongoing guest concerns ⁣regarding pricing,park capacity,and⁤ recent creative‌ decisions. ⁢

“Disney has been resting⁣ on its laurels for ‌too long,” explains theme park consultant, Scott Smith. “Universal has been aggressively ‍investing ​in new⁢ attractions and immersive lands, while Disney has focused more on operational changes and cost-cutting measures. Guests are noticing the difference.”

The Golden Ticket Awards results come as both resorts prepare for the peak fall and holiday seasons. Universal​ is gearing up for ‌the grand opening⁣ of its highly anticipated Epic⁣ Universe ⁢park in 2025,‍ while Disney continues to navigate ​challenges related to its ongoing conversion projects and evolving guest expectations. ⁣The ⁣awards are expected to further fuel the rivalry between the two entertainment giants as they compete for market share and visitor loyalty.