Epic Universe isn’t a 2-day park for the typical vacationer. Regardless of claims on the contrary by diehard Common Orlando followers, that is completely unfaithful for the overwhelming majority of company. I wish to be abundantly clear about this, as a result of the title would possibly sound like pure reward, with us saying that is the primary multi-day park in Central Florida since Magic Kingdom. It’s not.
That is extra about there being legitimate the reason why theme park followers and repeat guests to Walt Disney World and Common Orlando would possibly wish to allocate extra time to Epic Universe throughout its opening yr. A few of that’s self-evident: it’s new! In fact locals and Annual Passholders would wish to spend disproportionate time on the new park, versus those they’ve carried out dozens to a whole lot of instances.
A part of that’s extra strategic, although. That sure experiences and choices would possibly require a number of days at Epic Universe, that it behooves you to construct in a buffer so that you don’t stroll away saying, “I want I had extra time to do X or Y,” or “I can’t imagine that, even after a number of days within the park, there’s nonetheless a lot I missed!” These are my sentiments precisely proper now, so it’s not precisely hypothetical!
Talking of which, I’m torn in terms of Epic Universe. I like Common Orlando’s new park, and can’t wait to return this summer season and past. However there main downsides to visiting this highly-anticipated new park throughout its opening season(s), as specified by Why You Ought to Skip Epic Universe (Subtitle: “or The right way to Study to Cease FOMO and Wait to Go to Till Winter 2026 & Past”).
To be completely trustworthy/blunt with you, that ‘skip’ article is getting older very well only one week later. Though it was met with backlash by a vocal minority of Common stans, I really feel forward of my time and absolutely vindicated in publishing it. I nonetheless do see upside in visiting early and am desirous to return myself, however with every passing day, I imagine that ready till later is the “appropriate” recommendation for many vacationers.
Nonetheless, I’m publishing this within the curiosity of stability…and since I mentioned I might. Additionally, as a result of by advantage of studying a distinct segment web site about theme parks, you have already got put your self within the minority in terms of issues like this. So it’s fully doable that the recommendation right here nonetheless applies to a majority of Disney Vacationer Weblog readers, even when nearly all of all vacationers ought to be avoiding Epic Universe till 2026!
I don’t have any first-hand experiences at Epic Universe in Might 2025, simply to be clear. It’s purely from watching on the sidelines as reviews on social media pour in. I get pleasure from lurking the Common Orlando reddit, which is a implausible neighborhood, to maintain me within the loop. It has been fascinating (and disheartening) watching the real-time shift there within the final two weeks. It has progressively gone from unadulterated hype and pleasure to combined/measured enthusiasm to defensiveness vs. affordable expectations to virtually pure pessimism. A wild trip rivaling the superb Stardust Racers.
Level being, as excited as I’m to revisit Epic Universe ASAP (and I’m very excited), I additionally acknowledge that not everyone seems to be me. I already did each trip a number of instances in a low-stress, low-stakes atmosphere. If I’m going again and do nothing however Monsters Unchained, a few coasters, and a ton of consuming & exploring, I’ll think about my subsequent days to be successes. The typical vacationer won’t have the identical time or tolerances to expertise Epic Universe, operational warts and all, within the coming months.
To that time, I’m married to a mean vacationer (nothing about Sarah is common–however you get the thought), so none of that is theoretical! Our household had an Epic Universe journey deliberate for this summer season that we’re suspending for the explanations coated in that ‘Skipping Epic Universe’ article. Whereas I’ll return to Epic Universe many instances within the months to return, that’ll be on my own and primarily “for analysis.” I’ll undoubtedly have loads of enjoyable, however our household trip will doubtless be delayed till early 2026 for extra optimum situations.
Anyway, right here’s how I plan to profit from my future visits to Epic Universe in 2025, and why I like to recommend the identical if you happen to’re planning on tackling the brand new park within the coming months…
Finest Meals Park in Orlando
I can’t say definitively that Epic Universe is at the moment the #1 meals park in Orlando. Even after spending a number of days there, I’ve nonetheless solely scratched the floor of what its culinary scene has to supply. However what I did attempt was largely distinctive, a implausible combination of enjoyable, photogenic, scrumptious, and impressive.
Based mostly on that have, it’s simply the #1 meals park in Common Orlando. That’s not a excessive bar, although. The opposite parks generally is a bit, ahem, restricted when you get exterior the Wizarding World of Harry Potter lands, with extra crowd-pleasing delicacies of various levels of edibility.
Epic Universe is an enormous departure from this, with each creative & intriguing choices and theme park staples carried out at a very excessive stage. Take Pizza Moon, for instance. It’s a counter service pizza parlor (therefore the identify), so that you would possibly understandably have restrained expectations. It’s by some means implausible, being nearer in high quality to Through Napoli than Pizzafari. (Consider the hype concerning the ube-crusted Pizza Lunare.)
My concern is that this gained’t final. It is extremely typically the case that new eating places at theme parks open with menus that swing for the fences, solely to be dumbed-down over the months and years that observe to comport with the expectations of common company, and within the identify of operational effectivity and throughput.
I might see each being points at Epic Universe. We waited over 45 minutes for a part of our order at some point at Café L’air De La Sirène (in equity, it was implausible). We additionally overheard one other visitor ask “why is the crust purple?” concerning the aforementioned Pizza Lunare (they appeared to ship it again, however that wasn’t 100% clear).
Visiting earlier offers you a larger alternative to benefit from the Epic Universe menus of their full glory. Going for 2 days offers you extra time to attempt the entire bold and enjoyable meals. After which, you’ll have craveworthy dishes to mourn many years from now: “Bear in mind when Epic Universe had that distinctive and wonderful ___? Deliver it again, Common!”
See Portals at Night time
Like each theme park ever, Epic Universe is healthier at night time. That is very true of these in Central Florida throughout the summer season, simply by advantage of consolation from cooler climate and sunshine being changed by synthetic lighting packages. It’s my dream for Magic Kingdom to return to midnight closings throughout June and July.
Epic Universe is basically fairly at night time. The cartoonish colours of Tremendous Nintendo World pop underneath a deep blue nightfall sky because the lights oversaturate the environments. The right way to Practice Your Dragon – Isle of Berk sees its atmosphere grow to be a moody and atmospheric panorama, with wealthy lighting that amplifies the rockwork and craggy cliffs. Then there’s the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic with its romanticized tackle Paris–let’s simply say it does justice to the “Metropolis of Lights” moniker.
Nevertheless, the 2 unequivocal highlights of nighttime at Epic Universe are Celestial Park and Darkish Universe. The previous is the park’s central hub, and it’s downright disagreeable throughout the day resulting from a dearth of shade and heat-reflective pavement. At night time, Celestial Park is beautiful, with fountains and lighting results that make you wish to linger and absorb its distinctive ambiance and nuanced unique design.
Then there’s just about the whole thing of Darkish Universe, which ‘works’ a lot better at night time. (It’s not referred to as Daylight Universe for a motive.) You’ll completely wish to see Burning Blade Tavern reside as much as its identify, wander exterior the Frankenstein property, and spend a while getting misplaced within the alleys of Darkmoor.
Resulting from park hours, all of this isn’t doable in a single night time. Possibly on dates when the park now closes at 10pm (kudos to Common for doing the suitable factor and lengthening some closings), however even then, it’ll be actually, actually rushed. You gained’t be lingering or taking any time to soak up the ambiance. The optimum strategy is really two portals per night time, plus a gradual stroll by way of Celestial Park in your approach out. Even that’s going to be a bit extra rushed than you would possibly like.
Gradual Down & Drink the Particulars
At any time when a brand new theme park land opens, it has grow to be the cliche to assert, “that is really a full day land.” This occurred with Pandora, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Tremendous Nintendo World, and each Wizarding Worlds. And little question, I’ve spent full days in all of those lands–a number of, even–once they have been model new.
However I’m a dork who spends approach an excessive amount of time in theme parks who loves a shiny new object. It’s one thing to understand and obsess over, and there’s pleasure in discovering the entire particulars and secrets and techniques these new lands maintain. That is the case for a lot of different locals and Annual Passholders, who’ve a willingness to spend inordinate quantities of time in new areas as a result of all the things else is “previous information” to them. For a primary timer or rare customer, the circumstances are clearly completely different.
Nonetheless, with none background data or intense fandom for any of those properties (save for Nintendo, however I’ve already skilled two different variations of that land), I discovered myself wanting extra time inside every portal. I saved stumbling upon new and fascinating issues whereas there, and I do know my visits solely scratched the floor.
Epic Universe is sort of a complete park of Wizarding Worlds when it comes to design particulars, and in contrast to something Common has carried out earlier than. In time period of depth and a spotlight to element, it jogs my memory of Animal Kingdom. However frankly, with areas which can be extra fascinating and interesting to me, personally. It’s very tough to each give attention to driving the rides and savoring the areas. You really want two days for that, even when it’s not a 2-day park within the conventional sense of the time period.
Wet Days, Downtime & Delays
Epic Universe has now had its first one-two punch of technical difficulties plus inclement climate inflicting trip closures. I’d say that is solely going to worsen throughout the peak of summer season storm season, however there have already been instances when just one (1) trip in all the park was operating. It’s exhausting to think about something worse than that…hopefully!
Storm season goes to be tough, simply by advantage of the variety of sights with outside parts at Epic Universe. That might be exacerbated within the first yr by the all-new sights have rising pains which can be typically affected by issues their first few months. Even with out rain, issues have been rocky lately–it’s typically the case that solely one-third of rides are operational at any given second. A lot of ‘delays’ or flat-out ‘closed’ sights. That is the character of the beast as sights grow to be extra advanced.
The underside line is that you just’ll wish to give your self two days if you happen to’re visiting Epic Universe in its first ~6 months as a buffer. Versus tilting at windmills and ‘forcing’ issues when the stuff hits the fan, glide! Take in these particulars, discover the park, and provides your self “permission” to have an excellent time throughout a nasty day. That is very tough with only a single day and no margin for error to get all the things carried out, however simpler with two. As somebody who has made ‘lemonade out of lemons’ throughout many operational meltdowns at different theme parks, belief me–that is the way in which.
Improve Odds for Harry Potter
One factor I can’t stress to Disney followers is: DO NOT assume your expertise and success charge will switch to the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry. Common’s Digital Line system is approach worse than even Walt Disney World’s first technology of Digital Queue. It’s additionally much less predictable and “talent” doesn’t matter as a lot. It feels unfair and arbitrary.
With every passing day, I hear extra horror tales. Success charges have plummeted, and an increasing number of folks have reported going 0 for 3 and even 0 for six throughout a number of days. On some actually tough days, the trip hasn’t been opening till the afternoon, and the sooner VL drops don’t really even occur.
That is nothing new. The attraction was not open for the majority of worker previews, as crews labored to enhance its uptime and operational capability. As soon as paid previews started, there was seemingly recognition from administration that the attraction needed to be accessible no less than a number of the time, therefore the digital queue.
Now, because the park races in direction of grand opening in lower than two weeks with unreliability and downtime woes persisting, Common Orlando has introduced that Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry might be closed from Might 10 by way of Might 16, 2025. The trip is at the moment scheduled to reopen on Might 17 for the ultimate few days of previews earlier than the Might 22, 2025 grand opening of Epic Universe. Even that’s topic to alter.
What we heard some time in the past is that there are main points with Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry and it’s anticipated to be months earlier than it’s firing on all cylinders (the timeframe I heard was Fall 2025, however that may very well be outdated at this level). Which means that it’ll get worse earlier than it will get higher. If the trip doesn’t enhance reliability and uptime at the same time as capability will increase as soon as official opening arrives, that might imply solely 10-15% of company experiencing Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry on an everyday day.
Accordingly, giving your self as many probabilities as doable on the Digital Line is a realistic strategy. With present success charges, it’d take 2 days of tries, and even then, breakdowns or unhealthy luck might stymie your success. (Truthfully, we’d suggest going into Epic Universe mentally ready for not driving–have that be the baseline so that you don’t set your self up for disappointment.)
When it’s working, Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is definitely the target #1 attraction within the park, and greatest trip Common Artistic has ever constructed. An important planning publish you possibly can learn is our VL information: The right way to Be a part of the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
N/A. Earlier is Optimum
Usually, we advise diehard followers to go earlier versus ready in terms of bold and envelope-pushing sights because of the chance of pesky and problematic results being disabled later for the sake of operational effectivity. Probably the most notorious instance of that is Indiana Jones Journey at Disneyland, with many long-lost results which can be the stuff of legends. Extra lately, this has additionally been true with Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and extra.
My concern was that this could even be the case with Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry. Nevertheless, it doesn’t look like that’s the case. I’ve but to have an ideal ride-through on Monsters Unchained, and others have reported Battle on the Ministry frequently operating with damaged results. On this case, it seems these rides will get higher over time, as additional take a look at and alter hones their timing and will get the Audio Animatronics firing on all cylinders.
I’d additionally lengthen this to the park as a complete. Throughout my visits, there have been nonetheless closed-off paths in Celestial Park and different areas that wanted their ending touches. Possibly this might be carried out by opening day, however possibly not. Regardless, my perspective is that the park goes to develop into its personal over time, and it might take a couple of wet seasons to get it actually trying good.
I’m properly conscious that this ‘optimistic’ article about spending extra time at Epic Universe is pretty backhanded. A lot of that is ‘lemonade out of lemons’ stuff. However if you happen to booked a gap season journey months in the past, that’s the angle from which I’d now suggest approaching this new park. Go in with a restrained and affordable stage of hype, hoping for the perfect however ready for the worst.
On the danger of belaboring the purpose, we don’t anticipate any of this to be a lot of a problem within the medium or long-term. I’m cognizant of the fact that some latest posts have seemingly positioned me as an Epic Universe Hater, however I swear, I actually am not. I like the brand new park! Virtually each new attraction or land has preliminary rising pains, particularly the superior ones. Epic Universe is a complete park of these!
I’m not making an attempt to be essential or nitpick–that is extra of a sober “it’s what it’s” kind of commentary within the face of what has felt like a runaway hype practice. A yr from now, Epic Universe ought to be working easily and with a excessive diploma of effectivity. It’ll hopefully have blossomed into its personal. There’s one thing to be mentioned for experiencing a brand-new theme park, however there’s additionally a non-monetary value to doing so. Think about each earlier than taking the plunge.
Want journey planning ideas and complete recommendation in your go to to Central Florida? Ensure that to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for all the things about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for all the things about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
YOUR THOUGHTS
Will you be attending Epic Universe this summer season for its opening season, or will you skip it till the brand new park settles right into a groove? If you happen to do go to, are you planning on spending a number of days at Epic Universe to understand the brand new park in its full glory–or give your self extra of a security web to expertise extra of the park and endure downtime and delays? Involved about unreliable rides, how scorching the park will get, or anything? Agree or disagree with our assessments? Any questions? We love listening to from readers, so please share every other ideas or questions you’ve got within the feedback under!
Epic Universe isn’t a 2-day park for the typical vacationer. Regardless of claims on the contrary by diehard Common Orlando followers, that is completely unfaithful for the overwhelming majority of company. I wish to be abundantly clear about this, as a result of the title would possibly sound like pure reward, with us saying that is the primary multi-day park in Central Florida since Magic Kingdom. It’s not.
That is extra about there being legitimate the reason why theme park followers and repeat guests to Walt Disney World and Common Orlando would possibly wish to allocate extra time to Epic Universe throughout its opening yr. A few of that’s self-evident: it’s new! In fact locals and Annual Passholders would wish to spend disproportionate time on the new park, versus those they’ve carried out dozens to a whole lot of instances.
A part of that’s extra strategic, although. That sure experiences and choices would possibly require a number of days at Epic Universe, that it behooves you to construct in a buffer so that you don’t stroll away saying, “I want I had extra time to do X or Y,” or “I can’t imagine that, even after a number of days within the park, there’s nonetheless a lot I missed!” These are my sentiments precisely proper now, so it’s not precisely hypothetical!
Talking of which, I’m torn in terms of Epic Universe. I like Common Orlando’s new park, and can’t wait to return this summer season and past. However there main downsides to visiting this highly-anticipated new park throughout its opening season(s), as specified by Why You Ought to Skip Epic Universe (Subtitle: “or The right way to Study to Cease FOMO and Wait to Go to Till Winter 2026 & Past”).
To be completely trustworthy/blunt with you, that ‘skip’ article is getting older very well only one week later. Though it was met with backlash by a vocal minority of Common stans, I really feel forward of my time and absolutely vindicated in publishing it. I nonetheless do see upside in visiting early and am desirous to return myself, however with every passing day, I imagine that ready till later is the “appropriate” recommendation for many vacationers.
Nonetheless, I’m publishing this within the curiosity of stability…and since I mentioned I might. Additionally, as a result of by advantage of studying a distinct segment web site about theme parks, you have already got put your self within the minority in terms of issues like this. So it’s fully doable that the recommendation right here nonetheless applies to a majority of Disney Vacationer Weblog readers, even when nearly all of all vacationers ought to be avoiding Epic Universe till 2026!
I don’t have any first-hand experiences at Epic Universe in Might 2025, simply to be clear. It’s purely from watching on the sidelines as reviews on social media pour in. I get pleasure from lurking the Common Orlando reddit, which is a implausible neighborhood, to maintain me within the loop. It has been fascinating (and disheartening) watching the real-time shift there within the final two weeks. It has progressively gone from unadulterated hype and pleasure to combined/measured enthusiasm to defensiveness vs. affordable expectations to virtually pure pessimism. A wild trip rivaling the superb Stardust Racers.
Level being, as excited as I’m to revisit Epic Universe ASAP (and I’m very excited), I additionally acknowledge that not everyone seems to be me. I already did each trip a number of instances in a low-stress, low-stakes atmosphere. If I’m going again and do nothing however Monsters Unchained, a few coasters, and a ton of consuming & exploring, I’ll think about my subsequent days to be successes. The typical vacationer won’t have the identical time or tolerances to expertise Epic Universe, operational warts and all, within the coming months.
To that time, I’m married to a mean vacationer (nothing about Sarah is common–however you get the thought), so none of that is theoretical! Our household had an Epic Universe journey deliberate for this summer season that we’re suspending for the explanations coated in that ‘Skipping Epic Universe’ article. Whereas I’ll return to Epic Universe many instances within the months to return, that’ll be on my own and primarily “for analysis.” I’ll undoubtedly have loads of enjoyable, however our household trip will doubtless be delayed till early 2026 for extra optimum situations.
Anyway, right here’s how I plan to profit from my future visits to Epic Universe in 2025, and why I like to recommend the identical if you happen to’re planning on tackling the brand new park within the coming months…
Finest Meals Park in Orlando
I can’t say definitively that Epic Universe is at the moment the #1 meals park in Orlando. Even after spending a number of days there, I’ve nonetheless solely scratched the floor of what its culinary scene has to supply. However what I did attempt was largely distinctive, a implausible combination of enjoyable, photogenic, scrumptious, and impressive.
Based mostly on that have, it’s simply the #1 meals park in Common Orlando. That’s not a excessive bar, although. The opposite parks generally is a bit, ahem, restricted when you get exterior the Wizarding World of Harry Potter lands, with extra crowd-pleasing delicacies of various levels of edibility.
Epic Universe is an enormous departure from this, with each creative & intriguing choices and theme park staples carried out at a very excessive stage. Take Pizza Moon, for instance. It’s a counter service pizza parlor (therefore the identify), so that you would possibly understandably have restrained expectations. It’s by some means implausible, being nearer in high quality to Through Napoli than Pizzafari. (Consider the hype concerning the ube-crusted Pizza Lunare.)
My concern is that this gained’t final. It is extremely typically the case that new eating places at theme parks open with menus that swing for the fences, solely to be dumbed-down over the months and years that observe to comport with the expectations of common company, and within the identify of operational effectivity and throughput.
I might see each being points at Epic Universe. We waited over 45 minutes for a part of our order at some point at Café L’air De La Sirène (in equity, it was implausible). We additionally overheard one other visitor ask “why is the crust purple?” concerning the aforementioned Pizza Lunare (they appeared to ship it again, however that wasn’t 100% clear).
Visiting earlier offers you a larger alternative to benefit from the Epic Universe menus of their full glory. Going for 2 days offers you extra time to attempt the entire bold and enjoyable meals. After which, you’ll have craveworthy dishes to mourn many years from now: “Bear in mind when Epic Universe had that distinctive and wonderful ___? Deliver it again, Common!”
See Portals at Night time
Like each theme park ever, Epic Universe is healthier at night time. That is very true of these in Central Florida throughout the summer season, simply by advantage of consolation from cooler climate and sunshine being changed by synthetic lighting packages. It’s my dream for Magic Kingdom to return to midnight closings throughout June and July.
Epic Universe is basically fairly at night time. The cartoonish colours of Tremendous Nintendo World pop underneath a deep blue nightfall sky because the lights oversaturate the environments. The right way to Practice Your Dragon – Isle of Berk sees its atmosphere grow to be a moody and atmospheric panorama, with wealthy lighting that amplifies the rockwork and craggy cliffs. Then there’s the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic with its romanticized tackle Paris–let’s simply say it does justice to the “Metropolis of Lights” moniker.
Nevertheless, the 2 unequivocal highlights of nighttime at Epic Universe are Celestial Park and Darkish Universe. The previous is the park’s central hub, and it’s downright disagreeable throughout the day resulting from a dearth of shade and heat-reflective pavement. At night time, Celestial Park is beautiful, with fountains and lighting results that make you wish to linger and absorb its distinctive ambiance and nuanced unique design.
Then there’s just about the whole thing of Darkish Universe, which ‘works’ a lot better at night time. (It’s not referred to as Daylight Universe for a motive.) You’ll completely wish to see Burning Blade Tavern reside as much as its identify, wander exterior the Frankenstein property, and spend a while getting misplaced within the alleys of Darkmoor.
Resulting from park hours, all of this isn’t doable in a single night time. Possibly on dates when the park now closes at 10pm (kudos to Common for doing the suitable factor and lengthening some closings), however even then, it’ll be actually, actually rushed. You gained’t be lingering or taking any time to soak up the ambiance. The optimum strategy is really two portals per night time, plus a gradual stroll by way of Celestial Park in your approach out. Even that’s going to be a bit extra rushed than you would possibly like.
Gradual Down & Drink the Particulars
At any time when a brand new theme park land opens, it has grow to be the cliche to assert, “that is really a full day land.” This occurred with Pandora, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Tremendous Nintendo World, and each Wizarding Worlds. And little question, I’ve spent full days in all of those lands–a number of, even–once they have been model new.
However I’m a dork who spends approach an excessive amount of time in theme parks who loves a shiny new object. It’s one thing to understand and obsess over, and there’s pleasure in discovering the entire particulars and secrets and techniques these new lands maintain. That is the case for a lot of different locals and Annual Passholders, who’ve a willingness to spend inordinate quantities of time in new areas as a result of all the things else is “previous information” to them. For a primary timer or rare customer, the circumstances are clearly completely different.
Nonetheless, with none background data or intense fandom for any of those properties (save for Nintendo, however I’ve already skilled two different variations of that land), I discovered myself wanting extra time inside every portal. I saved stumbling upon new and fascinating issues whereas there, and I do know my visits solely scratched the floor.
Epic Universe is sort of a complete park of Wizarding Worlds when it comes to design particulars, and in contrast to something Common has carried out earlier than. In time period of depth and a spotlight to element, it jogs my memory of Animal Kingdom. However frankly, with areas which can be extra fascinating and interesting to me, personally. It’s very tough to each give attention to driving the rides and savoring the areas. You really want two days for that, even when it’s not a 2-day park within the conventional sense of the time period.
Wet Days, Downtime & Delays
Epic Universe has now had its first one-two punch of technical difficulties plus inclement climate inflicting trip closures. I’d say that is solely going to worsen throughout the peak of summer season storm season, however there have already been instances when just one (1) trip in all the park was operating. It’s exhausting to think about something worse than that…hopefully!
Storm season goes to be tough, simply by advantage of the variety of sights with outside parts at Epic Universe. That might be exacerbated within the first yr by the all-new sights have rising pains which can be typically affected by issues their first few months. Even with out rain, issues have been rocky lately–it’s typically the case that solely one-third of rides are operational at any given second. A lot of ‘delays’ or flat-out ‘closed’ sights. That is the character of the beast as sights grow to be extra advanced.
The underside line is that you just’ll wish to give your self two days if you happen to’re visiting Epic Universe in its first ~6 months as a buffer. Versus tilting at windmills and ‘forcing’ issues when the stuff hits the fan, glide! Take in these particulars, discover the park, and provides your self “permission” to have an excellent time throughout a nasty day. That is very tough with only a single day and no margin for error to get all the things carried out, however simpler with two. As somebody who has made ‘lemonade out of lemons’ throughout many operational meltdowns at different theme parks, belief me–that is the way in which.
Improve Odds for Harry Potter
One factor I can’t stress to Disney followers is: DO NOT assume your expertise and success charge will switch to the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry. Common’s Digital Line system is approach worse than even Walt Disney World’s first technology of Digital Queue. It’s additionally much less predictable and “talent” doesn’t matter as a lot. It feels unfair and arbitrary.
With every passing day, I hear extra horror tales. Success charges have plummeted, and an increasing number of folks have reported going 0 for 3 and even 0 for six throughout a number of days. On some actually tough days, the trip hasn’t been opening till the afternoon, and the sooner VL drops don’t really even occur.
That is nothing new. The attraction was not open for the majority of worker previews, as crews labored to enhance its uptime and operational capability. As soon as paid previews started, there was seemingly recognition from administration that the attraction needed to be accessible no less than a number of the time, therefore the digital queue.
Now, because the park races in direction of grand opening in lower than two weeks with unreliability and downtime woes persisting, Common Orlando has introduced that Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry might be closed from Might 10 by way of Might 16, 2025. The trip is at the moment scheduled to reopen on Might 17 for the ultimate few days of previews earlier than the Might 22, 2025 grand opening of Epic Universe. Even that’s topic to alter.
What we heard some time in the past is that there are main points with Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry and it’s anticipated to be months earlier than it’s firing on all cylinders (the timeframe I heard was Fall 2025, however that may very well be outdated at this level). Which means that it’ll get worse earlier than it will get higher. If the trip doesn’t enhance reliability and uptime at the same time as capability will increase as soon as official opening arrives, that might imply solely 10-15% of company experiencing Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry on an everyday day.
Accordingly, giving your self as many probabilities as doable on the Digital Line is a realistic strategy. With present success charges, it’d take 2 days of tries, and even then, breakdowns or unhealthy luck might stymie your success. (Truthfully, we’d suggest going into Epic Universe mentally ready for not driving–have that be the baseline so that you don’t set your self up for disappointment.)
When it’s working, Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is definitely the target #1 attraction within the park, and greatest trip Common Artistic has ever constructed. An important planning publish you possibly can learn is our VL information: The right way to Be a part of the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
N/A. Earlier is Optimum
Usually, we advise diehard followers to go earlier versus ready in terms of bold and envelope-pushing sights because of the chance of pesky and problematic results being disabled later for the sake of operational effectivity. Probably the most notorious instance of that is Indiana Jones Journey at Disneyland, with many long-lost results which can be the stuff of legends. Extra lately, this has additionally been true with Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and extra.
My concern was that this could even be the case with Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry. Nevertheless, it doesn’t look like that’s the case. I’ve but to have an ideal ride-through on Monsters Unchained, and others have reported Battle on the Ministry frequently operating with damaged results. On this case, it seems these rides will get higher over time, as additional take a look at and alter hones their timing and will get the Audio Animatronics firing on all cylinders.
I’d additionally lengthen this to the park as a complete. Throughout my visits, there have been nonetheless closed-off paths in Celestial Park and different areas that wanted their ending touches. Possibly this might be carried out by opening day, however possibly not. Regardless, my perspective is that the park goes to develop into its personal over time, and it might take a couple of wet seasons to get it actually trying good.
I’m properly conscious that this ‘optimistic’ article about spending extra time at Epic Universe is pretty backhanded. A lot of that is ‘lemonade out of lemons’ stuff. However if you happen to booked a gap season journey months in the past, that’s the angle from which I’d now suggest approaching this new park. Go in with a restrained and affordable stage of hype, hoping for the perfect however ready for the worst.
On the danger of belaboring the purpose, we don’t anticipate any of this to be a lot of a problem within the medium or long-term. I’m cognizant of the fact that some latest posts have seemingly positioned me as an Epic Universe Hater, however I swear, I actually am not. I like the brand new park! Virtually each new attraction or land has preliminary rising pains, particularly the superior ones. Epic Universe is a complete park of these!
I’m not making an attempt to be essential or nitpick–that is extra of a sober “it’s what it’s” kind of commentary within the face of what has felt like a runaway hype practice. A yr from now, Epic Universe ought to be working easily and with a excessive diploma of effectivity. It’ll hopefully have blossomed into its personal. There’s one thing to be mentioned for experiencing a brand-new theme park, however there’s additionally a non-monetary value to doing so. Think about each earlier than taking the plunge.
Want journey planning ideas and complete recommendation in your go to to Central Florida? Ensure that to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for all the things about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for all the things about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
YOUR THOUGHTS
Will you be attending Epic Universe this summer season for its opening season, or will you skip it till the brand new park settles right into a groove? If you happen to do go to, are you planning on spending a number of days at Epic Universe to understand the brand new park in its full glory–or give your self extra of a security web to expertise extra of the park and endure downtime and delays? Involved about unreliable rides, how scorching the park will get, or anything? Agree or disagree with our assessments? Any questions? We love listening to from readers, so please share every other ideas or questions you’ve got within the feedback under!
Epic Universe isn’t a 2-day park for the typical vacationer. Regardless of claims on the contrary by diehard Common Orlando followers, that is completely unfaithful for the overwhelming majority of company. I wish to be abundantly clear about this, as a result of the title would possibly sound like pure reward, with us saying that is the primary multi-day park in Central Florida since Magic Kingdom. It’s not.
That is extra about there being legitimate the reason why theme park followers and repeat guests to Walt Disney World and Common Orlando would possibly wish to allocate extra time to Epic Universe throughout its opening yr. A few of that’s self-evident: it’s new! In fact locals and Annual Passholders would wish to spend disproportionate time on the new park, versus those they’ve carried out dozens to a whole lot of instances.
A part of that’s extra strategic, although. That sure experiences and choices would possibly require a number of days at Epic Universe, that it behooves you to construct in a buffer so that you don’t stroll away saying, “I want I had extra time to do X or Y,” or “I can’t imagine that, even after a number of days within the park, there’s nonetheless a lot I missed!” These are my sentiments precisely proper now, so it’s not precisely hypothetical!
Talking of which, I’m torn in terms of Epic Universe. I like Common Orlando’s new park, and can’t wait to return this summer season and past. However there main downsides to visiting this highly-anticipated new park throughout its opening season(s), as specified by Why You Ought to Skip Epic Universe (Subtitle: “or The right way to Study to Cease FOMO and Wait to Go to Till Winter 2026 & Past”).
To be completely trustworthy/blunt with you, that ‘skip’ article is getting older very well only one week later. Though it was met with backlash by a vocal minority of Common stans, I really feel forward of my time and absolutely vindicated in publishing it. I nonetheless do see upside in visiting early and am desirous to return myself, however with every passing day, I imagine that ready till later is the “appropriate” recommendation for many vacationers.
Nonetheless, I’m publishing this within the curiosity of stability…and since I mentioned I might. Additionally, as a result of by advantage of studying a distinct segment web site about theme parks, you have already got put your self within the minority in terms of issues like this. So it’s fully doable that the recommendation right here nonetheless applies to a majority of Disney Vacationer Weblog readers, even when nearly all of all vacationers ought to be avoiding Epic Universe till 2026!
I don’t have any first-hand experiences at Epic Universe in Might 2025, simply to be clear. It’s purely from watching on the sidelines as reviews on social media pour in. I get pleasure from lurking the Common Orlando reddit, which is a implausible neighborhood, to maintain me within the loop. It has been fascinating (and disheartening) watching the real-time shift there within the final two weeks. It has progressively gone from unadulterated hype and pleasure to combined/measured enthusiasm to defensiveness vs. affordable expectations to virtually pure pessimism. A wild trip rivaling the superb Stardust Racers.
Level being, as excited as I’m to revisit Epic Universe ASAP (and I’m very excited), I additionally acknowledge that not everyone seems to be me. I already did each trip a number of instances in a low-stress, low-stakes atmosphere. If I’m going again and do nothing however Monsters Unchained, a few coasters, and a ton of consuming & exploring, I’ll think about my subsequent days to be successes. The typical vacationer won’t have the identical time or tolerances to expertise Epic Universe, operational warts and all, within the coming months.
To that time, I’m married to a mean vacationer (nothing about Sarah is common–however you get the thought), so none of that is theoretical! Our household had an Epic Universe journey deliberate for this summer season that we’re suspending for the explanations coated in that ‘Skipping Epic Universe’ article. Whereas I’ll return to Epic Universe many instances within the months to return, that’ll be on my own and primarily “for analysis.” I’ll undoubtedly have loads of enjoyable, however our household trip will doubtless be delayed till early 2026 for extra optimum situations.
Anyway, right here’s how I plan to profit from my future visits to Epic Universe in 2025, and why I like to recommend the identical if you happen to’re planning on tackling the brand new park within the coming months…
Finest Meals Park in Orlando
I can’t say definitively that Epic Universe is at the moment the #1 meals park in Orlando. Even after spending a number of days there, I’ve nonetheless solely scratched the floor of what its culinary scene has to supply. However what I did attempt was largely distinctive, a implausible combination of enjoyable, photogenic, scrumptious, and impressive.
Based mostly on that have, it’s simply the #1 meals park in Common Orlando. That’s not a excessive bar, although. The opposite parks generally is a bit, ahem, restricted when you get exterior the Wizarding World of Harry Potter lands, with extra crowd-pleasing delicacies of various levels of edibility.
Epic Universe is an enormous departure from this, with each creative & intriguing choices and theme park staples carried out at a very excessive stage. Take Pizza Moon, for instance. It’s a counter service pizza parlor (therefore the identify), so that you would possibly understandably have restrained expectations. It’s by some means implausible, being nearer in high quality to Through Napoli than Pizzafari. (Consider the hype concerning the ube-crusted Pizza Lunare.)
My concern is that this gained’t final. It is extremely typically the case that new eating places at theme parks open with menus that swing for the fences, solely to be dumbed-down over the months and years that observe to comport with the expectations of common company, and within the identify of operational effectivity and throughput.
I might see each being points at Epic Universe. We waited over 45 minutes for a part of our order at some point at Café L’air De La Sirène (in equity, it was implausible). We additionally overheard one other visitor ask “why is the crust purple?” concerning the aforementioned Pizza Lunare (they appeared to ship it again, however that wasn’t 100% clear).
Visiting earlier offers you a larger alternative to benefit from the Epic Universe menus of their full glory. Going for 2 days offers you extra time to attempt the entire bold and enjoyable meals. After which, you’ll have craveworthy dishes to mourn many years from now: “Bear in mind when Epic Universe had that distinctive and wonderful ___? Deliver it again, Common!”
See Portals at Night time
Like each theme park ever, Epic Universe is healthier at night time. That is very true of these in Central Florida throughout the summer season, simply by advantage of consolation from cooler climate and sunshine being changed by synthetic lighting packages. It’s my dream for Magic Kingdom to return to midnight closings throughout June and July.
Epic Universe is basically fairly at night time. The cartoonish colours of Tremendous Nintendo World pop underneath a deep blue nightfall sky because the lights oversaturate the environments. The right way to Practice Your Dragon – Isle of Berk sees its atmosphere grow to be a moody and atmospheric panorama, with wealthy lighting that amplifies the rockwork and craggy cliffs. Then there’s the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic with its romanticized tackle Paris–let’s simply say it does justice to the “Metropolis of Lights” moniker.
Nevertheless, the 2 unequivocal highlights of nighttime at Epic Universe are Celestial Park and Darkish Universe. The previous is the park’s central hub, and it’s downright disagreeable throughout the day resulting from a dearth of shade and heat-reflective pavement. At night time, Celestial Park is beautiful, with fountains and lighting results that make you wish to linger and absorb its distinctive ambiance and nuanced unique design.
Then there’s just about the whole thing of Darkish Universe, which ‘works’ a lot better at night time. (It’s not referred to as Daylight Universe for a motive.) You’ll completely wish to see Burning Blade Tavern reside as much as its identify, wander exterior the Frankenstein property, and spend a while getting misplaced within the alleys of Darkmoor.
Resulting from park hours, all of this isn’t doable in a single night time. Possibly on dates when the park now closes at 10pm (kudos to Common for doing the suitable factor and lengthening some closings), however even then, it’ll be actually, actually rushed. You gained’t be lingering or taking any time to soak up the ambiance. The optimum strategy is really two portals per night time, plus a gradual stroll by way of Celestial Park in your approach out. Even that’s going to be a bit extra rushed than you would possibly like.
Gradual Down & Drink the Particulars
At any time when a brand new theme park land opens, it has grow to be the cliche to assert, “that is really a full day land.” This occurred with Pandora, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Tremendous Nintendo World, and each Wizarding Worlds. And little question, I’ve spent full days in all of those lands–a number of, even–once they have been model new.
However I’m a dork who spends approach an excessive amount of time in theme parks who loves a shiny new object. It’s one thing to understand and obsess over, and there’s pleasure in discovering the entire particulars and secrets and techniques these new lands maintain. That is the case for a lot of different locals and Annual Passholders, who’ve a willingness to spend inordinate quantities of time in new areas as a result of all the things else is “previous information” to them. For a primary timer or rare customer, the circumstances are clearly completely different.
Nonetheless, with none background data or intense fandom for any of those properties (save for Nintendo, however I’ve already skilled two different variations of that land), I discovered myself wanting extra time inside every portal. I saved stumbling upon new and fascinating issues whereas there, and I do know my visits solely scratched the floor.
Epic Universe is sort of a complete park of Wizarding Worlds when it comes to design particulars, and in contrast to something Common has carried out earlier than. In time period of depth and a spotlight to element, it jogs my memory of Animal Kingdom. However frankly, with areas which can be extra fascinating and interesting to me, personally. It’s very tough to each give attention to driving the rides and savoring the areas. You really want two days for that, even when it’s not a 2-day park within the conventional sense of the time period.
Wet Days, Downtime & Delays
Epic Universe has now had its first one-two punch of technical difficulties plus inclement climate inflicting trip closures. I’d say that is solely going to worsen throughout the peak of summer season storm season, however there have already been instances when just one (1) trip in all the park was operating. It’s exhausting to think about something worse than that…hopefully!
Storm season goes to be tough, simply by advantage of the variety of sights with outside parts at Epic Universe. That might be exacerbated within the first yr by the all-new sights have rising pains which can be typically affected by issues their first few months. Even with out rain, issues have been rocky lately–it’s typically the case that solely one-third of rides are operational at any given second. A lot of ‘delays’ or flat-out ‘closed’ sights. That is the character of the beast as sights grow to be extra advanced.
The underside line is that you just’ll wish to give your self two days if you happen to’re visiting Epic Universe in its first ~6 months as a buffer. Versus tilting at windmills and ‘forcing’ issues when the stuff hits the fan, glide! Take in these particulars, discover the park, and provides your self “permission” to have an excellent time throughout a nasty day. That is very tough with only a single day and no margin for error to get all the things carried out, however simpler with two. As somebody who has made ‘lemonade out of lemons’ throughout many operational meltdowns at different theme parks, belief me–that is the way in which.
Improve Odds for Harry Potter
One factor I can’t stress to Disney followers is: DO NOT assume your expertise and success charge will switch to the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry. Common’s Digital Line system is approach worse than even Walt Disney World’s first technology of Digital Queue. It’s additionally much less predictable and “talent” doesn’t matter as a lot. It feels unfair and arbitrary.
With every passing day, I hear extra horror tales. Success charges have plummeted, and an increasing number of folks have reported going 0 for 3 and even 0 for six throughout a number of days. On some actually tough days, the trip hasn’t been opening till the afternoon, and the sooner VL drops don’t really even occur.
That is nothing new. The attraction was not open for the majority of worker previews, as crews labored to enhance its uptime and operational capability. As soon as paid previews started, there was seemingly recognition from administration that the attraction needed to be accessible no less than a number of the time, therefore the digital queue.
Now, because the park races in direction of grand opening in lower than two weeks with unreliability and downtime woes persisting, Common Orlando has introduced that Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry might be closed from Might 10 by way of Might 16, 2025. The trip is at the moment scheduled to reopen on Might 17 for the ultimate few days of previews earlier than the Might 22, 2025 grand opening of Epic Universe. Even that’s topic to alter.
What we heard some time in the past is that there are main points with Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry and it’s anticipated to be months earlier than it’s firing on all cylinders (the timeframe I heard was Fall 2025, however that may very well be outdated at this level). Which means that it’ll get worse earlier than it will get higher. If the trip doesn’t enhance reliability and uptime at the same time as capability will increase as soon as official opening arrives, that might imply solely 10-15% of company experiencing Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry on an everyday day.
Accordingly, giving your self as many probabilities as doable on the Digital Line is a realistic strategy. With present success charges, it’d take 2 days of tries, and even then, breakdowns or unhealthy luck might stymie your success. (Truthfully, we’d suggest going into Epic Universe mentally ready for not driving–have that be the baseline so that you don’t set your self up for disappointment.)
When it’s working, Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is definitely the target #1 attraction within the park, and greatest trip Common Artistic has ever constructed. An important planning publish you possibly can learn is our VL information: The right way to Be a part of the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
N/A. Earlier is Optimum
Usually, we advise diehard followers to go earlier versus ready in terms of bold and envelope-pushing sights because of the chance of pesky and problematic results being disabled later for the sake of operational effectivity. Probably the most notorious instance of that is Indiana Jones Journey at Disneyland, with many long-lost results which can be the stuff of legends. Extra lately, this has additionally been true with Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and extra.
My concern was that this could even be the case with Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry. Nevertheless, it doesn’t look like that’s the case. I’ve but to have an ideal ride-through on Monsters Unchained, and others have reported Battle on the Ministry frequently operating with damaged results. On this case, it seems these rides will get higher over time, as additional take a look at and alter hones their timing and will get the Audio Animatronics firing on all cylinders.
I’d additionally lengthen this to the park as a complete. Throughout my visits, there have been nonetheless closed-off paths in Celestial Park and different areas that wanted their ending touches. Possibly this might be carried out by opening day, however possibly not. Regardless, my perspective is that the park goes to develop into its personal over time, and it might take a couple of wet seasons to get it actually trying good.
I’m properly conscious that this ‘optimistic’ article about spending extra time at Epic Universe is pretty backhanded. A lot of that is ‘lemonade out of lemons’ stuff. However if you happen to booked a gap season journey months in the past, that’s the angle from which I’d now suggest approaching this new park. Go in with a restrained and affordable stage of hype, hoping for the perfect however ready for the worst.
On the danger of belaboring the purpose, we don’t anticipate any of this to be a lot of a problem within the medium or long-term. I’m cognizant of the fact that some latest posts have seemingly positioned me as an Epic Universe Hater, however I swear, I actually am not. I like the brand new park! Virtually each new attraction or land has preliminary rising pains, particularly the superior ones. Epic Universe is a complete park of these!
I’m not making an attempt to be essential or nitpick–that is extra of a sober “it’s what it’s” kind of commentary within the face of what has felt like a runaway hype practice. A yr from now, Epic Universe ought to be working easily and with a excessive diploma of effectivity. It’ll hopefully have blossomed into its personal. There’s one thing to be mentioned for experiencing a brand-new theme park, however there’s additionally a non-monetary value to doing so. Think about each earlier than taking the plunge.
Want journey planning ideas and complete recommendation in your go to to Central Florida? Ensure that to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for all the things about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for all the things about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
YOUR THOUGHTS
Will you be attending Epic Universe this summer season for its opening season, or will you skip it till the brand new park settles right into a groove? If you happen to do go to, are you planning on spending a number of days at Epic Universe to understand the brand new park in its full glory–or give your self extra of a security web to expertise extra of the park and endure downtime and delays? Involved about unreliable rides, how scorching the park will get, or anything? Agree or disagree with our assessments? Any questions? We love listening to from readers, so please share every other ideas or questions you’ve got within the feedback under!
Epic Universe isn’t a 2-day park for the typical vacationer. Regardless of claims on the contrary by diehard Common Orlando followers, that is completely unfaithful for the overwhelming majority of company. I wish to be abundantly clear about this, as a result of the title would possibly sound like pure reward, with us saying that is the primary multi-day park in Central Florida since Magic Kingdom. It’s not.
That is extra about there being legitimate the reason why theme park followers and repeat guests to Walt Disney World and Common Orlando would possibly wish to allocate extra time to Epic Universe throughout its opening yr. A few of that’s self-evident: it’s new! In fact locals and Annual Passholders would wish to spend disproportionate time on the new park, versus those they’ve carried out dozens to a whole lot of instances.
A part of that’s extra strategic, although. That sure experiences and choices would possibly require a number of days at Epic Universe, that it behooves you to construct in a buffer so that you don’t stroll away saying, “I want I had extra time to do X or Y,” or “I can’t imagine that, even after a number of days within the park, there’s nonetheless a lot I missed!” These are my sentiments precisely proper now, so it’s not precisely hypothetical!
Talking of which, I’m torn in terms of Epic Universe. I like Common Orlando’s new park, and can’t wait to return this summer season and past. However there main downsides to visiting this highly-anticipated new park throughout its opening season(s), as specified by Why You Ought to Skip Epic Universe (Subtitle: “or The right way to Study to Cease FOMO and Wait to Go to Till Winter 2026 & Past”).
To be completely trustworthy/blunt with you, that ‘skip’ article is getting older very well only one week later. Though it was met with backlash by a vocal minority of Common stans, I really feel forward of my time and absolutely vindicated in publishing it. I nonetheless do see upside in visiting early and am desirous to return myself, however with every passing day, I imagine that ready till later is the “appropriate” recommendation for many vacationers.
Nonetheless, I’m publishing this within the curiosity of stability…and since I mentioned I might. Additionally, as a result of by advantage of studying a distinct segment web site about theme parks, you have already got put your self within the minority in terms of issues like this. So it’s fully doable that the recommendation right here nonetheless applies to a majority of Disney Vacationer Weblog readers, even when nearly all of all vacationers ought to be avoiding Epic Universe till 2026!
I don’t have any first-hand experiences at Epic Universe in Might 2025, simply to be clear. It’s purely from watching on the sidelines as reviews on social media pour in. I get pleasure from lurking the Common Orlando reddit, which is a implausible neighborhood, to maintain me within the loop. It has been fascinating (and disheartening) watching the real-time shift there within the final two weeks. It has progressively gone from unadulterated hype and pleasure to combined/measured enthusiasm to defensiveness vs. affordable expectations to virtually pure pessimism. A wild trip rivaling the superb Stardust Racers.
Level being, as excited as I’m to revisit Epic Universe ASAP (and I’m very excited), I additionally acknowledge that not everyone seems to be me. I already did each trip a number of instances in a low-stress, low-stakes atmosphere. If I’m going again and do nothing however Monsters Unchained, a few coasters, and a ton of consuming & exploring, I’ll think about my subsequent days to be successes. The typical vacationer won’t have the identical time or tolerances to expertise Epic Universe, operational warts and all, within the coming months.
To that time, I’m married to a mean vacationer (nothing about Sarah is common–however you get the thought), so none of that is theoretical! Our household had an Epic Universe journey deliberate for this summer season that we’re suspending for the explanations coated in that ‘Skipping Epic Universe’ article. Whereas I’ll return to Epic Universe many instances within the months to return, that’ll be on my own and primarily “for analysis.” I’ll undoubtedly have loads of enjoyable, however our household trip will doubtless be delayed till early 2026 for extra optimum situations.
Anyway, right here’s how I plan to profit from my future visits to Epic Universe in 2025, and why I like to recommend the identical if you happen to’re planning on tackling the brand new park within the coming months…
Finest Meals Park in Orlando
I can’t say definitively that Epic Universe is at the moment the #1 meals park in Orlando. Even after spending a number of days there, I’ve nonetheless solely scratched the floor of what its culinary scene has to supply. However what I did attempt was largely distinctive, a implausible combination of enjoyable, photogenic, scrumptious, and impressive.
Based mostly on that have, it’s simply the #1 meals park in Common Orlando. That’s not a excessive bar, although. The opposite parks generally is a bit, ahem, restricted when you get exterior the Wizarding World of Harry Potter lands, with extra crowd-pleasing delicacies of various levels of edibility.
Epic Universe is an enormous departure from this, with each creative & intriguing choices and theme park staples carried out at a very excessive stage. Take Pizza Moon, for instance. It’s a counter service pizza parlor (therefore the identify), so that you would possibly understandably have restrained expectations. It’s by some means implausible, being nearer in high quality to Through Napoli than Pizzafari. (Consider the hype concerning the ube-crusted Pizza Lunare.)
My concern is that this gained’t final. It is extremely typically the case that new eating places at theme parks open with menus that swing for the fences, solely to be dumbed-down over the months and years that observe to comport with the expectations of common company, and within the identify of operational effectivity and throughput.
I might see each being points at Epic Universe. We waited over 45 minutes for a part of our order at some point at Café L’air De La Sirène (in equity, it was implausible). We additionally overheard one other visitor ask “why is the crust purple?” concerning the aforementioned Pizza Lunare (they appeared to ship it again, however that wasn’t 100% clear).
Visiting earlier offers you a larger alternative to benefit from the Epic Universe menus of their full glory. Going for 2 days offers you extra time to attempt the entire bold and enjoyable meals. After which, you’ll have craveworthy dishes to mourn many years from now: “Bear in mind when Epic Universe had that distinctive and wonderful ___? Deliver it again, Common!”
See Portals at Night time
Like each theme park ever, Epic Universe is healthier at night time. That is very true of these in Central Florida throughout the summer season, simply by advantage of consolation from cooler climate and sunshine being changed by synthetic lighting packages. It’s my dream for Magic Kingdom to return to midnight closings throughout June and July.
Epic Universe is basically fairly at night time. The cartoonish colours of Tremendous Nintendo World pop underneath a deep blue nightfall sky because the lights oversaturate the environments. The right way to Practice Your Dragon – Isle of Berk sees its atmosphere grow to be a moody and atmospheric panorama, with wealthy lighting that amplifies the rockwork and craggy cliffs. Then there’s the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic with its romanticized tackle Paris–let’s simply say it does justice to the “Metropolis of Lights” moniker.
Nevertheless, the 2 unequivocal highlights of nighttime at Epic Universe are Celestial Park and Darkish Universe. The previous is the park’s central hub, and it’s downright disagreeable throughout the day resulting from a dearth of shade and heat-reflective pavement. At night time, Celestial Park is beautiful, with fountains and lighting results that make you wish to linger and absorb its distinctive ambiance and nuanced unique design.
Then there’s just about the whole thing of Darkish Universe, which ‘works’ a lot better at night time. (It’s not referred to as Daylight Universe for a motive.) You’ll completely wish to see Burning Blade Tavern reside as much as its identify, wander exterior the Frankenstein property, and spend a while getting misplaced within the alleys of Darkmoor.
Resulting from park hours, all of this isn’t doable in a single night time. Possibly on dates when the park now closes at 10pm (kudos to Common for doing the suitable factor and lengthening some closings), however even then, it’ll be actually, actually rushed. You gained’t be lingering or taking any time to soak up the ambiance. The optimum strategy is really two portals per night time, plus a gradual stroll by way of Celestial Park in your approach out. Even that’s going to be a bit extra rushed than you would possibly like.
Gradual Down & Drink the Particulars
At any time when a brand new theme park land opens, it has grow to be the cliche to assert, “that is really a full day land.” This occurred with Pandora, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Tremendous Nintendo World, and each Wizarding Worlds. And little question, I’ve spent full days in all of those lands–a number of, even–once they have been model new.
However I’m a dork who spends approach an excessive amount of time in theme parks who loves a shiny new object. It’s one thing to understand and obsess over, and there’s pleasure in discovering the entire particulars and secrets and techniques these new lands maintain. That is the case for a lot of different locals and Annual Passholders, who’ve a willingness to spend inordinate quantities of time in new areas as a result of all the things else is “previous information” to them. For a primary timer or rare customer, the circumstances are clearly completely different.
Nonetheless, with none background data or intense fandom for any of those properties (save for Nintendo, however I’ve already skilled two different variations of that land), I discovered myself wanting extra time inside every portal. I saved stumbling upon new and fascinating issues whereas there, and I do know my visits solely scratched the floor.
Epic Universe is sort of a complete park of Wizarding Worlds when it comes to design particulars, and in contrast to something Common has carried out earlier than. In time period of depth and a spotlight to element, it jogs my memory of Animal Kingdom. However frankly, with areas which can be extra fascinating and interesting to me, personally. It’s very tough to each give attention to driving the rides and savoring the areas. You really want two days for that, even when it’s not a 2-day park within the conventional sense of the time period.
Wet Days, Downtime & Delays
Epic Universe has now had its first one-two punch of technical difficulties plus inclement climate inflicting trip closures. I’d say that is solely going to worsen throughout the peak of summer season storm season, however there have already been instances when just one (1) trip in all the park was operating. It’s exhausting to think about something worse than that…hopefully!
Storm season goes to be tough, simply by advantage of the variety of sights with outside parts at Epic Universe. That might be exacerbated within the first yr by the all-new sights have rising pains which can be typically affected by issues their first few months. Even with out rain, issues have been rocky lately–it’s typically the case that solely one-third of rides are operational at any given second. A lot of ‘delays’ or flat-out ‘closed’ sights. That is the character of the beast as sights grow to be extra advanced.
The underside line is that you just’ll wish to give your self two days if you happen to’re visiting Epic Universe in its first ~6 months as a buffer. Versus tilting at windmills and ‘forcing’ issues when the stuff hits the fan, glide! Take in these particulars, discover the park, and provides your self “permission” to have an excellent time throughout a nasty day. That is very tough with only a single day and no margin for error to get all the things carried out, however simpler with two. As somebody who has made ‘lemonade out of lemons’ throughout many operational meltdowns at different theme parks, belief me–that is the way in which.
Improve Odds for Harry Potter
One factor I can’t stress to Disney followers is: DO NOT assume your expertise and success charge will switch to the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry. Common’s Digital Line system is approach worse than even Walt Disney World’s first technology of Digital Queue. It’s additionally much less predictable and “talent” doesn’t matter as a lot. It feels unfair and arbitrary.
With every passing day, I hear extra horror tales. Success charges have plummeted, and an increasing number of folks have reported going 0 for 3 and even 0 for six throughout a number of days. On some actually tough days, the trip hasn’t been opening till the afternoon, and the sooner VL drops don’t really even occur.
That is nothing new. The attraction was not open for the majority of worker previews, as crews labored to enhance its uptime and operational capability. As soon as paid previews started, there was seemingly recognition from administration that the attraction needed to be accessible no less than a number of the time, therefore the digital queue.
Now, because the park races in direction of grand opening in lower than two weeks with unreliability and downtime woes persisting, Common Orlando has introduced that Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry might be closed from Might 10 by way of Might 16, 2025. The trip is at the moment scheduled to reopen on Might 17 for the ultimate few days of previews earlier than the Might 22, 2025 grand opening of Epic Universe. Even that’s topic to alter.
What we heard some time in the past is that there are main points with Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry and it’s anticipated to be months earlier than it’s firing on all cylinders (the timeframe I heard was Fall 2025, however that may very well be outdated at this level). Which means that it’ll get worse earlier than it will get higher. If the trip doesn’t enhance reliability and uptime at the same time as capability will increase as soon as official opening arrives, that might imply solely 10-15% of company experiencing Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry on an everyday day.
Accordingly, giving your self as many probabilities as doable on the Digital Line is a realistic strategy. With present success charges, it’d take 2 days of tries, and even then, breakdowns or unhealthy luck might stymie your success. (Truthfully, we’d suggest going into Epic Universe mentally ready for not driving–have that be the baseline so that you don’t set your self up for disappointment.)
When it’s working, Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is definitely the target #1 attraction within the park, and greatest trip Common Artistic has ever constructed. An important planning publish you possibly can learn is our VL information: The right way to Be a part of the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
N/A. Earlier is Optimum
Usually, we advise diehard followers to go earlier versus ready in terms of bold and envelope-pushing sights because of the chance of pesky and problematic results being disabled later for the sake of operational effectivity. Probably the most notorious instance of that is Indiana Jones Journey at Disneyland, with many long-lost results which can be the stuff of legends. Extra lately, this has additionally been true with Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and extra.
My concern was that this could even be the case with Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry. Nevertheless, it doesn’t look like that’s the case. I’ve but to have an ideal ride-through on Monsters Unchained, and others have reported Battle on the Ministry frequently operating with damaged results. On this case, it seems these rides will get higher over time, as additional take a look at and alter hones their timing and will get the Audio Animatronics firing on all cylinders.
I’d additionally lengthen this to the park as a complete. Throughout my visits, there have been nonetheless closed-off paths in Celestial Park and different areas that wanted their ending touches. Possibly this might be carried out by opening day, however possibly not. Regardless, my perspective is that the park goes to develop into its personal over time, and it might take a couple of wet seasons to get it actually trying good.
I’m properly conscious that this ‘optimistic’ article about spending extra time at Epic Universe is pretty backhanded. A lot of that is ‘lemonade out of lemons’ stuff. However if you happen to booked a gap season journey months in the past, that’s the angle from which I’d now suggest approaching this new park. Go in with a restrained and affordable stage of hype, hoping for the perfect however ready for the worst.
On the danger of belaboring the purpose, we don’t anticipate any of this to be a lot of a problem within the medium or long-term. I’m cognizant of the fact that some latest posts have seemingly positioned me as an Epic Universe Hater, however I swear, I actually am not. I like the brand new park! Virtually each new attraction or land has preliminary rising pains, particularly the superior ones. Epic Universe is a complete park of these!
I’m not making an attempt to be essential or nitpick–that is extra of a sober “it’s what it’s” kind of commentary within the face of what has felt like a runaway hype practice. A yr from now, Epic Universe ought to be working easily and with a excessive diploma of effectivity. It’ll hopefully have blossomed into its personal. There’s one thing to be mentioned for experiencing a brand-new theme park, however there’s additionally a non-monetary value to doing so. Think about each earlier than taking the plunge.
Want journey planning ideas and complete recommendation in your go to to Central Florida? Ensure that to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for all the things about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for all the things about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
YOUR THOUGHTS
Will you be attending Epic Universe this summer season for its opening season, or will you skip it till the brand new park settles right into a groove? If you happen to do go to, are you planning on spending a number of days at Epic Universe to understand the brand new park in its full glory–or give your self extra of a security web to expertise extra of the park and endure downtime and delays? Involved about unreliable rides, how scorching the park will get, or anything? Agree or disagree with our assessments? Any questions? We love listening to from readers, so please share every other ideas or questions you’ve got within the feedback under!
