Epic Universe: A Thrilling Journey Through Iconic Worlds

Stepping into Celestial Park, the vibrant entry to Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe, I was instantly captivated by the magic awaiting me. This newest theme park features four portals to beloved fictional realms filled with enchantment, mythical creatures, and iconic characters. Despite a few hiccups, Epic Universe delivers an unforgettable adventure that exceeds expectations.

What stands out most from my visit isn’t just the rides—though the animatronic-packed Monsters Unchained, a standout among global attractions, left a lasting impression—but the immersive moments that whisked me from Orlando into cherished stories. Where else could I bond with Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon, assist Dr. Frankenstein in capturing Dracula, explore the Mushroom Kingdom and Donkey Kong Country, or step into the Wizarding Worlds of 1920s Paris and 1990s London? Only at Epic Universe, making it a must-visit destination.

Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World and its Donkey Kong Country area may not be entirely new, having debuted at other Universal parks, but their charm remains undeniable. As a first-time visitor and lifelong Nintendo fan, walking through this Mario-themed land felt like a nostalgic homecoming, rooted in memories of late-night Super Mario World sessions with my mom.

Entering through a Warp Pipe portal, complete with iconic sound effects, I was greeted by familiar sights: the flagpole atop Mount Beanpole with spinning coins, menacing Thwomps, Koopas, and Goombas; Peach’s Castle with paintings evoking Super Mario 64; and K-O-N-G letters scattered across Donkey Kong Country, echoing the classic games. The translation from screen to reality is flawless.

The Question Blocks are a highlight. With a Power-Up Band, guests can collect digital coins, stamps, and keys, turning the land into an interactive game. Even without a band, punching the glowing Question Blocks feels like a lifelong dream realized—a perfect example of the immersive moments that define this park.

Super Nintendo World is packed with delightful details and Easter Eggs. Pikmin hide in corners, a Yoshi’s Story book appears in a queue, and an 8-bit Mario pops up in an underground area with a Power-Up Band. These nods to Nintendo’s legacy enhance the experience, especially while waiting for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.

Surprisingly, the rides were the land’s weaker link. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge lacks the speed I craved, and the AR glasses, while innovative, limited my view, breaking immersion. Yoshi’s Adventure has a charming queue but moves painfully slowly, leaving me exposed to Orlando’s heat. Mine-Cart Madness feels rough, and the track-jumping illusion loses impact in the back of the cart.

Despite these flaws, the rides have their merits, but exploring Super Nintendo World itself outshines them. Accessibility is a strong suit, with plentiful elevators addressing the land’s many stairs, a feature consistent across Epic Universe.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Reaching out, I connected with a lifelike animatronic dragon as it leaned toward me, eyes closing in trust. This Toothless meet-and-greet in Epic Universe’s How to Train Your Dragon-themed Isle of Berk is the most remarkable character interaction I’ve ever experienced at a theme park. The responsive, expressive figure, guided by a spot-on Hiccup character actor, was the highlight of my visit.

Isle of Berk bursts with vibrant colors, playful dragons, and adorable sheep, enhanced by water features that elevate its beauty. The standout ride, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, is a thrilling yet smooth family coaster, my favorite of its kind in the park, soaring to John Powell’s iconic score.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders offers a breathtaking tour of Berk on a winged contraption, delivering joy without overwhelming intensity. In contrast, Dragon Racer’s Rally and Fyre Drill are gentler. The former allows some control but lacks music and flying thrills, while the latter’s slow water ride with weak water guns feels aimed at younger guests.

Isle of Berk’s multilevel playground is a gem, offering kids a space to burn energy with a stunning view of the land. The Untrainable Dragon show, with its impressive dragon puppets, dazzles technically but falls short narratively. Still, it’s a worthwhile spectacle.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic

While much buzz surrounded the Battle at the Ministry’s stunning queue, the 1920s Paris setting in the Wizarding World stole the show. Dining at Café L’air De La Sirène, savoring French onion soup and a butterbeer crepe, I felt transported to Paris, enhanced by a live band and the charming Puffskein, Plume.

Le Cirque Arcanus, the park’s best show, blends fantastic beasts, talented performers, and Potterverse charm, delivering laughs and emotional moments. However, the interactive wand experiences—casting spells or activating objects—were frustrating, often requiring multiple attempts.

The Battle at the Ministry’s queue is a masterpiece of scale and detail, rivaling Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. The Métro-Floo transition to 1990s London’s magical government hub, with its offices, reception booths, and moving wanted posters, sets an immersive stage for Dolores Umbridge’s trial. However, the queue’s length—roughly 20 minutes—reflects high expected demand.

The ride itself, while visually striking, feels jerky and relies heavily on video screens, which can look subpar. Potter fans will enjoy it, but I prefer rides with more practical effects.

Dark Universe

Initially less excited for Dark Universe, I was blown away by its marquee ride, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. Featuring Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, and others, this thrilling yet accessible ride blends seamless video and stunning animatronics, earning its place as Epic Universe’s top attraction.

Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning coaster, adds fun with its back-to-back seating, letting riders share reactions. Though bumpier than Monsters Unchained, it’s broadly enjoyable. The land’s atmosphere, with Frankenstein Manor and the fiery Burning Blade Tavern, feels less spooky in daylight amidst crowds.

Character interactions shine, with Ygor’s witty roasts, Frankenstein’s Monster meet-and-greets, and haunting violin performances adding depth to the immersive experience.

Celestial Park

Celestial Park is more than a gateway to Epic Universe’s themed lands, offering a cosmic vibe through its shops, eateries, and thrilling Stardust Racers. This dueling coaster delivers heart-pounding loops and free-fall sensations, rivaling VelociCoaster with its competitive yet synchronized tracks.

Stardust Racers dazzles at night, its tracks resembling shooting stars. The Constellation Carousel, while slow, offers a relaxing starry spin, though its structure obscures park views. Celestial Park’s open spaces are perfect for kids, but limited shade in Orlando’s 90-degree heat demands sunscreen and indoor breaks.