Epic Universe: Our First Look at Universal’s Most Ambitious Park Yet

Step aside, theme park fatigue—Universal’s Epic Universe is here, and it’s unlike anything we’ve experienced before. With five immersive lands, jaw-dropping detail, and an atmosphere that somehow feels futuristic and nostalgic at the same time, this park is a must-visit for fans of magic, monsters, video games, dragons, and yes—even French crepes.

We were lucky enough to explore the park before its grand opening, and we’re spilling the (Butter)beer on what we saw, what we loved, and how to make the most of your own epic day.

 First Things First: Come Prepared

Let’s talk strategy. This park is hot. It’s Florida, it’s wide open, and there’s not much natural shade yet—so bring an umbrella (trust us, it’s not weird), wear your SPF, and take advantage of indoor queues and shows for built-in cooldown breaks.

Pro Tips:

• Prioritize your must-do attractions early before the crowds heat up.
• Use single-rider lines when you can.
• Be flexible. This is a brand-new park, and like any great production, it’s still polishing its final act.

 Celestial Park – Your Gateway to the Stars

The heart of Epic Universe, Celestial Park, is pure eye candy. Soaring architecture, dancing fountains, and the stunning Stardust Racers coaster will draw you in immediately. Be sure to ride both tracks — each side offers a slightly different thrill.

Don’t miss the gorgeous Constellation Carousel at night — it’s simply magical!  

Bonus: Each land—including Celestial Park—has its own signature Freestyle drink, so sip around the universe if you’re up for the challenge.

 The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Potter fans, prepare to be spellbound. This land is a cinematic blend of the British Ministry and 1920s Paris, and it’s truly magical.

While Battle at the Ministry of Magic requires a virtual queue (and they go fast), we highly recommend walking the queue before 3 p.m., even if you don’t ride. It’s a visual masterpiece and worth it just to soak in the details.

When it’s time for a bite, head to Café L’air De La Sirène. We were shocked to say this… but the lemon crepe may have outshone the Butterbeer. Great food, great value, and a dreamy setting.

And don’t miss Le Cirque Arcanus, an atmospheric live show that blends wizardry and spectacle in the most theatrical way possible.

 Super Nintendo World – Power Up Your Day

This land is pure kinetic fun. Between racing through Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, devouring your DK Crush Float, and interacting with game-like features, there’s something around every pipe.

Power-Up Bands are a blast, especially for kids (or competitive adults), but they do require a time investment. We recommend deciding early how deep you want to go — and managing expectations accordingly.

You can meet Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad, and more. Character interactions are frequent and delightful — just have that camera ready!

 How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Welcome to Berk, where the theming is rich, the dragons fly high, and the Viking humor is everywhere. From meet-and-greets with Hiccup, Astrid, Toothless, Stormfly, and the hilarious Ruffnut and Tuffnut to soaring coasters, this land has big heart.

Our favorite moment? Hands down: The Untrainable Dragon stage show. It’s moving, immersive, and one of the best things in the entire park.

 Dark Universe – Classic Monsters, Modern Thrills

Moody, mysterious, and wonderfully theatrical, Dark Universe is where Universal’s iconic monsters come to (after)life. Expect fog, gothic ambiance, and cleverly creepy details at every turn.

Curse of the Werewolf quickly became one of our favorite rides in the park — thrilling, smooth, and totally re-rideable.

And yes, character lovers: Igor, the Invisible Man, and others are wandering around for fun, fear-free encounters.

 Where to Stay: The Split Stay Strategy

For maximum convenience (and a little luxury), we recommend doing a split stay:

• Helios Grand Hotel for your Epic Universe day (you can’t beat the location!)
• A Premier Universal hotel for your Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure days, where you’ll enjoy Unlimited Express Pass — a huge perk that’s currently not included with Epic Universe entry.

Heads up: bus lines can be long in the early morning hours at any Universal resort, so allow extra time if you’re commuting in.  This is where Helios really shines — you are right in the center of the action with your own dedicated entry right into the park, just outside your door!  

 Final Thoughts: It’s Epic, Literally

Universal’s Epic Universe delivers on its name — with scope, style, and storytelling that’s second to none. While rides are a draw, in these early days, you might find the atmosphere is the true star of the show.

Take your time. Soak it in. Say yes to crepes and monsters and dragons and plumbers in red hats. There’s magic everywhere — you just have to wander into it.

Ready to book your Epic day? We’ll help you plan every step of the way — without needing a single extra life.