Experience the Thrills of Epic Universe
Step into the world of How to Train Your Dragon—Isle of Berk to enjoy exhilarating rides like Hiccup’s Wing Gliders and interact with beloved characters from the renowned series. Universal's Epic Universe, the first major theme park opening in the United States in 25 years, unlocked its gates to the public on May 22. As the fourth addition to the Universal Orlando Resort, following Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, this sprawling 110-acre park introduces guests to five uniquely themed worlds.
Dive into Themed Worlds
This highly anticipated park features intriguing connections to other popular franchises, particularly the Harry Potter series, expanding on the existing Wizarding Worlds. New characters, such as Nintendo’s Donkey Kong and DreamWorks’ Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon, capture the excitement of a diverse audience.
During a recent visit, I surprised my 16-year-old nephew, Charlie, with a trip to Epic Universe after booking a stay at the Universal Stella Nova Resort. With tickets in hand, we eagerly planned our itinerary for the thrilling adventure that awaited us.
First Impressions
Upon entering the park, guests are greeted by Celestial Park, a beautifully landscaped area complete with lush greenery that sets the tone for an immersive experience. The layout seamlessly guides visitors through the various themed realms filled with attractions, character meet-and-greets, and extensive dining and shopping options.
Notably, Dark Universe stood out for its homage to the iconic Universal monsters and villains. The excitement continued with rides designed to appeal to a wide audience, including those who prefer roller coasters and those who enjoy more leisurely attractions.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Guests staying at Universal Orlando hotels are treated to early access for select park areas, which can significantly enhance the day’s experience. On the day of our visit, we swiftly headed to the Mine-Cart Madness ride, was a nostalgic nod to the Donkey Kong video games, allowing us to jump right into the action with minimal wait times.
Utilizing the Universal Orlando app proved essential for tracking ride wait times. With the park quickly filling up, we were able to navigate efficiently, opting for less crowded experiences before circling back to popular attractions with reduced waiting periods.
Culinary Experiences
The park offers an impressive array of dining options. We enjoyed meals at various restaurants, including Das Stakehouse, a unique establishment run by vampire servants in Dark Universe, as well as the Mead Hall in Isle of Berk, where I discovered a delicious salmon salad. Elsewhere, Café L’air De La Sirène in the Wizarding World provides a picturesque setting reminiscent of 1920s Paris, featuring a menu full of delightful dishes.
A Break from the Action
Celestial Park was intentionally crafted to allow guests quiet moments away from the thrill, featuring serene spaces ideal for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the park’s fountains, a variety of curated flora, or simply take the time to explore the abundant shopping and dining options available.
As the park is newly opened, the landscaping is still settling in, so shaded areas are currently limited. However, thoughtful design elements, such as covered waiting areas and air-conditioned queues, help ease the experience during hot Florida summers.
Final Thoughts
With over 110 acres to explore, Epic Universe offers a vast range of attractions, making it challenging to experience every aspect in one day. After an action-packed 11-hour visit, we managed to ride nearly every attraction, with Charlie especially enjoying Stardust Racers and my sister relishing the terror of Monsters Unchained. I found profound joy in the nostalgic Mine-Cart Madness and thrilling spins on Curse of the Werewolf.
As Epic Universe gains popularity, future visitors should prepare for larger crowds and continued heat. Regardless, for roller coaster enthusiasts and fans of cherished childhood franchises, this park is a must-visit destination.
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