Looking for an epic adventure to close out the summer (or plan for next)? Look no further than the sparkling, brand-new Universal Epic Universe, the latest theme park opened by Universal in Orlando, Florida. Loveland’s own Renee Gorman with Magical Moments Vacations had the privilege to preview this awesome new spot in April, and she gave us the scoop on just how magical of an experience this park truly is.
Located on the Universal Campus, Universal Epic Universe is only a bus ride away from the three other parks. “They haven’t opened a new theme park in Orlando in more than 25 years,” Renee says, excited.
So this new park is kind of a big deal. What makes it so special? A lot. Instead of relying on 3D glasses and screens, this park has “more traditional theme park rides with amazing animatronics and new technology,” Renee explains. It’s made up of five different “worlds”—all of which are accessed through “portals”—The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ Ministry of Magic™, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, How to Train Your Dragon Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park.
“When you go into each portal, you’re actually immersed into each individual land. You can’t see the other lands from the one you’re in, so you’re really pulled into the moment,” Renee explains of just how captivating this park is.
While you could cover it all in one day, Renee suggests planning for two—to really see everything, to fully enjoy the park. All of the worlds contain different experiences, from food and shopping to themed rides and character meet-and-greets. “The rides are great, the food is great. The whole park is just really well done,” Renee promises of a trip to Universal Epic Universe.
UniversalOrlando.com/web/en/us/theme-parks/epic-universe | magicalmomentsvacations.com/agents/renee-gorman
OK, LET’S GO!
Want to know what not to miss at Epic? These are Renee’s faves from her trip!
“The most exceptional meet-and-greet I had was with Toothless and Hiccup in the Isle of Berk. Toothless is an animatronic, but a very realistic one!”
And the best food in the park? Renee suggests the Mac and Cheese Cones from Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel, also located in Isle of Berk. “They’re super instagrammable … so much fun to eat!”
As far as rides go, Renee suggests Stardust Racers. “It’s the best coaster I’ve ever been on,” she exclaims. She also recommends Mine-Cart Madness in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and Hiccup’s Wing Gliders in the Isle of Berk!