I recently previewed the groundbreaking Epic Universe theme park prior to its official park opening on May 22nd. This new park offers immersive entertainment. While I was hosted by Universal to be a preview guest, I paid full price for preview tickets for my husband and kids (ages 8 and 13) to join me for the day. Here are our initial impressions, unforgettable moments, and essential tips for first-time visitors.

Epic Universe has two entrances: the main entrance outside the Chronos portal and an exclusive entrance within Celestial Park for Helios Grand Hotel guests. The exclusive entrance provides an advantage over early entry guests at the main gate. If you are staying at a different Universal resort (not Helios) but want to use early entry, arriving 90 minutes before park opening is recommended.

During early entry there are only two “lands” currently open. They are: Celestial Park (where you can ride Stardust Racers) and Super Nintendo World (where you can choose between the three attractions in that land). We spent our morning in Super Nintendo World because our kids couldn’t wait to see it. Don’t worry! If you are looking to buy a “Power UP Band” prior to entering the land, the main gift shops are open at 9am so you can send a person in your party to purchase one and get it set up while you are waiting for the land to open at 10am. 

Initially, I was struck by the beauty of the park. Universal really took their time to make this park visually stunning. It feels unlike any other theme park I have visited. Its theme is truly unique. While there are some similarities (in music and setting) to Walt Disney World’s Epcot, Universal takes that idea and makes it more whimsical and fantastical with Celestial Park.

Here are some of our can’t-miss, must-do attractions, sights, and foods:

1. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry currently requires virtual queue reservations, which are difficult to obtain (see tips below). Even without a reservation, touring the atrium queue is worthwhile and totally encouraged by Universal team members.
2. Walking around The Isle of Berk. This land’s strongest attribute is the level of detail and care that went into immersive storytelling. While the rides here are fun, they are second to the general atmosphere, characters, and visual sights in the land.
3. Playing with the Power-UP Bands in Super Nintendo World. It is an extra cost ($45 plus tax), but it is the ultimate scavenger hunt around the land. Plan 45 minutes or so for your kids (or grown up kids) to run around the land collecting coins and interacting with the sets and games. My kids shared one Power-UP band and one second generation wand during our trip. This plan worked well for us and saved us some money.
4. Dark Universe and the village of Darkmoor were surprisingly a family favorite. While both attractions are good, Monsters Unchained stood out. The land’s theming is excellent, and chatting with Tia at The Burning Blade Tavern was a highlight. The enthusiastic cast truly enhances the immersive experience of Darkmoor.
5. Food in Celestial Park. Let’s be honest, Universal has hit a grand slam with the food and beverage throughout the whole park. However, Celestial Park is the place to eat. Plan at least one meal where you can linger at the restaurant. Our top suggestion for a meal is the Oak and Star Tavern, but you can’t miss wherever you decide to go.Celestial Park at Epic Universe excels in food and beverage. Oak and Star Tavern is highly recommended, but all dining options are noteworthy and worth lingering at for at least one meal. 

Finally, here are our top tips and suggestions for having a friction-free day at Epic Universe:

1. Try to get a virtual queue for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry. This attraction is cutting-edge and not to be missed. Despite current virtual queue limitations and user complaints, persistence is key. Upon opening the virtual queue in Universal’s app, rapidly select a time and repeatedly try for up to five minutes, even if initially told it’s unavailable.
2. Don’t try to ride everything; focus on 5-6 top attractions to allow time to enjoy the park’s food, drinks, and atmosphere. Trying to do too much can detract from the overall experience. Live entertainment is plentiful around the park, leave time to enjoy it.
3. Stardust Racers is best ridden at night. Plan to arrive in the queue 15-20 minutes before the park closes. They DO cut the queue off before closing time, do not plan to arrive with minutes to spare, you may be turned away.
4. Expect ride delays and closures at Epic Universe. If a ride you’re in line for closes or delays, leave and return later to avoid wasting time.
5. Pack sunscreen and plan indoor breaks, especially during summer. Epic Universe has limited shade due to young trees, and many attraction queues are primarily outdoors.

Epic Universe offers a unique and visually stunning theme park experience. With diverse lands, immersive storytelling, and exceptional food, it’s a destination worth exploring. While some attractions may experience delays and virtual queues present challenges, prioritizing key attractions and focusing on the overall ambiance and culinary offerings can lead to a memorable visit. Remember, your Wishful Wanderings Travel planner is ready to help you plan a fantastic day at the world’s newest theme park. Reach out to us to start planning today!