Top 5 Experiences I’m Most Excited for at Universal Epic Universe
The grand opening of Universal Epic Universe is only a few months away — and the excitement is EPIC. As a devoted theme park enthusiast, I've been counting down the days since the initial announcement. The journey from that first cryptic map ( revealed on August 1st, 2019) to the present day has been filled with anticipation and speculation.
Universal has gradually uncovered the details that will shape this groundbreaking theme park. The ambitious vision, described as the "most immersive and innovative theme park" during the initial unveiling, has slowly come into focus. Each new piece of information has fueled the excitement surrounding Epic Universe's debut.
Now, with the opening date looming, we have a clearer picture of the experiences that await us on May 22nd, 2025. The park looks to transport guests to fantastical worlds, where beloved stories and characters come to life in breathtaking ways. Cutting-edge technology and innovative design will play a significant role in creating these immersive environments.
From thrilling experiences and attractions to captivating shows and entertainment, Epic Universe promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages. The park's diverse offerings from Super Nintendo World to Dark Universe will have something that will appeal to all fans, ensuring that there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Universal Epic Universe is set to change the landscape of the theme park experience — and I, for one, can't wait to be a part of it. Here's a deeper look into the top 5 experiences that have me counting down the days until my first steps into the park:
5) Le Cirque Arcanus in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic
Harry Potter is all about magic so why it has taken this long for a “magic show" to be added is baffling. Tying into the Warner Bros. Pictures Fantastic Beasts films the show’s plot will follow Ringmaster Skender, who has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase and circus employee Gwenlyn to rescue these creatures before they end up in Skender’s greedy hands forever. Featuring live performers and aerialists, amazing puppetry, as well as brilliant special effects, this show already promises to return the Universal Parks to the long lost days of must see shows.
4) Stardust Racers in Celestial Park
Stardust Racers promises to be an epic addition to the Universal Orlando Resort’s thrill attraction lineup. The coaster's impressive statistics—speeds reaching 62 mph, heights of 133 feet, and a sprawling 5,000-foot track—will undoubtedly attract thrill-seekers from far and wide. The inclusion of the "Celestial Spin," a heart pounding maneuver where two coaster vehicles intertwine while inverted, will likely become a highlight for riders and spectators alike. The combination of speed, height, and visual spectacle will make Stardust Racers a must-experience attraction and a standout feature of the park, capturing the attention of guests both day and night.
3) The Untrainable Dragon Show in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
The How to Train Your Dragon themed area, Isle of Berk, has been one of the most interesting aspects of the park for me. While I hold the original animated film as a one of the greats, the land itself seems to be skewed towards the younger guests. However, "The Untrainable Dragon" show has been praised by many since its debut at Universal Beijing Resort in 2021.
It's rare for me to remain unspoiled by any theme park attraction around the world, yet this show has managed to maintain that level, only fueling my anticipation to experience it in person. The buzz surrounding "The Untrainable Dragon" suggests that it could be not only the sleeper hit within the Isle of Berk, but perhaps even the park as a whole.
2) Donkey Kong Country in Super Nintendo World
The Donkey Kong Country area within Super Nintendo World will immerse visitors in a video game environment, and the Mine-Cart Madness coaster will make riders feel as if they have been transported into the Donkey Kong-verse. This family-friendly coaster has been highly anticipated, and riding in the mine carts, being blasted from barrels, and speeding along the track will make riders feel like they are part of the game, which will enhance the overall theme of this area of the park. I honestly will spend days in this area just getting lost in the details.
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment in Dark Universe
Honestly, Dark Universe as a whole is my number one most anticipated thing — but, of all the amazing aspects of this land, the signature attraction, "Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment," promises to be the experience that I have wanted in a theme park my entire life. Coming face to face with iconic Universal creatures like Frankenstein's Monster, Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Mummy, The Creature from the Black Lagoon, and the Brides of Dracula takes me back to the days of me and my friends creating the ultimate attraction but now it is going to be real! I love that this isn’t going to be just a “house of horrors" type attraction but a fully realized immersive adventure where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, daughter of the mad scientist that first created the monster, has taken up the family business that leads to what premises to be one of the most iconic Universal attractions for years to come.
Okay, I can’t just leave it at Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment — this entire land will be my reason to visit this park. Darkmoor, the fictional town in the Dark Universe promises to hold so many secrets and adventures I will be rope dropping and staying into the closing minutes of the night here. Curse of the Werewolf may be categorized as a family experience, but I have a feeling this spinning coaster will hide some fangs behind the fur and really provide some with nightmares during a full moon.
Something that I never thought I would be admitting is that I am excited about has to be the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience. Never has face painting and temporary tattoos been on my to-do list but the chance to be made up like some of my favorite Universal Monsters will change that!
Really the biggest surprise of the land that I am looking forward to is The Burning Blade Tavern, this is just going to be one of the most iconic things in the entire park. Even though I don’t drink, I will happily wait all day if I have to, to get in to hear stories of the infamous “Hounds" – boastful hunters from beyond Darkmoor – all while surrounded by an impressive display of the monster heads they consider their “trophies."
That was my list of the top 5 (or so) things I'm looking forward to when Universal Epic Universe opens. I hope this gave you some insight into the park. If you're thinking of visiting, contact our friends at MEI-Travel to help plan your EPIC vacation! I know I'm counting down the days until I can experience the magic for myself but now I have to get back to creating my monster hunter bounding outfit.