Today was the big day! Orlando Informer had the incredible opportunity to step inside Universal Epic Universe, the highly anticipated new theme park at Universal Orlando Resort. Although the park officially opens to the public on May 22, 2025, we were granted exclusive early access and are here to give you a first look at what makes this park a true game-changer. From groundbreaking attractions to immersive realms, here are our top takeaways from our day exploring Universal Epic Universe.
Celestial Park at Universal Epic Universe
As the breathtaking entry point and heart of Universal Epic Universe, Celestial Park sets the stage for everything this next-generation theme park has to offer. This stunning area blends innovative design with immersive storytelling, drawing guests in from the moment they step through the gates.
Greeting visitors at the front of the park is The Chronos, the towering icon of Universal Epic Universe. This majestic, moving structure serves as both a visual anchor and a symbolic gateway, inviting guests to explore the awe-inspiring realms beyond. It’s an unforgettable welcome that sets the tone for the adventure ahead.
Designed with a wheel-and-spoke layout, Celestial Park serves as the central hub, connecting visitors to the park’s various immersive worlds through portals. According to the lore, it was Vincent Various who crafted these portals. The Celestials, inhabitants of this Celestial Park, once traveled via comets (like the ones you’ll race aboard in Stardust Racers, more on that below). But comets, as thrilling as they were, proved unpredictable. So, Various stepped in to create something more reliable: the portals.
But don’t be too quick to rush through! This area offers far more than just a pass-through experience.
One of the biggest showstoppers here is Stardust Racers, a high-speed, dual-launch coaster that dominates the skyline with sleek tracks and spectacular inversions. It’s a must-ride for adrenaline seekers and one of the most thrilling attractions in the entire park.
Prefer something a little more laid-back? Constellation Carousel offers a dreamy, celestial take on the classic merry-go-round.
Celestial Park Highlights
- Stardust Racers: It’s a beautiful, gravity-defying experience with unique elements you won’t find on any other coaster in the park.
- Fountain Features: Playful, dancing fountains are scattered throughout, adding energy to this cosmic area.
- Helios Grand Hotel: This luxurious resort serves as a striking visual anchor, seamlessly completing the skyline and enhancing the immersive, cohesive atmosphere of Celestial Park.
- Pizza Moon: A fan favorite! This Victorian theater-inspired pizzeria features animated set pieces and a lively atmosphere that’s just as memorable as the pizza itself. If you’re dining in Celestial Park. It’s a must-try!
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Epic Universe
Calling all gamers! SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has officially landed at Universal Epic Universe, and it’s everything we dreamed of and more. After making its debut in Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood, this vibrant, game-inspired realm now has a home right here at Universal Orlando Resort, complete with a warp pipe entrance that instantly immerses you in the pixel-perfect worlds of Mario, Donkey Kong, and beyond.
Take on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, an interactive dark ride where AR headsets and real-world racing combine. Race through familiar tracks, dodge Koopa shells, and aim for victory alongside Mario and friends. Or team up with Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on Mine-Cart Madness, a thrilling coaster that brings the game mechanics to life.
For a more relaxing experience, hop aboard Yoshi’s Adventure for a leisurely journey through the Mushroom Kingdom. We had a blast spotting colorful eggs, pressing interactive buttons along the way, and soaking in the unique views of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Highlights
- Nods to Other Nintendo Franchises: While Mario and Donkey Kong take center stage, be on the lookout for hidden nods to other Nintendo franchises. Spot the Pikmin tucked away in the scenery, and don’t miss the Nintendo Super Star Store in Celestial Park, where stained-glass windows feature Link and Zelda from The Legend of Zelda series.
- Mine-Cart Madness: Though we’ve experienced Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge in Hollywood, this was our first time riding Mine-Cart Madness. This coaster simulates wild stunts like leaping from one track to another, blurring the line between game and reality.
Dark Universe at Universal Epic Universe
At Orlando Informer, we take our horror seriously—especially as devoted fans of Halloween Horror Nights. So it’s no surprise that Dark Universe was one of our most anticipated areas of Universal Epic Universe. The best part? It completely lived up to the hype. This world is a love letter to the legacy of Universal Monsters that introduces a fresh, modern twist that’s more fun than frightening, making it accessible and thrilling for guests of all ages.
One of the crown jewels of Universal Epic Universe, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, is easily one of our favorite attractions in the entire park. This dark ride follows Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, a brilliant descendant of the infamous scientist, as she attempts to control and experiment on some of the most iconic monsters in history. The result? A heart-pounding monster mash where Dracula, The Mummy, and more collide in a narrative that feels like the Avengers: Endgame of the monster-verse.
For slightly lighter, family-friendly fun, Curse of the Werewolf offers a spinning coaster experience inspired by The Wolf Man’s origin story. It’s the perfect introduction to thrills for younger guests, all while keeping the eerie tone that makes Dark Universe so unique.
Dark Universe Highlights
- Power Surges & Story Integration: One of the most compelling elements of Dark Universe is its immersive environmental storytelling. Throughout the village, guests may notice sudden power surges—lights flickering, energy spikes, and strange sounds. These moments are tied to the experiments happening inside Frankenstein Manor, which towers ominously above Dark Universe. Is it a breakthrough? Or something gone terribly wrong?
- Roaming Characters: Unlike most modern theme parks, Dark Universe breaks the mold with roaming characters that bring the village to life. Keep your eyes peeled for Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s assistant, Ygor, or monster hunters patrolling the streets of Darkmoor. These interactions add depth and realism, making Dark Universe feel like a living, breathing world.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at Universal Epic Universe
Universal Epic Universe continues to expand its offerings with the third and most ambitious chapter of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, offering fans an all-new way to explore the magical world we know and love. Blending elements from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, this immersive area uses a Time-Turner portal to transport guests back to 1920s Paris, echoing the atmosphere of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.
Much like Diagon Alley over at Universal Studios Florida, Ministry of Magic is tucked away from the modern world. Once you enter the portal, you’re greeted by a sprawling, Parisian cityscape that feels entirely removed from Central Florida. Every inch is meticulously detailed, making this realm one of the most immersive experiences in Universal Epic Universe.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic features two major offerings that expand the Wizarding World like never before. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry is a groundbreaking attraction that takes you deep into the heart of the British Ministry of Magic. Centered around the long-anticipated trial of Dolores Umbridge, this ride invites both longtime readers and film fans to explore the halls of this magical government institution for the very first time.
Enter the big top of Le Cirque Arcanus, first introduced in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Here, magic leaps from the stage with breathtaking live performances, aerialists, stunning puppetry, and fantastic beasts that spring to life through a seamless fusion of stagecraft and special effects.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Highlights
- Portal Entry: Keen-eyed fans will spot a lineup of wands mounted around the portal, including those of Harry, Hermione, Queenie, Newt, and Grindelwald. Look up, and you’ll find the Elder Wand, which was wielded by both Dumbledore and Grindelwald at a point in time—a nod to the shared history between these powerful wizards.
- Immersive Environment: Whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead or a casual fan, this world is an absolute showstopper. From its massive Parisian facades and intricately themed shops to the ambient magic woven through every corner, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic delivers an unforgettable experience that feels far beyond the Muggle world. Fun fact: this area features the tallest buildings ever constructed for any Wizarding World location to date!
- Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry: This queue is easily one of our new favorites—it’s an unforgettable walkthrough of the Ministry of Magic, revealing areas we’ve never explored before. The grand atrium is a visual spectacle, complete with a restored Fountain of Magical Brethren and an enchanting weather-filled ceiling. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Ministry’s reception area, the Auror locker room, the Hall of Ministers, and even Dolores Umbridge’s iconic pink-and-gold office. It’s a richly detailed experience on a truly epic scale. And just when you think it can’t get better, it does—because this all leads up to what we believe is one of the greatest theme park rides in the world. Imagine The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man mashed up with The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, all while seamlessly blending screen-based wizardry with immersive practical sets. It’s an edge-of-your-seat experience that’ll have you breathless, even while you’re sitting down.
- Le Cirque Arcanus: An absolute standout, this spellbinding live show blends modern technology with theatrical artistry to conjure dazzling illusions, mythical creatures, and breathtaking magical moments on stage.
- Specialty Beverages: Yes, Butterbeer is here (of course!), but this portal also debuts brand-new wizarding drinks. Try the refreshing Thé Fraise, a strawberry-mint iced tea, or dare to sip Le Breuvage Sombre du Gobelet Noir, a deep, fruit-forward brew topped with yogurt-popping pearls.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe
The final world we’re exploring in Universal Epic Universe is nothing short of legendary. Welcome to Isle of Berk, a place where Vikings and dragons live in harmony, straight out of DreamWorks’ beloved How to Train Your Dragon franchise. From the moment you pass through the portal, you’re transported to the cliffs of Berk. Just beyond the entry point, a beautifully engraved stone sets the scene with a heartfelt tale of unity and bravery.
On Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, embark on a high-flying coaster that lets you ride like a dragon rider through Berk’s skies. Channel your inner Viking athlete on Dragon Racer’s Rally as you spin and soar through a high-energy training session. Plus, with dragons everywhere, it only makes sense to learn a little fire control—climb aboard Fyre Drill, an interactive boat ride where you’ll team up to put out blazing fires and save the day.
Direct from Universal Studios Beijing, The Untrainable Dragon is an emotional and visually stunning stage show that combines cutting-edge puppetry, music, and theatrical storytelling. Join familiar characters like Hiccup, Toothless, Astrid, and Gobber as they meet a mysterious dragon unlike any they’ve encountered before. It’s a magical performance that captures the spirit of the How to Train Your Dragon series in a whole new way.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk Highlights
- Epic Reveal Moment: Like the Ministry of Magic, Isle of Berk begins with a jaw-dropping reveal that instantly immerses you in its fantastical setting. It’s not just a theme park world—it feels like you’ve traveled to a Viking realm.
- Dragons at Every Turn: From tucked-away sculptures to lifelike animatronics, dragons are everywhere in Isle of Berk. Whether flying overhead, interacting with guests, or featured in ride details, the presence of dragons gives the entire area a sense of movement and life—making it one of the most dynamic zones in Universal Epic Universe.
One of the biggest takeaways from our first visit to Universal Epic Universe is just how faithfully the park brings its concept art to life. Every detail, from the sweeping skylines to the immersive worlds beyond the portals, feels like it was pulled straight from the renderings we’ve studied for months. It’s truly a visual masterpiece and an absolute must-visit for any theme park enthusiast.
As we continue the countdown to the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe, we’ll be keeping you updated every step of the way. Want the latest news, sneak peeks, and insider info delivered directly to your inbox? Sign up for our email updates here so you never miss a moment.
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