Epic Universe Arrives in 2025: How Excited Are You?

Universal Epic Universe opens in 2025. This brand-new theme park promises state-of-the-art technology and excitement for the whole family.

Universal Epic Universe, a brand-new theme park, will soon entertain guests visiting the Orlando area. A new theme park in the theme park capital of the world will change many things, and potential visitors have many questions about it.

When it opens in the summer of 2025, what can visitors expect from Epic Universe? What will it be like to vacation in Orlando when Universal’s Epic Universe opens to the public? Where is this theme park located? How big is it? What can we do there? What lands can we experience at Universal’s Epic Universe?

In fairness, we do not have complete answers to all those questions. Nonetheless, we are learning more about Universal Epic Universe every day. Still, unlike some other major theme park resorts, Universal Orlando Resort tends to release official details very late in the process. We have some official press releases. In addition, Universal Orlando Resort has released some concept videos and update-style videos. Still, what should guests visiting Universal Epic Universe expect? Why are so many people excited about this new theme park?

Universal Epic Universe

Universal Epic Universe, a brand-new theme park, is opening to the public soon at Universal Orlando Resort. This new theme park will include a Wizarding World of Harry Potter area, a Super Nintendo land, an area themed on How to Train Your Dragon, and an area featuring Universal Classic Monsters, like Dracula and Wolfman. This enormous project marks one of the most immense theme park projects in many decades.

With the backing of NBCUniversal and Comcast, Universal Orlando Resort looks to be going all out with its third theme park, Epic Universe. The park will consist of plenty of new attractions and out-of-this-world immersion. Universal Orlando Resort already has two existing theme parks: Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. The theme park resort also has a highly-themed water park, Volcano Bay.

Universal Orlando Resort likes to call Volcano Bay its third theme park. However, most would disagree that Volcano Bay counts as a theme park. It might qualify as the best and most technologically advanced water park in the Orlando area. Still, that does not make it a full-fledged theme park. NBCUniversal executives think it will be the most technologically advanced theme park ever,

No matter how you define theme parks, Universal Epic Universe will be the first major theme park built in the Orlando market since Universal Islands of Adventure in 1999. SeaWorld Parks opened Discovery Cove in 2000, which we love, but it is more of a day spa experience.  In Winter Haven, Legoland Florida opened in 2011 with a more recent addition of Peppa Pig Theme Park. Fun Spot America – Kissimmee opened in 2007. Still, none of those count as full-fledged major theme parks. For example, Legoland Florida is great but primarily targets younger families.

Universal Epic Universe: Basics

The theme park resort is preparing to take its Orlando area theme park offerings to the next level with the highly anticipated Epic Universe. Universal has confirmed Epic Universe will have five brand new lands:

• Celestial Park
• Super Nintendo World
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
• How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
• Dark Universe

Each of these lands will contain state-of-the-art attractions, merchandise, and dining opportunities.

Hotels at Epic Universe

We know from previous Universal Orlando Resort announcements that three hotels will be near Universal Epic Universe theme park. In fact, one of the hotels will reside inside the theme park itself. The three soon-to-open hotels are:

• Universal Helios Grand Hotel –This one will be inside the theme park.
• Universal Terra Luna Resort
• Universal Stella Nova Resort

These three additional hotels will bring the number of hotels at Universal Orlando Resort to eleven. Guests should be able to find the quality of hotel that best suits their vacation budget. Epic Universe and the nearby hotels will also feature efficient transportation to and from the other areas of Universal Orlando, fully connecting it to the larger Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Epic Universe opens when?

The official answer to a common question by theme park fans is that Universal Epic Universe will open in the summer of 2025. Of course, theme park fans know that schedules change along the way. At the time of writing, some non-reliable sourcing via theme park influencers indicates Universal’s Epic Universe might open in 2026. However, Universal Orlando Resort sounds confident that the new theme park will open in 2025.

Compared to other major theme park resorts, Universal Orlando Resort tends to announce things very late officially. Some feel Universal waits until the last possible date for a public statement to be made. Based on the current speed of construction at Epic Universe, we would not be surprised to see the park open earlier than summer 2025. Nevertheless, currently, we have nothing official from Universal Orlando Resort regarding a definitive date.

Still, Universal Orlando Resort unveiled the official opening date for two of the new hotels. Universal Stella Nova Resort will open on January 21, 2025, and Universal Terra Luna Resort will open on February 25, 2025. Universal Orlando Resort made a clear statement when revealing the hotel opening dates, indicating that Universal Epic Universe will open later in 2025.

Where Will Epic Universe Be Located?

Universal Epic Universe will be a brand-new theme park. It was announced in August 2019 and is expected to be completed by the summer of 2025 despite understandable delays during 2020. The park’s concept is centered around “storytelling,” with each park area based on a different guiding narrative. The intellectual properties of each land or area will tell a story for guests to enjoy.

Universal Epic Universe theme park will not be in the same area as the current Universal Orlando Resort properties. It will be away from the existing main Universal Orlando campus. The current two theme parks, the water park, the CityWalk area, and the “on-site” hotels, reside in the same place, functioning as a North Campus when Universal’s Epic Universe opens.

North Campus

Universal Orlando Resort’s main property, the North Campus, contains what currently exists as the theme park resort. That section of Universal Orlando Resort is located suitably on Universal Boulevard north of Interstate four around exit 74B. The Endless Summer Resort Hotels is just south of Interstate 4, also on Universal Boulevard.

Dockside Inn and Suites and Surfside Inn and Suites, the Endless Summer Resort Hotels, serve as the value-level hotels at Universal Orlando. These hotels and the other Universal Orlando property are known as the North campus.

South Campus

If you continue south along Universal Boulevard, you reach Sand Lake Road. The official address for Epic Universe is 4700 W Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819. Based on standard traffic patterns in that area of Orlando, it should take about ten minutes to go from the current main parking garage at Universal CityWalk Orlando to Epic Universe. That travel time resembles going from Disney Animal Kingdom to the other three Walt Disney World theme parks.

However, notable roadways and bus roads are being constructed in partnership with the city of Orlando in preparation for Universal’s Epic Universe to open. This should reduce the time it takes guests to move from the North Campus to Epic Universe and the South Campus.

How Large Is Universal Epic Universe?

This theme park will take up far more space than the current Universal Orlando Resort theme parks. It is more significant than all the property within the North Campus of Universal Orlando Resort. The entire North Campus is a little less than 750 acres in total. However, the South Campus area where Universal Epic Universe is being constructed covers slightly over 750 acres. Epic Universe marks a considerable expansion for Universal Orlando Resort. The leaders at Universal feel that Epic Universe will make this overall resort a week-long vacation destination.

Informed sources indicate that Universal Orlando Resort owns more land in that area for expansion if desired. In fact, we suspect that expansion pads have already been set aside for future expansions to Universal Epic Universe.

Based on initial plans between Universal Orlando Resort and the city of Orlando, dedicated bus lanes will be created between the North and South Campuses for guests to enjoy. Also, Universal Orlando Resort committed 160 million dollars to help pay for this project.

Several other road construction projects are being done in connection with Universal Epic Universe. For example, an elevated traffic circle will connect Kirkman Road near Universal Orlando to Epic Universe. As Ken Leeming, Orange County Highway Construction Manager, stated, “One of the main features of the project is an elevated traffic circle. That’s going to be used to facilitate traffic distribution to the Universal property,”

What Do We Know about the Hotels Coming to Epic Universe?

Universal’s Epic Universe will also feature three hotels: Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Universal Terra Luna Resort, and Universal Stella Nova Resort. These hotels will have about 2000 rooms in total.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is located very close to the new theme park. The hotel strives to transport guests to a “world where the heavens and earth unite.” This new hotel will include 500 rooms. Guests should expect a view of the new theme park and high-class amenities that Loews hotels have proven they provide for Universal Orlando Resort guests. Most importantly, this hotel provides guests a dedicated entrance into Universal’s Epic Universe.

This hotel offers something unique for theme park visitors with a dedicated entrance to the theme park. Though we still lack details about this hotel, it should make a fabulous step into luxury for Universal Orlando Resort visitors.

Universal Terra Luna Resort

Universal Terra Luna Resort draws inspiration from planetary elements of the universe. This hotel is scheduled to open February 25, 2025.

Universal Terra Luna Resort is a Prime Value category resort. This hotel level ranks like two other Universal Orlando Resort hotels: Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel. The hotel includes 750 guest rooms and will be located near Universal’s Epic Universe.

Universal Terra Luna Resort guests can take advantage of unique benefits like other Universal Orlando Resort hotel guests. These include early park admission, complimentary transportation to and from the parks, and resort-wide charging privileges,

Universal Stella Nova Resort

Terra Luna’s sister hotel is Universal Stella Nova Resort, which will open on January 21, 2025. Like Terra Luna, Stella Nova resides near Universal’s Epic Universe. Also, it is classified as a Prime Value Universal Orlando Resort hotel containing 750 guest rooms. The same on-site hotel privileges will be offered at this hotel when it opens in 2025.

What Attractions and Lands Will be at Epic Universe?

We receive more official announcements and information about Universal’s Epic Universe each week, which makes more information about the five theme park lands available.

Celestial Park – The Central Hub (of Sorts) for Universal Epic Universe

Celestial Park is the area guests will see first as they enter Universal Epic Universe. Guests should expect to view acres of rolling gardens, chasing waterways and pathways. NBCUniversal leadership stated that Universal’s Epic Universe will “put the park back in the theme park.”

We will have to wait for opening day to find out how those words apply to the new theme park land. Still, the information about Celestial Park brings excitement for theme park fans. Celestial Park should make a great introduction to this brave new adventure by Universal Orlando Resort.

For example, Universal Orlando claims that guests will experience expansive gardens and waterways surrounded by architecture inspired by astronomical and mythological elements. Speaking of the theming elements, Celestial Park will include three significant theme park attractions:

• Starfall Racers
• Constellation Carousel
• Astronomica

Starfall Racers is a dual-launch racing coaster that sends guests rocketing through the skies aboard “comets” in a race to see who finishes first. This rollercoaster will reach speeds up to 62 mph and reach a height of 133 feet. Guests should enjoy the approximate 5000 feet of track with this rollercoaster.

Depending on our definition of thrilling, this rollercoaster promises to offer some of the best thrills for coaster fans. For example, this rollercoaster features a unique maneuver called the “Celestial Spin.” This maneuver involves two coaster vehicles performing an inverted crisscross while speeding through the air.

For a less thrilling theme park attraction, Celestial Park offers Constellation Carousel. This takes guests on a fantastical whirl aboard constellations that glide forward, backward, and even make 360-degree rotations. Guests will experience the Milky Way in a choreographed dance of music and starlight. This should appeal to the entire family.

The third attraction, Astronomica, functions as an interactive wet-play area. Guests will also see a giant compass to the many wonders of Epic Universe, which helps tie together the Universal Epic Universe theme. It features crystal blue fountains that spring to life and dance around guests.

Shopping and Dining at Celestial Park

This theme park area will have places to spend money on meals and merchandise. Guests will find table service (or full service, as Universal Orlando calls it) and quick service dining. The merchandise store should also be impressive.

The two table service options promise quality cuisine and superior theming. Atlantic is a full-service “surf and turf” restaurant inside a Victorian aquarium. This restaurant boasts excellent views of Celestial Park.

The other full-service option in this area of Universal Epic Universe offers Asian dining. The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant features authentic Chinese, Japanese, and Thai fare accented with neon dragons and ethereal lanterns.

For those desiring quick service dining options so they can stay on the move to enter the other portals, Celestial Park has them covered. Additional dining locations include The Oak & Star Tavern, which serves barbecue options, and Pizza Moon, which serves a variety of pizzas and more.

Celestial Park will also include a unique Nintendo Super Star Store. Guests can shop an assortment of merchandise themed to Super Nintendo World. This store’s theme should pair well with that of Celestial Park. Of course, the Super Nintendo World area of the theme park presents guests with more Nintendo merchandise to buy and take home. In addition, Celestial Park hosts Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets, which feature a variety of themed treats.

Fans of fountain shows have another reason to be excited about Universal Epic Universe. Celestial Park will also feature fountain shows over seven acres of water, with heights reaching up to 135 feet in the air, music, and interactive lighting from day to night.

Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe

We have known for some time that Super Nintendo World would be a crucial part of Universal Epic Universe. This was announced, with limited details, well before Universal Studios Hollywood opened its Super Nintendo World area.

Super Nintendo World has been a major success in Hollywood and Japan’s Universal theme parks. Universal Epic Universe will house a far more extensive version of Super Nintendo World than Hollywood. Experts expect this land to be the most popular at Universal Epic Universe.

Universal Epic Universe: Attractions in Super Nintendo World

In May 2024, Universal announced more details about Super Nintendo World in Epic Universe. We learned interesting information about the attractions. We also discovered that the Orlando version would have two sections. One section is dedicated to Mario, as expected. The second section gives guests a chance to function in the video game world of Donkey King.

Guests will also receive the honor of entering the signature “Green Pipe” from the video game. NBCUniversal announced, “It all begins the moment guests enter the portal to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, which will transport them through the iconic green pipe into the immersive land. As guests emerge from the pipe, vibrant scenery and exciting kinetic energy surround them as they are greeted by the familiar sights and sounds that they’ve experienced on their Nintendo game consoles – from the towering Mt. Beanpole and majestic Peach’s Castle to swaying Piranha Plants, pacing Goombas, spinning coins,? Blocks and more.”

In the Super Mario Land section, guests will be able to explore and enjoy adventures alongside Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and other characters. Also, Donkey Kong Country features Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, and other members of the Kong family.

Three significant attractions will attract guests to this theme park land. In Super Nintendo World, guests can experience the three main attractions:

• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
• Yoshi’s Adventure
• Mine-Cart Madness

Based on their existence in Japan and Hollywood, we knew more about these attractions than the other Universal’s Epic Universe attractions. That should not take away from the excitement.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

NBCUniversal said, “Guests are invited to join Team Mario and battle Team Bowser for the Golden Cup in this groundbreaking attraction that fuses augmented reality, projection mapping technology and elaborate environments to bring the fun of the Mario Kart video game series to life in a compelling ride-through experience.”

We know from the two other versions of this attraction that the queue experience elevates the game. Guests enter through Bowser’s Castle. Once inside, brave souls will wind through the castle corridors, gaining a glimpse of Bowser’s deceptive plans to stack the odds in his favor.

After this, guests will board their very own “Mario Kart” and head to the starting line. Then, guests steer through a variety of Mario Kart courses. Fans of the video game will enjoy collecting coins, tossing shells at Team Bowser, and dodging obstacles as they join their favorite characters to help Team Mario win the race.

Yoshi’s Adventure

The omnimover style attraction, Yoshi’s Adventure attraction, makes its United States debut with the opening of Universal Epic Universe. On this family-friendly ride, guests of all ages will enjoy breathtaking views of Super Mario Land as they join Yoshi. They will travel through Mushroom Kingdom landscapes in search of glowing eggs. Also, guests should expect to encounter many familiar characters along the way.

This attraction uses features like projection mapping, augmented-reality glasses, immense practical sets, and interactive vehicles to put guests directly into action. Mario Kart fans will adore tossing shells, racing down the iconic Rainbow Road, dealing with random bananas, and a few more exciting Mario Kart elements from the video game.

 

Mine-Cart Madness will soon open at Universal Studios Japan and be part of Universal Epic Universe. This Donkey Kong-themed attraction promises unexpected fun and excitement.

Guests will hop into a mine cart and sway through the jungle to help Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong protect the coveted golden banana on this first-of-its-kind family coaster. Utilizing an unprecedented ride system, innovative technology, and a unique coaster design, Mine-Cart Madness will send riders on a thrilling adventure where they will experience the jaw-dropping maneuvers that they’ve seen Donkey Kong and the mine carts perform in the video games. This includes mine carts getting blasted out of a barrel, seemingly jumping over gaps as they speed along a rickety track, and so much more. This will feature a unique ride system that will make riders feel their coaster vehicle is jumping gaps in the track. Also, we expect this attraction to include detailed show scenes and some animatronics.

Power-Up Bands

Though not a traditional attraction, those who purchase Power-Up Bands can act like a character in a “Mario” video game. Power-up Bands are themed wristbands upgrading guests’ experience in Super Nintendo World. These bands will also cost an upcharge of $40 currently. These bands currently operate for guests in Japan and Hollywood. Universal has stated that if you have purchased a Power-Up Band from one of these parks already, it will work at Epic Universe. These bands enable guests to battle enemies, unlock bonus features, and collect coins by tapping question mark blocks.

These wearable bands for the wrist allow guests to enhance their play throughout Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country. Guests can collect digital coins by punching “question mark” blocks and playing interactive activities. Other additional features involve collecting digital stamps on attractions, digital keys to unlock an exclusive showdown against Bowser Jr., and discovering other hidden surprises. Guests can also access leaderboard screens in Super Nintendo World to see where they rank amongst fellow guests.

Universal Epic Universe: Merchandise in Super Nintendo World

Guests should expect plenty of merchandise locations in the Super Nintendo World area. Based on the template of Super Nintendo Land at Universal Studios Japan and Hollywood, we had a reasonable idea of what guests could find in terms of shopping.

Of course, NBCUniversal recently revealed more official information about the merchandise coming to Universal Epic Universe. They announced the 1-UP Factory and Mario Motors. At these retail locations, guests can shop for souvenirs, apparel, toys, and more inspired by their favorite Super Mario characters and adventures.

Based on the previous versions of Super Nintendo World, we knew many things to expect with the main store, 1-UP Factory. The 1-UP Factory will most likely offer an extensive selection of merchandise from Mario and Luigi-themed apparel, iconic character hats, and an array of plush characters, including Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, and Bowser should be seen there.

The version of this store at Universal Studios Hollywood draws crowds to buy the unique merchandise. We also expect the Orlando merchandise location to offer excellent Nintendo theming, too. The visual merchandising team at Universal Orlando Resort consistently designs amazing permanent and short-term shopping experiences.

However, we do not know much about Mario Motors or the other merchandise opportunities in the Donkey King section of Super Nintendo World. NBCUniversal said this about merchandise sales in the Donkey Kong area, “A selection of tropical menu and merchandise offerings in the middle of the jungle – all inspired by the Donkey Kong Country video game franchise and its characters. More details will be shared in the coming months.”

Dining in Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe

Based on the other versions of Super Nintendo World operating currently, we had ample clues about the dining options coming to Orlando’s version of Super Nintendo World. Also, based on procedures at Universal Orlando Resort regarding quick-service dining, we can anticipate some of the same operating procedures at Universal Epic Universe,

We expect excellent theming, like the style in Japan and Hollywood. For example, Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan has a combination of snack carts and quick-service restaurants, while Universal Studios Hollywood offers fewer dining options.

Toadstool Café

In Orlando, guests should expect more dining options, like at Universal Studios Japan. Also, guests should expect while dining at Toadstool Café to taste a variety of cuisine “designed by Chef Toad.” Guests should encounter Chef Toad (sort of) when they enter the café. With all the expected animated screens, guests will find plenty to entertain themselves while dining at Toadstool Café. Menu items in Hollywood, expected in Orlando, include Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, Super Mushroom Soup, Piranha Plant Caprese, Mario Bacon Cheeseburger, Luigi Pesto Chicken Burger, and a Princess Peach Cupcake.

Toadstool Café at Super Nintendo World Orlando will most likely utilize a version of mobile ordering and table delivery. Universal Orlando Resort uses this system at several of its quick service locations now, like Illumination’s Minion Café at Universal Studios Florida. Team members have continuously told us that this system will be used at the new Universal Epic Universe quick service dining options that are not snack stands or kiosks.

This table delivery system involves guests waiting to enter the restaurant. After that, a Universal Orlando team member walks them to their table. They then use the Universal Orlando Resort mobile app to order from the restaurant. A team member then brings them the dining order.

Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe will have two additional snack stands. Guests can pick up treats, snacks, and beverages at Yoshi’s Snack Island and Turbo Boost Treats walk-up dining locations.

Character Interaction in Super Nintendo World

NBCUniversal announced that guests can meet, greet, and interact with Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad in various areas of Super Mario Land. We suspect that a few other Nintendo-based characters will appear in this theme park land.

These character interactions at other Super Nintendo World locations involve photo opportunities, as you might expect. The Super Nintendo characters look like an upgrade to your standard theme park character.

The Super Nintendo World characters have blinking eyes and moving mouths and sometimes speak a few words. We would expect that level of character meet-and-greets in Orlando.

Universal Epic Universe: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

The Epic Universe theme park will also include a new Wizarding World of Harry Potter-themed land. Based on the success of this intellectual property at other Universal theme parks, this addition should surprise no one. The Wizarding World lands at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure changed the landscape of theme parks in the Orlando area.

This new addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Epic Universe will blend the 1920s Paris from the “Fantastic Beasts” films with the British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series. We know that Universal Creative has made many changes to the planning of this Wizarding World land. Many assert these changes directly relate to the lower-than-expected box office performance of the “Fantastic Beasts” film.

Based on the building permits approved by Orange County, Florida, the Wizarding World area will have a large theatre and a large dark ride. Well-connected, talented sources indicate this soon-to-be-open dark ride will be the largest dark ride at Universal Epic Universe. Rumors lean towards this dark ride being called “Battle of the Ministry of Magic.” Guests will be taken inside the Ministry of Magic, seen in the Harry Potter movies. We should gain entry via the “Floo Network” and enter a large hallway through a magical fireplace using theme park magic.

Far more technological tricks will transport guests through a narrative aligned with the Wizarding World lore. This attraction will feature some Wizarding allies and some infamous villains.

We have few details or consistent speculation regarding the show in the large theatre. The theatre area should seat at least 600 people. Some have speculated that this show will involve a Wizarding World wand battle of some type. Does that mean guest interaction and volunteers from the audience? We do not know at this point.

Shopping and Dining at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

The previously designed Wizarding World area throughout the world has elevated the quality of dining at theme parks. This land at Universal Epic Universe promises to have a “Great Hall” dining experience that should continue that pattern. Of course, the iconic beverage, Butterbeer, should be easy to find, and a few new additions to the Wizarding World cuisine should be expected.

Universal Epic Universe: How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

NBCUniversal announced significant details about the Epic Universe land based on “How to Train Your Dragon.” DreamWorks properties have become far more prominent at Universal theme park currently open and those to open in the future.

For example, with the DreamWorks land opening in June 2024, we expect to see far more DreamWorks properties at Universal Parks and Destination locations like Universal Studios Florida. Also, in Frisco, Texas, the planned regional-style Universal theme park should have plenty of DreamWorks intellectual properties. Still, Universal Epic Universe will have an entire land dedicated to enjoying “How to Train Your Dragon.”

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will feature numerous attractions, meet and greets with favorite characters, and impressive shows. What will be in that land for fans to be excited about?

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

The main roller coaster of the land is a family-friendly ride where Hiccup has invited brave new “Vikings” to take a ride on his latest glider creation. This “winged flying machine” launches the new “Dragon Riders” into the sky for a dragon’s eye view of Berk.

 

Fyre Drill offers a different type of experience to Hiccup’s Wing Gliders. On it, Viking twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut invite teams to outscore and out-soak each other on this boat battle. Guests will board a colorful dragon-headed boat and blast water cannons at flame-like targets to practice putting out fires.

Dragon Racer’s Rally

This new attraction at Universal Epic Universe allows racers to “practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls” on this attraction that reaches heights of up to 67 feet in the air. We suspect this will be fun for the entire family.

Viking Training Camp

The Viking Training Camp will give “Junior Vikings” a chance to learn everything about dragons as they enjoy this interactive play camp. This camp includes a Viking agility course, a Toothless-themed teeter-totter, baby Gronckle dragon climbers, and more.

The Untrainable Dragon Show

As many expected, a show based on an “untrainable” dragon will play a vital part at Universal Epic Universe. This show draws inspiration from Universal Beijing Resort’s wildly successful “Untrainable” show.

The show involves a dragon-filled live spectacular that takes guests on an unforgettable journey with beloved characters Hiccup, Toothless, Gobber, and Astrid as they work together to solve the mystery of The Untrainable Dragon. This heartwarming story comes to life with captivating musical numbers, breathtaking sets, and life-sized dragons soaring overhead.

Meet Hiccup and Toothless

How could a “How to Train Your Dragon” theme park land not include some meet-and-greet opportunities with characters? Though other meet and greets may be held in this land, guests can meet Hiccup and Toothless.

Dining and Shopping in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Guests can also dine and shop like Vikings in the land’s variety of themed eateries and retail locations, including:

• Mead Hall — The beating heart of Berk and the village’s main gathering hall, Mead Hall is where guests can feast like a Viking and enjoy a savory menu featuring a variety of meats, fish, sandwiches, and more, along with a collection of meads and ciders.
• Spit Fyre Grill — Overlooking the action of the Fyre Drill water attraction, Spit Fyre Grill is a quick-service dining location featuring delicious, hearty meals flame-seared by a helpful (unseen) dragon fry cook.
• Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel — Guests can grab quick bites at the Viking Camp’s festive racing-themed food stand.
• After a day of dragon training, guests can commemorate their lessons with an array of merchandise available at highly themed shops like Viking Traders, How to Treat Your Dragon, Hiccup’s Work Shop, and Toothless’ Treasures.

Universal Epic Universe: Dark Universe

At this point, readers of this blog are probably tired of seeing variations of the word “Universe.” Please send all complaints about that to NBCUniversal since we did not name these theme parks or properties. Still, we admit to being very excited about the Dark Universe land based on Universal Classic Monsters.

Dark Universe will be a land focused on the Universal Classic Monsters where guests will encounter everything from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to a “shadowy landscape” where monsters roam.

The Universal Classic Monsters have been a part of Universal’s legacy from almost the beginning. The horror movie genre kept Universal afloat during some lean years in the past. Rumors of a Classic Monsters attraction coming to Universal Orlando Resort have existed for decades. Popular classic monsters expected in this Epic Universe land include Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, Wolfman, and the previously confirmed Dr. Victoria Frankenstein.

Initial speculation about this area of the Universal Epic Universe revolves around the backstory of a village that was once terrorized by monsters and still fears them. Two attractions will be part of the Universal Classic Monsters area within this setting.

Some reports indicate a massive dark ride using similar technology to the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction at Islands of Adventure. Based on permits and logical conclusions, a Universal Classic Monsters-themed coaster will be in this land. That coaster, probably being called “Curse of the Werewolf, should feature a backward element, launching features, and spinning ride vehicles.

Dark Universe Shopping and Dining

Universal Orlando Resort will indeed have plenty of dining and shopping options based on these classic characters. Though experienced visitors see plenty of Universal Classic Monster merchandise in the current theme parks, we expect a new level of this merchandise when the Dark Universe area opens. Also, though we have no official word about these opportunities, we expect a full-service dining option and a quick-service one.

Conclusion: How Excited Are You for Universal Epic Universe?

We anxiously await the opening of all these lands and everything around the Universal Epic Universe theme park. 2025 looks to be a great year to visit Universal Orlando Resort for your vacation. The experts at UniversalFamilyVacations can help you with that next vacation at no cost to you. We wish you fun as you plan for the excitement of Universal Epic Universe.