Unveiling Epic Universe: My Thrilling Journey Through the Grand Opening Events!

This is my personal account detailing those remarkable days – the sights I beheld, the rides I took, the food I savored, and the emotions I experienced as one of the first people ever to set foot in Universal’s groundbreaking venture – their most ambitious project thus far. This first-person narrative offers a vivid portrayal of the triumphs, some challenges, and all the factors that make Epic Universe an exceptional milestone in innovative theme park design.

My personal diary chronicles those special days, what I witnessed, rode, ate, and felt as one of the first people to visit Universal’s most ambitious project yet. This journal offers a real-life glimpse into the highs and lows, making Epic Universe a pioneering achievement in immersive theme park design.

Over the years, I’ve attended many unveilings of attractions and themed events at Universal Orlando Resort, such as Halloween Horror Nights, the glitzy Fast & Furious Supercharged premiere, the openings of Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Illumination’s Minion Land. However, nothing can rival the thrill of witnessing the opening of an entire new park.

Day 1: Into the Isle of Berk

Exploring Universal’s How to Train Your Dragon land with flying rides, dragon animatronics, and immersive Viking theming.

Our journey commenced within the setting of ‘How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk’, which served as a prelude to the immersive experience that Universal Orlando Resort intended to create with their Epic Universe. The theming of this land is exceptional, integrating ropes, nets, and carved wood elements into its design rather than conventional gates and walls. Important safety messages and information are engraved onto rocks, while the lanterns showcase dragon motifs. Even the restrooms boast dragon murals to maintain the thematic consistency.

1. “The immersion is spot-on, with the local crew authentically portraying their roles and attired appropriately. It’s also worth noting that the actors portraying the cherished characters from ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ are simply outstanding.”

2. “The immersion is perfect, as team members in character and costume lend an authentic feel to the location. Moreover, the talented actors playing the iconic characters from ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ truly excel.”

Upon visiting the family-oriented Viking Training Camp playground first, I headed to Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel next. There, I savored the signature dish of Isle of Berk – the Mac & Cheese Cone. This delightful snack is both enjoyable and flavorful, with its unique garlic bread “cone” and mac & cheese hidden beneath the topping making it an unforgettable treat.

First up is our exhilarating flight: Dragon Racer’s Rally, an aerial-themed ride that allows you to perform a barrel roll! Each participant takes the reins of their own dragon-riding trainer. By skillfully manipulating handles and adjusting your body weight, you can take control and have a blast.

After that, we had a leisurely ride on the Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a delightful and seamless family roller coaster where Hiccup himself provides the narrative. Plus, you might catch a glimpse of Toothless there, along with some other surprise dragons.

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Later, we enjoyed a relaxing journey on the Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a friendly and effortless family roller coaster that features Hiccup as your guide. You’ll also spot Toothless and maybe some additional unforeseen dragons during this ride.

In the afternoon, we ventured into the stunning Mead Hall, a grand banquet venue adorned with dragon sculptures, banners, chandeliers, and doors that towered over 16 feet high at the entrance. The food was laid out for us to examine, featuring a variety of dishes such as meat, fish, sandwiches, and desserts. The chefs were present, offering interviews and explanations about their themed culinary masterpieces.

Up next was the “Fyre Drill” water ride: hop aboard a Viking longboat and engage in a battle with water cannons. The interactivity is amazing, as you’ll have the chance to drench other boats. It’s not just enjoyable; you absolutely will get wet. Don’t forget your ponchos!

A colossal Snow Wraith robot was quite striking, spraying mist towards visitors. Afterward, at the Spit Fyre Grill, we picked up a protein bowl (I opted for chicken, though there are five options including a vegan one), along with another Mac & Cheese Cone. Later on, we stopped by How to Treat Your Dragon, a sweet shop and merchandise outlet themed around dragons, boasting intricately designed candies and walls adorned with murals.

Following several more attempts at performing a barrel roll using Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, we departed Berk with the impression that it could very well be Universal’s finest family-friendly destination yet. I was able to flip my glider over, but failed to execute a full rotation.

Celestial Park: The Hub That Isn’t a Hub

Home to Stardust Racers, Constellation Carousel, and a wide range of dining options in Epic Universe’s central space.

Through Universal Orlando Resort, staff may prefer not using the term “hub,” but the expansive and open area known as “Celestial Park” serves as the connector for the entire Epic Universe. With an elegant touch, it links attractions like the Isle of Berk and Super Nintendo World together. During our midday break, we dined at both the Atlantic and Pizza Moon eateries, and then enjoyed the rides in Celestial Park throughout the day.

As I wandered around the spacious theme park, I hopped onto the captivating two-tiered carousel called the Constellation Carousel. This enchanting ride, with its cosmic characters and groovy tunes, boasts a nocturnal ambiance that transforms it into Celestial Park’s main attraction after sunset, just as much as during the day. The lighting is simply magical.

At my initial meal break in Epic Universe, I visited Atlantic – a venue boasting the Aquaria Bar at its entrance and several tiers of dining spots offering stunning vistas of Celestial Park’s water and fountains. The scallops and dessert samplings were delightful at this seafood-oriented eatery; however, their burger sliders fell short. They turned out to be overly dry and charred instead of being enjoyable.

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve discovered a truly unique dining experience at Pizza Moon – a spacious eatery that serves up delicious dishes in a cafeteria-style setting. The design, reminiscent of the Victorian era, adds an enchanting touch to the ambiance, evoking memories of “A Trip to the Moon.” The entire aesthetic aligns seamlessly with this classic film, making it an immersive dining experience for all.

I’ve had the pleasure of trying every pizza option they offer, and I must say that their meatballs are simply outstanding! If you find yourself venturing through Celestial Park, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Pizza Moon a try. It’s a culinary journey you won’t forget!

After having two meals, I quickly made my way to Celestial Park’s thrilling dual-track roller coaster, Stardust Racers, without a moment’s hesitation. This ride is hard to miss as it’s visible from all around, and its riders’ joyful screams are just as audible. We hopped on for three consecutive rides, experiencing both the green and yellow tracks. The green track seemed to provide a bit more airtime, while the yellow one offered more twists and turns.

On the second day at Epic Universe, I’ve got additional insights about Stardust Riders. This roller coaster not only provides thrilling experiences but also reaches speeds surpassing 60mph due to a double-boost moment. What’s more, it soars as high as 133 feet, embodying the sensation of racing a comet against another coaster. As you traverse, there are unexpected twists and turns over and under the competing coaster, with moments where you even face each other while upside-down. In my opinion, it’s simply outstanding!

Super Nintendo World: Super Mario Land & Donkey Kong Country

Power-Up Bands, immersive visuals, and the debut of Mine-Cart Madness – why this new area is a mixed experience.

Stepping into Super Nintendo World following a meal, we found ourselves transported through the well-known green Warp Pipe from Celestial Park. The eye-catching, vivid designs that mirror the SNES classic instantly drew attention. I made a beeline for Yoshi’s Snack Island, a quick-service eatery offering themed smoothies and calzones. I opted for the Red Shell Calzone, which looked appealing, but was only fair with excessive crust and insufficient filling. Priced at $12.99, it seemed overpriced given its size, although it certainly appeared appetizing. On the other hand, I wholeheartedly recommend the Yoshi’s Smoothie, available in Mango or Apple Melon flavors, which costs a reasonable $7.49.

Prior to entering Super Nintendo World, I was given a Diddy Kong Power-Up Band that connects to the Universal app. This accessory allows me to activate mini-games and interactive features within this theme park area. For instance, visitors can participate in challenges to collect at least three keys, which they can then use their band to enter the Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown – an interactive game where movements are used to dodge attacks and knock away incoming Bob-ombs.

The Power-Up Bands are available in multiple character themes and cost over $40 per unit, including tax, making them a pricey additional expense to engage with. To set up the Power-Up Band, you simply need to scan a QR code provided in the packaging to update your smartphone’s Universal app, followed by another QR code on the Band itself to link the device. For gamers, an extra perk is that the Power-Up Band functions as an amiibo and can be synced with the Nintendo Switch.

In the Super Mario Land area of Nintendo World, you’ll find two exciting rides. One is specifically designed for young kids, offering a gentle, leisurely, and family-oriented experience called Yoshi’s Adventure. This delightful ride takes you on a tour through the charming landscapes of the Mushroom Kingdom. Along the way, there are hidden colored eggs to find, and pressing the matching egg button on your ride handle adds an interactive element to this journey.

In Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, visitors get a chance to embark on a more daring journey. You don a customizable Mario hat, step into your own kart, and put on AR goggles that guide you when it’s time to steer and aim during the race. By timing your turns correctly and launching shells at Team Bowser opponents using head movements, you can earn points. To emerge victorious, each rider needs to accumulate 100 points from strategic attacks and maneuvers. Despite its slow pace compared to other racing games, the thrill lies in the interactive AR experience. One of the highlights of Super Nintendo World is the queue for this ride, where you can catch glimpses of Bowser’s throne, various weapons, and intriguing references to Mario lore.

The main attraction in Orlando’s Super Nintendo World, known as Donkey Kong Country expansion, is a secluded part of this world. It boasts a stunning appearance with lush greenery, interactive elements, and vibrant energy. The sound it produces is spot-on perfect. However, the Mine-Cart Madness ride falls short in execution. Though it cleverly simulates jumps and moments from the Super Nintendo game using a false track, its design with the mine-cart connected to a hidden lower track makes it quite shaky and too rough for a satisfying experience. Despite these issues, the area offers enjoyable activities like collecting K.O.N.G. letters using the Power-Up Band and playing a drum game to bring Rambi the Rhino out of his crate.

Without a doubt, Super Nintendo World’s Mario Land and the fresh Donkey Kong Country region are definitely worth investigating, sparking nostalgia and offering breathtaking vistas. Among the attractions in the latter, I strongly suggest experiencing the DK Crush Float at The Bubbly Barrel. With a souvenir mug, this ride is even more enjoyable! It’s also worth mentioning that people are thrilled to encounter their favorite Nintendo characters such as Toad, Mario, Luigi, and Donkey Kong for a memorable photo opportunity!

In Super Nintendo World, you’ll encounter numerous staircases, making it the most vertically oriented area within the Epic Universe. Its unique layout conceals secret spots where visitors can discover engaging elements connected to their Power-Up Band missions. There’s even a shop known as the 1-UP factory, accessible via a Warp Tube entryway. The main dining establishment is the Toadstool Cafe, offering an excellent burger, appealing themed healthful options, and delightful desserts inspired by the Mario games – perfect for kids to enjoy their meal!

For younger kids, spending a fun-filled day is possible between the Isle of Berk and Super Nintendo World. Both locations offer an array of delicious food options to keep everyone satisfied. Additionally, the family-friendly Constellation Carousel in the heart of Celestial Park adds an extra layer of joy for families.

Day 2: Dark Universe Is The Surprise Star

Universal Monsters shine in a richly detailed land packed with thrills, dark storytelling, and nighttime ambiance.

On the second day, my journey commenced at the grand unveiling of the enigmatic “Dark Universe”. As I stepped through the Celestial Park gateway into this realm, the atmospheric fog and flaming windmill captivated me, hinting that this place was extraordinary. It exuded a somber, dramatic ambiance, rich in legend. To begin my adventure, I sampled some delectable “Warm-Hearted Cinnamon Treats” from a quaint shack named De Lacey’s Cottage, which proved to be delightful. Next on the agenda was a ride through the first of two attractions in this land, the thrilling “Curse of the Werewolf”.

Experiencing this exhilarating roller coaster is pure joy! What makes it even more remarkable? It’s truly exceptional when it’s filled to capacity. I’ve had the pleasure of riding it numerous times, experimenting with various seat arrangements and positions. The ultimate thrill? A fully packed coaster, where we could maximize rotation and feel the intense force of the G-forces. Yet, even on less crowded days, this ride consistently delivers an unparalleled experience, earning a spot among my top favorites in Epic Universe.

After that, I delved into the prestigious gem of the Dark Universe: “Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment“. This is a cutting-edge ride that seamlessly integrates practical effects, animatronics, and an engaging storyline. Here, Victoria Frankenstein, Ygor, and a fresh iteration of Frankenstein’s monster work together to thwart Dracula’s rebellion in the catacombs beneath the estate. The adventure embodies the progression of what guests cherish from Universal’s Potter rides, merging screens with intriguing practical elements and sophisticated animatronics.

As a film enthusiast eagerly seeking respite from the scorching heat, I ventured to an unassuming hideaway nestled beneath the town’s ancient mill – The Burning Blade Tavern. Later in the day, I found myself at Das Stakehaus, the grand eatery of this land, where a plethora of seating welcomed me and my appetite for food served upon wooden stakes.

Make sure you drop by the face-painting studio located inside Doctor Septimus Pretorius’ shop, not only for the unique facial art, but also to appreciate the impressive layout and stage design, reminiscent of a spooky pharmacy filled with monster-themed goods.

I pointed out that I ran into Ygor strolling through Darkmoor Village, and let me tell you, there’s an amazing chance to meet both Frankenstein and his Bride! This event was a huge hit. In the town square, there’s even a well that produces fog, contributing to the eerie ambiance of Dark Universe, making it the most atmospheric area in the park, especially at night when you can watch as Frankenstein Manor lights up with electricity.

This trio – the ambiance, the cacophony, and the blazing mill – elevates Dark Universe as an exceptional extension to Universal Orlando Resort. I fervently anticipate that the parks will leverage this territory, particularly during the autumnal festivities of Halloween.

Celestial Park’s Best Restaurant Revealed

Trying Food at The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant, Oak & Star Tavern and Meteor Astropub

After visiting the two lands during my Day 2 exploration in the Epic Universe, we made our way back to Celestial Park, where three more eateries were available. First, I dined at The Blue Dragon, trying their delicious Chicken Khao Soi. Although a selection of desserts concludes the Pan-Asian menu, I’d advise passing on the Passion Fruit Mooncake as it was underwhelming in flavor and overly thick and dry.

Amongst all the eateries in Celestial Park, the Oak & Star Tavern stands out as my favorite, especially for its barbecue dishes. Upon visiting, I was impressed by each menu item, but the 14-hour smoked brisket, pulled pork, mango bread, and mac and cheese truly stole the show. Don’t forget to save room for dessert – the Banana Pudding and Warm Sticky Cake are a must-try! Whenever I’m in Epic Universe, I make it a point to dine at Oak & Star Tavern. It’s simply exceptional.

To round things off, let me tell you about the Meteor Astropub, a fantastic spot for beer and cocktail connoisseurs, but its food offerings are equally noteworthy. It boasts ample seating options and I must say, the Chicken & Waffle, Grilled Fourmaggio, and Tomato Bisque are standouts on their menu. If you’re a fan of pub grub, the Meteor Astropub is definitely worth a visit. The interior design of this eatery aligns beautifully with the theme of Celestial Park.

On Day 2, after exploring two lands, we paused for a revisit to Stardust Racers before proceeding to the last location I hadn’t been to. Later in the day, I planned to return to Stardust Racers again, as it was my favorite spot. But first, I needed to stop by the concierge, where they gave me a second-generation interactive wand, chosen at random, which (in principle) could be utilized during my trip to 1920s Paris.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

A magical trip to 1920s Paris with a standout live show, immersive queue, and a new take on Harry Potter lore.

Equipped with my intricately crafted wand, designed by Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique, we stepped into the latest Harry Potter realm, the third one to open at Universal Orlando Resort, through a magical gateway, and were instantly captivated. This enchanting area is set in the 1920s Paris, and its authenticity might be what makes it stand out – possibly because it’s less overtly magical compared to Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley, which could be seen as either a positive or negative aspect.

The eye-catching Cirque Arcanus is situated right at the heart of the land, where its entrance meets the intersection of the two main streets, making it hard to miss and my first destination. This isn’t just any ordinary stage show; it blends live actors, puppets, and acrobatics in an engaging performance. As you wait in line, you pass through a carnival-like atmosphere with dim lighting that eventually leads to a spacious pre-show waiting area. The live performers and digital characters on screen collaborate flawlessly and show off some impressive stunts, like the one that instantly captivates the audience when the Demiguise emerges from Newt Scamander’s suitcase. This mesmerizing moment, along with a few other clever stage illusions, sets the stage for the rest of the show as its main antagonist, Skender the ringmaster, welcomes us into the performance.

The primary theater has open seating arrangements, where I usually choose a seat in the front row. We get to witness live performances, featuring elements like acrobatics and wirework, accompanied by a magical broomstick. Later, the main characters appear within Newt’s suitcase, and as the stage changes, we encounter our main draw – an assortment of magical creatures, brought to life through a blend of costumes and puppetry.

A touching tale, a surprise guest you’re familiar with, and an astounding finale create a premium-level event that’s worth every Galleon at the Ministry of Magic. Just like the Frankenstein’s Monster Unleashed ride, Le Cirque Arcanus is top-notch and seems perfectly suited for Orlando theme parks.

In the unique experience that is the sole Harry Potter land ride, The Battle at the Ministry, you’ll encounter beloved film characters (although they aren’t voiced by the original cast members). The queue is extraordinary, filled with interactive paintings and even a few cats. A standout character in this attraction is the amusing animatronic house elf named Higgledy, who steals the show. While the ride itself is reliable, it doesn’t offer anything truly groundbreaking to hardcore Potter fans compared to their previous experiences.

As a movie enthusiast, let me share my take on Universal Orlando’s newest addition – Epic Universe. While Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry might not be the headliner, the captivating Le Cirque Arcanus is definitely worth a visit. The new Potter land, although seemingly small in scale, doesn’t disappoint as it serves one of Universal Orlando’s best new desserts – the delectable Butterbeer Crepes that I simply couldn’t get enough of! Café L’air De La Sirène is another gem, offering a delightful selection of breakfast dishes. If you’re craving something hearty and reminiscent of Diagon Alley’s Leaky Cauldron (a personal favorite), be sure to drop by Le Gobelet Noir for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Epic Universe Nighttime Grand Opening Celebration

A peek into the grand unveiling of Epic Universe: Unrestricted entry, complimentary meals, famous personalities, and a dazzling fireworks display to conclude the festivities.

On the eve of May 21, 2025, which was a day before Epic Universe officially welcomed the public on May 22, Universal held an extravagant grand opening event for press, partners, and VIPs. The guest list included executives from NBCU, Comcast, Nintendo, Warner Bros. Discovery, Loews, as well as government officials at state and local levels, and numerous celebrities. All rides and restaurants were operational, and food and drinks were provided free of charge.

In the course of our recent visit, we once again experienced the chilling tale of “Curse of the Werewolf” within the Dark Universe, and this time around, it proved to be an exceptional journey. Additionally, we had a blast riding the thrilling “Stardust Racers”, which could very well be the most enjoyable roller coaster in all of Orlando.

The evening concluded with a breathtaking display of fireworks, drones, and water spectacle over the Cosmos Fountain, beautifully framed against the radiant Helios Grand Hotel. It was a remarkable, sophisticated, and indelible experience.

Final Thoughts on My Epic Universe Experience

Ranking Epic Universe’s lands, naming the best rides, and reflecting on a theme park experience unlike any other.

The Epic Universe truly lives up to its name, offering an experience that’s nothing short of grandiose. Designed with contemporary audiences in mind, it’s incredibly immersive, leveraging the strong intellectual properties that underpin each of its themed areas. It’s a blend of awe-inspiring spectacle and emotional depth. Each of the five realms – including Celestial Park – possesses a unique identity, grounded in lore and design that makes it feel authentic and well-deserved.

It’s difficult to rank the lands and food, but below are some easy highlights of the Epic Universe

Best Overall Land: Isle of Berk (our reporter Kara Hedash agrees from her experience at the preview)
Best Family Land: Isle of Berk
Best Ride Land: Dark Universe
Best Themed Land: Dark Universe
Best Ride Overall: Stardust Racers
Best Dessert: Butterbeer Crepes
Best Restaurant Overall: Oak & Star Tavern

Compared to Super Nintendo World, Ministry of Magic leaves a more impressive impression, boasting wider attractions, though some might argue that an additional feature would enhance its appeal. On the other hand, Super Nintendo World seems a bit cramped with limited pathways and games that appear more like novelties than captivating experiences.

As a cinephile who’s witnessed countless cinematic masterpieces, let me tell you, this theme park project has been nothing short of a blockbuster hit for me. From the initial sneak peeks we got a glimpse of, to the night of the grand premiere that will forever remain etched in my memory, it’s easily one of the most awe-inspiring theme park adventures I’ve ever taken part in.

2025-05-24 22:15