OORlando #45 - Epic Universe; a report from our first visit!

William

Posted on: 09/05/2025
OORlando the podcast

In episode 45 of OORlando, Willem and Rick take you to a brand new theme park in Orlando. Indeed, last weeks they were guests at Orlando's newest crown jewel: Universal Epic Universe. What are the first impressions, what can you expect and above all: what should you prepare for? Join us as we visit this fantastic new destination in Orlando!

Getting excited about Universal Epic Universe? Join our Orlando specialist in 2026 to experience it for yourself in real life!

Follow OOrlando on Instagram, respond on this podcast, or visit our website.

Would you also like to visit this brand new park?

It's finally here: Universal's Epic Universe has opened! This brand new theme park in Orlando takes the Universal Orlando Resort to a whole new level. And you can go there yourself, along with Florivida.

🌎 Join us on a group tour
At January 2026 we are organizing a special group trip to Epic Universe, where you will join other theme park enthusiasts and an experienced Universal specialist. You get:

  • Unlimited access to all Universal parks, including Epic Universe
  • Guidance from an expert who will make the most of your visit
  • Stay at a hotel in a prime location
  • Transportation to and from the parks
  • Practical tips, helpful daily schedules and fun group moments

→ View the group tour

🎟️ Prefer individually?
Do you prefer to travel at your own pace? If so, we would also be happy to help you get started. Our individual trips to Orlando are fully customizable and always include admission to all the parks of the Universal Orlando Resort

  • Choose a hotel within walking distance of the parks
  • Combine your stay with Walt Disney World or a cruise
  • Decide how many days you want to go to Epic Universe

→ View all individual trips

🎙 What is episode 45 of OORlando about?
In this episode, Rick and Willem take you through their first experiences with Epic Universe:

  • First impressions of the park
    How does it feel to walk through the gates of Celestial Park for the first time? Rick and Willem talk about the atmosphere, decor and their first wow moments.
  • Attractions and favorites
    What were their highlights? Consider the spectacular Mario Kart ride, a blood-curdling monster ride in Dark Universe and interactive dragon experiences in Berk.
  • Practical tips for your visit
    How do you navigate the park? What are the quieter times? Where's the best place to eat? In this episode, you'll get helpful tips to make your day in Epic Universe go smoothly.
  • Comparison with other amusement parks
    How does Epic Universe compare to other Universal parks or Walt Disney World? William and Rick share their honest opinions.

🔍 What is Epic Universe?
Epic Universe is the third major park at the Universal Orlando Resort and opened in May 2025. Unlike traditional theme parks, this park is set up as a collection of five separate worlds that you reach through the central Celestial Park.
Each world has its own atmosphere, soundtrack and gateway, so you really feel like you are stepping into a new universe.

What can you expect at Universal's newest park?

  • Celestial Park - the central square with gardens, fountains and relaxation
  • Super Nintendo World - Race through the Mushroom Kingdom and eat at the Toadstool Café
  • Dark Universe - an eerie world full of classic monsters and foggy paths
  • Wizarding World - Ministry of Magic - journey through the MetroFloo to a new Harry Potter experience
  • Isle of Birch - Meet dragons, viking villages and family-friendly attractions

→ Read our destination page about Epic Universe

Frequently asked questions about this brand new park

When does this park open?

Epic Universe opened on May 22, 2025 and is the newest theme park within Universal Orlando Resort.

What is there to do?

Epic Universe consists of five worlds: Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, Wizarding World: Ministry of Magic, Isle of Berk and Celestial Park. You'll find spectacular attractions, interactive experiences, shows, stores and restaurants in fully themed environments.

What is the difference between Epic Universe and other Universal parks?

Epic Universe is more modern and immersive than the existing parks. The biggest difference is the layout: you enter each world through a separate portal from Celestial Park, making each zone feel like its own mini-park.

Is this park suitable for children?

Definitely! Especially Isle of Berk (How to Train Your Dragon) and Super Nintendo World are ideal for families. There are also exciting attractions for older children and adults in Dark Universe, among others.

Want to know more or travel yourself?

Want more information or already dreaming of visiting Epic Universe? We would be happy to help you:
Request a non-binding travel proposal
Read our blog!
➤ Listen Opening Epic Universe | OORlando Podcast #47 | Florivida

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Schedule an appointment with one of our travel experts to discuss your travel needs and receive a personalized travel proposal by email.
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William

is co-founder of Florivida (2022) and a passionate traveler. His love of travel began during his college years through a trip to the U.S. West Coast and continued to grow during family vacations to destinations such as Florida, Japan, China and the Emirates. With a wealth of travel experience, he helps clients realize their dream trip.

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