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How to Make the Most of Your Family Visit to Epic Universe

Published 2 days ago6 minute read

When Universal Studios announced they would be opening a new theme park, I was intrigued. As a parent and a lover of both their movies and properties, I couldn’t wait to see what their creative teams dreamed up. And, as a self-proclaimed “theme park person,” one who already loves Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure, I was sure their latest venture would be amazing. But would Epic Universe—home to Dark Universe, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, Celestial Park, and the Ministry of Magic—be age-appropriate for my littlest as well as my tween? Would it be good for kids of all ages?

Well, the short answer is yes: Epic Universe is a family theme park, through and through. But the long answer is complex.

You see, I was one of thousands fortunate enough to visit Epic Universe during its technical rehearsal. I got to ride Stardust Racers and Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. I ate at Das Stakehaus and the Atlantic. And I got to meet Princess Peach. I also saw the Invisible Man, Frankenstein’s Monster, and Bride of Frankenstein.

Statue of Bowser from Mario Kart ride in Epic Universe. Photo:

Kimberly Zapata


Here’s everything I learned during one (very) full day at Epic Universe.

If you are traveling with young children, you’ll probably want to stick to three areas: Celestial Park, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk. The theming in these sections is colorful and geared toward the younger set. The characters are pretty darn recognizable. (Hello, Mario, Toothless, and Toad.) The height requirements on most attractions are reduced. And there are plenty of interactive features. From playgrounds to coin blocks, there is so much fun to be had.

That said, it is important to note that lap riding is not permitted, even on rides without height requirements. Infants must be able to sit independently and support their bodies while experiencing rides, including Fyre Drill and Constellation Carousel. Still, there are things to do with smaller children. There is a play area in the Isle of Berk and a must-see show. There is also a show in the Ministry of Magic. And SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is full of games and activities. 

Toad in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD in Epic Universe. Photo:

Kimberly Zapata

You also shouldn't let the “younger” theming or lowered height restrictions fool you: These areas were some of my favorites. Both SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and Isle of Berk are completely immersive experiences. The former, with its iconic castles, characters, and warp pipe entrance, and the latter with dozens of dragons, three rides, and one amazing show do not disappoint. And Celestial Park? Well, it is unlike any other theme park entrance.

If you are traveling with tweens and teens, we still recommend you visit the other three sections; however, you should also add Dark Universe and the Ministry of Magic to your list. Dark Universe is home to one of the greatest dark rides of all time. (Truly. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experimentis a masterpiece, in and of its own right.) It’s also home to some amazing character interactions. My husband and son met Frankenstein’s Monster and the Bride of Frankenstein and let’s just say: core memories were made. And the Ministry of Magic is stunning. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, it is a must-see. 

Whether you are looking for a sit down meal or just want to grab a quick bite, the food in Epic Universe does not disappoint. Everything I ate—and drank—was decadent, delicious, and highly themed. Even the napkins are on point.

Interior of Das Stakehaus at Epic Universe. Photo:

Kimberly Zapata

Here are some of my favorites:

I did not get a chance to try the highly-coveted mac and cheese cone at Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel or the ube crust pizza at Pizza Moon; however, when I return, these are definitely on my short list. (And yes, I will be returning.)

Epic Universe offers some amazing new attractions, with unique features and state of the art technology. For some rides, however, this does mean the bar is set higher, i.e. height requirements at Epic Universe seem to be a bit more restrictive.Here is everything parents of smaller riders should know:

Dark Universe

  • . There are two ways to interact with the lands in Epic Universe: wands and Power-Up Bands. Both items, which are sold separately, allow guests to experience the park in a new light: casting spells, tapping coin and question blocks, or completing mini-games (respectively). The latter even connects to the Universal Orlando Resort app. And, if your kiddo collects enough keys, they’ll unlock a final interactive challenge with Bowser Jr. 
  • If I have one complaint to wager, it is this: Epic Universe is not really a “rainy day park.” Sure, it can handle Florida’s midday storms just fine, but there’s not a ton to do if the rides shut down for a long period of time—as most of Epic’s attractions are outdoors. Still, if you find yourself in the park during a storm, having a strategy is a good idea. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry both have long indoor queues, if you don’t mind the wait. Eating a delicious sitdown meal may be a good solution. The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant and Atlantic are excellent choices. Both are located in Celestial Park. Toadstool Cafe, Pizza Moon, Das Stakehaus, and The Oak and Star Tavern all offer indoor seating. You can also take in a show, if seating is available.

Epic Universe is—without a doubt—an epic new theme park: for kids and adults. Whether you are collecting coins, casting spells, or soaring through the skies like a dragon, Universal’s latest venture is something you just have to experience. They redefined what a theme park is. 

Will there be hiccups in the weeks and months to come? Probably. When Universal opened The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade,the wait to get in was hours long. (I would know, I was there.) And I expect Epic’s popular attractions will see similar waits. Delays and closures are also bound to occur. However, Epic Universe already stands out as one of the great theme parks, and I imagine that—as it finds its footing and evolves with its guests—it will become an even greater experience.

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