How to Have an Epic Day at Universal Epic Universe
Planning a visit to Universal’s Epic Universe? This brand-new theme park at Universal Orlando Resort is filled with incredible rides, immersive lands, and one-of-a-kind experiences. While there’s no single “right” way to explore, but a little strategy goes a long way.
In this guide, I’ll share my top Epic Universe tips to help you maximize your time, hit the best rides, and create unforgettable memories—without needing an Express Pass.
📍 Park Hours:
Early Park Admission: 9:00 a.m.
Regular Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Take Advantage of Early Park Admission
Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel? You’ll receive Early Park Admission, which lets you enter the park one hour before everyone else. This is one of the best ways to experience more rides with shorter waits.
👉 Epic Universe Early Entry Tips:
Arrive between 7:45–8:00 a.m. (lines for security and ticket scanning build quickly).
Only select areas are open early, including:
Super Nintendo World (Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure)
Dark Universe (Monsters Unchained, Curse of the Werewolf)
Celestial Park (Stardust Racers, Constellation Carousel)
Morning Strategy: Rope Drop Dark Universe
Start your day in Dark Universe:
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment – A must-do with little to no wait in the morning.
Curse of the Werewolf – Fun but short; best when it’s a 10–15 minute wait.
After doing everything in Dark Universe head to Stardust Racers – Thrilling dueling coaster. Green track is slightly more intense than yellow. Ride early before lines build.
Lunch & Midday: How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
By lunchtime, head to Isle of Berk for food and fun.
🍴 Dining: Try Pizza Moon or one of Berk’s themed eateries.
🎢 Attractions:
Hiccup’s Wing Gliders (roller coaster)
Dragon Racer’s Rally
Fyre Drill (water ride)
🐉 Don’t Miss: Meeting Toothless. The wait is long, but the experience is magical and interactive. You may also meet Hiccup or Astrid.
🎭 Bonus: Catch The Untrainable Dragon show or let little ones explore Viking Training Camp.
Afternoon: The Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic
Step back in time to 1920s Paris in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films.
✨ Highlights:
Le Cirque Arcanus show featuring magical creatures.
Interactive wand spots throughout the portal, be on the lookout out for some magical creatures.
Butterbeer (of course!).
🎢 Main Attraction: Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
Expect 2–3 hour waits. Consider the Single Rider line if you’re okay splitting up.
Heads up: this ride sometimes closes earlier than others.
Evening: Super Nintendo World
Finish your day in Super Nintendo World. Since many guests rope drop this land, evening is often the best time for shorter waits.
🎮 Tips:
Do your top-priority ride first (Mario Kart, Yoshi’s Adventure, or Minecart Madness).
Stick around for the nighttime glow—this portal is even more magical after dark.
Final Tips for an Epic Universe Day
✨ Make a list of must-do rides and shows before you go.
✨ Take time to appreciate the theming and hidden details in each land.
✨ Interact with walk-around characters—some of the most memorable moments come from spontaneous encounters.
With a little planning and flexibility, your day at Universal’s Epic Universe will truly live up to its name.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Epic adventures don’t just happen—they’re planned. Whether you’re looking for the best hotel, multi-day tickets, or insider tips, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on the fun.
✨ Be the main character in your storybook vacation and book your vacation with Shafer Storybook Travel. ✨
