The Ultimate Guide to Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort

Here’s the ultimate guide to Epic Universe, the newest theme park in Orlando, and the latest addition to Universal Orlando Resort.

If your family loves Universal Orlando, Epic Universe takes everything to the next level! Universal’s newest theme park is finally open, and it’s unlike anything you’ve experienced before. With immersive lands, cutting-edge attractions, and more for the whole family.

Before we get started, let me introduce myself. My name is Amy, and I’m a Universal Travel Agent, a travel blogger, and a long-time Universal Annual Passholder.

As both a Universal Travel Agent and mom who’s visited the parks more times than I can count, I’m here to help you plan your visit to Epic Universe with confidence! Contact me for more information if you’d like assistance in booking your Universal vacation at no cost to you. 

What Is Epic Universe?

Epic Universe is Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, located just a few miles south of the existing Universal parks. It’s a completely new concept, a park built around a central area where guests travel through themed “portals” to entirely different worlds.

This park is about the same size as Islands of Adventure, and features four incredible themed lands (plus the central hub). There are possible areas of expansion available, so we may see more at Epic in the coming years. Each current area feels like stepping into another universe, with immersive environments and incredible attractions.

One complaint about Universal is that it’s not as immersive as Disney since you can see directly into other “lands” and areas, but Epic Universe changes that!

 The Layout: The Portals of Epic Universe

Epic Universe is made up of five main areas, the Celestial Park hub and four themed “portals.”

1. Celestial Park

Celestial Park is the main hub where your adventure begins! It’s filled with gardens, fountains, and wide-open areas that make it feel less crowded than other theme park entrances. You’ll find family dining, shops, and even attractions right here before you venture into the other lands.

The only downside is that since this is a new park, there is less shade, but I expect that will get better over time.

You’ll find two rides in Celestial Park, Stardust Races and the Constellation Carousel.

2. Super Nintendo World

One of the most anticipated lands at Epic Universe is Super Nintendo World, and it does not disappoint!

Step into the world of Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach, complete with interactive Power-Up Bands, coin blocks, and rides that make you feel like you’re inside a video game. You really do need the power up bands for the full experience.

They are sold throughout the park and are about $40.

Rides in Super Nintendo World

Yoshi’s Adventure – A slow, omnimover ride to show you around on Yoshi’s back

Type: Omnimover

Height Requirement: 34″

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge – A dark, Mario Kart-style ride.

Type: Dark Ride

Height Requirement: 40″

Donkey Kong Country Mine Cart Madness coaster – A thrilling, family coaster with a “jump” in the track.

Type: Family coaster

Height Requirement: 40″

You’ll also find interactive zones, where you can play mini-games, collect coins, and unlock secrets around the land.

Just a word of caution that some guests may find Super Nintendo World overstimulating. There is a LOT going on here!

3. How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

My oldest son was very excited about the Isle of Berk. He has been a fan of “How to Train Your Dragon” for many years.

If your kids love dragons (and who doesn’t?), this land is a dream come true! The Isle of Berk is straight out of the movies.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders – A winged flying machine that launches aspiring Dragon Riders into the air.

Height Requirement: 40″

Dragon Racer’s Rally – A  family-friendly coaster.

Type: A family-friendly coaster

Height Requirement: 48″

Fyre Drill – An interactive boat ride

Type: Boat ride/Water ride

Height Requirement: None

Pro-tip: The Meet and Greet with Toothless is one of the best meet and greets that Universal offers!

We also have a list of All the rides at Epic Universe if you want to learn even more.

4. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

This portal opens into what is now the third part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Ministry of Magic blends the 1920s Paris from Fantastic Beasts with the familiar London setting fans know and love.

Of the three parts of the Wizarding World and of the worlds at Epic Universe, this was personally the most disappointing for me. That said, it’s tough to beat the already existing Wizarding World areas!

Rides in the Ministry of Magic

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry – A combination thrill/motion simulator ride, it has similar elements to both Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (minus the drops) and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey in Islands of Adventure.

Type: Dark ride

Height Requirement: 40″

Pro tip: Lines here get long early. Head to this land first if Harry Potter is a priority for your family.

5. Dark Universe

This land celebrates Universal’s classic monsters, think Dracula or Frankenstein, but with a modern, atmospheric twist. While it’s a bit spookier, it’s still suitable for families. I was not really excited about this land as classic monsters aren’t my thing, but I was extremely impressed at how immersive it is! I think it’s one of the best in the entire park!

Rides in Dark Universe

Curse of the Werewolf – A rollercoaster with spinning elements. This is similar to the Time Traveler Roller Coast at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri, but smaller.

Type: Rollercoaster

Height Requirement: 40″

Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment – A Kuka-arm system ride, which is similar to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Type: Dark Ride

Height Requirement: 48″

Food and Dining with Kids

Universal knocked it out of the park (again) with dining at Epic Universe. There’s something for everyone, from quick snacks to sit-down meals that the whole family can enjoy.

Some top picks for families include:

• Toadstool Café (Super Nintendo World) – Fun, themed meals that kids love.
• Mead Hall (Isle of Berk) – A family favorite with hearty Viking-style food.
• The Butterbeer Bar (Ministry of Magic) – A must for Potter fans.
• The Bubbly Barrel in Donkey Kong Country – Try the famous and very photo-friendly DK Crush Float.

Check out the 7 best kid-friendly restaurants at Universal Orlando for more great dining options for families.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Every land has its own themed merchandise, so if your kids are collectors, budget accordingly! You’ll find interactive Power-Up Bands, wands, plush dragons, monster memorabilia, and so much more.

Budget tip: Set a souvenir budget ahead of time. Many of my clients buy Universal gift cards for each child (we can do this before your trip) in the amount they decide to dedicate to souvenirs.

Where to Stay Near Epic Universe

Epic Universe has three brand-new hotels: Universal Stella Nova Resort, Universal Terra Luna Resort, and Helios Grand Hotel. Stella Nova and Terra Luna are designed with families (of four or less) in mind and are affordable, modern, and just steps from the park with free transportation.

If you have a larger family (like we do!), you may want to stay at one of the other resorts and shuttle over, because neither resort has family suites. Check out our Endless Summer Surfside Inn and Suites Review for one of the most economical options for a family of 5 or 6!

Helios Grand is another Signature Hotel for Universal, joining Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay, and Loews Royal Pacific. This resort comes at a higher price point, but has some additional perks, such as an entry where you can walk right into the parks! There are also suites available at this hotel.

Do you get an Express Pass at Helios Grand?

Not YET, but I expect we’ll see this by 2027.

The ultimate guide to Epic Universe

Epic Universe brings together everything that makes Universal Orlando amazing. There are a few small things that need some ironing out (like a lack of shade), but overall, this is an incredible park and maybe the best in Orlando!

If you’re ready to plan your family’s trip to Epic Universe (or any Universal Orlando vacation), contact me today!

We have lots more Universal travel tips on the blog. Check them out!

• 5 reasons to book Universal with a Universal Orlando Travel Agent
• 15 Genius Universal Studios Hacks for 2025
• 7 best kid-friendly restaurants at Universal Orlando
• How to get chosen for the Wand Experience at Ollivanders
• 7 things to buy at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• 15 Genius Universal Studios Hacks

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