Everything You Need to Know About Universal’s Epic Universe (Before You Go!)

Universal Orlando Resort is leveling up—big time. Opening officially on May 22, the brand-new Epic Universe theme park is already being called a game-changer in the world of immersive theme park experiences. I’ve been collecting feedback from fellow travel advisors who’ve previewed the park, and I’m here to give you the inside scoop: what to expect, what to plan for, and what might surprise you.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

🌌 First Impressions: EPIC in Every Way

From everything I’ve seen and heard, one thing is clear: Epic Universe is absolutely beautiful. Every land is incredibly detailed, visually rich, and immersive. This isn’t just about new rides—it’s about transporting you to entirely new worlds. It’s bold, imaginative, and unlike anything else Universal has done before.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

🌞 What’s Inside: The Five Lands of Epic Universe

Here’s a quick tour of the five main lands you’ll find inside Epic Universe:

1. Super Nintendo World

Race through the Mushroom Kingdom with Mario and friends in this interactive land full of kinetic energy. Guests love the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge attraction, which blends real and virtual worlds. With a Power-Up Band, you can collect virtual coins and participate in challenges around the land. I love all the colors and crazy visuals in Super Nintendo World. It really does look like you’ve stepped into a video game world! Mario is a great choice here, as so many generations have played some version of Mario Brothers. This land has a very wide appeal and I think fans of all ages will find something here to enjoy.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

2. How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk

This land is perfect for families. Fly with dragons, explore Viking-style villages, and enjoy kid-friendly rides and interactive experiences. It’s bright, cheerful, and full of motion. I’m most excited about this one! And with the live-action version of “How to Train Your Dragon” opening in a few weeks, the timing couldn’t be better. I think there is a whole lot of new fans of this franchise about to emerge! Visitors have been particularly excited about the character interactions in Isle of Berk. They love meeting the dragons (and their riders!!)

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

3. Celestial Park

This dreamy central hub features stunning fountains, glowing gardens, and celestial architecture. It’s home to some of the park’s dining, shopping, and relaxation areas—and it’s designed to be a space where all the lands converge.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

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

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

This new chapter in the Wizarding World brings you into 1920s Paris, inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films. This area looks very different from the other two Wizarding World lands at Universal and Islands of Adventures, but like those two other Wizarding Worlds, the attention to detail is very strong. Visually, this area looks AMAZING and immersive. I’ve heard really good things about both the attraction and the entertainment here. However, the attraction has had some technical issues and we’ve seen incredibly long lines.

Photo: Destinations to Explore

Universal briefly offered a virtual queue, to MUCH controversy. I personally really like virtual queues as I would prefer NOT standing in line–but people were unhappy that they weren’t able to secure a spot in the virtual queue. After years of managing virtual queues at Disney, I understand the frustration, but I also understand that there are only so many riders that will be able to ride the attraction in a given day–if the queue fills up, it means that all those slots have been filled. Disappointing, but I’m happy not to stand in line for hours. Universal received LOTS of complaints, so they eliminated the virtual queue. The following days saw people standing in line for up to FIVE hours. I just don’t have that in me, I’m sorry. I don’t care how great an attraction is–I’m not going to be standing in ANY line ANY WHERE for five hours. But that’s just me. Your mileage may vary.

5. Dark Universe

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

Universal Monsters fans, this one’s for you. Think Dracula, Frankenstein, and eerie, Gothic thrills. It’s moody, mysterious, and designed for those who love darker storytelling. I’ve also heard really terrific things about the character interactions in Dark Universe. You have the chance to “see” the Invisible Man, Frankenstein, the Bride of Frankenstein…lots of fun characters here! Guests have been raving about the rides, here, too. I really love that Universal went this direction here…lots of classic “scary”. There’s so much rich story in these properties–and way less gory and violent than more current horror movies. I know the Halloween Horror Nights audience loves all the modern horror movies, but I believe the classic film characters and stories featured in Dark Universe will have wide appeal and potentially draw new fans to these old classics.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

⚡ Real Talk: Things to Know Before You Go

🔥 It’s HOT

There’s not much shade. While trees and greenery have been planted throughout the park, they haven’t filled in yet—so it can get very hot, especially in the middle of the day. Bring an umbrella, a cooling towel, a handheld fan, and lots of water. If you’re heat-sensitive, plan your visit accordingly.

⬆️ There Are Stairs in Ride Queues

Several ride queues feature stairs or elevation changes. This is something to note if you or someone in your party has mobility concerns. Be prepared for some up-and-down walking throughout your day.

❌ Not Plus-Size Friendly

Unfortunately, Universal still has work to do in terms of body inclusivity. Many of the new attractions at EPIC Universe are not significantly more accommodating than existing Universal rides. If you’re concerned about ride access, I recommend reaching out ahead of time so we can strategize the best attractions for your group.

⏳ Pack Your Patience

With the park just opening, crowds will be large and lines will be long—especially this summer. Booking early entry options, staying at a Universal hotel, or visiting during slower travel periods can help you make the most of your time.


Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

🎡 Who Will Love Epic Universe?

  • Gamers and Nintendo fans (Super Nintendo World is truly next-level)
  • Families with kids (Isle of Berk is a must-see!)
  • Harry Potter fans craving something new
  • Theme park junkies who love cutting-edge attractions
  • Anyone looking for a brand-new experience in Orlando
Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

It’s a great addition to a Universal Orlando vacation—and pairs beautifully with a few nights at a Disney resort if you want the best of both worlds.


Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

✉️ Let’s Start Planning Your EPIC Adventure

If you’re thinking about visiting Universal Orlando in 2025 or 2026, now’s the time to start planning. Epic Universe will be very popular for the foreseeable future, and the best resort and ticket packages are going fast.

As a certified Universal Travel Advisor, I can help you:

  • Choose the best travel dates based on crowds and weather
  • Find the right Universal resort (with perks like early entry)
  • Build a custom itinerary that fits your pace and budget

Click here to request a quote or send me a message—I’d love to help you plan an epic escape!

EPIC UNIVERSE: Tickets, Hotels & Planning Tips

In this week’s Beyond the Castle edition, I’m back with PART TWO of my Epic Universe coverage! Last week, we explored all the incredible lands and attractions coming to Universal’s groundbreaking new theme park. This week, I’m breaking down EVERYTHING you need to know about tickets, hotels, and planning strategies to make your Epic Universe experience truly… well, EPIC!

Opening day (May 22, 2025) is just over a month away, and tickets are SELLING FAST! Here’s all the info you need to start planning your visit.

TICKET OPTIONS & PRICES

Universal has rolled out several ticket options for Epic Universe, and it can be a bit confusing to navigate. Let me break it down for you!

Epic Universe Opens May 22
Universal Orlando

Single-Day Tickets

Great news! Single-day tickets to Epic Universe are NOW AVAILABLE for everyone! Initially, Universal only offered them to Annual Passholders, but as of March 2025, they’ve opened single-day sales to the general public.

Single-Day Ticket Pricing:

    • Starting at $139 for adults and $134 for children for dates in June 2025
    • Prices vary by date (just like Disney’s dynamic pricing)
    • Peak times and weekends will cost more
    • Opening day (May 22) tickets are currently $156 plus tax

For Annual Passholders, single-day tickets range from $121-$173 depending on the date you visit.

Multi-Day Ticket Options

If you’re planning to experience more of Universal Orlando, these multi-day options include Epic Universe:

2-Day Option:

    • One day at Epic Universe + one day at Universal Studios Florida and/or Islands of Adventure
    • Starting around $156.50 per day

3-Day Option:

    • One day at Epic Universe + two days at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure
    • Starting around $117 per day for adults ($351 total)
    • Florida residents can access the same package starting at $117 per day ($351 total)

4-Day Option:

    • One day at Epic Universe + three days at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure
    • Pricing varies by date

5-Day Option:

    • One day at Epic Universe + four days at Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and optional Volcano Bay
    • Pricing varies by date

Express Pass & VIP Options

Want to skip the lines? Epic Universe Express Passes are now available!

Epic Universe. Battle at the Ministry.
Battle at the Ministry                                                                                 Concept Art: Universal Orland Resort

Express Pass:

      • Starting at $130 per person (in addition to park admission)
      • Grants one-time entry into eligible attractions
      • Unlike at other Universal parks, Express Pass is NOT included with stays at premium Universal hotels

VIP Experience:

      • Starting at $300 per person (in addition to park admission)
      • Includes a four-hour guided tour with Express line access

Annual Pass Considerations

If you’re a current Universal Orlando Annual Passholder, your existing pass will NOT include Epic Universe. Passholders need to purchase separate single-day tickets to visit the new park. I suspect that eventually there will be a version of the Universal Orlando Annual Pass that includes a specific number of days each year for Epic Universe; however, it will likely be some time before such an option is available. And, in all likelihood, such a pass will come at a premium price. Most likely, based on the response to early previews of Epic Universe, the park will be extremely popular for potentially years to come. Universal may not feel the need to make any accommodation for Annual Passholders until demand levels off.

Epic Universe. Isle of Berk.
Concept Art: Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Resort Guests: PREVIEW TICKET Opportunity for Epic Universe!

BREAKING NEWS: Universal Helios Grand Hotel was originally slated to open on May 2, 2025, the same day as Epic Universe’s opening day. However, that has changed. Universal Helios Grand Hotel is now opening on April 16, 2025. Reservations are available to be booked immediately.

Even better, there will be a select number of Epic Universe PREVIEW TICKETS available for purchase for guests staying at ANY Universal Hotel every day from April 16 through May 21. This will give you EXCLUSIVE access to experience Epic Universe BEFORE it opens to the public!

Rooms will go FAST for this special preview, so message me now to lock in your stay before this epic sneak peek disappears!

Epic Universe ticket information, Hotel updates and planning tips. Universal Helios Grand Hotel
Concept Art: Universal Orlando Resort

There is of course no guarantee that you’d be able to obtain an Epic Universe PREVIEW TICKET. They are very limited and subject to availability each day. You’ll visit guest services at your resort to see if any tickets remain available, and you COULD be disappointed. But imagine if you’re able to be one of the very limited early guests? How AMAZING would that be?

NEW HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

Three brand new hotels are opening as part of the Epic Universe expansion.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Epic Universe. Universal Helios Grand Hotel

This is the crown jewel of the Epic Universe hotel collection:

      • Located INSIDE the theme park with its own dedicated entrance
      • Mediterranean-themed with 500 rooms
      • Features sweeping views of Celestial Park
      • Rooftop bar and lounge
      • Resort-style pool, hot tub, and poolside bar
      • Signature restaurant: Florida Taverna
      • Starting at approximately $352 per night, varying by date

The concept art and early preview pictures we’ve seen are stunningly beautiful! This resort is truly gorgeous, and is the first Universal resort that has seriously tempted me out of my Disney bubble.😉

Lush landscaping, lots of flowing water and striking views of Epic Universe from many vantage points–Universal Helios Grand Hotel appears to be a unique deluxe property.

Epic Universe. Universal Helios Grand Hotel.
Universal Helios Grand Hotel Guestrooms

 

 

 

 

And perhaps most intriguing? Universal Helios Grand Hotel features 35 suites themed to “How to train your dragon”. How cute are these rooms?!?

Epic Universe. Universal Helios Grand Hotel. How to Train Your Dragon Kids Suites.
How to Train Your Dragon Kids Suites, Universal Helios Grand Hotel

 

Universal Stella Nova Resort

Already open! This cosmic-themed hotel features:

      • 750 rooms themed around stars and galaxies
      • Resort-style pool
      • Poolside bar and grill
      • Quick-service dining hall
      • Walking path to Epic Universe
      • Starting price point is lower than Helios Grand Hotel

Stella Nova Guest Rooms

Universal Terra Luna Resort

Now open with:

      • 750+ rooms themed around planets and outer space
      • Interactive planet projection in the lobby
      • Outdoor pool
      • Poolside bar and grill
      • Several dining options
      • Similar price point to Stella Nova

Epic Universe. Terra Luna Resort
Terra Luna Guest Rooms

MY TOP EPIC UNIVERSE PLANNING TIPS

1. When to Visit

      • Avoid Opening Week if Possible: Expect MASSIVE crowds May 22-31
      • Weekdays in June: Potentially lower crowds before summer vacation season fully kicks in
      • September/October: After summer rush but before holiday season

2. Ticket Strategy

      • Book Multi-Day if Possible: One day simply won’t be enough to experience everything
      • Consider Express Pass: Given the expected crowds, Express Pass might be worth the investment despite the high price
      • Book Early: Tickets for popular dates will sell out

3. Park Strategy

Remember, Epic Universe uses a hub-and-spoke design, which means:

      • You’ll need to return to Celestial Park to move between lands
      • This creates more walking than at traditional parks
      • Plan your day by grouping attractions in each land

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

4. Attraction Priorities

Based on similar attractions at other parks, here’s my prediction for longest wait times:

Highest Priority (Ride First or Get Express Pass):

      • Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
      • Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
      • Mine-Cart Madness
      • Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
      • Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

Epic Universe Opens May 22!
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Medium Priority:

      • Stardust Racers
      • Dragon Racer’s Rally
      • Yoshi’s Adventure
      • Fyre Drill

Lower Priority:

      • Constellation Carousel
      • Shows and walkthroughs

5. Early Park Admission

Starting May 23, 2025, Early Park Admission will be available at Epic Universe, granting access to:

      • Super Nintendo World
      • Stardust Racers

Epic Universe. Super Nintendo World.

This perk is typically available to Universal hotel guests and select pass holders.

6. Where to Stay

      • For Ultimate Convenience: Universal Helios Grand Hotel ($$$$)
      • For Value & Still Close: Universal Stella Nova or Terra Luna Resorts ($$$)
      • Budget-Friendly Option: Stay at an off-site partner hotel with shuttle service ($$)

Epic Universe. Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts
Concept Art: Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts

Is It Worth Adding To Your Disney Trip?

As a Disney-focused travel planner, I know many of you are wondering if you should add Epic Universe to your next Walt Disney World vacation. Here’s my take:

YES if:

      • You’re planning a trip of 7+ days
      • You love immersive themed experiences
      • You’re a fan of Harry Potter, Nintendo, How to Train Your Dragon, or classic horror
      • You enjoy thrill rides

MAYBE NOT if:

      • You only have 4-5 days total (stick to Disney)
      • You’re traveling with very young children
      • You’re on a tight budget

Epic Universe. Isle of Berk.
Concept Art

My Recommendations

If you’re planning to visit Epic Universe in 2025, I strongly recommend:

    1. Book your hotel NOW (especially if you want to stay at Helios Grand)
    2. Purchase tickets in advance
    3. Consider a 2-day Epic Universe ticket if your schedule allows and IF Universal allows.
    4. Add Express Pass if it’s within your budget
    5. Plan for a rest day after your Epic Universe visit – this park is going to be HUGE!

I’m personally planning my first Epic Universe visit for later this summer, and I cannot WAIT to share all the details with you! Stay tuned for my full review once the park opens.

Who’s planning to visit Epic Universe this year? Drop a comment below!

 

 

 

EPCOT, Les Chefs de Paris, Cocktails in France
If you’d like assistance with planning your Universal Orlando Resort vacation, or even a Disney/Universal hybrid vacation, I’m your girl! Email me today for a free, no obligation quote.

Epic Universe Opens May 22!

UNIVERSAL’S EPIC UNIVERSE: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ORLANDO’S NEWEST THEME PARK

Welcome to Beyond the Castle! Each week, we’re posting about vacations to destinations OTHER than Disney World, Disneyland or Disney Cruise Line. [WHAT?!? You mean there are OTHER vacation destinations? I had no idea!! LOL]

This week, we’re not going very far. I promise, we will go all around the world in coming weeks, but right now, we’re staying in the same neighborhood: Universal Orlando.

For the last few years, Universal Orlando has been building a new theme park, Epic Universe. At long last, Epic Universe is almost ready to open. It’s already in previews so I decided it was time to take a deep dive.

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Opening May 22, 2025, this is Orlando’s first brand new theme park in 25+ years, and the previews are getting me SO excited I just HAD to tell you all about it! So far, we’ve mostly seen concept art for Epic Universe. However, they’ve released a lot of concept art and honestly, it’s all been dazzling.

While I haven’t visited Epic Universe yet (preview testing is currently underway for Universal team members and seemingly their friends and family–I haven’t made that list just yet), I’ve gathered ALL the details you need to know about this game-changing addition to Orlando’s theme park landscape. Let’s dive in!

Epic Universe opens May 22! Universal Orlando
Concept Art: Universal Resorts

What is Epic Universe?

Epic Universe will be Universal Orlando’s third theme park and fourth park overall (alongside Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay water park). Located about 15 minutes from the main Universal resort area on a massive 750-acre site, this new park aims to “forever redefine theme park entertainment” according to Universal.

What makes Epic Universe unique is its layout. Unlike traditional theme parks where lands connect in a circle, Epic Universe uses a “hub-and-spoke” design with one central hub (Celestial Park) and individual “worlds” extending outward through five portals like spokes on a wheel. This means you’ll need to return to the central hub to access different lands! [Subtext: Lots more walking!]

The Five Worlds of Epic Universe

1. Celestial Park

Celestial Park serves as the main entry hub of Epic Universe, but it’s much more than just a pass-through area. This gorgeously themed area features astronomical and mythological-inspired architecture surrounded by gardens and water features.

Epic Universe Opens May 22!
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Attractions in Celestial Park include:

  • Constellation Carousel: A fantastical carousel where riders aboard constellations glide forward, backward, and even make 360-degree rotations through a choreographed dance of music and starlight.
  • Stardust Racers: A dual-launch roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 62 mph with vehicles that criss-cross each other’s paths. (I’ve been hearing REALLY good things about this one from the previews.)
  • Astronomica: Water-based attractions perfect for cooling off in the Florida heat.

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Dining options include:

  • The Atlantic: An underwater-themed seafood restaurant enclosed in glass, creating the illusion of dining beneath the sea.
  • Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant: Offering diverse Asian cuisine options.

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

This is the THIRD Wizarding World at Universal Orlando, but with a completely different focus! Themed to the Fantastic Beasts franchise (a spinoff prequel to the Harry Potter series), this land will let you explore wizarding Paris of the 1920s, then take the Métro-Floo to the British Ministry in the 1990s.

In my opinion, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter “lands” at both Universal Orlando and Universal Islands of Adventure are the strongest, most highly themed areas in each of those two parks, so I have VERY high hopes for Ministry of Magic at Epic Universe. The Fantastic Beast series films have a very different look and feel from the original Harry Potter films, and the preliminary concept art for Ministry of Magic seems to align with that.

Epic Universe opens May 22!
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Attractions include:

  • Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry: The main attraction, this ride will likely utilize cutting-edge technology to immerse riders in spellcasting duels, featuring encounters with Death Eaters and a rescue mission to save Sirius Black.
  • Le Cirque Arcanus: A full-scale theatre experience featuring live performers, puppetry, and special effects.

Epic Universe Opens May 22!
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Dining options include:

  • Le Gobelet Noir: Offering soups, salads, entrees and desserts.
  • Cafe L’air De La Sirene: A French cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with baked goods, sandwiches, desserts, and of course, butterbeer!

3. How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Based on the beloved DreamWorks animated trilogy, this land is set at a time in the franchise when Vikings and dragons coexist peacefully, specifically between the second and third films. It will be one of the largest areas in Epic Universe!

I am SO excited to visit Isle of Berk. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the “How to Train Your Dragon” movies. They are so cute, and I love the messaging. The timing of Epic Universe opening May 22 is really good too–there’s a live action “How to Train Your Dragon” movie coming out in June that I am really looking forward to. I think it will introduce a whole new audience to this franchise.

Epic Universe Opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Attractions include:

      • Hiccup’s Wing Gliders: A multi-launch roller coaster that simulates flying with dragons, offering breathtaking views and heart-pounding drops.
      • Dragon Racer’s Rally: A dual sky fly attraction that puts guests in control of their dragon, challenging riders to outmaneuver each other in aerial combat.
      • Fyre Drill: An interactive boat ride where you’ll encounter dragons and experience Viking life.
      • The Untrainable Dragon: A Broadway-style live show.
      • Viking Training Camp: A children’s play area.

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Dining options include:

  • Mead Hall: The central gathering hall where you can feast like a Viking and enjoy a savory menu featuring a variety of meats, fish, sandwiches and more along with a collection of meads and ciders.
  • Spit Fyre Grill: A quick-service restaurant overlooking the Fyre Drill attraction.
  • Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel: A festive racing-themed food stand.

4. Super Nintendo World

Nintendo fans, rejoice! After successful launches at Universal Studios Japan and Hollywood, Super Nintendo World comes to Orlando with even MORE attractions than its counterparts!

Epic Universe Opens May 22!
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Attractions include:

      • Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: The world’s first interactive Mario Kart theme park ride, where you can hit your enemies with shells, race around the tracks, and experience so much more with special vehicle glasses.
      • Yoshi’s Adventure: A family-friendly ride aboard Yoshi.
      • Mine-Cart Madness: A Donkey Kong-themed roller coaster exclusive to the Orlando location at opening.
      • Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown: An interactive gaming experience.

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Dining options include:

      • Toadstool Cafe: Serving American cuisine with Nintendo-themed twists.
      • Yoshi’s Snack Land: Quick-service treats.

5. Dark Universe

Horror fans will love this land dedicated to Universal’s classic monsters! The coolest dining option seems to be The Burning Blade Tavern, which is topped with a windmill that smolders and flames. Inside, monster hunters have hung their trophy heads on the wall.

 

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Attractions include:

      • Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment: A cutting-edge dark ride experience.
      • Additional horror-themed attractions and experiences featuring iconic Universal monsters like Dracula, the Wolf Man, and the Creature from the Black Lagoon.

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is the other land that I am most excited to visit at Epic Universe once it opens. I was really surprised when I read about Dark Universe, but I love that Universal is doing something with these classic properties. Frankenstein? The Wolfman? Dracula? YES, PLEASE. I think the concept art for Dark Universe is the most interesting of all the concept art released so far for Epic Universe.

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

Dining options include:

      • The Burning Blade Tavern: A themed dining experience for monster hunters.
      • Das Stakehaus: A vampire-themed restaurant (get the pun?).
      • De Lacey’s Cottage: A food stand for quick bites.

Current Preview Status

As of early April 2025, Universal is conducting previews of Epic Universe with select Team Members, with construction largely shifted to overnight hours in areas where previews are occurring.  According to reports, the first phase of Team Member previews has been extended multiple times, suggesting the park is getting valuable feedback to refine the experience before opening.

Universal has restricted team members from posting their own photos or reviews during these previews, though professional park photographers are capturing some images. This suggests Universal is being extremely careful about managing first impressions of this potentially groundbreaking park.

Restricted or not, I have watched a LOT of videos from guests that have had a chance to preview the park and I’ve read a lot of reviews. They don’t show the park, and they don’t give a lot of details, but they are talking about their impressions. So far, everything I have watched or read have been VERY EXCITING. It really sounds like Epic Universe may actually live up to the gorgeous concept art and all the promotional rhetoric.

I, of course, will reserve judgement until I go for myself–but I am cautiously optimistic, based on what I’ve seen so far.

Epic Universe opens May 22
Concept Art: Universal Orlando

What Makes Epic Universe Special?

Beyond just the impressive lands and attractions, Epic Universe is setting new standards for theme park experiences. Universal Destinations & Experiences CEO Mark Woodbury has described it as “the most technologically advanced park we’ve ever done,” featuring “next generation of robotics, drone technology, all the way through to the guest experience.”

The park will also utilize facial recognition technology to create what Universal calls a “frictionless experience” throughout the resort. I’m really curious to learn more about what this will mean for the guest experience. I’ll be sure to keep you posted as we learn more!

Next Week: Tickets, Hotels, and Planning Tips!

In next week’s Beyond the Castle blog post, I’ll dive deep into all the ticket options, hotel packages, and planning tips you need to know to make the most of your Epic Universe visit! I’ll cover single-day tickets, multi-day options, annual pass information, express passes, and the brand new hotels opening as part of this expansion.

Who else is SUPER excited to experience Epic Universe? Let me know in the comments which land you’re most looking forward to exploring!

 

 

 

Brooke Epcot Headshot WDW Magical Castles Travel
P.S. I’d love to help your next travel adventure. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free quote!