On May 22, 2025, Universal Epic Universe opened in Orlando, Florida, featuring five new parks: Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk and Dark Universe. Over the holidays, I visited this park, and would definitely recommend going to anyone that hasn’t before. Since there are so few attractions, I felt that they deserved a ranking, so this is my top five:
- Monsters Unchained:
Monsters Unchained is an eerie and dark experience where you travel through Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s experiment to continue her family’s legacy, but it goes terribly wrong due to Dracula’s surprise appearance. Guests are jumpscared by monsters and aim to escape them using special effects and detailed animatronics. I ranked it the lowest on this list because even though the theming and special effects are extremely cool, horror rides aren’t always my cup of tea.
- Curse of the Werewolf:
Curse of the Werewolf is a fast-paced spinning rollercoaster where guests on the ride have to escape a pack of werewolves. Riders are put into cars that feel as if they are out of control, and are very unpredictable on the track, like turning as well as going switching directions. I ranked it four because the ride is extremely quick, but it matches the theme perfectly, like it is a sudden attack.
- Hiccup’s Wing Gliders:
Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is a fast, outdoor rollercoaster that makes you feel like you’re flying your very own dragon over the Isle of Berk. It swoops down, has a very exciting theme and has Hiccup and Toothless launch guests into bursts of thrill. With Hiccup telling a story while guests are onboard, the experience is enhanced and feels much more real. I ranked it three because I love all the elements put into it, but the lap bars tend to hurt as the intensity of the ride increases.
- Battle at the Ministry:
Battle at the Ministry features Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger as guests join them to stop Dolores Umbridge from escaping her punishment and altering history with the use of a time-turner. Guests adventure through the Ministry of Magic while encountering Death Eaters, magical creatures and see incredible sets. I ranked it two because, although the queue is extremely long, the sets were built with unbelievable detail and the ride’s visuals are insane.
- Stardust Racers:
Stardust Racers is a quick, smooth roller coaster that launches competitors through space. They speed through cosmic scenery and glowing stars, making vibes even better in the dark. Once you’re up in the air, the airtime is insane and you truly feel like you’re floating. I put it at my top choice because I prefer more coasters rather than 3D storytelling rides (which clearly Universal is known for). Stardust Racers is so thrilling and fast, but also feels like a breath of fresh air.
As a whole, Universal Epic Universe definitely lived up to its name and exceeded my expectations. All the rides were thought out so well, with incredible and unique ideas put into the creation of the rides and sights throughout the park.
