Universal Epic Universe Just Opened. Here’s What to Know.

After a quarter-of-a-century wait, Orlando has cut the ribbon on a brand new amusement park – and it promises to be the most “epic” yet. Universal Epic Universe is a quintet of immersive worlds, three of which are inspired by major brands: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Ministry of Magic), Super Nintendo World, and How to Train Your Dragon (Isle of Berk). Things take a turn for the twisted in Dark Universe while Celestial Park unites the lands.

Universal Orlando Resort’s fourth park features over 50 attractions across 11 themed rides, interactive experiences, and spectacular shows. The dining offering spans banquets fit for a Viking to pitstop pick-me-ups and enchanted tipples for wizened park-goers. As the most accessible of Universal Florida’s parks, Universal Epic Universe has mobility‑friendly paths, ride accommodations, and loop access. Let’s a go.

We hope you love Universal Epic Universe! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Five immersive worlds at Universal Epic Universe

Photo: Super Nintendo World in Universal’s Epic Universe.  theoutersight /Shutterstock

Any day at Universal Epic Universe starts at Celestial Park which serves as a portal to the four other worlds. Presided over by Chronos, this gateway comprises restaurants, souvenir stores, gardens, and two starter rides: Stardust Racers and Constellation Carousel. The evening light shows shouldn’t be missed.

Rev up for the tunnel through to Super Nintendo World where Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge augmented reality ride and the Mine‑Cart Madness spinning coaster are stationed. This highly interactive world has photo ops aplenty while Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad make regular loops of the complex.

The Isle of Berk recreates the tale of How to Train Your Dragon through thrilling flights on Hiccup’s Wing Gliders rollercoaster, watery boat battles, a Viking training camp, and a dazzling stage show. Rumor has it a fleet of dragons power the grills at Spit Fyre.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter unites the elegant boulevards of Paris in the 1920s with the modern-day Ministry of Magic in London. Brace yourself for a thrilling journey by Métro-Floo on Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, where some uninvited guests may tag along for the ride. This magical realm also stars interactive wand experiences, immersive shopping, and a Broadway-style show.

For those who dare to enter the crackling portal into the Dark Universe, you’ll encounter monsters, monster makers, ghouls, and shadowy creatures. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is a spine-tingling ride bringing to life Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s latest inventions. There are also spooky make‑up experiences and meet-and-greets with monster hunters.

Special events and spectacles at Universal Epic Universe

Photo: theoutersight /Shutterstock

Universal Epic Universe is set to host seasonal events in a similar vein to the original amusement parks. These will include ramped-up summer entertainment and Halloween Horror Nights. However, it’s the live shows integrated in the Isle of Berk and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter that give Florida’s newest amusement park its pizazz. Mythological creatures soar overhead in The Untrainable Dragon while the most fantastic beasts from around the globe take the stage at Le Cirque Arcanus. These elaborate productions utilize performers, puppetry, music, special effects, and pure magic.

Purchasing tickets for Universal Epic Universe

One-day tickets for Universal Epic Universe start at $139 (plus tax) for adults and children aged 10+ ($134 for children aged 3-9). Rates vary according to the day and season and the ticket is valid only on the selected date. While it’s possible to buy tickets at the gate, advance purchase online or via the Universal Orlando Resort app is recommended. Consider an Express Pass when visiting during peak times to reduce wait times.

Admission is also available as part of a bundle with Universal Orlando Resort’s other three sites. The “Universal Orlando Three Park Explorer Plus One-Day Universal Epic Universe Ticket” starts at $150 per day. It grants four days of access spread over 14 days. Visitors may transit freely between Universal Studios Florida​, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay whereas the Universal Epic Universe is covered for one day. This digital ticket is only available for purchase online and through the app. Annual Passholders can buy one‑day tickets at special rates.

How long to spend at Universal Epic Universe

It’s impossible to cover the hub and four themed lands in one day; two to three days is recommended for a comprehensive experience inclusive of rides, attractions, dining, and shopping. With careful planning, you can devise a one-day route based around your top priorities. The Universal Orlando Resort app is a handy tool for finding your way around the lands, monitoring wait times, browsing food menus, and making table reservations.

Getting to Universal Epic Universe

Photo: theoutersight /Shutterstock

Universal Epic Universe is a 10-mile drive south of downtown Orlando and a 12-mile drive west of Orlando International Airport. Journey times take 15 minutes, give or take, from either and it’s a similar drive time from Universal Studios Florida. Complimentary shuttle buses link the original parks and resort hotels.

For those staying offsite in an Airbnb near Universal Florida, you’ll need a rental car or rideshare. The address is 1001 Epic Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819.

Food and drink at Universal Epic Universe

There are close to 30 dining locations dotted throughout the five worlds. These are the best places to refuel and refresh at Universal Epic Universe.

Atlantic: This full-service Celestial Park eatery floats in the pool of Neptune. Dine on succulent steak and fresh seafood as gigantic fish glide around the tables.Bar Moonshine: Sip on Butterbeer-inspired brews and Gigglewater at this witchy snack bar in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There’s pumpkin juice for the nippers and the designated driver.Toadstool Cafe: Chow down on gourmet burgers in tribute to the brand’s mascots or Bowser’s Fireball ChallengeMead Hall: Big appetites are mandatory at this quick-service restaurant dishing up glazed meats, grilled fish, and flavorsome ales.Das Stakehaus: Skewered morsels and other sinister delights are served by vampires’ “familiars” at this spooky tavern atop the catacombs of Dark Universe.Where to stay near Universal Epic Universe

Staying at one of Universal Orlando’s 11 resort hotels comes with such benefits as complimentary shuttle buses, early park admission, and skip-the-line privileges. The Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, is the closest option with themed suites, Mediterranean dining, a zero-entry pool, and a classy rooftop bar. All luxurious rooms have a dedicated entrance to Universal Epic Universe.

Booking an Airbnb is an alternative option that can be more comfortable with younger kids or larger families. This three-bedroom vacation rental is a five-minute drive from the theme park and within walking distance of restaurants and amenities. There’s free parking and you’ll have access to a shared pool, hot tub, and clubhouse.

Accommodating 16 guests, this six-bedroom Airbnb near Universal Epic Universe has a private pool and a themed kids’ bedroom with a slide. You’ll be able to use the resort pool, splash park, gym, and indoor golf suite.

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