I Previewed Epic Universe! Here’s What Families Need to Know Before Visiting
I spent several days at Epic Universe and it’s unlike any theme park I’ve experienced!
When I got the chance to preview Epic Universe ahead of its 2025 opening, I knew it was going to be big. But I didn’t expect to walk away thinking:
This isn’t just another theme park—it’s a completely new way to experience Universal.
This blog isn’t just about what’s coming—this is my personal take as a professional travel planner and a mom of three children. And if you’re even thinking about an Orlando vacation in 2026 and beyond, I want you to read this all the way through.
What makes Epic Universe special?
I’m not just talking about a new park with great rides (though it has those too). Epic Universe is full of imaginative detail, interactive experiences, wide open spaces, and food that doesn’t feel like theme park food. It’s built with exploration and immersion in mind—and that’s exactly what families are craving.
I was very blessed to be able to tour the park for 3 full days, stay at one of the brand new hotels, preview the other hotel areas, and sample a lot of the actual food items that will be served in the park. It’s stunning. It’s smart. And it’s fun!
Universal’s Epic Universe is a brand-new theme park in Orlando, Florida. But it’s not just a new park, it’s a completely different experience. Imagine five uniquely themed, fully immersive lands connected by a lush central hub, and a luxurious on-site hotel.
My Favorite Things about Epic Universe
Here’s what personally stood out to me:
Celestial Park
Before you even enter the themed lands, Celestial Park sets the tone. It’s lush, open, and beautifully designed with plenty of shade and water features to help you catch your breath between the action.
Food in Celestial Park isn’t just an afterthought, it’s part of the experience! Pizza Moon has already become a standout favorite with its fun theming and crowd-pleasing slices. If you’re looking for something a little less hectic, Oak & Star Tavern offers a quieter corner with hearty carved-to-order meats. And if you're in the mood to graze while you explore, there are plenty of snack stands and outdoor bars, like Frosty Moon Ice Cream for a sweet break or a signature cocktail under the stars.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
This land was one of my biggest surprises, and I think it’s going to steal the show for a lot of families! Yes, the rollercoaster is fun, but what really makes Berk shine are the interactive experiences. Kids (and adults!) can adopt a dragon, participate in Viking training games, meet Hiccup and Toothless (and see him fly) plus actually chat with Viking characters as you roam through the village. It feels like stepping right into the movie in the best way possible—and there’s just something magical about hearing a dragon roar while ships sail in the lagoon nearby.
Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic
The new ride Battle at the Ministry is going to be a hit! During previews, wait times were already up to 5 hours! And while I’m still a diehard Hagrid’s fan when it comes to my favorite Harry Potter ride, this new land is so much more than a single attraction.
I loved getting to interact with wandmaker Cosme Acajor and Wizarding students who were guarding the Monster Book of Monsters (watch your fingers!). The Circus Arcanus show was quirky and charming, and walking the streets of Paris with enchanted shop windows and magical details around every corner made it feel like the Wizarding World got a glow-up. Plus eating in Paris felt magical in it’s own right!
Dark Universe
This land has a spookier tone, but I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn’t too intense, especially during the day. I scare easily (like… easily and spooky is not my thing), but I was totally fine here.
The snacks? Delicious. The theming? So immersive. Monsters Unchained was a standout ride with impressive animatronics and smooth ride flow (no motion sickness like Forbidden Journey can cause). And once again, the characters bring this land to life. You might meet a monster hunter at Burning Blade Tavern, run into Igor (who’s hilarious), or spot Frankenstein’s Monster and the Bride—who are more photogenic than frightening.
Of course, if your little ones scare easily, you might want to hold off on this land until they’re older. But for families with brave kiddos or even scaredy-cat moms like me, it’s a unique and fun experience.
Super Nintendo World
This land is going to be PACKED, and for good reason. If you’ve got gamers in your family, they’re going to want to spend hours here. The Power-Up Bands let you collect coins, interact with hidden elements, and compete in mini-games across the land. The rides are fun but expect long waits: plan your strategy early. Food is also a highlight here, the Donkey Kong banana float and snacks from Yoshi’s Snack stand are must-tries. Just be aware: it can get loud and overstimulating, so take breaks, hydrate, and mix food stops with attractions to pace your visit.
Real Food for Real Families
Most quick-service locations in Epic Universe follow a "seat-first, then order" model—similar to Three Broomsticks in the Wizarding World at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. You’ll likely need to wait for a table during peak-times. While in line, place a mobile order, then check in once you're seated, and the staff will bring your food to you.
Some locations are less kid-friendly in terms of menu options, so I definitely recommend previewing menus before you wander in with hungry little ones. That small bit of planning can save you a big headache mid-park day.
3 Brand New Hotels!
I stayed at Stella Nova, one of the new value hotels, and loved it for a few key reasons: super convenient location, smaller hotel feel, not a giant resort, fresh, high-quality food (breakfast was especially great!), and a spacious pool area with plenty of seating, perfect for a mid-day break during those hot & crowded park days.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly place that doesn’t skimp on quality, Stella Nova is a great pick. Terra Nova is a sister-resort but not as convenient with location as it’s not walkable to Epic Universe like Stella Nova is.
I also got to dine at the Helios Grand and preview the hotel itself—and wow, it’s stunning. Think of it as a deluxe splurge, but with a major perk: a dedicated guest-only entrance directly into Epic Universe. It’s smooth, seamless, and ideal for families who want to maximize every minute in the park.
And yes—staying at any Universal hotel gets you early park entry and transportation perks. That extra hour can make a huge difference!
So… Is Epic Universe Worth It for a Family Vacation?
Absolutely!
If you’re a family who loves to immerse yourself, explore, snack, people-watch, and take in the artistry of a theme park—not just rush from thrill ride to thrill ride—Epic Universe is going to blow you away.
I specially would recommend it to families with kids 7 and up, those that want to break away from the usual park routine of running ride to ride, line to line.
Ironically, I still think Islands of Adventure has my favorite rides overall (Hagrid’s and VelociCoaster will always have my heart), but that’s not what makes this new park incredible.
Epic Universe is thoughtfully built, incredibly themed, and designed for wonder—and I cannot wait to help more families experience it.
Ready to Visit Epic Universe? Let’s Plan It!
Universal’s 2026 vacation packages are now available, and Epic Universe is expected to be a major draw—especially once the buzz starts rolling!
If you want early access, park perks, and a plan that helps your family make the most of your time (and budget), I’m here to help. Request a vacation quote today to receive a custom vacation plan done for you and start dreaming up your Epic trip!
