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18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Epic Universe Ride Reviews: What's Worth The Lines
As you probably already know, Universal just recently opened its long-awaited third theme park in Orlando: Universal Epic Universe. Not only is this Universal's first new US park in over 20 years, but nearly every attraction inside Epic Universe is completely exclusive to the resort, meaning you won't find them at Universal Studios Hollywood, Japan, or any of their other parks around the world. From brand-new coasters to some truly impressive immersive dark rides and interactive experiences, the park is offering something completely fresh to guests. The attractions are located within the park's five immersive worlds: the retro-futuristic hub land Celestial Park, a Harry Potter land set in 1920s Paris and the Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe based on the Universal Classic Monsters, Super Nintendo World (a clone land of the one they have in Japan and Hollywood), and Isle of Berk from How to Train Your Dragon. As I mentioned in my food review post, I was lucky enough to be invited by Universal to attend the media preview ahead of Epic Universe's grand opening. Over the past few years, Universal had slowly been dropping details about the rides, and with soft previews running for a couple of months before my visit, I had a pretty solid idea of what to expect going in — at least, I thought I did. Here I am frying in the sun in front of Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, one of the attractions I was most EXCITED to ride. Now, while the park doesn't have a ton of rides, it would be hard to do them all because of the crowds and the size of the park. So, I rode as many attractions as I could in order to give you my thoughts on them and, most importantly, whether they're worth waiting in line for. Full disclosure: While I was invited by Universal to Epic Universe, all opinions are my own. Hiccup's Wing Gliders in Isle of Berk Thoughts: Tucked away in the Isle of Berk, this coaster might not have the hype of Stardust Racers or the name recognition of a Harry Potter attraction, but don't sleep on it because this ride delivers in a huge way. It also travels throughout part of the land giving you great views of the Isle of Berk, while making you feel like you're flying on a dragon. I rode it more than once, and it was just as exciting the second time speaking of Harry Potter, this ride gets a lot of comparisons to Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, and I can see why. I'd say this is a less scary version of Hagrid' I don't know if this is truly a family coaster, as it does have multiple launches, sharp turns, and some surprise bursts of speed. If you have kids and they're not used to roller coasters, I don't know if this would be a good first one to bring them on (unless they're on the older side or have ridden Hagrid's before). One con is that a lot of the queue is outdoors and not all of it is shaded, so in the heat, this could make waiting for the ride unpleasant. Bottom line: This is a must-do. Hiccup's Wing Gliders might not be the flashiest ride at Epic Universe, but it's easily one of the best. If you're a fan of Hagrid's or just want a coaster that nails the balance between thrills and fun, make this one a priority!!! Dragon Racer's Rally in Isle of Berk Thoughts: I didn't know what to expect from Dragon Racer's Rally. I hadn't really seen anything about it on TikTok or YouTube. Now, it looks super fun from the outside, with riders spinning and flipping through the sky like they're training to become full-on dragon racers. But once I got on, the experience kind of ride gives you some control over your "dragon vehicle," letting you attempt barrel rolls by shifting the wings yourself. In theory, that sounds cool, but in practice, I found it awkward and harder to pull off than expected. I spent more time trying to make the ride fun than actually enjoying it. I would say that on the plus side, it seemed like the queue, while outdoors, was shaded. Bottom line: This is a skip. Unless the line is a short wait, then it could be worth giving it a shot. Honestly, with Hiccup's Wing Gliders being such a standout attraction next door, I wouldn't rush back for this one. Meeting Toothless at Haddock Paddock in the Isle of Berk Thoughts: Okay, so this isn't really an attraction, and more of a meet-and-greet photo opp. I also get that a photo with Toothless sounds like a must-do, especially if you've got kids who love How to Train Your Dragon (some of the most popular animated films of recent years). But trying to get a photo with Toothless ended up being one of the more disappointing parts of my line was long, like, surprisingly long, and to make things worse, there's virtually no shade while you wait. In the Florida heat, that was a brutal combo, and I can't imagine trying to do it with kids. I never ended up getting my photo because my phone was running out of battery, and I ended up getting out of line. Bottom line: Unless you're a die-hard Toothless fan, this is one experience you can probably skip. With that said, I understand that with kids, you might not have the option to ignore this one, so it would be worth doing first thing in the morning (when it's cooler) or in the evening, when most people have already done it. And prepare your kids for realistic expectations about waiting in line for this one! Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment in Dark Universe Thoughts: We got a lot of first looks, concept art, and previews of the animatronics for Monsters Unchained. All of this led to it being one of the most highly anticipated attractions at Epic Universe, and from a technical and visual standpoint, it really is one of the best rides at any theme park anywhere. The queue alone is jaw-dropping, with very detailed sets and effects that really set the tone. Of course, the animatronics throughout the ride are next-level impressive. Another thing, I found it refreshing to see an attraction (and land) that wasn't tied to an existing IP. Sure, it's based on the Universal Monsters, but not based on the old movies. An original concept in a big theme park in 2025? That alone earns it is where I might get people yelling at me: Once the ride actually starts, things get a little shaky. The storyline felt oddly pieced together. Not that rides need huge storylines, but this one just didn't pay off narratively. Also, the ride system is the exact one used in Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which immediately made me compare it to that, and IMHO, this ride isn't as good as Forbidden Journey. Bottom line: Okay, this one I think is just going to be a difference of opinion, but I would skip it. However, I know people love this ride, so you might too. If anything, it's worth checking out for the visuals and top-tier tech, and immersive world. Also, I would NOT bring little kids onto this ride because they might find this pretty scary. Curse of the Werewolf in Dark Universe Thoughts: I am going to state the common complaint about this ride: Yes, it's short, but it's also a ton of fun from start to finish and packs in a surprising amount of thrills for its size. With quick turns, smooth launches, and just the right amount of intensity, it strikes a great balance between family-friendly and genuinely thrilling (like there were a few moments where I thought my phone was going to fly out of my pocket). It also has a spinning coaster ride system, which makes it unique from most other coasters. Another pro is that this ride's queue, while outdoors, is forest-themed, so there are lots of trees to help protect you from the sun. Bottom line: Even if it's not the flashiest or longest ride at Epic Universe, Curse of the Werewolf is absolutely worth hopping on, especially if you love a smooth coaster with smaller thrills and zero filler. Constellation Carousel in Celestial Park Thoughts: I'll admit, I wasn't expecting to be wowed by a carousel, but Constellation Carousel ended up being a delightful surprise. From the glowing, Art Nouveau-style creatures to the starry lighting and ethereal music, the theming wonderfully matches Celestial really makes it stand out is the movement; the carousel vehicles don't just go up and down (pretty high!), they gently perform 360-degree rotations, which adds an almost floating sensation that's totally unique. Bottom line: Yes, this is just a carousel, but it's absolutely one you shouldn't skip. It's beautifully designed and whimsical, and perfect for the entire family. One thing I would recommend is riding this at night, when all the lights and effects are more visible and the carousel takes on a dreamy look. Stardust Racers in Celestial Park Thoughts: Stardust Racers is hands-down one of the must-do rides at Epic Universe. As the park's signature high-speed roller coaster and one of its overall signature rides, it delivers exactly what you'd hope for: an adrenaline-packed thrill ride. The dual-track setup adds an extra layer of excitement, especially when the coasters seem to narrowly miss each other in a perfectly timed near-collision said, if you're going in expecting something as intense or wild as VelociCoaster over at Islands of Adventure, temper those expectations just a tiny, tiny little bit. Stardust Racers is thrilling and fast, but with slightly less intensity. Bottom line: Do NOT skip!!! Stardust Racers is a fast-paced coaster that absolutely earns its place as a headliner. And likely a ride you might want to ride way more than once. Also, the green side is slightly more intense than the yellow side, if that makes a difference to you! Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge in Super Nintendo World Thoughts: I've ridden this ride before at Universal Studios Hollywood, so I knew exactly what I was getting into. First off, it's definitely a cool concept, but the actual ride just doesn't land for me. The queue and theming are incredible (walking through Bowser's Castle is a legit highlight, and it's filled with a TON of Easter eggs), but once you're on the ride, it starts to fall apart a bit. The augmented reality headset is clunky and can be confusing, especially if it's your first time riding. It's hard to tell what's actually happening in the game part, and the gameplay mechanics (steering, aiming, and trying to hit targets) just feel a little awkward and overwhelming. Bottom line: If you've never been on it before, it's absolutely worth doing once just to experience it all, especially if you're a Nintendo fan. But it's definitely not something I'd wait more than 30–40 minutes for. Yoshi's Adventure in Super Nintendo World Thoughts: This ride is an exact clone of the one they have at Universal Studios Japan (in fact, the whole land seems to be an exact clone). I don't think I have ever done a POV watch of the attraction on YouTube, so I had no idea what to expect. I really, really, really wanted to like Yoshi's Adventure because it looks adorable, gives scenic views of the land, and adds so much kinetic energy to the land. But unfortunately, the experience just didn't do it for me. Views aside, the ride is extremely boring, with most of it out in the open sun with very little there's a light gameplay element where you're supposed to search for colored eggs, but I genuinely didn't realize that was even part of it until halfway through because I heard the people in front and behind me asking themselves if there was a game involved. Bottom line: I'd skip it. Yoshi's Adventure might be best for younger kids, who will enjoy the visuals. It's definitely not something I'd wait in line for. Mine-Cart Madness in Donkey Kong Country (located within Super Mario World) Thoughts: I had seen a few POV TikToks of this ride when it first opened in Japan, so I was really excited to ride this. And, it lived up to everything I expected, in fact, I walked off loving it way more than I expected. The ride does a great job mixing impressive tech, amazing animatronics, and some genuinely thrilling moments!!! Of course, there's also the "boom coaster" system that creates the illusion your cart is leaping across broken tracks, and it totally works. (Though I actually think it might even look better from the outside than while you're actually on it.)While some people have said the ride is too short, I actually thought the length was just right. Along with the other complaint that the ride is too shaky, as it's mimicking the sensation of being on a rickety mine track, which I also didn't mind, as I thought it added to the ride. With that said, be prepared because it is really shaky, and don't pull out your phones and try to film because I saw more than one person almost lose it due to the shaking. Bottom line: Mine-Cart Madness is a must-ride, full of great theming and thrills. This is also a great coaster for kids who are ready to ride something with a little more intensity to it. Le Cirque Arcanus in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Thoughts: Going into Le Cirque Arcanus, I had no idea what to expect. In fact, I might have skipped the show had the people I was with not suggested we check it out. I'd heard mixed things, with some people saying it wasn't good. But after seeing it myself? I honestly don't understand the criticism. I was genuinely impressed!Based on a traveling wizarding circus from the Fantastic Beasts films, the show blends live performance, optical illusions, and large-scale puppetry in a way that's visually striking and super immersive. The performers were great, and the puppets and magical creatures were especially well done. Also, the storytelling was really good, and I found myself wondering what was going to happen next. Bottom line: Le Cirque Arcanus might not be your typical theme park show, and yes, it could be a little intense for smaller kids, but for fans of darker fantasy and theatrical storytelling, it's absolutely worth checking out. Plus, its queue and theater spaces are nice and air conditioned, which makes it a perfect place to escape on a hot day. And lastly, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Thoughts: Immersive and detailed, like you stepped into the movie, from the moment you enter the queue, it's clear this ride is operating on another level. This is one of those rides that instantly cemented itself as a must-do, and not just for Harry Potter fans, but for anyone who loves immersive, story-driven you're on the ride, you find out the scale is massive, the details are rich, and the experience feels more in line with something like Pirates of the Caribbean. There is a scene where a Death Eater animatronic moves so fluidly that it took me a moment to realize he wasn't a person in a costume. Yes, the ride uses screens and a lot of them, a big complaint I've seen online. But honestly, it works 90% of the time. The screen effects are blended seamlessly with physical sets and effects, and it would've been nearly impossible to pull off the storyline demands without them. The transitions between practical and digital work well together, so that you're never really pulled out of the action. Bottom line: It goes without saying that this is a MUST-DO for me!!! My first thought upon entering the Battle at the Ministry was the line in Jurassic Park where John Hammond says, "Spared no expense." You can tell the amount of money and care Universal put into the attraction to make it big, bold, and flawlessly immersive!Now, there are no front-of-the-line passes available for this attraction, and waits can get into three-plus hours. So, if you go, keep that in mind as you might have to sacrifice doing other attractions to get on this one. Okay, with everything all said and done, most of the rides at Epic Universe absolutely live up to the hype! From the jaw-dropping scale of Battle at the Ministry to the unexpectedly fun Hiccup's Wing Gliders, these attractions are not only thrilling, they're also imaginative, ambitious, and soon-to-be classics. BTW, stay tuned, I'll be sharing my overall thoughts on the park experience and some helpful tips for making the most of your visit!!!
Buzz Feed
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Epic Universe Food Review: What's Worth The Hype
Unless you've been living under a rock (okay, or maybe just quietly not paying attention to anything on social media), you probably know that Universal just officially opened its brand-new theme park in Orlando — Universal Epic Universe — and it's a huge deal. This is Universal's third park in Florida, and not only is it their biggest US expansion ever, it's also the first new major theme park built in the country since 1999 — yes...1999!!! The park has got five immersive worlds: a brand-new Harry Potter land set in 1920s Paris and the Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe based on the Universal Classic Monsters, Isle of Berk from How to Train Your Dragon, the retro-futuristic hub land Celestial Park, and Super Ninentdo World. I was lucky enough to be invited by Universal to attend the media preview ahead of the grand opening. While the park at the time hadn't been officially opened, it had been open for a couple of months for previews (or basically dress rehearsals). As you can see, I am enjoying an ice cold Frozen Butterbeer while trying to beat the heat while exploring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic. Over that time, several new foods that were created for the park have gone viral. This meant one thing: Now that I was here for the media preview, I needed to try those foods and see if they were actually worth the hype (looking at you, pizza from Pizza Moon)!!! Full disclosure: While I was invited by Universal to Epic Universe, all opinions are my own. PB&J (Pork, Bacon, and Jam) Mac & Cheese Cone available at Hooligan's Grog & Gruel in Isle of Berk Thoughts: This was the first food from Epic that I saw go viral and was all over my TikTok FYP. There are three different flavors to choose from: Goldfish Mac & Cheese Cone, PB&J Mac & Cheese Cone, and the Dragon Fire Chicken Spire Mac & Cheese Cone. Of these, it seems like the PB&J is the most popular choice. I have to say, I was impressed and really, really, really enjoyed the taste. The salty mac & cheese and cone mixed with the sweetness of the peanut butter bacon jam and BBQ harissa pulled pork was the perfect combo of savory and sweet. I can see why it has become an instant hit. It was also a hearty size, so I don't know if it was as much a snack as a whole lunch. This will for sure be something I get again when I go back to Epic!!! So don't skip 9 out of 10 Frank & Friends Pretzel available at DeLacey's Cottage in Dark Universe Thoughts: I am not the biggest fan of pretzels. But, when I find a good one, I will certainly not say no and will more than enjoy it. I had seen the Frank & Friends Pretzel a lot on social media, so I was curious to try it. Sadly, I was pretty disappointed with it. It was a flat, soft pretzel that came with a (cream cheese?) dipping sauce. Maybe it was the salt, but the texture and flavor were more like an untoasted salt bagel — it was also missing the chewy outer crust that pretzel bread has. I also didn't love the dipping sauce, which was like runny cream cheese. Now, this could have just been the pretzel from the batch I got, but I would skip that said, DeLacey's Cottage also sells Warm Hearted Cinnamon Bites, which are cinnamon sugar donut bites with cream cheese icing and streusel. I didn't have these, but several people I was with did, and they all really enjoyed them and raved, so those might be the way to go if you're looking to try something at DeLacey's 1.5 out of 10 Pizza Lunare, The Giant Mushroom, and The Pizza Moon Pepperoni pizza available at Pizza Moon in Celestial Park Growing up in the '90s, I have not-so-great memories of eating pizza at amusement parks. While theme park foods have truly improved A LOT over the last 20 years, I don't know if I have had pizza at one since Clinton was in the White House. With that said, the word was that these pizzas were really, really good. But were they really, really good for a theme park pizza or really, really good in general? Verdict: They are really, really good in general!!!These are cooked in a fired oven, giving the crust and bottom crust a nice char that you would get at old-school traditional pizza places in New York or higher-end pizza restaurants. I tried three different flavors. Pizza Lunare Thoughts: This pizza, which is the one I saw most on my TikTok feed, includes roasted garlic béchamel, ricotta, pancetta, fromage garlic confit, and ube pizza crust (which gives it a purple-ish hue). Flavor-wise, it was fantastic! Certainly the more unusual one, because of the non-traditional ube crust and its flavor combo (which I have not had on a pizza before). Everything worked, and I really recommend it if you're looking for a pizza flavor combination that you haven't tried 8 out of 10 The Giant Mushroom Thoughts: Ingredients in it include a roasted garlic bechamel, wild mushrooms, and truffle aioli. I love mushrooms on my pizza, so I found this extremely delicious. I realize that not everyone loves mushrooms or truffles (which you do taste in the background), so this might be a skip. But if you like the earthy taste of mushrooms, then I recommend trying this one because I know you won't be 7.5 out of 10 The Pizza Moon Pepperoni Thoughts: The Pizza Moon Pepperoni keeps it classic with just cheese and pepperoni — and honestly, it doesn't need anything else. It was the simplest one I tried, but it was still seriously good and nailed all the basics. If you're in the mood for a no-frills, straight-up delicious pepperoni pizza, this one's a can' 8.5 out of 10 Koopa Troopa: Red Shell Calzone available at Yoshi's Snack Island in Super Mario World Thoughts: The location sells two different flavors of calzones: a green one that is vegan and a red one that is traditional. I went with the red one! This wasn't bad, but it wasn't particularly memorable either — it was just…fine. The calzone was pretty standard (except with a thicker, more bread-like crust), filled with Italian meat sauce and mozzarella cheese, and, honestly, it kind of reminded me of a slightly fancier Hot Pocket. Not terrible by any means, but not something I'd go out of my way to get 3 out of 10 Yoshi's Mango Smoothie available at Yoshi's Snack Island in Super Mario World Thoughts: There were two flavors to choose from — mango and apple — and I went with mango since that's the one I've seen the most people rave about online. Right away, I wasn't sure if I'd like it because I'm not usually big on super-sweet things. Which is also why I chose the mango flavor, because I had heard that it was the least sweet of the two. But it turns out, it was actually really delicious, not overly sugary and genuinely refreshing. It also actually lives up to the name "smoothie" instead of just being a glorified slushy. What really sold it for me, though, were the fresh chunks of mango on top and the generous swirl of what tasted like fresh whipped cream — a nice little surprise I was not expecting. I would recommend this for 7 out of 10 DK Crush Float Tropical Banana Flavor available at The Bubbly Barrel in Donkey Kong Country (located within Super Mario World) Thoughts: Again, I'm not usually big on super sweet treats, so I wasn't sure how I'd feel about this float — a banana-flavored soft serve in a waffle cone, nestled in a cup of Fanta Pineapple soda, and topped with caramel popcorn and toffee. Yeah... it definitely sounds like a cavity waiting to happen. Since it was blazing hot when I got it, I didn't have much time to overthink it, so I had to dig in before it turned into soup. And honestly? I was surprised by how much I liked it. While it's definitely sweet, it's not as over-the-top as it sounds. The banana soft serve has a slight tartness that balances things out, and the caramel corn adds a nice salty crunch. This is one worth trying, especially if you're looking for a unique "only can get it at Epic" 7.5 out of 10 And lastly, the Butterbeer Crepe available at Café L'air De La Sirène in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic Thoughts: Yes, I know I've said over and over again that I'm not a fan of overly sweet treats, but I make a full exception when it comes to Butterbeer (maybe it's my soft spot for all things Harry Potter). The Butterbeer Crepe was everywhere online when Epic Universe previews first started, so naturally, it was the one thing I was most excited to try. And let me tell you: this crepe is a full-on Butterbeer overload in the best way possible. It's filled with a shortbread cookie butter, Bavarian cream, and Butterbeer cream, and topped with fresh strawberries (which added much-needed tartness and freshness), a shortbread cookie, Butterbeer whipped cream (like the kind you get on cold Butterbeer), and a Butterbeer drizzle. It's extremely rich and decadent, and obviously really sweet, but it's so, so delicious, and something I highly recommend. And it's also the type of dessert, because of its richness, that is great for even though it was nearly 100 degrees, I think the only thing that would have made it better was a cup of hot black coffee to enjoy with it!Rating: 9.5 out of 10 All in all, most of the viral foods at Epic Universe definitely live up to the hype. Whether you're going all-in on a Butterbeer crepe or just grabbing a classic pepperoni slice, there is definitely something for every kind of eater. BTW, there is more to come, I'll be reviewing the rides and giving my overall thoughts and tips on the park!!! Hungry for more? Download our free Tasty app to browse and save 7,500+ free recipes — no subscription required.
Irish Examiner
04-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Everything you need to know about the new €6bn Epic Universe theme park in Orlando
Universal Studios Orlando first opened its doors back in 1990. Both a working studio and an entertainment complex, made up of Universal Studios, Islands of Adventures and Volcano Bay, it welcomes 10million visitors a year. So, when it was announced back in 2019 that it would be adding a fourth park – claiming to be the 'most immersive and innovative' theme park the company had ever created – there was great anticipation. Fast forward six years and that park has now become a reality. The first major theme park to come to Orlando in 25 years, and at a cost of $7.5 billion (€6.2 billion), Epic Universe has certainly raised the bar. I headed to the opening week a for a behind the scenes look at, in the words of Mark Woodbury, Universal Destinations and Experiences' Chairman and CEO, 'the most technologically advanced park in the world'. What are the rides like? The Dark Universe area at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Universal/PA With 11 new rides, one of which has been deemed the best dark ride in the world, I was eager to get started. With five worlds to explore – How to Train Your Dragon; Isle of Berk; Super Nintendo World; Dark Universe; and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic (all centred around the main hub of Celestial Park) – I was lucky I had three days. Each world is entered through its own portal, backed-up with its own music and theming, making visitors feel like they have truly been transported into a different dimension. None more so, than the colourful Super Nintendo World with its sea of rainbow, sounds of coins being collected and Venus flytraps chomping away to that well-known theme tune. Rides range from family coasters, such as Hiccups Wing Gliders – a firm favourite with our group, to the high-speed, dual racing thrill ride of Stardust Racers. Fyre Drill is a water soaker perfect for cooling down in the humid Floridian heat, while airborne Dragon Racers Rally allows you to barrel-roll your own dragon, should you desire. The new Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Kirsty Masterman/PA If you're a fan of Mario Kart, then Bowser's Challenge is definitely one to try. This fully immersive version of the game puts riders behind the wheel of their very own moving kart. Donning a special Mario cap along with high-tech virtual reality glasses, I took my place in the kart and head out on my own mission to collect as many coins as possible while encountering Mario favourites. For me, Dark Universe was the real showstopper. I was lucky enough to visit this area during the day and at night, and I have to say, if you get the chance to go after dark, you won't leave disappointed. It has to be the most atmospheric and creepy park, EVER! Monsters Unchained is one of those rides you can go on time and time again, each time a different experience. I rode this four times and still felt like I had missed some elements of it. Sat on a row of chairs attached to a robotic arm, I entered the abyss of Dr Victoria Frankenstein's experiment, being tilted backwards and forwards, up and down, as a revolt of enraged monsters came at me. Kirsty at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Kirsty Masterman/PA Despite Dark Universe being my particular favourite world, I would challenge anyone to not be impressed by the Ministry of Magic in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. With anticipated queue times of up to five hours, its reputation certainly precedes it. The entrance is an exact replica of the one in the films. Bottle-green glossy tiles line the walls, along with posters with moving images. Even the entrance to the Ministry via the Metro-Floo makes riders disappear in a plume of green smoke. The ride itself is definitely worth the wait and is a lot longer than you would anticipate as you travel deep into the depths of the Ministry's many departments to the trial of Delores Umbridge, encountering uninvited guests along the way. The live shows you can't miss The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Picture: Universal/PA Aside from the rides, there are two notable live shows at Epic and you won't want to miss either. I'm not usually much of a fan of park shows, but both of these soon had me changing my mind. The Untrainable Dragon, within Isle of Berk, treats audiences to a spectacular, musical show, complete with dragons, amazing stage effects and a moving toothless dragon animatronic that soars above the audience. Even if you have never seen the films, you can't fail to be impressed, while Le Cirque Arcanus in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter takes part in a small circus tent and combines a magical performance of illusions, puppetry and immersive effects, that has audiences captivated right from the preshow. The best dining options Celestial Park at night at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Kirsty Masterman/PA Whilst Celestial Park is the hub of Epic, with many dining options, there are plenty to be found in each world, with the theming spilling over into the menus. With an abundance of restaurants, cafes, pubs and street carts, I am spoilt for choice, with everything from Parisian street cafes in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the deathly dishes at Das Stakehaus in Dark Universe. During my visit I sampled the delights of Mead Hall in Isle of Berk – a one stop shop for Viking cuisine. Serving everything from sandwiches to meat platters and what seemed to be popular choice – Mac and Cheese cones. For the more discerning diner, the Atlantic restaurant in Celestial Park provides a fine under-the-sea dining experience, with a seafood-based menu. But for me, the Toadstool Cafe in Super Nintendo World was a big hit, with its Mario and Luigi burgers and Bowser's Fireball Challenge. Where to stay The Stella Nova resort. Picture: Universal/PA Epic Universe brings three new hotels – The Helios Grand Hotel, Stella Nova and Terra Luna. If your budget allows, then staying at Helios is a no-brainer. This starry 500 room extravaganza has amazing views overlooking Epic and even has its own entrance to the park. For the more budget-minded, the Stella Nova and Terra Luna offer a more affordable option. I stayed at the Stella Nova resort, just a short shuttle ride away. For me, this was the perfect option. I had great views of the park and the onsite pool and bar area made for a relaxing afternoon in amongst what was a hectic few days. Staying onsite also gives guests early park admission. Overall verdict Kirsty Masterman at Universal Epic Universe. Picture: Kirsty Masterman/PA For me, Epic Universe is truly that. Everything from the theming to the rides, food to the park itself has raised the bar in the world of theme parks. No expense has been spared on taking each attraction to the next level. But with demand expected to be high, ticket sales only allow for one-day passes throughout 2025, so planning ahead is key. I've no doubt the celebrations will continue for many months to come, but for now, the memories will live on. So, until next time, Universal… you have been Epic! How to plan your trip Universal Epic Universe theme park. Picture: Universal/PA British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 3.5-star Universal Stella Nova Resort from €985pp, including flights and room only accommodation. Universal Orlando Resort All Park Tickets are available from €522pp. For reservations visit
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
How to Make the Most of Your Family Visit to Epic Universe
When Universal Studios announced they would be opening a new theme park, I was intrigued. As a parent and a lover of both their movies and properties, I couldn't wait to see what their creative teams dreamed up. And, as a self-proclaimed 'theme park person,' one who already loves Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure, I was sure their latest venture would be amazing. But would Epic Universe—home to Dark Universe, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, Celestial Park, and the Ministry of Magic—be age-appropriate for my littlest as well as my tween? Would it be good for kids of all ages? Well, the short answer is yes: Epic Universe is a family theme park, through and through. But the long answer is complex. You see, I was one of thousands fortunate enough to visit Epic Universe during its technical rehearsal. I got to ride Stardust Racers and Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. I ate at Das Stakehaus and the Atlantic. And I got to meet Princess Peach. I also saw the Invisible Man, Frankenstein's Monster, and Bride of Frankenstein. Here's everything I learned during one (very) full day at Epic Universe. If you are traveling with young children, you'll probably want to stick to three areas: Celestial Park, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk. The theming in these sections is colorful and geared toward the younger set. The characters are pretty darn recognizable. (Hello, Mario, Toothless, and Toad.) The height requirements on most attractions are reduced. And there are plenty of interactive features. From playgrounds to coin blocks, there is so much fun to be had. That said, it is important to note that lap riding is not permitted, even on rides without height requirements. Infants must be able to sit independently and support their bodies while experiencing rides, including Fyre Drill and Constellation Carousel. Still, there are things to do with smaller children. There is a play area in the Isle of Berk and a must-see show. There is also a show in the Ministry of Magic. And SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is full of games and activities. You also shouldn't let the 'younger' theming or lowered height restrictions fool you: These areas were some of my favorites. Both SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and Isle of Berk are completely immersive experiences. The former, with its iconic castles, characters, and warp pipe entrance, and the latter with dozens of dragons, three rides, and one amazing show do not disappoint. And Celestial Park? Well, it is unlike any other theme park entrance. If you are traveling with tweens and teens, we still recommend you visit the other three sections; however, you should also add Dark Universe and the Ministry of Magic to your list. Dark Universe is home to one of the greatest dark rides of all time. (Truly. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is a masterpiece, in and of its own right.) It's also home to some amazing character interactions. My husband and son met Frankenstein's Monster and the Bride of Frankenstein and let's just say: core memories were made. And the Ministry of Magic is stunning. If you're a Harry Potter fan, it is a must-see. Whether you are looking for a sit down meal or just want to grab a quick bite, the food in Epic Universe does not disappoint. Everything I ate—and drank—was decadent, delicious, and highly themed. Even the napkins are on point. Here are some of my favorites: The Bubbly Barrel: If you are looking for a sweet treat, head to The Bubbly Barrel for the DK Crush Float. This signature item is made with banana soft serve and pineapple soda and served in a waffle bowl. It's topped with various treats like toffee pieces, caramel popcorn, and golden star sprinkles. And it comes in a plastic Donkey Kong mug, which is shaped like a barrel of course. Das Stakehaus: One of my favorite stops of the day was at Das Stakehaus. The atmosphere is dark and gothic, which I personally appreciate. The air is a welcome respite from the midday sun, and the food (and beverages) are delicious. Don't sleep on the Darkmoor Black Wings and/or the Das Burger. Trust me. Both are excellent choices. The Burning Blade Tavern: Located behind Monsters Unchained is The Burning Blade Tavern. Inside you will find a fully stocked bar, where you can get beer, wine, speciality cocktails, or the Mononcane mocktail—a delicious Sprite-based beverage served in a beaker. At the outside pickup window, I recommend trying the Hunter's Garlic Stake, a slightly pricey but oh-so-yummy garlic pretzel. Another great option? The Burning Cheddar Bites, which are crispy fried poppers served with sriracha ranch. I did not get a chance to try the highly-coveted mac and cheese cone at Hooligan's Grog & Gruel or the ube crust pizza at Pizza Moon; however, when I return, these are definitely on my short list. (And yes, I will be returning.) Epic Universe offers some amazing new attractions, with unique features and state of the art technology. For some rides, however, this does mean the bar is set higher, i.e. height requirements at Epic Universe seem to be a bit more restrictive. Here is everything parents of smaller riders should know: Stardust Racers (minimum height 48') Constellation Carousel (no height requirement but no handheld infants) Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge (minimum height 40') Mine-Cart Madness (minimum height 40') Yoshi's Adventure (minimum height 34') Dragon Racer's Rally (minimum height 48') Hiccup's Wing Gliders (minimum height 40') Fyre Drill (no height requirement but no handheld infants) Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (minimum height 40') Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment (minimum height 48') Curse of the Werewolf (minimum height 40') Shows and entertainment. There are two stage shows in Epic Universe: Le Cirque Arcanus and The Untrainable Dragon. The former, which is in the Ministry of Magic, is a unique experience which blends live-action performances, puppetry, and special effects. The latter, in the Isle of Berk, involves life-sized dragons, music, and tons of action—perfect for fans of the movie. But the entertainment doesn't end there. There are street performers in Celestial Park, as well as live music and a fountain show. And in Darkmoor, the haunting village of Dark Universe, you will find characters roaming throughout—especially at night. There is also the Monster Makeup Experience, available at an additional charge. Playgrounds and more. If you're little one is looking for a playground, Epic Universe has you covered with their Viking Training Camp. This sprawling, colorful, interactive play area has bridges, towers, slides, and more. It even has a sheep launcher game. A great area for youngsters who may not yet meet height requirements and/or kiddos who just need a break from long lines. Interactive features. There are two ways to interact with the lands in Epic Universe: wands and Power-Up Bands. Both items, which are sold separately, allow guests to experience the park in a new light: casting spells, tapping coin and question blocks, or completing mini-games (respectively). The latter even connects to the Universal Orlando Resort app. And, if your kiddo collects enough keys, they'll unlock a final interactive challenge with Bowser Jr. Rainy day fun. If I have one complaint to wager, it is this: Epic Universe is not really a 'rainy day park.' Sure, it can handle Florida's midday storms just fine, but there's not a ton to do if the rides shut down for a long period of time—as most of Epic's attractions are outdoors. Still, if you find yourself in the park during a storm, having a strategy is a good idea. Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry both have long indoor queues, if you don't mind the wait. Eating a delicious sitdown meal may be a good solution. The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant and Atlantic are excellent choices. Both are located in Celestial Park. Toadstool Cafe, Pizza Moon, Das Stakehaus, and The Oak and Star Tavern all offer indoor seating. You can also take in a show, if seating is available. Epic Universe is—without a doubt—an epic new theme park: for kids and adults. Whether you are collecting coins, casting spells, or soaring through the skies like a dragon, Universal's latest venture is something you just have to experience. They redefined what a theme park is. Will there be hiccups in the weeks and months to come? Probably. When Universal opened The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade, the wait to get in was hours long. (I would know, I was there.) And I expect Epic's popular attractions will see similar waits. Delays and closures are also bound to occur. However, Epic Universe already stands out as one of the great theme parks, and I imagine that—as it finds its footing and evolves with its guests—it will become an even greater experience. Read the original article on Parents
USA Today
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Netflix Tudum: Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' trailer teases Jacob Elordi's monster
Netflix Tudum: Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' trailer teases Jacob Elordi's monster Show Caption Hide Caption See Universal's Dark Universe 'creepy' sneak peek at Epic Universe The Dark Universe at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe brings classic horror staples to life, such as the Bride of Frankenstein and the Invisible Man. It's alive! Netflix debuted a spooky first trailer for Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein" during the streamer's Tudum event on Saturday, May 31. The latest adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic novel stars Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein, while Jacob Elordi will transform into Frankenstein's monster. Isaac's Victor Frankenstein begins the trailer by saying, over a shot of a ship in the Arctic, that he has become determined that "the memory of my evils should die with me." Later, when asked who created the creature, a tortured Victor replies, "I did." From there, the footage teases scenes of Victor Frankenstein tinkering in his lab, building up to a shot of lightning striking and bringing life to the monster. "In seeking life, I created death," Dr. Frankenstein says, and the movie's tagline declares that "only monsters play God." The trailer concludes with Frankenstein's monster, whose face is obscured, attacking a group of men on a ship before calling out for his maker, growling, "Victor!" Mia Goth also stars as Victor Frankenstein's fiancée Elizabeth Lavenza, who is briefly seen in the footage. Netflix Tudum 2025: Lady Gaga emerges from coffin, reveals guest role in 'Wednesday' Season 2 "Frankenstein" is a passion project for del Toro, the Oscar-winning director of "The Shape of Water" and "Pan's Labyrinth." During an event in January previewing Netflix's 2025 slate, the filmmaker said the movie "has been on my mind since I was a child, for 50 years," and that he has been trying to make it for about 25 years. "In fact, some people may even think I am a little bit obsessed with 'Frankenstein,'" he quipped. "And they probably would be right. You see, over the decade, the character has fused with my soul in a way that it has become an autobiography. It doesn't get more personal than this." Jacob Elordi calls 'The Kissing Booth' movies 'ridiculous' "Frankenstein" will be the latest high-profile revitalization of a classic monster story after Robert Eggers' 2024 film "Nosferatu," a remake of the silent movie that was itself an unauthorized adaptation of "Dracula." "Frankenstein" is set to debut in November.
