Universal’s Epic Universe Opens in Orlando
Universal’s Epic Universe, the first new major theme park to open in decades, officially opened to the public on May 22nd. The park is the fourth of Univeral’s Parks in Orlando. Epic Universe joins Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay parks.
Epic Universe’s Five Themed Lands
The park is composed of 5 themed lands. The first and anchor is Celestial Park. It has lush garden and other green areas and fountains and offers a kind of oasis from the hub and activity of the rest of Epic Universe. Most park guests will enter through Celestial Park. This land also includes the Stardust Racers rollercoaster.
The other lands are:
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic which Universal describes as “the world of 1920s wizarding Paris and catch glimpses of fantastic beasts as you stroll the magical cafes and shops of Place Cachée”.
Super Nintendo World is home to the popular Mario Brothers video game characters. Top attractions here include a mine cart through Donkey Kong Country and navigating various “Mario Kart” courses. This land also offers digital coin collection.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk takes you to a rugged island land inhabited by dragons and Vikings. Highlights here include the Hiccup’s Wing Gliders coaster where you can fly like a dragon and the boat ride Fyre Drill, a major get splashed experience.
Dark Universe: Dark Universe and its Darkmooor village of Darkmoor, is the home to Universal’s most well-known and popular monsters. Here Dr. Victoria Frankenstein is in charge of the mayhem and whimsy of this foreboding land.
Dining/Shopping Options at the Five Lands
All the lands feature several dining options from full meals with wait staff or quick grab and go snacks. Each land features unique dishes going along with its theme. For example, Dark Universe offers blood orange chicken sandwiches and Isle of Berk offers Viking-inspired dishes. Each land also has its own shops selling merchandise for its theme and characters.
Comments from Universal Executives
“This park is a game-changer and the most technologically innovative park we have ever built,” said Brian Robinson, EVP & Chief Creative Officer at Universal Destinations & Experiences. “On behalf of over a thousand creatives who poured their heart into this [opening], we are so excited to have you.”
Hotel/Accommodation Options at Epic
Epic Universe offers no less than 10 hotel properties for those seeking to visit the theme park. They offer various amenities and at different price points. Among their top “Signature Class” properties is Loewe’s Helios Grand, a property we wrote about last year. Located at the end of Celestial Park, it offers exclusive park entry and other perks as well as inviting amenities for families and couples. Other Signature Class offerings are the Hard Rock and the Lowe’s Royal Pacific Resort with an exotic island theme. Those looking for a less expensive vacation should consider the “Value Inn” options of Universal Cabana Bay and Universal Endless Summer. In between, are “Prime Value” properties which include the Terra Luna and the Stella Nova.
Ticket Prices
One day passes to Epic Universe alone are currently $139 for adults and $134 for children. Multiday passes offer good discounts.
Want to book a trip to Universal Orlando or learn more about Epic Universe? Please let us be of assistance.
Purple Light Vacations provides you with the knowledge, insight and personalized service to make your vacation all you want it to be at no additional cost. We help you travel in the know wherever you go. To get started, fill out this quick form or call 619.324.1444 (ext. 3)