Universal Orlando Resort is home to three incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay. The resort’s fourth theme park, Universal Epic Universe, will debut in 2025.
Epic Universe will feature five new lands with more than 50 unique experiences, including rides, attractions, shopping, and dining. Along with the theme park, three new hotels will open.
If you’re like me, you’re already planning your trip to Universal Orlando and how to tackle Epic Universe, despite not knowing the exact opening date. The park will be filled with some of Universal’s most beloved characters, transporting you and me into iconic places like Super Nintendo World and the Ministry of Magic from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Keep reading to learn everything we know about Epic Universe ahead of its opening next year.
What new lands will there be in Epic Universe?
The five lands that will make up Epic Universe are:
- Celestial Park
- Dark Universe
- Super Nintendo World
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
I’m most excited about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic and Dark Universe, but all the lands sound like fun for the whole family.
Celestial Park is the core of Epic Universe
Upon entering Epic Universe, guests will pass under the “Chronos” to find themselves in Celestial Park. This land is the central point from which you can enter any of the other four areas. Think of Celestial Park as the park’s spine that connects to the other four lands. This hub-and-spoke layout will make navigating the new theme park easy for everyone.
Rides and entertainment in Celestial Park
Celestial Park will have a mix of chill and thrill, with areas to enjoy living gardens and fountains plus two exciting attractions that the entire family can enjoy. The first ride is Constellation Carousel, a space-themed take on a traditional carousel, though with a few surprises for riders. The second attraction is Stardust Racers, a dual-launch racing coaster that will reach 62 miles per hour over 5,000 feet of track. This ride is great for thrill seekers since it will have a “Celestial Spin” maneuver, where the two coaster vehicles will perform an inverted crisscross while speeding over the track. Celestial Park will also be home to Astronomica, an interactive dancing fountain attraction that will be a great spot to cool off on those hot Orlando afternoons.
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Dining in Celestial Park
Celestial Park will feature full-service and quick-service restaurants. If you want to take a break from the rides and enjoy a relaxing meal, head to Atlantic, a full-service restaurant themed after a Victorian aquarium with great views of Celestial Park. Another full-service option is the Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant, where Chinese, Japanese, and Thai dishes grace the menu. Those looking for a quick bite can get BBQ at The Oak & Star Tavern or pizza at Pizza Moon.
Shopping in Celestial Park
Epic Universe park goers looking to do a little retail therapy can do so at multiple shops, like the Nintendo Super Star Store where merchandise is themed to Super Nintendo World, and Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets, where you can find a variety of sweet treats.
Dark Universe at Universal Epic Universe
Universal Monsters fans were heard cheering (or howling at the moon) when Universal announced its Dark Universe land for Epic Universe. The land is themed after the iconic monsters of Universal lore, like Dracula, The Wolf Man, and Frankenstein’s Monster. As guests enter through the Dark Universe portal and traverse the village of Darkmoor, they will encounter some of their favorite characters, plus hop into the line for some of Universal’s most immersive attractions yet.
Rides and entertainment in Dark Universe
There are two attractions and two entertainment offerings in the Dark Universe. The first attraction is a family-friendly spinning coaster called Curse of the Werewolf. Here, you’ll enter the encampment of The Guild of Mystics, and be told that everyone bears the mark of the werewolf. After getting on a wagon-themed ride vehicle, you’ll race to escape the werewolves before becoming one.
The most hyped attraction in Dark Universe, and maybe all of Epic Universe, is Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. Universal claims this is the most terrifying attraction they’ve ever created, so it may not be suitable for all children. That said, the dark ride takes guests into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor where you meet Dr. Victoria Frankenstein as she experiments on monsters to control them. The ride features The Wolf Man, The Mummy, The Creature from the Black Lagoon, the Brides of Dracula, and more.
Those looking for something a little calmerc can check out the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, where everyone can become a monster through face painting and temporary tattoos. The makeover experience will likely need to be booked in advance, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Of course, you can meet your favorite Monsters, like Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s Monster and the Bride of Frankenstein. Around Darkmoor, you’ll also see a few roaming characters like Victoria Frankenstein’s servant, Ygor, a monster hunter known as The Invisible Man, and a traveling musician who shares the lore of monsters through song.
Dining in Dark Universe
When hunger strikes like lightning, head to one of the three options in the village. Das Stakehause is a dining hall that features artwork and artifacts showcasing Darkmoor’s monster residents. Here you can enjoy a menu filled with kebabs, burgers, sandwiches, and more. At Burning Blade Tavern, monster hunters known as “Hounds” have turned the old mill into a lively hangout complete with monster head trophies dotted around the space. The menu at Burning Blade Tavern is filled with bar food favorites like burgers, wings, bratwurst, pretzels, and specialty drinks.
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Snacks in Darkmoor can be found at De Lacey’s Cottage. The food stand will feature treats like ice cream, twisted taters, cinnamon bread, and more. I can only hope that the cinnamon bread is as good as the one from Dollywood.
Shopping in Dark Universe
The main shopping opportunity inside Dark Universe is Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities, which has commemorative merchandise.
Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe
Step into Super Nintendo World where the worlds of Super Mario and Donkey Kong will come to life at Epic Universe. The land’s entrance is as iconic as its characters with the famous green pipe that will transport you from Celestial Park into Super Nintendo World. The space will be divided into two mini-lands, Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country.
Rides and entertainment in Super Nintendo World
In Super Mario Land, the main attraction will be Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. After going through Bowser’s Castle, you’ll board your kart to collect coins, toss shells, and dodge obstacles to finish the race. The game-style attraction uses a mix of big props and augmented reality technology to make it feel like you’re in a real game of Mario Kart. The second family-friendly attraction is Yoshi’s Adventure, where you can see incredible views of Super Mario Land while searching for glowing eggs and spotting famous characters.
No visit to Super Nintendo World is complete without seeing your favorite characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad. All of these characters can be found in Super Mario Land.
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In Donkey Kong Country, you can ride Mine-Cart Madness, a first-of-its-kind family coaster. On the ride, you’ll help Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong protect the golden banana and experience some of the maneuvers that have only been seen in Donkey Kong video games. I’m excited to experience jumping over the gaps in the track and getting blasted out of a barrel.
Dining in Super Nintendo World
Dine at Toadstool Cafe, where dishes are inspired by the world of Super Mario. The quick-service restaurant will feature Mario and Luigi-themed burgers, Fire Flower Spaghetti and Meatballs, and more.
There are two walk-up stands inside Super Mario Land: Yoshi’s Snack Island and Turbo Boost Treats. The menus have not been released for these snack spots, but I’m hoping the Princess Peach soda from Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood makes an appearance at one of the Orlando locations.
Shopping in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
If you’re looking for cute Super Mario-themed souvenirs head to Mario Motors or the 1-UP Factory. Here you can find everything from apparel to toys.
Epic Universe’s The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
The land I’m most excited to explore is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. The land will complement the two existing Wizarding World lands at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. The new Harry Potter-themed land will feature distinct spaces themed after Paris in the Fantastic Beasts movies and the British Ministry of Magic from the original Harry Potter movies and books.
Rides and entertainment in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
The main attraction inside the third Wizarding World will be Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry. The ride takes place at the British Ministry of Magic, accessible by the Métro-Floo, a sort of transportation inspired by the Floo Network in the Harry Potter movies, taking you from Paris to Britain. As the story goes, you’re at the Ministry of Magic to see the trail of Dolores Umbridge. Before the trial begins you will board “omnidirectional lifts” to watch the trial. Of course, things don’t go as planned and you have to help Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and a house elf named Higgledy re-capture Umbridge.
After saving the day at the Ministry of Magic, head to Le Cirque Arcanus to see a show featuring some of the fantastic beasts from Newt Scamander’s suitcase. The show follows Ringmaster Skender, who is trying to bring the circus back to its glory days, but things go a little sideways. This is the first full-scale theater experience in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
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Throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic you can use your interactive wands to cast spells and interact with fantastic beasts, just like in the other two Wizarding World spaces at Universal Orlando Resort. You may also run into a few roaming characters including exchange students from Hogwarts and Ilvermorny Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and a French Auror.
Dining in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
There will be four dining opportunities inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe. The first is Cafe L’Air De La Serène, featuring French sandwiches and desserts. If you’re looking for something more mysterious, try Le Gobelet Noir, where dark witches and wizards gather over soups, salads, entrees, and desserts.
Those looking for a drink with a side of Quidditch fun will love Bar Moonshine, where exclusive beer, wine, and cocktails are served. And no visit to the Wizarding World is complete without sipping on Butterbeer, which can be found at the Bièrauberre Cart.
Shopping in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Wizards who don’t have a wand yet can head to Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique. This French-inspired wand shop will feature wands from Ollivanders, plus wands packaged in unique three-sided boxes that are unique to this location.
You can also get your wizarding gear at Les Galeries Mirifiques, sweets from K. Rammelle, or Ministry of Magic-inspired items at Tour En Floo.
How To Train Your Dragon – Isle Of Berk at Epic Universe
If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to live with Vikings and train dragons, the How To Train Your Dragon – Isle Of Berk land will be your favorite portal at Epic Universe. While exploring, don’t forget to look up because dragons may even be flying overhead.
Rides and entertainment in How To Train Your Dragon – Isle Of Berk
There are multiple rides and attractions in the dragon-filled land. On the family-friendly thrill coaster, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, you’re invited to try Hiccup’s latest glider machine. The coaster will reach speeds of 45 miles per hour around Berk and through the lagoon beneath them. Then over at Fyre Drill, you are divided into teams to outscore and outsoak one another in a boat battle to blast water cannons at targets. The last attraction is Dragon Racer’s Rally, where you’ll board a pendulum swing-style ride that can reach up to 67 feet in the air.
If you’re looking for a spot to chill between rides, head to The Untrainable Dragon show. The live show features beloved characters from the How to Train Your Dragon movies to solve a mystery, complete with musical numbers, life-sized dragons, and larger-than-life sets.
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Berk is a great spot for kiddos who want to become Vikings too. At Viking Training Camp, kids can learn about dragons and play at an interactive play camp, which features an agility course, teeter-totter, climbing apparatuses, and more.
Visitors who want to meet Hiccup and Toothless can do so at the Haddock Paddock. And you never know who may be walking around Berk throughout the day.
Dining in How To Train Your Dragon – Isle Of Berk
When it’s time to grab a bite to eat, head to Mead Hall, which is at the center of Berk, to chow down on everything from meats and sandwiches to fish and more, plus sip on mead and cider. At Spit Fyre Grill, you can enjoy a quick-service meal of flame-seared dishes overlooking the Fyre Drill attraction. And in the Viking Camp, head to Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel for quick bites and snacks.
Shopping in How To Train Your Dragon – Isle Of Berk
The How To Train Your Dragon-themed land features four shops: Viking Traders, How to Treat Your Dragon, Hiccup’s Work Shop, and Toothless’ Treasures.
Universal hotels opening near Epic Universe
Along with a new theme park, Epic Universe will feature three new hotel options for those wanting to stay on property at Universal Orlando Resort.
Helios Grand Hotel inside Epic Universe
Located inside Epic Universe at the end of Celestial Park is the Universal Helios Grand Hotel. The 500-room property is designed to transport guests to a world where the heavens and earth unite, complete with one-of-a-kind views and a dedicated entrance into the Epic Universe. The resort does not currently have an opening date, and more information about dining, shopping, and entertainment options at the hotel will be announced at a later date.
Universal Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts near Epic Universe
The first of the three Epic Universe-centric hotels to open its doors to guests will be the 750-room Universal Stella Nova Resort, opening on January 21, 2025. Its sister property, Terra Luna Resort will also have 750 rooms and opens February 25, 2025. Both properties will be operated by Loew’s Hotels & Co. The resort prices are surprisingly affordable, starting at $147 per night based on a four-night or longer stay. Both resorts will have an outer space theme.
A room comes with access to the resort pool, fitness center, game room, recreation room, and Universal Orlando Resort store. Guests will also get exclusive theme park benefits, including one hour of early admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, or Universal Volcano Bay. There will also be complimentary bus transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk.
Our early thoughts on Epic Universe
With everything slated to come to Epic Universe plus three new resort properties, Universal Orlando Resort is really challenging what a theme park resort can be and how guests will interact with the lands inside the park. The launch of Epic Universe will surely make Universal Orlando Resort a multi-day destination (at least four days in our minds), and even up to a week-long destination if families want to do everything that all three traditional theme parks and the onsite water park have to offer. Of course, we can’t wait to explore Epic Universe ourselves, so keep an eye out for our future reviews of the hotels and park experiences as 2025 comes and Epic Universe opens.
Editor’s Note: This article features some copy from contributor Carly Neil, who worked on a story about Epic Universe before all the lands and experiences for the theme park were announced.
