START HERE: Universal’s EPIC UNIVERSE Ultimate Guide to Rides, Lands & More!

The wait is over—the portal has opened. Universal’s Epic Universe is now officially open after weeks of previews and events, bringing with it inventive new attractions, impressive shows, stunning dining spots, and interactive adventures across five fully immersive worlds: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and the glowing heart of this new universe—Celestial Park.

We’ve explored every corner of this bold new theme park and updated this guide with photos, videos, insider tips, and honest impressions. Whether you’re planning your first jump through the portal or just want to see what all the cosmic buzz is about, this is your one-stop guide to everything EPIC.

Bookmark this page: This guide will be continuously updated with new information about Universal’s Epic Universe as it becomes available. 

“This is such a pivotal moment for our destination,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “With the addition of this spectacular new theme park, our guests will embark on an unforgettable vacation experience with a week’s worth of thrills that will be nothing short of epic! Our Universe will never be the same.” 

Before we get started, enjoy this incredible video of the grand opening fireworks for Epic Universe…

Everything You Need To Know About Universal Epic Universe

Universal’s boldest theme park yet isn’t just big—it’s otherworldly. At the center of it all stands the Chronos, a celestial armillary that channels cosmic energy to power the park’s portals. From this glowing hub, known as Celestial Park, guests can explore five fully immersive themed worlds—each entered through its own dramatic gateway.

Designed in a modified hub-and-spoke layout, Epic Universe offers 11 rides, 2 live shows, 3 onsite hotels, and a constellation of beautiful restaurants and relaxing retreats across its five lands: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and the starlit heart of it all—Celestial Park.

In this guide, we’ll take you through every land, every ride, and every major experience—plus insider tips, hotel info, and everything you need to know to make the most of your journey through the Universe.

Celestial Park

Celestial Park is more than just the hub of Epic Universe—it’s the park’s shimmering soul. Designed to “put the park back in theme park,” this lush, vibrant space is filled with winding waterways, interactive elements, and celestial touches at every turn. It’s a place to relax, explore, and get your bearings before blasting off into the portals beyond.

Towering over it all is the Chronos, a kinetic centerpiece that channels cosmic energy to power the five gateways leading to the lands of Epic Universe. While the armillary-style sculpture anchors the space visually, it’s the surrounding atmosphere—gardens, fountains, and kinetic art—that invites guests to slow down and soak it all in.

Celestial Park Attractions:

Stardust Racers – A dual-launch racing coaster that sends guests rocketing through the skies aboard comets in a race to see who’s the fastest of them all. Reaching speeds up to 62 mph and heights up to 133 feet along 5,000 feet of track, Stardust Racers will be Epic Universe’s most thrilling coaster experience with unique maneuvers such as the “Celestial Spin,” in which the two coaster vehicles perform an inverted crisscross while speeding through the air – creating an out-of-this-world adrenaline rush.

Constellation Carousel – The centerpiece of Celestial Park at Universal Epic Universe. Here, explorers of all ages will take a fantastical whirl aboard constellations that glide forward, backward – and even make 360-degree rotations – through the Milky Way in a choreographed dance of music and starlight.

Astronomica – A playful water feature and interactive plaza, Astronomica doubles as a compass rose pointing toward each of the park’s portals. Kids of all ages will find splash zones, kinetic surprises, and a place to cool off in the hot Florida sun.

Celestial Park Dining and Shopping:

Celestial Park doesn’t just feed the soul—it feeds your appetite, too. This land is home to some of Epic Universe’s most atmospheric and ambitious full-service restaurants, perfect for a relaxing escape from the thrills. But if you’re in a rush to your next portal, there are also plenty of quick-service options and grab-and-go kiosks to keep you fueled on the fly.

• Atlantic – A full-service surf-and-turf restaurant located inside a gorgeous Victorian-style aquarium. Expect seafood, steaks, and floor-to-ceiling aquatic ambiance. This is a stunning and elevated dining experience. If you can’t secure a reservation, there’s also a bar and lounge on the top level so you can soak in the atmosphere for a bit before moving on. 

• The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant – Offering bold flavors from across Asia, this sit-down eatery features a glowing dragon centerpiece, floating lanterns, and cuisine from China, Japan, and Thailand.

• Pizza Moon – A whimsical, quick-service pizzeria inspired by Jules Verne’s From the Earth to the Moon, with animated props, retro-futuristic decor, and a menu of flatbreads and cheesy classics.

• Meteor Astropub – A cosmic watering hole offering handheld bites, themed cocktails, and a stylized steampunk vibe. Think stargazer lounge with a menu.

• Starbucks (2 locations) – Whether you’re craving caffeine or collecting mugs, Celestial Park’s two Starbucks locations serve up both—complete with a limited-edition Epic Universe souvenir mug.
• Kiosks & Treat Stalls – Scattered throughout the land are refreshment stands offering churros, pretzels, icy drinks, and other sweet and savory space snacks.

Celestial Park Shopping

Even among the stars, retail therapy is alive and well. Celestial Park offers a mix of themed shopping that blends science fiction, fantasy, and fashion. From cosmic confections to shimmering accessories, the stores here are more than just places to buy—they’re part of the experience. Whether you’re after a last-minute outfit for your intergalactic journey or a one-of-a-kind souvenir, this is your launchpad.

• Other Worlds Mercantile – As you enter the park, you’ll find this shop on your left. It’s a beautifully curated general store with Celestial Park-themed apparel, accessories, and home goods that feel plucked from another dimension. But it’s also your one-stop for merchandise from all the worlds of Epic Universe. If you find yourself searching for a gift to bring home at the end of the day, stop here for the greatest hits from all 5 worlds. 
• Moonship Chocolates & Sweets – Next to the Mercantile is an elegant candy shop featuring handmade confections, giftable treats, and eye-catching displays (and the smell alone is worth the visit). Plus, this is the home to Captain Cacao, the runaway hit plush and icon of the store. 

• Sensorium Emporium – On your right hand side as you enter the park is a shop that blurs the line between art and science, with interactive trinkets, kinetic curiosities, and galactic gadgets for the creatively inclined.
• North Star: Wintry Wonders – Connected to the Sensorium is a year-round holiday store offering winter-themed decor, gifts, and ornaments—even if you’re visiting in the heat of summer.
• Nintendo Super Star Store – The largest Nintendo retail space in the park, offering merchandise inspired by Mario, Luigi, Donkey Kong, and the entire Mushroom Kingdom. Even if you haven’t entered the green pipe yet, this is your chance to gear up. Also, perhaps in a nod to what’s soon to come to the park, you’ll find merchandise from The Legend of Zelda. 
• Lens Flair – The park’s resident photo and accessories shop, perfect for grabbing sunglasses, themed frames, or snapping a starlit selfie in celestial style. 

Find our complete guide to Universal Epic Universe’s Celestial Park, including videos and photos, here: 

Welcome to Celestial Park: The Shimmering Heart of Universal Epic Universe

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Ministry of Magic is Universal’s newest wizarding world-themed land, and the first to incorporate the Fantastic Beasts franchise.

In an interesting magical twist (even for the Wizarding World), the land includes 1920s Paris (as seen in “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald”) and the 1990s British Ministry of Magic (the period when the Harry Potter movies take place), allowing guests to explore “international wizarding communities and the magic that connects them.”

After passing through the land’s portal, guests enter Place Cachée, a hidden district in wizarding Paris featuring distinctive Haussman-style buildings, shops, and sidewalk cafés, where they can cast spells using interactive wands, encounter fantastic beasts at a traveling circus.

 

Then, guests travel to 1990s London using the Métro-Floo – a mode of wizarding transit inspired by the Floo Network from the movies – for an adventure inside the British Ministry of Magic.

Wizarding World Attractions:

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry – After traveling by Métro-Floo to the British Ministry of Magic for the trial of Dolores Umbridge, guests will pass through the Ministry’s grand atrium before boarding magical, omnidirectional lifts to attend the trial. When (unsurprisingly) Umbridge attempts to escape, the spectators must join Harry, Ron, Hermione, and a house-elf named Higgledy on a thrilling chase, encountering Death Eaters, rampaging creatures, and more along the way. 

For even more magical details about Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, check out our article:

EPIC Universe Will Take You Inside the Ministry of Magic for a Thrilling Adventure

Wizarding World Entertainment:

Le Cirque Arcanus – For the first time ever in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, guests will enjoy a live, full-scale theater experience featuring live performers, aerialists, puppetry, special effects, and of course, a few fantastic beasts. The show follows Ringmaster Skender (who has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase) to bring the failing Le Cirque Arcanus back to its former glory.

Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique – Guests can shop for wands designed by wandmaker Cosme Acajor in her Parisian wand shop. In addition to imports from Ollivanders, visitors will find a selection of wands packaged in unique three-sided boxes, each containing a list of locations where they can practice casting spells.

Wand Magic – Interactive wands will create magical experiences at various locations in the land, interact with fantastic beasts like Nifflers, Bowtruckles, and a Demiguise, and engage with enchanted objects in storefront windows.

Entertainment – Guests will also encounter visitors, officials, and residents from the wizarding world, including exchange students from the Hogwarts and Ilvermorny Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry, an Auror from the Ministère des Affaires Magiques de la France who roams inquiring of suspicious characters, talking portraits of wizards who engage with locals about the happenings in Place Cachée, and more.

Wizarding World Dining and Shopping:

Café L’Air De La Sirène – Diners can enjoy French sandwiches, plats du jour, and desserts in a charming cafe adorned with carved marble and details of fantastic beasts hidden in the tile and mosaic designs.

Le Gobelet Noir – A mysterious auberge where international Dark witches and wizards gather to escape the Paris Ministry and share a meal over hushed conversation.

Bar Moonshine – American witches and wizards can enjoy a taste of home, including exclusive beers, wines, and cocktails surrounded by with familiar decor like U.S. Quidditch team pennants and wizarding Americana.

Bièraubeurre Cart – Guests can stop by the Bièraubeurre cart for a frosty mug of the fan-favorite wizarding beverage, Butterbeer.

Guests can shop for wizarding gear and memorabilia in Les Galeries Mirifiques, satisfy their sweet tooth at the French confectionery shop, K. Rammelle, or make a stop for Ministry of Magic-inspired items at the Métro-Floo gift shop, Tour En Floo.

Dark Universe

As the pioneer of the horror genre, Universal celebrates legendary Universal Monsters in the mysterious village of Darkmoor, enveloping guests in monstrous adventures across various attractions, shops, and restaurants.

The journey to Dark Universe begins at its electrifying portal, which harnesses dark energy pulsating through the village to the top of Frankenstein Manor.

Dark Universe Attractions:

Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment – Already billed as Universal Orlando’s most terrifying attraction yet, this state-of-the-art dark ride takes guests into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor, where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein conducts twisted experiments. In a vain display of her genius, she invites guests into her laboratory to witness a demonstration of her ability to control monsters – but her plans go awry, unleashing a horde of enraged monsters. 

Curse of the Werewolf – A spinning family coaster inspired by The Wolf Man is hidden in the woods on the edge of Darkmoor. Guests enter the encampment of The Guild of Mystics, where the guild’s all-knowing seer and leader warns that you bear the mark of the werewolf, just as you board a wagon and venture into the forest, racing to escape the werewolves.

Dark Universe Experiences:

Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience – Guests of all ages can become fashionably monstrous as they don elaborate face paint and temporary tattoos at Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience. Here, monster makers have converted Dr. Pretorius’ infamous old lab into a parlor where skilled artisans transform ordinary guests into Universal Monsters.

• Experiment (makeup only): Starting at $45 for age 5+
• Transformation (makeup + accessories): Starting at $109 for ages 5-9; starting at $169 for ages 10+

Meet the Monsters – There’s always someone… or something… lurking in the shadows of Darkmoor, including Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s Monster, her servant, Ygor, the alluring Bride of Frankenstein, The Invisible Man, an eccentric monster hunter, and a talented musician who regales guests with songs and tales of the classic Universal Monsters stories.

Dark Universe Dining and Shopping:

Das Stakehaus – Darkmoor’s most ominous restaurant, this establishment is run by vampire “familiars” who size up unsuspecting patrons to be part of the vampires’ feast. Diners will enjoy a menu of kebabs, burgers, sandwiches and more, surrounded by artwork and artifacts detailing the history of the village’s creatures of the night.

The Burning Blade Tavern – Despite the blades of the windmill still smoldering and flaming periodically, Darkmoor’s monster hunters have transformed this old fiery mill into their favorite hangout. While enjoying a menu of burgers, wings, bratwurst, pretzels and specialty beverages, guests can 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”.

De Lacey’s Cottage – Near Frankenstein Manor sits De Lacey’s Cottage food stand, where the original Frankenstein’s Monster once received sustenance and friendship. Here, you’ll find a variety of snacks and cool treats like cinnamon bread, ice cream, twisted taters and more.

Take home a piece of the immortal world of Dark Universe with commemorative merchandise and mementos from retail locations like Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities.

For even more monstrous details about Dark Universe, check out our article:

Epic Universe: Monsters, Mayhem & More in Dark Universe

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Soar with dragons in a colorful world filled with Viking adventures based on the How to Train Your Dragon film franchise.

Upon entering the portal, guests will be met with a sweeping view of the rugged, rocky world where raucous Vikings and rambunctious dragons live together in hilarious harmony.

Isle of Berk Attractions:

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders – Fly alongside Hiccup and Toothless on this family thrill coaster reaching speeds up to 45 mph as you soar around the perimeter of Berk – and even through the lagoon – while experiencing firsthand what it’s like to fly on a dragon. 

Fyre Drill – Mischievous Viking twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut invite teams of Vikings to compete to outscore and out-soak each other on this wet-and-wild boat battle. Board a colorful dragon-headed boat and blast water cannons at flame-like targets to practice putting out fires – a crucial skill to master when living with dragons.

Dragon Racer’s Rally – Berk’s new Vikings racers can practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on two Viking-made dragon-riding trainers that reach heights of up to 67 feet in the air. You can control how “wild” or “mild” your flying experience will be in this perform high-flying, gravity-defying, swooping and soaring attraction!

Viking Training Camp – Junior Vikings will learn everything they need to know about dragons as they climb, slide, and explore their way through this sprawling interactive adventure play camp – featuring a Viking agility course, a Toothless-themed teeter-totter, baby Gronckle dragon climbers, and more.

Isle of Berk Entertainment:

The Untrainable Dragon – This dragon-filled live spectacular stars 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 musical numbers and life-sized dragons soaring overhead. (This is based on Universal Beijing’s popular “Untrainable” show)

Meet Hiccup and Toothless – Visit the Haddock Paddock for an incredible meet-and-greet experience with heroic Dragon Rider, Hiccup, and pose for a photo with his friendly Night Fury, Toothless. Other familiar Vikings and dragons may also be spotted while exploring Berk.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Isle of Berk Dining and Shopping:

Mead Hall – the heart of the land – Feast like a Viking at the village’s main gathering hall 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 – Grab quick bites at this festive, racing-themed food stand located in the Viking Camp.

Commemorate your day of dragon training lessons with an array of merchandise available at highly themed shops like Viking Traders, How to Treat Your Dragon, Hiccup’s Workshop, and Toothless’ Treasures.

For even more high-flying details about How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, check out our article:

Epic Universe Isle of Berk Guide: Soar with Dragons, Feast Like a Viking!

Super Nintendo World

Enter the iconic green pipe and discover a new way to play! Guests are transported into the vibrant scenery and kinetic energy of the Mushroom Kingdom from the Super Mario games. Greeted by the familiar sights and sounds from your favorite Nintendo games, guests will encounter beloved characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Donkey Kong.

 

Super Nintendo World Attractions:

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge – 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 Mario Kart video games to life. After boarding their kart, guests steer through a variety of Mario Kart courses, collecting coins, tossing shells, and dodging obstacles as they compete to help Team Mario win the race.

Yoshi’s Adventure – Making its U.S. debut, this family-friendly ride welcomes guests of all ages to take in the breathtaking views of Super Mario Land as you join Yoshis and travel through Mushroom Kingdom landscapes in search of glowing eggs, encountering many familiar characters along the way.

Super Nintendo World Dining and Shopping:

And don’t miss the DK Crush Float at the Bubbly Barrel. It’s Banana and Pineapple Dole Whip in a souvenir mug with a waffle cone with chocolate, toffee, and pineapple soda. WOAH!

Power-Up Bands

Level up your fun in Super Nintendo World with a Power-Up Band, a wrist wearable that allows guests to enhance their play by collecting coins by punching blocks and playing interactive activities, collecting digital stamps on attractions, and earning digital keys to unlock an exclusive showdown against Bowser Jr. (a bonus virtual attraction within the land).

Epic Universe Super Nintendo World Guide – Mario, Donkey Kong, Yoshi & More Inside!

Epic Universe Height Requirements

Universal Epic Universe will have eleven epic attractions. Here are the minimum height requirements:

• Stardust Racers in Celestial Park – 48″
• Constellation Carousel in Celestial Park – No Height Requirement
• Hiccup’s Wing Gliders in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – 40″
• Dragon Racer’s Rally in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – 48″
• Fyre Drill in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – No Height Requirement
• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge in Super Nintendo World – 40″
• Mine-Cart Madness in Super Nintendo World – 40″
• Yoshi’s Adventure in Super Nintendo World – 34″
• Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment in Dark Universe – 48″
• Curse of the Werewolf in Dark Universe – 40″
• Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry in Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – 40″

Three Epic Hotels

Three all-new hotels are located at Universal Epic Universe: Universal Helios Grand Hotel, which features Universal Orlando Resort’s first dedicated theme park entrance for hotel guests and 14 exclusive “How to Train Your Dragon-“themed kids’ suites plus Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort.

Guests at all three hotels enjoy exclusive onsite hotel guest benefits, including early park Admission up to one hour before the park opens (including Universal Epic Universe), complimentary transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk, resort-wide charging privileges, and complimentary merchandise delivery to their hotel.

Grand Helios Hotel

The 500-room Mediterranean-inspired hotel represents “a fantastical world within the palace of Helios, the Greek god of the sun,” decorated with celestial patterns and dazzling constellations and offering views of Celestial Park through the lobby’s floor-to-ceiling windows.

While Grand Helios Hotel is part of Universal’s Signature Collection, only guests staying at Portofino Bay, Hard Rock, and Royal Pacific Resort will receive Universal Express Unlimited ride access at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure.

The hotel features a resort-style zero-entry pool with underwater speakers, poolside cabanas (available for rent), a hot tub, poolside movies, recreational activities, and the casual poolside Lotus Lagoon bar and grill serving cocktails/mocktails, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more.

Additional dining options include the full-service Flora Taverna restaurant and lobby bar serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Aurora Market offering freshly-roasted coffees and grab-and-go items; and the Bar Helios rooftop lounge offering handcrafted cocktails and 360-degree views of Epic Universe.

The guest rooms at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel are garden-themed to reflect the views of Celestial Park below.

Oh, and remember those How to Train Your Dragon kids’ suites? Here’s a peek at those.

We’ve had two opportunities to tour this STUNNING hotel and here are our thoughts:

Universal Helios Grand Hotel a Shining New Star on the Orlando Skyline

Stella Nova Resort

Featuring tranquil accommodations inspired by distant galaxies, new stars, and mysterious black holes, Universal Stella Nova Resort adds 750 guest rooms to Universal Orlando Resort’s Prime Value category.

Terra Luna Resort:

Inspired by the massive and diverse planetary elements of the universe, Universal Terra Luna Resort also has 750 guest rooms and is in the Prime Value hotel category.

Terra Nova and Stella Luna only offer guest rooms with two queen beds (accommodating up to four guests). There are no family suites at either hotel.

Stella Nova and Terra Luna Dining:

The twin hotels will have similar dining options, including Cosmos Cafe and Market at Stella Nova Resort and Omega Cafe and Market at Terra Luna Resort, quick service restaurants featuring made-to-order American classics for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a selection of grab-and-go items.

Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill at Stella Nova Resort and Moonrise Bar and Moonrise Grill at Terra Luna Resort – Guests can enjoy burgers, quesadillas, and salads at these walk-up service pool bars and grills. Plus, guests 21 and older can purchase cocktails, beer, and wine.

Nova Bar at Stella Nova Resort and Luna Bar at Terra Luna Resort – Each hotel’s lobby bar will offer specialty cocktails curated with unique ingredients, along with the classics. 

Each hotel features a nearly 10,000 square foot pool with a hot tub, lounge, and table seating in the pool area, a fire pit, and activities like poolside movies and outdoor games, as well as Fitness Centers, Game Rooms, and Universal Orlando Resort Stores.

Check out our guide to both hotels here:

Stella Nova Resort at Epic Universe is Out of This World

 

Let’s Hear From You!

The wait is over—Epic Universe is officially open! After years of anticipation, you can now walk through the portals, ride with dragons, race through the Mushroom Kingdom, duel Death Eaters, and encounter monsters in the shadows.

Now that the Universe has launched, we want to know:

Which world are you heading to first? Which ride blew you away? Did Celestial Park live up to its name? And which souvenir are you bringing back from your first journey?

Drop your thoughts in the comments below—we’re all ears (pointy, furry, or otherwise)!