Epic Universe: My Unforgettable 3-Day Adventure at Universal’s Newest Theme Park!

For the first time in more than two and a half decades, a fresh major theme park is making its debut among Orlando’s lineup of themed entertainment, and after spending several days delving into Universal Orlando’s latest theme park and its accommodations, I am ready to share my thoughts: this one is unlike anything else.

Universal Orlando extended an invitation to TopMob for a multi-day press event at the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe, and here is my account of the daily happenings as I experienced this groundbreaking occasion. This narrative will cover the park’s successes and areas for improvement, as well as how it compares to its competitors.

Day 1: Universal Orlando’s New Resorts & VIP Tour

Essentially, the grand opening of Epic Universe took place a day ahead of media coverage due to the construction of not only a new theme park but also three hotels, namely Stella Nova Resort, Terra Luna Resort, and Grand Helios Resort, all providing access to this park by Universal Orlando.

Stella Nova Resort

At Stella Nova Resort, you find yourself not just in a budget-friendly accommodation but a top-tier value hotel, according to Universal’s classification. Having stayed at other theme park value hotels, I can assure you that Stella Nova stands out as a significant improvement.

Despite Stella Nova and Terra Luna’s theming not being as robust as some other theme park resorts, these accommodations offer immaculate rooms that are surprisingly spacious. The food is exceptional (and they have a Starbucks counter for your theme park coffee fix); furthermore, free shuttles are provided to and from all Universal Orlando’s theme parks and CityWalk, and there’s a walking path leading to Epic Universe.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

During the entire event, I managed to remain at Stella Luna. However, on the first day, Universal extended an invitation to the media for a sneak peek at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel.

Located within Universal’s Theme Park, this Mediterranean-style hotel from Loews, part of their elite “Signature Collection,” is a pioneer as it’s the first resort constructed inside a theme park. It boasts numerous advantages, such as a special entrance into Epic Universe, a rooftop bar offering panoramic views, rooms with park vistas, and Early Park Access, enabling guests to enter the park an hour ahead of the general public.

VIP Tour

To round off the first day, Universal provided TopMob with an exclusive tour of Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure as a special treat. This VIP experience is open for purchase by the general public, and Universal aimed to impress the media with their past accomplishments while also demonstrating that regular fans can enjoy line-skipping benefits too.

The tour commenced with consecutive thrilling rides, starting with Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Islands of Adventure and the VelociCoaster in Jurassic World. Riding a motorcycle (or sidecar) through the Wizarding World on the first one, you’ll encounter numerous unexpected surprises as you journey through ruins. The second ride takes you on a high-speed coaster ride through a raptor paddock, featuring an exhilarating “Mosasaurus roll” over the park’s lagoon that left me breathless (and eager for another chance to enjoy it!).

Following a journey aboard the Hogwarts Express to Universal Studios Florida, the tour included a whirl through Diagon Alley’s Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, The Mummy, and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. Now, although VIP Tours come at an extra expense, this theme park enthusiast is seriously pondering this upgrade on her own budget, particularly since Epic Universe has joined the lineup.

Day 2: Epic Universe Preview

The long-awaited moment arrived. The second day at the event started off with an early walk through Epic Universe’s Celestial Park, leading us to the grand unveiling of the portal in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.

The moment we had been waiting for finally came. As we began our second day at the event, we embarked on a morning walk through Epic Universe’s Celestial Park, which led us straight to the portal opening ceremony at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

“We, My Friends, Have Dragons!”

In the universe of the “How to Train Your Dragon” animated series, between the second and third films, Universal Orlando allowed us exclusive access to an expansive area for the morning. I started with a ride reminiscent of Dragon’s Racers Rally, where you experience the sensation of flying like a dragon while adjusting the level of excitement (skilled riders can even perform barrel rolls). However, there are a couple of drawbacks: this ride has limited capacity, which means you may have to wait quite some time, and its duration might be too brief considering the wait. Nevertheless, the main attraction in this land is Hiccup’s Wing Gliders.

24 hours after experiencing Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure and VelociCoaster, it’s impressive to note that this family coaster ranks among Universal’s finest. Though it lacks inversions, it effectively replicates the sensation of flying on a dragon, soaring across the entire land, even over water bodies. Moreover, it features animatronics (including Toothless!) and music reminiscent of “How to Train Your Dragon” film score, which adds to its charm significantly.

On Isle of Berk, you can enjoy various adventures such as the Fyre Drille, a Viking-style boat ride, encountering the adorable Toothless at Haddock Paddock, visiting several eateries reminiscent of Mead Hall, and interacts with characters like Asterid, the Night Lights, and the amusing Ruffnut and Tuffnut roaming around.

Additionally, you’ll find interactive elements, mechanical dragons and sheep, a Viking Training Ground, and the “Untameable Dragon” stage performance where Toothless and Hiccup seem to soar above you.

Super Nintendo World

“Here We Go!”

Following a delightful meal at Celestial Park’s Pizza Moon, reminiscent of a charming scene from an old pop-up book, Universal then unveiled the entrance to the next Epic Universe for Super Nintendo World.

Unlike the unique worlds found in other parts of Epic Universe, Super Nintendo World isn’t an original creation. You can find similar versions at both Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood. However, the version in Epic Universe shares more resemblance with Japan’s, due to its incorporation of Donkey Kong Country and the Mine-Cart Madness roller coaster.

Without delay, I made a beeline for the Mine-Cart Madness roller coaster since it mimics jumping off the tracks (similar to a video game), but without the need for screens. Additional Information: The coaster adopts an omnimover system for boarding, so the vehicles keep moving, reducing waiting times for guests considerably. Moreover, the queue is brimming with details and Easter eggs, even featuring a tribute to the classic Donkey Kong game.

In my opinion, Mine-Cart Madness is brilliantly designed, but the experience itself is quite intense and raw. It was so unsettling that I found myself eagerly waiting for the ride to conclude. At this point in time, I might only be able to appreciate its concept rather than actually playing it.

Speaking as a devoted Mario Kart fan, let me share my thoughts on Bowser’s Challenge – an interactive Mario Kart experience reminiscent of its Japanese and Hollywood counterparts. The re-creation of the iconic Rainbow Road finale and the authentic sets are truly impressive. However, I must admit that the 3D animated overlay could use some improvement. Yet, the line to get in? It’s worth every moment! To put it simply, I felt like I had stepped into Bowser’s Castle, and I didn’t want my adventure there to end.

In Super Nintendo World, the third attraction is Yoshi’s Adventure – a leisurely, family-oriented ride that offers stunning vistas of the multi-tiered landscape and its intricate details. However, the rides are merely the beginning of the activities on offer here. Interacting with characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Donkey Kong, playing interactive games, and even collecting coins using Power-Up Bands are some of the other engaging experiences this land offers. The catch? The Power-Up Bands come at a price of $45 (plus tax).

Find out what Epic Universe’s director said about those Zelda rumors here!

Day 3 – Epic Universe Preview

On the last day of Universal’s Epic Universe event, it turned out to be the most crowded one. The day kicked off by venturing through a mysterious, violet gateway leading to Dark Universe, a place where Darkmoor Village resided along with the timeless Universal Monsters.

Dark Universe

“It’s Alive!”

Nestled within the expansive Dark Universe lies the decaying yet picturesque hamlet called Darkmoor Village. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a blend of shopping, dining, and character interactions before embarking on an exhilarating journey to Frankenstein Manor, the focal point of the park. Inside this majestic castle, guests walk through its grand halls, climb its imposing staircases, and even step into the laboratories of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein – a direct descendant of Dr. Henry Frankenstein, known for his inflated self-importance. This is more than just a themed ride facade; guests are invited to explore it in depth. The main attraction here is Monsters Unleashed: The Frankenstein Experiment.

In Monsters Unchained, you’ll find a similar ride system to Universal Studios’ Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, where it provokes the thought: “Who truly is the monster?” This question arises as Dr. Victoria battles to restrain Dracula within the castle’s catacombs. As you progress, a swarm of eerie beings are let loose. Visitors generally agree that the ride’s 14 intricate animatronics are the main attraction, with a remarkable 9-foot-tall Frankenstein Monster making an appearance during the preshow.

Darkmoor Village is where you’ll find the thrilling spinning coaster known as Curse of the Werewolf, the garlic-free Das Stakehouse, and The Burning Blade Tavern, a lounge modeled after the burning mill from the 1931 film Frankenstein. And, be aware that the windmill sets fire every 15 minutes (the bell tower will alert you), while villagers with torches can often be spotted and heard through the trees!

Celestial Park’s Stardust Racers

During my lunch hour in Celestial Park (where I’ve got some thoughts, stay tuned), I took the opportunity to hop on Stardust Racers – a thrilling dual-track roller coaster that lets riders zoom like shooting stars through the sky at 62 mph and reaching heights of 133 feet. On occasion, you’ll even find yourself intertwining with the other track upside down!

I need to be honest with you. In my opinion, this roller coaster might have surpassed VelociCoaster as the best ride in my book. It’s almost transcendent. And what makes it even more extraordinary is its nighttime lighting package, where the coaster trains appear like shooting stars racing across the sky. Plus, the “Back to the Future” themed Easter eggs on the back of each car make it even more delightful. Could this nod to the past be a clue about Universal Orlando’s future plans as well?

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

“For In Dreams We Enter a World That Is Entirely Our Own”

Following lunch and a thrilling Stardust Racers ride (not necessarily in that sequence), Universal Orlando unveiled the entrance to its third Wizarding World of Harry Potter area, modeled after 1920s Paris and influenced by the Fantastic Beasts movie series.

Instead of saying “Universal Orlando’s previous Harry Potter lands are the definition of immersion and detail,” you could say “The immersion and attention to detail in Universal Orlando’s previous Harry Potter areas are unparalleled.”

Instead of “Ministry of Magic raised the bar once more with its to-scale replica of Parisian streets and thoroughfares,” consider using “The Ministry of Magic surpassed itself yet again, recreating actual Parisian avenues in perfect scale.”

In this revised version: “The immersion and attention to detail in Universal Orlando’s previous Harry Potter areas are unparalleled. The Ministry of Magic surpassed itself yet again, recreating actual Parisian avenues in perfect scale – quality worthy of the world’s finest theme parks.

At this park, visitors can enjoy two unique attractions. The first is Cirque Arcanu, a performance housed within the park’s circus tent, and secondly, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, which boasts an unparalleled queue experience that might just be the best in history. Some people even claim it to be Epic Universe’s top ride. Notably, it combines time travel with elements from two different Harry Potter series.

As a movie connoisseur, stepping into Battle at the Ministry feels like a magical time-warp from the roaring 1920s to the mystical 1990s. This isn’t just any queue; it’s an immersive journey that eclipses even the Star Destroyer hangar in Rise of the Resistance at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The Floo Network fireplaces, puffing green smoke, serve as our portals, transporting us straight into its enchanting world.

Visitors journey further into the Ministry, traversing Dolores Umbridge’s office en route, then stepping onto a luxurious elevator for her trial. However, during the ride, Dolores Umbridge makes an attempt to flee. In response, guests find themselves accompanying Ron, Hermione, Harry, and Higgledy in a thrilling chase through the Ministry, complete with elaborate stage sets and astonishingly realistic animatronics. It’s worth noting that prior knowledge of Harry Potter is not essential to fully appreciate this immersive experience.

In the magical world established in Paris, food plays a significant role, and visitors have the opportunity to explore hidden gems such as Bar Moonshine, Le Gobelet Noir, and Café L’air De La Sirène.

The cafe doesn’t offer table service, but its opulent Art Nouveau design and charming Parisian street-side seating make it appear as if it should. Notably, there’s a Butterbeer Cart (complete with Butterbeer crepes!) on site, and I can vouch that the Butterbeer tastes every bit as delightful in Paris as it does at Hogwarts or Diagon Alley.

Grand Opening Celebration

Following Universal whisking us back to Stella Nova Resort for a brief respite, we were escorted to Epic Universe’s main entrance, where we could enter through the Chronos Tower. This magnificent tower, not only serving as the park’s primary entrance, but also acting as its symbol, is renowned for its emerald splendor. As per the legend, it captures energy from the cosmos, allowing visitors to be transported to Celestial Park (a name that truly reflects its grandeur) and other thematically diverse realms.

Following a walk along the “blue” pathway, we were all free to explore Celestial Park for the night and enjoy it under the stars! After browsing through the various shops like Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets, North Star Wintry Wonders (where an artificial snowfall was happening), I made my way towards one of the last attractions I hadn’t visited yet – Constellation Carousel.

Although it shares the name “Carousel,” Constellation Carousel is far from your typical spinning ride. Instead, it’s a unique waterfront attraction housed under a dome resembling a constellation. Inside this dome, seven separate turntables move not horses or chariots but enchanted animals adorned with glittering LED lights in unexpected directions.

As night fell, Celestial Park’s gardens and water features started to radiate light, along with the themed entrances leading to various lands, each offering unique experiences once it got dark. To conclude the evening, Constellation Park’s fountains presented a breathtaking performance, featuring speeches by Mark Woodbury, CEO of Universal Destinations and Experiences, and Steven Spielberg. This was followed by an awe-inspiring drone display above the Grand Helios Hotel, making for an unforgettable spectacle.

In simpler terms, the debut of a new attraction, hotel, or performance is always significant, but the unveiling of a new theme park like Epic Universe sets a new standard in entertainment history. After two days of exploring this park, I can confidently say that it surpasses all previous Universal productions, boasting exceptional cohesion and quality.

Moreover, Epic Universe demonstrates that Universal has the ability to create a park with the artistic finesse, charming characters, and compelling storytelling that was previously thought exclusive to Disney. If this marks the beginning of a competitive race in the realm of theme park entertainment, I am proud to have been present at its inception.

2025-06-09 03:07