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The Ultimate Guide to Universal Epic Universe
Get ready to explore the astonishing new Universal Epic Universe theme park at Universal Orlando Resort. Explore the lush gardens of Celestial Park and step through incredible portals that transport you to mind-blowing worlds: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ - Ministry of Magic™, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe.
Epic Universe
Universal Epic Universe isn’t just a new theme park — it’s a whole new way to play. Here, you’re not just visiting different worlds; you’re stepping right into them. From zipping through Bowser’s Castle to flying with dragons to sipping tea that literally changes color, Epic Universe is designed to surprise, delight, and maybe even spook you (in the best way possible).
Let’s take a portal-by-portal tour of everything waiting for you — and why you’ll want to stay a while.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™
If you’ve ever dreamed of jumping into a Nintendo game, your moment has arrived. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ bursts with vibrant colors, larger-than-life characters, and rides that make you feel like a champion racer, a daring explorer, or a kid on a very lucky day.
Your adventure should start early — hotel guests get first dibs here, and trust us, the crowds come racing in fast. Begin with Mario Kart™ Bowser’s Challenge, where you’ll speed through a multi-sensory race filled with twists, turns, and Bowser-sized surprises. After that, hold onto your hat (literally) on Mine-Cart Madness™, a rollicking ride that brings Donkey Kong’s world to life. For something a little gentler but just as magical, Yoshi’s Adventure offers a family-friendly journey high above the Mushroom Kingdom.
When your stamina runs low, swing by The Bubbly Barrel for the famous Donkey Kong Crush Float — a bright, tropical blast that tastes like winning. And don’t rush out too fast: Mario, Luigi, Toad, and Princess Peach are all hanging out for meet-and-greets, and if you have a sharp eye, keep a lookout for tiny Pikmin hiding in the greenery. They're up to something. They always are.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™
Muggles, consider this your official invitation to something spectacular. The Wizarding World’s latest expansion whisks you into the halls of the Ministry of Magic™, where every corridor hums with enchantments and a few secrets.
The centerpiece here is Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™, a thrilling ride that currently uses a virtual queue system (check the Universal Orlando app for times — they currently drop three times a day). Even if you don’t land a ride slot, walking through the queue is an experience unto itself, revealing incredible details straight out of J.K. Rowling’s world.
In between magical mishaps, stop by Café L’air De La Sirène™ for a Butterbeer Crepe — a sweet, flaky tribute to the Wizarding World’s most famous beverage. Or refresh yourself with the dazzling Beau Thé Bleu d’Occamy at Bar Moonshine™ — a cooling tea that shifts from shimmering blue to sparkling purple before your eyes.
And if you’re feeling a little mischievous, make sure to bring your interactive wand (or purchase one) so you can practice a few spells.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
The wind howls, the dragons soar, and the Vikings are, well, causing their usual chaos. Welcome to the Isle of Berk, where you don’t just watch the adventures — you live them.
Start your training on Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, soaring through the skies alongside dragon riders. Then crank up the thrill at Dragon Racer’s Rally, a high-flying competition that’s perfect for riders with a competitive streak. Looking for a splash of fun? Fyre Drill is a playful, family-friendly water ride where getting soaked is part of the mission. Little ones (and grown-ups who are young at heart) will love blowing off steam at Viking Training Camp, an interactive playground built for budding dragon tamers.
Once your stomach starts rumbling louder than a grumpy dragon, refuel with a hearty Mac and Cheese Cone from Hooligan’s Grog and Gruel. And save room for a sweet stop at How to Treat Your Dragon, where even Toothless would sit pretty for a snack.
Don’t leave Berk without snapping a photo at Haddock Paddock — where Hiccup and Toothless are always ready for a legendary selfie (and they’re not the only dragons you can spot around the isle).
Dark Universe
Darkness has a new home, and it's wonderfully eerie. In Dark Universe, Universal’s classic monsters come roaring — and shrieking — back to life with a modern twist.
If you dare, step into Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, where chaos is king and the screams are very real. Curse of the Werewolf lures you into a misty forest filled with hair-raising turns during the full moon.
Need something to steel your nerves? Grab a table at Burning Blade Tavern and sink your teeth into the Hunter’s Garlic Stake — flavorful, filling, and maybe just enough to ward off some vampires. Das Steakhouse offers a more upscale, vampiric dining experience for those craving a (slightly) more elegant encounter with the darkness.
For a monstrous transformation of your own, book a session at the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience. Heads-up: if you're 21+ and get monster-fied, the park asks you to skip the alcohol for the day — monstrous behavior, after all, doesn’t mix with cocktails.
As you wander, you might bump into Frankenstein’s Monster, his Bride, Ygor, or even catch a glimpse of the Invisible Man. And yes, he’s surprisingly easy to spot.
Celestial Park
At the very center of Epic Universe lies Celestial Park — a lush, sparkling hub where worlds collide, stars twinkle by day, and the adventure feels endless.
Coaster fans, don’t miss Stardust Racers, a breathtaking launch coaster complete with a little nod to a certain time-traveling DeLorean (keep your eyes peeled for a tiny Flux Capacitor). Meanwhile, the Constellation Carousel offers a cosmic spin like no other, with brilliantly glowing creatures and whimsical rides under the stars.
When it’s time to refuel, the universe delivers: The Oak & Star Tavern smokes their brisket for 14 hours, and you can taste every single delicious minute. Or grab a slice at Pizza Moon and cool down with sweets from Frosty Moon.
Shopping, More Dining, and Places to Stay
Of course, you’ll need souvenirs — this is a journey you’lll want to remember, after all. Stop by the Nintendo Super Star Store to find collectibles set under stunning stained-glass windows featuring Link, Zelda, and more. Or embrace the holidays year-round at North Star Wintry Wonders. And whatever you do, make sure to snag a chocolatey treat from Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets — especially one featuring the park’s unofficial mascot, Captain Cacao. (You’ll know him when you see him.)
Want to stay inside the action? Three new hotels will be part of the Epic Universe experience:
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Universal Helios Grand Hotel – Luxurious accommodations right inside Celestial Park.
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Universal Stella Nova Resort – A cosmic-themed value hotel.
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Universal Terra Luna Resort – A planetary adventure hotel focusing on exploration and discovery.
Or consider staying within reach in Kissimmee, the Vacation Home Capital of the World®. With more than 30,000 vacation rentals ranging from two-bedroom condos to 15-bedroom mansions, all expertly designed to make sure your immersive experience doesn’t end when you leave the theme parks.
The Universe Is Ready. Are You?
From flying through fantastical worlds to discovering monsters lurking in the shadows, Universal Epic Universe invites you to dream bigger, scream louder, and laugh harder than ever before.
Adding a little more time to your trip? There’s no shortage of things to do in Kissimmee from outdoor adventures to more legendary theme parks and local attractions. Grab your ticket, pick your portal, and remember: the only thing bigger than the thrills here is the smile you’ll have when you leave.