Universal’s Epic Universe: 5 Things to Know Before You Go

Jesse Morris • August 11, 2025

Universal Orlando’s newest theme park opened May 22, 2025 and it’s a stunner—five richly themed “worlds” wrapped around a hub called Celestial Park. It’s also wildly popular, so a smart plan pays off. 

I had the opportunity to spend a day at Universal Studios Epic Universe. It did NOT disappoint but there were some things that came to mind. Here are my 5 things you should know before you go:

1) Understand the layout so you can “pick your portal”

Epic Universe isn’t a traditional loop. You’ll enter Celestial Park first—think grand fountains, gardens, and the high-speed Stardust Racers coaster—then pass through portals into four self-contained worlds: Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe (home to the Universal Monsters). Knowing that each world has a single entry helps you prioritize where you go first and avoid backtracking. 

Signature attractions to keep on your radar
  • Stardust Racers (Celestial Park): dual-launch racing coaster. 
  • Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge + Yoshi’s Adventure + Mine-Cart Madness (Donkey Kong Country) (Super Nintendo World). 
  • Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry + Le Cirque Arcanus stage show (Ministry of Magic).
  • Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment + Curse of the Werewolf (Dark Universe).
  • Hiccup’s Wing Gliders + Dragon Racer’s Rally (Isle of Berk). 

2) Express Pass at Epic Universe: worth it—and what it doesn’t include

Yes, Universal sells a 1-Day Express Pass specifically for Epic Universe. It lets you use the Express queue once per participating attraction. Prices start around $130 and can surge past $300 on peak days. (It was $289 for my visit.) It’s not bundled with hotel stays or annual passes at this park. 

Included examples: Stardust Racers, Constellation Carousel, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, Monsters Unchained, Curse of the Werewolf, Le Cirque Arcanus, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, Fyre Drill, The Untrainable Dragon. 

Not included (important!)
  • Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (Ministry of Magic)
  • Mine-Cart Madness (Donkey Kong Country)
  • Dragon Racer’s Rally (Isle of Berk) 
Our take on value: on days when posted waits can hit 300 minutes for headliners, Express can reclaim hours—just remember you’ll still queue standby for the three exclusions above. Pair Express with smart timing (see #3) and you’ll comfortably cover the park in a day. 

3) Early Park Admission & Virtual Line: how to beat the rush

Guests at Universal hotels (and select groups) get Early Park Admission—up to one hour before opening—with a rotating roster that has included Stardust Racers, Yoshi’s Adventure, Mario Kart, Monsters Unchained and more. If you have EPA, arrive 45-60 minutes before the early time to capitalize.

4) Budget for interactive extras (optional but fun)

Power-Up Bands in Super Nintendo World turn the land into a game—track coins, punch blocks, unlock Key Challenges, and compare scores in the app. They’re optional and typically run about $42 + tax; useful if you’re traveling with competitive gamers (or are one yourself). 

Also plan for souvenir/locker costs and know height requirements in advance—Universal publishes a handy accessibility/height guide covering every Epic Universe attraction. 

5) Eat smart: quick wins and don’t-miss bites

  • Toadstool Café (Super Nintendo World) is quick-service with mobile ordering; wait times build fast—peek at the app earlier in the day. 
  • Atlantic (Celestial Park) brings a scenic, full-service “Victorian aquarium” vibe overlooking the fountains—ideal for a restorative, air-conditioned break. Reserve when you can. 
  • Das Stakehaus (Dark Universe) leans into the vampire lore with atmospheric dining—menus are posted if you want to preview before you commit. 
Food at Epic Universe is a genuine step up—plan at least one meal you’re excited about and mobile-order snacks in between. 

Quick FAQ
  • How long do I need? One full day covers the highlights with a plan; Express Pass helps enormously on busy dates (but remember the three exclusions). 
  • What’s the absolute “can’t miss”? For thrills: Stardust Racers and Monsters Unchained. For immersion: Ministry of Magic. For pure joy: Donkey Kong Country’s kinetic energy. 
  • Any backup if Express sells out? Consider Universal’s VIP Tour, which provides guided priority access to a slate of headliners (separate ticket required). 
The bottom line

Epic Universe is the most ambitious U.S. theme park in decades—and it’s drawing crowds accordingly. Lock in your strategy (EPA + app + smart routing), decide early whether Express Pass makes sense for your date, and set aside time to actually breathe in Celestial Park between headliners. That balance is how you turn a packed day into an unforgettable one.