Epic Universe Reviewed

From the moment I entered Celestial Park—the gateway to Universal Orlando Resort's newest theme park, Epic Universe—I knew I was in for something extraordinary. Ahead lay four immersive portals to beloved fictional worlds brimming with magic, mythical creatures, and nostalgic adventures. While Epic Universe isn't without its flaws, it more than justifies its grand name.

What left the deepest impression wasn't just the rides—though Monsters Unchained stands among the best attractions worldwide—but those fleeting moments where Orlando faded away, and I became part of stories I've cherished for years. Whether bonding with Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon, chasing Dracula with Dr. Frankenstein, exploring the Mushroom Kingdom and Donkey Kong Country, or wandering Wizarding Worlds across different eras, Epic Universe delivers unmatched immersion—securing its spot as a can't-miss destination.

Super Nintendo World

Though Super Nintendo World and its Donkey Kong Country expansion aren't new to Epic Universe, stepping into Mario's world felt breathtakingly fresh—especially for someone whose childhood revolved around Nintendo games. Emerging from Celestial Park’s Warp Pipe (complete with iconic sound effects), I wasn’t entering unfamiliar territory but revisiting cherished memories.

The details dazzle: Mount Beanpole’s flagpole spins coins straight from the games, Thwomps loom ominously, Peach’s Castle invites you to leap into paintings à la Super Mario 64, and scattered K-O-N-G letters beg to be collected. Even without a Power-Up Band, punching glow-lit Question Blocks fulfilled lifelong gaming fantasies.

Yet Super Nintendo World’s strongest asset isn’t its rides. While Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge suffers from AR glasses obstructing views, Yoshi’s Adventure crawls at a sluggish pace, and Mine-Cart Madness’ illusion falters in rear seats, the land thrives as an interactive playground packed with Easter eggs—Pikmin hiding in foliage, Yoshi’s Story books lining queues, and retro Mario sprite surprises.

Accessibility deserves praise: Despite abundant stairs, elevators are plentiful—a recurring convenience across Epic Universe.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

The moment Toothless—a lifelike animatronic—nuzzled my hand, blinking and purring responsively, I teared up. This meet-and-greet redefines theme park magic, bolstered by Hiccup’s pitch-perfect presence alongside fellow dragon riders Astrid and Gobber.

Berk bursts with color: sheep darting from playful dragons, cascading waterfalls framing Hiccup’s Wing Gliders—an aerial masterpiece blending thrills with Powell’s soaring soundtrack. In contrast, Dragon Racer’s Rally and Fyre Drill feel tame, better suited for kids. Meanwhile, The Untrainable Dragon dazzles with colossal, expressive puppets despite a thin narrative.

A multilevel playground offers respite—and the land’s best vista.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic

While hype centered on Battle at the Ministry’s queue—a breathtaking labyrinth rivaling Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance—1920s Paris stole my heart. Café L’air De La Sirène’s butterbeer crêpes, period-costumed actors, and Le Cirque Arcanus’ spellbinding performance transported me flawlessly.

Interactive wand spells proved finicky, but the Métro-Floo’s green smoke whisked me to '90s London’s Ministry, where Daily Prophet clippings and moving Umbridge posters set the stage for Battle at the Ministry—a screen-heavy ride whose jolts overshadow its grandeur.

Note: Universal anticipates long waits—Casey DeFreitas clocked 1,300 steps (~20 minutes) from entrance to boarding.

Dark Universe

Initially skeptical, I left declaring Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment Epic Universe’s crown jewel—an exhilarating yet accessible dark ride where Dracula’s screen-to-animatronic transitions astound. Curse of the Werewolf’s back-to-back seating amps fun through shared reactions.

While daylight dims Darkmoor’s spooky vibe, flaming tavern windmills and roving mad scientists (Ygor’s sarcasm is a highlight) shine regardless.

Celestial Park

More than a hub, Celestial Park dazzles with Stardust Racers—a dueling coaster whose nighttime runs mimic shooting stars—though Constellation Carousel’s pillars obstruct views. Cosmic fountains and shaded respites are scarce; sunscreen and off-season visits are wise.