The Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide

The Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide

Everything You Need to Know To Plan The Ultimate Epic Universe Adventure

Universal Epic Universe opens May 22, 2025, and it’s already shaping up to be a game-changer for theme park fans. With five immersive lands, thrilling new attractions, themed hotels, and guest perks galore, this is the kind of destination that demands some advance planning. We recently had the opportunity to preview the park via a hosted VIP tour during a Universal Media Day, and we can say without hesitation—this is an amazing theme park you do NOT want to miss.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Universal Helios Grand Hotel – Now Booking for May 2025 Stays

The Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide 1

What Is Epic Universe?

Universal Orlando’s fourth theme park brings together state-of-the-art thrills and next-level storytelling in five interconnected worlds:

  • Dark Universe – Dive into the world of Universal Monsters with a thrilling new ride featuring Dr. Frankenstein, The Bride, and more
  • Celestial Park – The lush, starry-themed central hub filled with gardens, water features, and a massive dual-launch coaster
  • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – Set in Paris and the British Ministry, it’s the next chapter in the Wizarding World
  • SUPER NINTENDO WORLD – A vibrant video game come to life featuring Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and Donkey Kong Country
  • How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – Soar with dragons, explore Viking villages, and enjoy family-friendly rides and a live show

Where to Stay

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Three brand-new themed hotels are opening alongside Epic Universe, offering immersive experiences, exclusive perks, and easy access to the park.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel – Your Place in the Sun

  • Mediterranean-inspired luxury with celestial décor
  • Dedicated entrance to Epic Universe (separate admission required)
  • Early Park Admission included
  • Rooftop bar with 360-degree views (Bar Helios), Mediterranean dining (Flora Taverna), and grab & go (Aurora Market)
  • Zero-entry pool, fitness center, arcade, and Universal Studios Store
  • Reservations: (888) 273-1311

Universal Stella Nova Resort – Stay Beyond This World

  • Space-themed resort with a tranquil, modern vibe
  • 10,000-square-foot pool, kids’ splash pad, game room, and fitness center
  • Dining includes Cosmos Café, Galaxy Bar & Grill, Nova Bar, and room-delivery pizza
  • Walking path and shuttle access to Epic Universe
  • Reservations: (888) 273-1311

Universal Terra Luna Resort – Chart Your Course

  • Inspired by exploration and orbiting worlds
  • Zero-entry pool with lounge seating, fire pit, and poolside games
  • Dining options include Omega Café, Moonrise Bar & Grill, and Luna Bar
  • Shuttle access to Epic Universe and other Universal parks
  • Reservations: (888) 273-1311
The Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide 3

Ticket Options

There are multiple ticket types available, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the Universal parks:

  • 1-Day Ticket to Epic Universe
    • Adults (10+): Starting at $139
    • Children (3–9): Starting at $134
  • 2-Day Combo Tickets
    • 1 Day at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure + 1 Day at Epic Universe
    • Starting at $126.50/day for adults
  • 3-Day, 3-Park Tickets
    • 2 Days of park-to-park access at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay
    • 1 Day at Epic Universe
    • Starting at $150.67/day for adults
  • Express Pass
    • Skip the regular lines at participating attractions
    • 1-Day Epic Universe Express Pass: Starting at $139.99
    • Multi-day Express Passes (2–5 day options): Starting at $59 per day
  • VIP Experience
    • 4-hour or 7-hour guided tour with front-of-line access
    • Valet parking included
    • Available starting May 23, 2025
    • Pricing starts at $259.99 per person
    • Call 866-346-9350 to reserve
The Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide 4

Special Vacation Packages

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ Exclusive Vacation Package includes:

  • Hotel accommodations for 7 nights
  • 2-Park 4-Day Park-to-Park PLUS 1-Day Epic Universe ticket
  • Breakfast at the Leaky Cauldron™, Three Broomsticks™, and Café L’air De La Sirène™
  • Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Flight and Honeydukes™ Cooler Tote
  • Shutterbutton’s™ photo session in Diagon Alley™
  • Early Park Admission (begins at Epic Universe May 23)

Create-Your-Own Packages are also available, allowing guests to:

  • Bundle hotel and ticket options
  • Save up to $200 depending on length of stay
  • Add airfare and other extras for a full vacation package
The Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide 5

How to Get There

  • Driving? Epic Universe has its own dedicated parking lot, so no need to park at CityWalk like at the other parks
  • Staying at a Universal hotel? All hotels offer complimentary shuttle transportation to Epic Universe and other parks
  • Staying at Helios Grand? You’ll enjoy a private park entrance exclusive to hotel guests
  • Flying in? Orlando International Airport (MCO) is just 20–30 minutes from the resort
The Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide 6

Hotel Guest Perks

No matter which Universal hotel you stay at, you’ll enjoy:

  • Early Park Admission to select attractions
  • Room key charging privileges throughout the parks and CityWalk
  • Free delivery of merchandise from theme park shops to your hotel
  • Complimentary shuttles between parks, hotels, and CityWalk

Related: Epic Universe Delivers a Portal-Powered Masterpiece

The Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide 7

Final Tips

  • Book early—especially for May 22 opening week, which is expected to be busy
  • Download the Universal Orlando app for maps, wait times, mobile food orders, and digital ticket storage
  • Stay hydrated and dress comfortably—Epic Universe will be the largest Universal park yet
  • Use Early Park Admission to ride the biggest attractions before the crowds arrive
  • Express Pass is worth the splurge if you want to maximize your experience without the wait

Universal Epic Universe is more than just a new theme park—it’s a bold leap into new realms of storytelling, technology, and themed entertainment. Whether you’re casting spells, racing through Donkey Kong Country, or facing monsters in the shadows, every corner of Epic Universe delivers something spectacular. Mark your calendars for May 22, 2025, and get ready for the next great chapter in theme park adventures.


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