I’m totally aboard the Epic Universe hype prepare. After spending my first few days within the new park at Common Orlando, it’s all I can take into consideration. I can not wait to get again. If I had to decide on just one park to go to in Florida the remainder of this 12 months, it wouldn’t be Magic Kingdom or wherever else at Walt Disney World–it’d be Epic Universe. On the similar time, there main downsides to visiting this highly-anticipated new park throughout its opening season(s).
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. The typical vacationer won’t have the identical time or tolerances to expertise a brand new theme park and all that entails. Furthermore, I’m considerably involved that the hype prepare goes a tad too quick, and wishes the brakes pumped earlier than it dangers derailment.
To that finish, I wish to begin our main protection of the brand new park by making the argument in opposition to visiting Epic Universe–why you must skip it for now, and wait till 2026 to go to Common Orlando’s new theme park. Please be aware that that is one half of a point-counterpoint article collection. The case in favor of visiting Epic Universe (“Right here’s Why We Extremely Advocate Doing 2 Days at Epic Universe”) is coming quickly. With everybody else fixated on hype, I assumed it’d be pragmatic to start out by tempering expectations. (So don’t seize the pitchforks simply but, Common diehards!)
This text outlines the case in opposition to Epic Universe–that a lot ought to be apparent from foregoing (and even only a fast look on the title). For those who’re enthusiastic about Common Orlando’s new theme park, have already purchased your trip bundle or park tickets, or are in any other case averse to negativity, this put up might be not for you. This particulars the potential pitfalls in visiting Epic Universe throughout its opening season, that means that it’s a little bit of a downer by design.
Whilst you might wish to skip this put up about skipping Epic Universe if in case you have zero intentions of skipping Epic Universe, there may be worth even for these of you totally aboard the hype prepare. First, it’ll assist in managing expectations. Second, in making ready for these downsides to mitigate their affect to the best extent potential.
On with the listing of the reason why possibly you must wait to go to Epic Universe till 2026 or past…
Warmth, Solar & Shade (or Lack Thereof)
Apparently, Epic Universe was designed for the oldsters who thought Toy Story Land was only a bit too chilly and didn’t provide sufficient alternatives to crispen their pores and skin or get soaked throughout a storm. We’ve been crucial of current lands at Walt Disney World on the subject of the shortage of canopy and the way scorching they get, questioning if the designers accountable had ever left the consolation of their 70-degree air-conditioned workplaces in California.
The crew behind Epic Universe heard that and mentioned “maintain my beer,” cranked their workplace A/C to 62, and designed the most well liked and least shaded theme park I’ve ever skilled. There was a variety of bluster from Common about Celestial Park placing the “park” again in theme park. Apparently that doesn’t embrace bushes or shade constructions of any kind, however does embrace probably the most reflective pavement on earth. You’ll be able to really feel the warmth from each above and beneath, making it tough to spend time within the land in the course of the day.
Celestial Park is beautiful, to make sure, however all the reward for it’s essentially coming at evening. I seldom noticed greater than a handful of friends in right here in the course of the day apart from these going from level A to B. It was at all times a veritable ghost city, and for good cause–it’s actually uncomfortable. None of that is exaggeration.
The opposite portals are higher, however solely marginally so. Ministry of Magic looks like a sauna, with the identical reflective properties and warmth emanating from the pavement and facades, till the solar is decrease within the sky and the buildings block it from view. It’s an identical story in Tremendous Nintendo World, Isle of Berk, and Darkish Daylight Universe.
If you’ll go to Epic Universe this summer time, I’d strongly advocate an umbrella with UV safety, cool-dude bucket hat, and ridiculously sturdy sunscreen. Additionally, you’ll want to convey your individual water bottle–to Common’s immense credit score, there are refilling stations in all places, together with in queues. (See our Summer time Survival Information to Walt Disney World for extra suggestions.)
There are a number of components that contribute to Epic Universe having a worse “looks like” setting than different Central Florida theme parks, however the greatest is a scarcity of everlasting shade constructions and no mature bushes. Epic Universe will likely be a beautiful park-like setting a decade from now, however within the speedy future, I’d think about it turns into umbrella central this summer time. And remember the fact that that is the suggestions from days that by no means broke 90 levels. However not less than Epic Universe is beautiful within the evenings–oh wait.
Excessive Costs & No Reductions
There have been a variety of complaints amongst Walt Disney World followers about value will increase, and that dialog is commonly accompanied by comparisons to Common Orlando. Many have advised they’ll vote with their wallets and go to Epic Universe as an alternative attributable to Walt Disney World pricing them out.
This doesn’t fairly add up. Epic Universe is extraordinarily costly its opening summer time, and Walt Disney World has unprecedented reductions that primarily provide 2019 pricing. For Epic Universe preview tickets, I paid $180 per day after tax, and that’s on the decrease finish of the value spectrum this summer time.
In fact, multi-day tickets can be found…however that requires visiting Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida, with solely a single day at Epic Universe and no park hopping. This strikes me as a poor allocation of restricted trip time, particularly for those who’re doing different theme parks in Central Florida throughout your journey.
To every their very own, but when spending a number of days at Common Orlando this summer time, I’d wish to spend not less than two-thirds of that point at Epic Universe–two days there and a day break up between the present gates. This essentially means shopping for single day tickets.
Epic Universe is the shiny new theme park, so it’s comprehensible that Comcast would wish to recoup as a lot of its huge funding as potential whereas pleasure is excessive. However the dearth of reductions strikes me as unsustainable and unlikely going ahead.
At minimal, the extremely restrictive ticketing insurance policies will likely be dropped in 2026, however I’d anticipate much more offers and cheaper costs. That is like 2022 over again, with Common Orlando capitalizing on a unique type of pent-up demand.
Unpredictable Attendance & Crowds
Talking of Comcast eager to capitalize on hype and recoup its funding, we’re already seeing this play out with previews. For those who have a look at any Common Orlando Annual Passholder group proper now, you’ll see the most well liked subject is outrage over Epic Universe previews opening to everybody.
Whereas I don’t essentially agree with the anger, I get the place they’re coming from: Common has poorly communicated what to anticipate with Epic Universe, regularly making last-minute bulletins, reversing course, and so on. It’s the shortage of predictability that’s the issue; followers shopping for on the premise of sure implicit expectations, and people altering days later.
That is partly the character of the beast with a brand new theme park. And it’s not going to turn into constant anytime quickly. My early expectation and understanding is that Common Orlando is seeing comfortable demand for Epic Universe after opening week, and that even the “bought out” dates in Could and June are restricted method beneath full-capacity.
However who’s to say that received’t change tomorrow? Comcast may resolve its quarterly numbers aren’t trying so scorching–that the theme park section is falling wanting analyst expectations–and reopen ticket gross sales for “bought out” dates. The demand remains to be there for these dates, it’s provide that has been throttled. Common may reassess methods, and roll out monetized earlier entry (a la Tremendous Nintendo World at USH) or late nights. It’s all uncharted floor, and unpredictable. Crowds and attendance might be superior, terrible, or someplace in between.
Getting in Form
Epic Universe continues the development of Common’s stringent visitor containment insurance policies, that means aggressive restraints even on the slower transferring sights. This had the recipe for being one other Secret Lifetime of Pets: Off the Leash, a slow-moving darkish trip that many bigger friends can not expertise attributable to its restraints. Fortunately, that’s not the case.
All the pieces we’ve heard means that Common Orlando took visitor suggestions to coronary heart with Epic Universe, and the restraints are largely pleasant to Pooh-sized friends. There are limits on this, however the identical is true with Walt Disney World–TRON Lightcycle Run and Avatar Flight of Passage would really like a phrase.
I’m concerning the worst particular person to talk to this, so it’s all second-hand from mates who reported being pleasantly shocked. There are many sources tailor-made to this kind of visitor, however the salient level is you in all probability don’t have to concern embarrassment or accessibility points for those who’re a bigger visitor. Common appears to have completed a very good job threading the needle on the subject of Epic Universe’s seats and restraints.
The larger problem, and the one I completely did discover, is all the stairs. On my days in Epic Universe, I in some way managed to log an upwards of 20 flights per day. It looks like each single attraction has stairs each within the queue and at unload. In fact, sights are additionally accessible, so there are elevators, however ready round for these won’t be a great use of your time.
Personally, I don’t suppose Epic Universe includes an extreme quantity of strolling on account of the portals. My common steps per day was decrease, and significantly so, than prior days at Walt Disney World. However the distinction is that I used to be actively attempting to keep away from spending time outdoor as a result of warmth and lack of shade and I did far more rides per day than my norm. So I’m not likely positive that step depend was consultant of a mean visitor’s day.
Level being, you would possibly wish to work on endurance and get in form a bit earlier than Epic Universe. The one-two punch of the warmth and the steps makes this a park that may be unduly tiring. It was for me regardless of fewer steps, and I’m decently in form.
Digital Line for #1 Experience
Common’s Digital Line system is worse than even Walt Disney World’s first technology of Digital Queue. Let that sink in. Additionally, I strongly suspect that the worst experiences with Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry will surpass the worst experiences with Rise of the Resistance. For those who’re paying consideration, you’ve in all probability already began to listen to horror tales concerning the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
These will solely get worse. It’s a easy numbers recreation. On a superb day, we’d hazard a guess that fewer than one-third of all friends are experiencing Battle on the Ministry. And that is nonetheless throughout paid previews, when park capability is capped fairly low. That means that later this 12 months, it might be ~15% of friends experiencing Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry on a daily day.
This Digital Line is getting used as a result of Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is tormented by unreliability and downtime woes. The trip breaks down so much. If it have been to put up a wait time, that will measure within the hours, and no matter quantity have been posted usually wouldn’t even be remotely correct attributable to multi-hour breakdowns.
Even when it’s operational, Battle on the Ministry will not be environment friendly. One complete facet of the attraction is commonly offline, and we’ve noticed a gradual and methodical dispatch. I don’t wish to guess as to its present operational hourly trip capability versus theoretical hourly trip capability, however let’s simply say throughput will not be so scorching proper now. No knock on the trip–it’s a extremely subtle attraction in a brand-new park, so that is to be anticipated.
We’ve got a 100% success fee to this point for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry, however that may be very a lot not the norm. (This VL can also be much less “skill-based” than its counterparts, so our luck will run out in the end.) For those who decide to do Epic Universe, you must go in with the expectation that you’ll not get to trip Battle on the Ministry.
This implies skipping what is certainly the target #1 attraction within the park, and greatest trip Common Inventive has ever constructed. An important planning put up you may learn is our VL information: How one can Be part of the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
Breakdowns & Downtime
As you’ve in all probability witnessed for those who’ve spent any period of time being a Walt Disney World fan, new sights have rising pains and are sometimes tormented by issues their first few months. This isn’t a uniquely Disney downside. It’s the character of the beast as sights turn into extra advanced.
Epic Universe is a complete park of latest rides, lots of that are progressive and envelope-pushing. Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is by far the most important offender on this regard–therefore it utilizing the Digital Line–but it surely’s removed from the one problematic attraction. Just about each single one of many park’s marquee sights has ranges of downtime increased than what friends would take into account cheap.
Throughout previews, there have been some actually tough days. We’ve got not skilled these, fortunately, however have talked to mates who’ve (and have noticed from afar through the Common Orlando app).
A number of headliners happening has a cascading impact even throughout previews, inflicting congestion in eating places with lengthy delays for cell orders, and spiking the wait occasions of the rides which can be open. Take into account that that is throughout days when attendance is closely capped. When rides come again on-line, the backlog of Specific Cross means sky-high standby wait occasions.
Suffice to say, you’re not going to wish to be in Epic Universe the primary time there’s an operational meltdown with the park working at or nearer full capability. It’s going to be a nightmare. And it’ll be one exacerbated by the above issues concerning the lack of shade, in addition to adequate crowd-absorbing counterprogramming.
Within the medium or long term, we don’t anticipate any of this to be a lot of a difficulty. Virtually each new attraction or land has preliminary rising pains, particularly the superior ones. Once more, Epic Universe is a complete park of these! We’re not attempting to be crucial or nitpick–that is extra of a sober “it’s what it’s” kind of commentary.
A 12 months from now, our expectation is that Epic Universe is working easily and with a excessive diploma of effectivity. Most of the issues on this listing, together with trip reliability, will resolve themselves over time. There’s one thing to be mentioned for experiencing a brand-new theme park, however there’s additionally a non-monetary price to doing so. Think about each earlier than taking the plunge.
Talking for ourselves, we’re inclined to attend to go to Epic Universe till Winter 2026. Our household has a visit deliberate for this summer time that we’re prone to postpone for the explanations above and extra (additionally solely attending to spend at some point at Epic Universe and our daughter’s age). Whereas I will likely be returning to Epic Universe many occasions within the months to come back, that’s primarily “for analysis.” I’ll undoubtedly have loads of enjoyable, however our household trip will doubtless be delayed till subsequent 12 months for extra optimum circumstances.
Want journey planning suggestions and complete recommendation to your go to to Central Florida? Make certain to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for every little thing about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for every little thing about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
YOUR THOUGHTS
Will you be attending Epic Universe this summer time for its opening season, or will you skip it till the brand new park settles right into a groove? Involved about unreliable rides, how scorching the park will get, or anything mentioned right here? Excited for Tremendous Nintendo World, Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic, Darkish Universe/Traditional Monsters, or the How one can Practice Your Dragon lands and/or sights? Assume Epic Universe will likely be a 3rd gate that’s a worthy addition to Common Orlando Resort…and probably on par with Disney’s greatest lands? Any questions? We love listening to from readers, so please share some other ideas or questions you’ve within the feedback beneath!
I’m totally aboard the Epic Universe hype prepare. After spending my first few days within the new park at Common Orlando, it’s all I can take into consideration. I can not wait to get again. If I had to decide on just one park to go to in Florida the remainder of this 12 months, it wouldn’t be Magic Kingdom or wherever else at Walt Disney World–it’d be Epic Universe. On the similar time, there main downsides to visiting this highly-anticipated new park throughout its opening season(s).
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. The typical vacationer won’t have the identical time or tolerances to expertise a brand new theme park and all that entails. Furthermore, I’m considerably involved that the hype prepare goes a tad too quick, and wishes the brakes pumped earlier than it dangers derailment.
To that finish, I wish to begin our main protection of the brand new park by making the argument in opposition to visiting Epic Universe–why you must skip it for now, and wait till 2026 to go to Common Orlando’s new theme park. Please be aware that that is one half of a point-counterpoint article collection. The case in favor of visiting Epic Universe (“Right here’s Why We Extremely Advocate Doing 2 Days at Epic Universe”) is coming quickly. With everybody else fixated on hype, I assumed it’d be pragmatic to start out by tempering expectations. (So don’t seize the pitchforks simply but, Common diehards!)
This text outlines the case in opposition to Epic Universe–that a lot ought to be apparent from foregoing (and even only a fast look on the title). For those who’re enthusiastic about Common Orlando’s new theme park, have already purchased your trip bundle or park tickets, or are in any other case averse to negativity, this put up might be not for you. This particulars the potential pitfalls in visiting Epic Universe throughout its opening season, that means that it’s a little bit of a downer by design.
Whilst you might wish to skip this put up about skipping Epic Universe if in case you have zero intentions of skipping Epic Universe, there may be worth even for these of you totally aboard the hype prepare. First, it’ll assist in managing expectations. Second, in making ready for these downsides to mitigate their affect to the best extent potential.
On with the listing of the reason why possibly you must wait to go to Epic Universe till 2026 or past…
Warmth, Solar & Shade (or Lack Thereof)
Apparently, Epic Universe was designed for the oldsters who thought Toy Story Land was only a bit too chilly and didn’t provide sufficient alternatives to crispen their pores and skin or get soaked throughout a storm. We’ve been crucial of current lands at Walt Disney World on the subject of the shortage of canopy and the way scorching they get, questioning if the designers accountable had ever left the consolation of their 70-degree air-conditioned workplaces in California.
The crew behind Epic Universe heard that and mentioned “maintain my beer,” cranked their workplace A/C to 62, and designed the most well liked and least shaded theme park I’ve ever skilled. There was a variety of bluster from Common about Celestial Park placing the “park” again in theme park. Apparently that doesn’t embrace bushes or shade constructions of any kind, however does embrace probably the most reflective pavement on earth. You’ll be able to really feel the warmth from each above and beneath, making it tough to spend time within the land in the course of the day.
Celestial Park is beautiful, to make sure, however all the reward for it’s essentially coming at evening. I seldom noticed greater than a handful of friends in right here in the course of the day apart from these going from level A to B. It was at all times a veritable ghost city, and for good cause–it’s actually uncomfortable. None of that is exaggeration.
The opposite portals are higher, however solely marginally so. Ministry of Magic looks like a sauna, with the identical reflective properties and warmth emanating from the pavement and facades, till the solar is decrease within the sky and the buildings block it from view. It’s an identical story in Tremendous Nintendo World, Isle of Berk, and Darkish Daylight Universe.
If you’ll go to Epic Universe this summer time, I’d strongly advocate an umbrella with UV safety, cool-dude bucket hat, and ridiculously sturdy sunscreen. Additionally, you’ll want to convey your individual water bottle–to Common’s immense credit score, there are refilling stations in all places, together with in queues. (See our Summer time Survival Information to Walt Disney World for extra suggestions.)
There are a number of components that contribute to Epic Universe having a worse “looks like” setting than different Central Florida theme parks, however the greatest is a scarcity of everlasting shade constructions and no mature bushes. Epic Universe will likely be a beautiful park-like setting a decade from now, however within the speedy future, I’d think about it turns into umbrella central this summer time. And remember the fact that that is the suggestions from days that by no means broke 90 levels. However not less than Epic Universe is beautiful within the evenings–oh wait.
Excessive Costs & No Reductions
There have been a variety of complaints amongst Walt Disney World followers about value will increase, and that dialog is commonly accompanied by comparisons to Common Orlando. Many have advised they’ll vote with their wallets and go to Epic Universe as an alternative attributable to Walt Disney World pricing them out.
This doesn’t fairly add up. Epic Universe is extraordinarily costly its opening summer time, and Walt Disney World has unprecedented reductions that primarily provide 2019 pricing. For Epic Universe preview tickets, I paid $180 per day after tax, and that’s on the decrease finish of the value spectrum this summer time.
In fact, multi-day tickets can be found…however that requires visiting Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida, with solely a single day at Epic Universe and no park hopping. This strikes me as a poor allocation of restricted trip time, particularly for those who’re doing different theme parks in Central Florida throughout your journey.
To every their very own, but when spending a number of days at Common Orlando this summer time, I’d wish to spend not less than two-thirds of that point at Epic Universe–two days there and a day break up between the present gates. This essentially means shopping for single day tickets.
Epic Universe is the shiny new theme park, so it’s comprehensible that Comcast would wish to recoup as a lot of its huge funding as potential whereas pleasure is excessive. However the dearth of reductions strikes me as unsustainable and unlikely going ahead.
At minimal, the extremely restrictive ticketing insurance policies will likely be dropped in 2026, however I’d anticipate much more offers and cheaper costs. That is like 2022 over again, with Common Orlando capitalizing on a unique type of pent-up demand.
Unpredictable Attendance & Crowds
Talking of Comcast eager to capitalize on hype and recoup its funding, we’re already seeing this play out with previews. For those who have a look at any Common Orlando Annual Passholder group proper now, you’ll see the most well liked subject is outrage over Epic Universe previews opening to everybody.
Whereas I don’t essentially agree with the anger, I get the place they’re coming from: Common has poorly communicated what to anticipate with Epic Universe, regularly making last-minute bulletins, reversing course, and so on. It’s the shortage of predictability that’s the issue; followers shopping for on the premise of sure implicit expectations, and people altering days later.
That is partly the character of the beast with a brand new theme park. And it’s not going to turn into constant anytime quickly. My early expectation and understanding is that Common Orlando is seeing comfortable demand for Epic Universe after opening week, and that even the “bought out” dates in Could and June are restricted method beneath full-capacity.
However who’s to say that received’t change tomorrow? Comcast may resolve its quarterly numbers aren’t trying so scorching–that the theme park section is falling wanting analyst expectations–and reopen ticket gross sales for “bought out” dates. The demand remains to be there for these dates, it’s provide that has been throttled. Common may reassess methods, and roll out monetized earlier entry (a la Tremendous Nintendo World at USH) or late nights. It’s all uncharted floor, and unpredictable. Crowds and attendance might be superior, terrible, or someplace in between.
Getting in Form
Epic Universe continues the development of Common’s stringent visitor containment insurance policies, that means aggressive restraints even on the slower transferring sights. This had the recipe for being one other Secret Lifetime of Pets: Off the Leash, a slow-moving darkish trip that many bigger friends can not expertise attributable to its restraints. Fortunately, that’s not the case.
All the pieces we’ve heard means that Common Orlando took visitor suggestions to coronary heart with Epic Universe, and the restraints are largely pleasant to Pooh-sized friends. There are limits on this, however the identical is true with Walt Disney World–TRON Lightcycle Run and Avatar Flight of Passage would really like a phrase.
I’m concerning the worst particular person to talk to this, so it’s all second-hand from mates who reported being pleasantly shocked. There are many sources tailor-made to this kind of visitor, however the salient level is you in all probability don’t have to concern embarrassment or accessibility points for those who’re a bigger visitor. Common appears to have completed a very good job threading the needle on the subject of Epic Universe’s seats and restraints.
The larger problem, and the one I completely did discover, is all the stairs. On my days in Epic Universe, I in some way managed to log an upwards of 20 flights per day. It looks like each single attraction has stairs each within the queue and at unload. In fact, sights are additionally accessible, so there are elevators, however ready round for these won’t be a great use of your time.
Personally, I don’t suppose Epic Universe includes an extreme quantity of strolling on account of the portals. My common steps per day was decrease, and significantly so, than prior days at Walt Disney World. However the distinction is that I used to be actively attempting to keep away from spending time outdoor as a result of warmth and lack of shade and I did far more rides per day than my norm. So I’m not likely positive that step depend was consultant of a mean visitor’s day.
Level being, you would possibly wish to work on endurance and get in form a bit earlier than Epic Universe. The one-two punch of the warmth and the steps makes this a park that may be unduly tiring. It was for me regardless of fewer steps, and I’m decently in form.
Digital Line for #1 Experience
Common’s Digital Line system is worse than even Walt Disney World’s first technology of Digital Queue. Let that sink in. Additionally, I strongly suspect that the worst experiences with Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry will surpass the worst experiences with Rise of the Resistance. For those who’re paying consideration, you’ve in all probability already began to listen to horror tales concerning the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
These will solely get worse. It’s a easy numbers recreation. On a superb day, we’d hazard a guess that fewer than one-third of all friends are experiencing Battle on the Ministry. And that is nonetheless throughout paid previews, when park capability is capped fairly low. That means that later this 12 months, it might be ~15% of friends experiencing Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry on a daily day.
This Digital Line is getting used as a result of Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is tormented by unreliability and downtime woes. The trip breaks down so much. If it have been to put up a wait time, that will measure within the hours, and no matter quantity have been posted usually wouldn’t even be remotely correct attributable to multi-hour breakdowns.
Even when it’s operational, Battle on the Ministry will not be environment friendly. One complete facet of the attraction is commonly offline, and we’ve noticed a gradual and methodical dispatch. I don’t wish to guess as to its present operational hourly trip capability versus theoretical hourly trip capability, however let’s simply say throughput will not be so scorching proper now. No knock on the trip–it’s a extremely subtle attraction in a brand-new park, so that is to be anticipated.
We’ve got a 100% success fee to this point for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry, however that may be very a lot not the norm. (This VL can also be much less “skill-based” than its counterparts, so our luck will run out in the end.) For those who decide to do Epic Universe, you must go in with the expectation that you’ll not get to trip Battle on the Ministry.
This implies skipping what is certainly the target #1 attraction within the park, and greatest trip Common Inventive has ever constructed. An important planning put up you may learn is our VL information: How one can Be part of the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
Breakdowns & Downtime
As you’ve in all probability witnessed for those who’ve spent any period of time being a Walt Disney World fan, new sights have rising pains and are sometimes tormented by issues their first few months. This isn’t a uniquely Disney downside. It’s the character of the beast as sights turn into extra advanced.
Epic Universe is a complete park of latest rides, lots of that are progressive and envelope-pushing. Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is by far the most important offender on this regard–therefore it utilizing the Digital Line–but it surely’s removed from the one problematic attraction. Just about each single one of many park’s marquee sights has ranges of downtime increased than what friends would take into account cheap.
Throughout previews, there have been some actually tough days. We’ve got not skilled these, fortunately, however have talked to mates who’ve (and have noticed from afar through the Common Orlando app).
A number of headliners happening has a cascading impact even throughout previews, inflicting congestion in eating places with lengthy delays for cell orders, and spiking the wait occasions of the rides which can be open. Take into account that that is throughout days when attendance is closely capped. When rides come again on-line, the backlog of Specific Cross means sky-high standby wait occasions.
Suffice to say, you’re not going to wish to be in Epic Universe the primary time there’s an operational meltdown with the park working at or nearer full capability. It’s going to be a nightmare. And it’ll be one exacerbated by the above issues concerning the lack of shade, in addition to adequate crowd-absorbing counterprogramming.
Within the medium or long term, we don’t anticipate any of this to be a lot of a difficulty. Virtually each new attraction or land has preliminary rising pains, particularly the superior ones. Once more, Epic Universe is a complete park of these! We’re not attempting to be crucial or nitpick–that is extra of a sober “it’s what it’s” kind of commentary.
A 12 months from now, our expectation is that Epic Universe is working easily and with a excessive diploma of effectivity. Most of the issues on this listing, together with trip reliability, will resolve themselves over time. There’s one thing to be mentioned for experiencing a brand-new theme park, however there’s additionally a non-monetary price to doing so. Think about each earlier than taking the plunge.
Talking for ourselves, we’re inclined to attend to go to Epic Universe till Winter 2026. Our household has a visit deliberate for this summer time that we’re prone to postpone for the explanations above and extra (additionally solely attending to spend at some point at Epic Universe and our daughter’s age). Whereas I will likely be returning to Epic Universe many occasions within the months to come back, that’s primarily “for analysis.” I’ll undoubtedly have loads of enjoyable, however our household trip will doubtless be delayed till subsequent 12 months for extra optimum circumstances.
Want journey planning suggestions and complete recommendation to your go to to Central Florida? Make certain to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for every little thing about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for every little thing about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
YOUR THOUGHTS
Will you be attending Epic Universe this summer time for its opening season, or will you skip it till the brand new park settles right into a groove? Involved about unreliable rides, how scorching the park will get, or anything mentioned right here? Excited for Tremendous Nintendo World, Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic, Darkish Universe/Traditional Monsters, or the How one can Practice Your Dragon lands and/or sights? Assume Epic Universe will likely be a 3rd gate that’s a worthy addition to Common Orlando Resort…and probably on par with Disney’s greatest lands? Any questions? We love listening to from readers, so please share some other ideas or questions you’ve within the feedback beneath!
I’m totally aboard the Epic Universe hype prepare. After spending my first few days within the new park at Common Orlando, it’s all I can take into consideration. I can not wait to get again. If I had to decide on just one park to go to in Florida the remainder of this 12 months, it wouldn’t be Magic Kingdom or wherever else at Walt Disney World–it’d be Epic Universe. On the similar time, there main downsides to visiting this highly-anticipated new park throughout its opening season(s).
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. The typical vacationer won’t have the identical time or tolerances to expertise a brand new theme park and all that entails. Furthermore, I’m considerably involved that the hype prepare goes a tad too quick, and wishes the brakes pumped earlier than it dangers derailment.
To that finish, I wish to begin our main protection of the brand new park by making the argument in opposition to visiting Epic Universe–why you must skip it for now, and wait till 2026 to go to Common Orlando’s new theme park. Please be aware that that is one half of a point-counterpoint article collection. The case in favor of visiting Epic Universe (“Right here’s Why We Extremely Advocate Doing 2 Days at Epic Universe”) is coming quickly. With everybody else fixated on hype, I assumed it’d be pragmatic to start out by tempering expectations. (So don’t seize the pitchforks simply but, Common diehards!)
This text outlines the case in opposition to Epic Universe–that a lot ought to be apparent from foregoing (and even only a fast look on the title). For those who’re enthusiastic about Common Orlando’s new theme park, have already purchased your trip bundle or park tickets, or are in any other case averse to negativity, this put up might be not for you. This particulars the potential pitfalls in visiting Epic Universe throughout its opening season, that means that it’s a little bit of a downer by design.
Whilst you might wish to skip this put up about skipping Epic Universe if in case you have zero intentions of skipping Epic Universe, there may be worth even for these of you totally aboard the hype prepare. First, it’ll assist in managing expectations. Second, in making ready for these downsides to mitigate their affect to the best extent potential.
On with the listing of the reason why possibly you must wait to go to Epic Universe till 2026 or past…
Warmth, Solar & Shade (or Lack Thereof)
Apparently, Epic Universe was designed for the oldsters who thought Toy Story Land was only a bit too chilly and didn’t provide sufficient alternatives to crispen their pores and skin or get soaked throughout a storm. We’ve been crucial of current lands at Walt Disney World on the subject of the shortage of canopy and the way scorching they get, questioning if the designers accountable had ever left the consolation of their 70-degree air-conditioned workplaces in California.
The crew behind Epic Universe heard that and mentioned “maintain my beer,” cranked their workplace A/C to 62, and designed the most well liked and least shaded theme park I’ve ever skilled. There was a variety of bluster from Common about Celestial Park placing the “park” again in theme park. Apparently that doesn’t embrace bushes or shade constructions of any kind, however does embrace probably the most reflective pavement on earth. You’ll be able to really feel the warmth from each above and beneath, making it tough to spend time within the land in the course of the day.
Celestial Park is beautiful, to make sure, however all the reward for it’s essentially coming at evening. I seldom noticed greater than a handful of friends in right here in the course of the day apart from these going from level A to B. It was at all times a veritable ghost city, and for good cause–it’s actually uncomfortable. None of that is exaggeration.
The opposite portals are higher, however solely marginally so. Ministry of Magic looks like a sauna, with the identical reflective properties and warmth emanating from the pavement and facades, till the solar is decrease within the sky and the buildings block it from view. It’s an identical story in Tremendous Nintendo World, Isle of Berk, and Darkish Daylight Universe.
If you’ll go to Epic Universe this summer time, I’d strongly advocate an umbrella with UV safety, cool-dude bucket hat, and ridiculously sturdy sunscreen. Additionally, you’ll want to convey your individual water bottle–to Common’s immense credit score, there are refilling stations in all places, together with in queues. (See our Summer time Survival Information to Walt Disney World for extra suggestions.)
There are a number of components that contribute to Epic Universe having a worse “looks like” setting than different Central Florida theme parks, however the greatest is a scarcity of everlasting shade constructions and no mature bushes. Epic Universe will likely be a beautiful park-like setting a decade from now, however within the speedy future, I’d think about it turns into umbrella central this summer time. And remember the fact that that is the suggestions from days that by no means broke 90 levels. However not less than Epic Universe is beautiful within the evenings–oh wait.
Excessive Costs & No Reductions
There have been a variety of complaints amongst Walt Disney World followers about value will increase, and that dialog is commonly accompanied by comparisons to Common Orlando. Many have advised they’ll vote with their wallets and go to Epic Universe as an alternative attributable to Walt Disney World pricing them out.
This doesn’t fairly add up. Epic Universe is extraordinarily costly its opening summer time, and Walt Disney World has unprecedented reductions that primarily provide 2019 pricing. For Epic Universe preview tickets, I paid $180 per day after tax, and that’s on the decrease finish of the value spectrum this summer time.
In fact, multi-day tickets can be found…however that requires visiting Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida, with solely a single day at Epic Universe and no park hopping. This strikes me as a poor allocation of restricted trip time, particularly for those who’re doing different theme parks in Central Florida throughout your journey.
To every their very own, but when spending a number of days at Common Orlando this summer time, I’d wish to spend not less than two-thirds of that point at Epic Universe–two days there and a day break up between the present gates. This essentially means shopping for single day tickets.
Epic Universe is the shiny new theme park, so it’s comprehensible that Comcast would wish to recoup as a lot of its huge funding as potential whereas pleasure is excessive. However the dearth of reductions strikes me as unsustainable and unlikely going ahead.
At minimal, the extremely restrictive ticketing insurance policies will likely be dropped in 2026, however I’d anticipate much more offers and cheaper costs. That is like 2022 over again, with Common Orlando capitalizing on a unique type of pent-up demand.
Unpredictable Attendance & Crowds
Talking of Comcast eager to capitalize on hype and recoup its funding, we’re already seeing this play out with previews. For those who have a look at any Common Orlando Annual Passholder group proper now, you’ll see the most well liked subject is outrage over Epic Universe previews opening to everybody.
Whereas I don’t essentially agree with the anger, I get the place they’re coming from: Common has poorly communicated what to anticipate with Epic Universe, regularly making last-minute bulletins, reversing course, and so on. It’s the shortage of predictability that’s the issue; followers shopping for on the premise of sure implicit expectations, and people altering days later.
That is partly the character of the beast with a brand new theme park. And it’s not going to turn into constant anytime quickly. My early expectation and understanding is that Common Orlando is seeing comfortable demand for Epic Universe after opening week, and that even the “bought out” dates in Could and June are restricted method beneath full-capacity.
However who’s to say that received’t change tomorrow? Comcast may resolve its quarterly numbers aren’t trying so scorching–that the theme park section is falling wanting analyst expectations–and reopen ticket gross sales for “bought out” dates. The demand remains to be there for these dates, it’s provide that has been throttled. Common may reassess methods, and roll out monetized earlier entry (a la Tremendous Nintendo World at USH) or late nights. It’s all uncharted floor, and unpredictable. Crowds and attendance might be superior, terrible, or someplace in between.
Getting in Form
Epic Universe continues the development of Common’s stringent visitor containment insurance policies, that means aggressive restraints even on the slower transferring sights. This had the recipe for being one other Secret Lifetime of Pets: Off the Leash, a slow-moving darkish trip that many bigger friends can not expertise attributable to its restraints. Fortunately, that’s not the case.
All the pieces we’ve heard means that Common Orlando took visitor suggestions to coronary heart with Epic Universe, and the restraints are largely pleasant to Pooh-sized friends. There are limits on this, however the identical is true with Walt Disney World–TRON Lightcycle Run and Avatar Flight of Passage would really like a phrase.
I’m concerning the worst particular person to talk to this, so it’s all second-hand from mates who reported being pleasantly shocked. There are many sources tailor-made to this kind of visitor, however the salient level is you in all probability don’t have to concern embarrassment or accessibility points for those who’re a bigger visitor. Common appears to have completed a very good job threading the needle on the subject of Epic Universe’s seats and restraints.
The larger problem, and the one I completely did discover, is all the stairs. On my days in Epic Universe, I in some way managed to log an upwards of 20 flights per day. It looks like each single attraction has stairs each within the queue and at unload. In fact, sights are additionally accessible, so there are elevators, however ready round for these won’t be a great use of your time.
Personally, I don’t suppose Epic Universe includes an extreme quantity of strolling on account of the portals. My common steps per day was decrease, and significantly so, than prior days at Walt Disney World. However the distinction is that I used to be actively attempting to keep away from spending time outdoor as a result of warmth and lack of shade and I did far more rides per day than my norm. So I’m not likely positive that step depend was consultant of a mean visitor’s day.
Level being, you would possibly wish to work on endurance and get in form a bit earlier than Epic Universe. The one-two punch of the warmth and the steps makes this a park that may be unduly tiring. It was for me regardless of fewer steps, and I’m decently in form.
Digital Line for #1 Experience
Common’s Digital Line system is worse than even Walt Disney World’s first technology of Digital Queue. Let that sink in. Additionally, I strongly suspect that the worst experiences with Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry will surpass the worst experiences with Rise of the Resistance. For those who’re paying consideration, you’ve in all probability already began to listen to horror tales concerning the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
These will solely get worse. It’s a easy numbers recreation. On a superb day, we’d hazard a guess that fewer than one-third of all friends are experiencing Battle on the Ministry. And that is nonetheless throughout paid previews, when park capability is capped fairly low. That means that later this 12 months, it might be ~15% of friends experiencing Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry on a daily day.
This Digital Line is getting used as a result of Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is tormented by unreliability and downtime woes. The trip breaks down so much. If it have been to put up a wait time, that will measure within the hours, and no matter quantity have been posted usually wouldn’t even be remotely correct attributable to multi-hour breakdowns.
Even when it’s operational, Battle on the Ministry will not be environment friendly. One complete facet of the attraction is commonly offline, and we’ve noticed a gradual and methodical dispatch. I don’t wish to guess as to its present operational hourly trip capability versus theoretical hourly trip capability, however let’s simply say throughput will not be so scorching proper now. No knock on the trip–it’s a extremely subtle attraction in a brand-new park, so that is to be anticipated.
We’ve got a 100% success fee to this point for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry, however that may be very a lot not the norm. (This VL can also be much less “skill-based” than its counterparts, so our luck will run out in the end.) For those who decide to do Epic Universe, you must go in with the expectation that you’ll not get to trip Battle on the Ministry.
This implies skipping what is certainly the target #1 attraction within the park, and greatest trip Common Inventive has ever constructed. An important planning put up you may learn is our VL information: How one can Be part of the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
Breakdowns & Downtime
As you’ve in all probability witnessed for those who’ve spent any period of time being a Walt Disney World fan, new sights have rising pains and are sometimes tormented by issues their first few months. This isn’t a uniquely Disney downside. It’s the character of the beast as sights turn into extra advanced.
Epic Universe is a complete park of latest rides, lots of that are progressive and envelope-pushing. Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is by far the most important offender on this regard–therefore it utilizing the Digital Line–but it surely’s removed from the one problematic attraction. Just about each single one of many park’s marquee sights has ranges of downtime increased than what friends would take into account cheap.
Throughout previews, there have been some actually tough days. We’ve got not skilled these, fortunately, however have talked to mates who’ve (and have noticed from afar through the Common Orlando app).
A number of headliners happening has a cascading impact even throughout previews, inflicting congestion in eating places with lengthy delays for cell orders, and spiking the wait occasions of the rides which can be open. Take into account that that is throughout days when attendance is closely capped. When rides come again on-line, the backlog of Specific Cross means sky-high standby wait occasions.
Suffice to say, you’re not going to wish to be in Epic Universe the primary time there’s an operational meltdown with the park working at or nearer full capability. It’s going to be a nightmare. And it’ll be one exacerbated by the above issues concerning the lack of shade, in addition to adequate crowd-absorbing counterprogramming.
Within the medium or long term, we don’t anticipate any of this to be a lot of a difficulty. Virtually each new attraction or land has preliminary rising pains, particularly the superior ones. Once more, Epic Universe is a complete park of these! We’re not attempting to be crucial or nitpick–that is extra of a sober “it’s what it’s” kind of commentary.
A 12 months from now, our expectation is that Epic Universe is working easily and with a excessive diploma of effectivity. Most of the issues on this listing, together with trip reliability, will resolve themselves over time. There’s one thing to be mentioned for experiencing a brand-new theme park, however there’s additionally a non-monetary price to doing so. Think about each earlier than taking the plunge.
Talking for ourselves, we’re inclined to attend to go to Epic Universe till Winter 2026. Our household has a visit deliberate for this summer time that we’re prone to postpone for the explanations above and extra (additionally solely attending to spend at some point at Epic Universe and our daughter’s age). Whereas I will likely be returning to Epic Universe many occasions within the months to come back, that’s primarily “for analysis.” I’ll undoubtedly have loads of enjoyable, however our household trip will doubtless be delayed till subsequent 12 months for extra optimum circumstances.
Want journey planning suggestions and complete recommendation to your go to to Central Florida? Make certain to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for every little thing about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for every little thing about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
YOUR THOUGHTS
Will you be attending Epic Universe this summer time for its opening season, or will you skip it till the brand new park settles right into a groove? Involved about unreliable rides, how scorching the park will get, or anything mentioned right here? Excited for Tremendous Nintendo World, Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic, Darkish Universe/Traditional Monsters, or the How one can Practice Your Dragon lands and/or sights? Assume Epic Universe will likely be a 3rd gate that’s a worthy addition to Common Orlando Resort…and probably on par with Disney’s greatest lands? Any questions? We love listening to from readers, so please share some other ideas or questions you’ve within the feedback beneath!
I’m totally aboard the Epic Universe hype prepare. After spending my first few days within the new park at Common Orlando, it’s all I can take into consideration. I can not wait to get again. If I had to decide on just one park to go to in Florida the remainder of this 12 months, it wouldn’t be Magic Kingdom or wherever else at Walt Disney World–it’d be Epic Universe. On the similar time, there main downsides to visiting this highly-anticipated new park throughout its opening season(s).
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. The typical vacationer won’t have the identical time or tolerances to expertise a brand new theme park and all that entails. Furthermore, I’m considerably involved that the hype prepare goes a tad too quick, and wishes the brakes pumped earlier than it dangers derailment.
To that finish, I wish to begin our main protection of the brand new park by making the argument in opposition to visiting Epic Universe–why you must skip it for now, and wait till 2026 to go to Common Orlando’s new theme park. Please be aware that that is one half of a point-counterpoint article collection. The case in favor of visiting Epic Universe (“Right here’s Why We Extremely Advocate Doing 2 Days at Epic Universe”) is coming quickly. With everybody else fixated on hype, I assumed it’d be pragmatic to start out by tempering expectations. (So don’t seize the pitchforks simply but, Common diehards!)
This text outlines the case in opposition to Epic Universe–that a lot ought to be apparent from foregoing (and even only a fast look on the title). For those who’re enthusiastic about Common Orlando’s new theme park, have already purchased your trip bundle or park tickets, or are in any other case averse to negativity, this put up might be not for you. This particulars the potential pitfalls in visiting Epic Universe throughout its opening season, that means that it’s a little bit of a downer by design.
Whilst you might wish to skip this put up about skipping Epic Universe if in case you have zero intentions of skipping Epic Universe, there may be worth even for these of you totally aboard the hype prepare. First, it’ll assist in managing expectations. Second, in making ready for these downsides to mitigate their affect to the best extent potential.
On with the listing of the reason why possibly you must wait to go to Epic Universe till 2026 or past…
Warmth, Solar & Shade (or Lack Thereof)
Apparently, Epic Universe was designed for the oldsters who thought Toy Story Land was only a bit too chilly and didn’t provide sufficient alternatives to crispen their pores and skin or get soaked throughout a storm. We’ve been crucial of current lands at Walt Disney World on the subject of the shortage of canopy and the way scorching they get, questioning if the designers accountable had ever left the consolation of their 70-degree air-conditioned workplaces in California.
The crew behind Epic Universe heard that and mentioned “maintain my beer,” cranked their workplace A/C to 62, and designed the most well liked and least shaded theme park I’ve ever skilled. There was a variety of bluster from Common about Celestial Park placing the “park” again in theme park. Apparently that doesn’t embrace bushes or shade constructions of any kind, however does embrace probably the most reflective pavement on earth. You’ll be able to really feel the warmth from each above and beneath, making it tough to spend time within the land in the course of the day.
Celestial Park is beautiful, to make sure, however all the reward for it’s essentially coming at evening. I seldom noticed greater than a handful of friends in right here in the course of the day apart from these going from level A to B. It was at all times a veritable ghost city, and for good cause–it’s actually uncomfortable. None of that is exaggeration.
The opposite portals are higher, however solely marginally so. Ministry of Magic looks like a sauna, with the identical reflective properties and warmth emanating from the pavement and facades, till the solar is decrease within the sky and the buildings block it from view. It’s an identical story in Tremendous Nintendo World, Isle of Berk, and Darkish Daylight Universe.
If you’ll go to Epic Universe this summer time, I’d strongly advocate an umbrella with UV safety, cool-dude bucket hat, and ridiculously sturdy sunscreen. Additionally, you’ll want to convey your individual water bottle–to Common’s immense credit score, there are refilling stations in all places, together with in queues. (See our Summer time Survival Information to Walt Disney World for extra suggestions.)
There are a number of components that contribute to Epic Universe having a worse “looks like” setting than different Central Florida theme parks, however the greatest is a scarcity of everlasting shade constructions and no mature bushes. Epic Universe will likely be a beautiful park-like setting a decade from now, however within the speedy future, I’d think about it turns into umbrella central this summer time. And remember the fact that that is the suggestions from days that by no means broke 90 levels. However not less than Epic Universe is beautiful within the evenings–oh wait.
Excessive Costs & No Reductions
There have been a variety of complaints amongst Walt Disney World followers about value will increase, and that dialog is commonly accompanied by comparisons to Common Orlando. Many have advised they’ll vote with their wallets and go to Epic Universe as an alternative attributable to Walt Disney World pricing them out.
This doesn’t fairly add up. Epic Universe is extraordinarily costly its opening summer time, and Walt Disney World has unprecedented reductions that primarily provide 2019 pricing. For Epic Universe preview tickets, I paid $180 per day after tax, and that’s on the decrease finish of the value spectrum this summer time.
In fact, multi-day tickets can be found…however that requires visiting Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida, with solely a single day at Epic Universe and no park hopping. This strikes me as a poor allocation of restricted trip time, particularly for those who’re doing different theme parks in Central Florida throughout your journey.
To every their very own, but when spending a number of days at Common Orlando this summer time, I’d wish to spend not less than two-thirds of that point at Epic Universe–two days there and a day break up between the present gates. This essentially means shopping for single day tickets.
Epic Universe is the shiny new theme park, so it’s comprehensible that Comcast would wish to recoup as a lot of its huge funding as potential whereas pleasure is excessive. However the dearth of reductions strikes me as unsustainable and unlikely going ahead.
At minimal, the extremely restrictive ticketing insurance policies will likely be dropped in 2026, however I’d anticipate much more offers and cheaper costs. That is like 2022 over again, with Common Orlando capitalizing on a unique type of pent-up demand.
Unpredictable Attendance & Crowds
Talking of Comcast eager to capitalize on hype and recoup its funding, we’re already seeing this play out with previews. For those who have a look at any Common Orlando Annual Passholder group proper now, you’ll see the most well liked subject is outrage over Epic Universe previews opening to everybody.
Whereas I don’t essentially agree with the anger, I get the place they’re coming from: Common has poorly communicated what to anticipate with Epic Universe, regularly making last-minute bulletins, reversing course, and so on. It’s the shortage of predictability that’s the issue; followers shopping for on the premise of sure implicit expectations, and people altering days later.
That is partly the character of the beast with a brand new theme park. And it’s not going to turn into constant anytime quickly. My early expectation and understanding is that Common Orlando is seeing comfortable demand for Epic Universe after opening week, and that even the “bought out” dates in Could and June are restricted method beneath full-capacity.
However who’s to say that received’t change tomorrow? Comcast may resolve its quarterly numbers aren’t trying so scorching–that the theme park section is falling wanting analyst expectations–and reopen ticket gross sales for “bought out” dates. The demand remains to be there for these dates, it’s provide that has been throttled. Common may reassess methods, and roll out monetized earlier entry (a la Tremendous Nintendo World at USH) or late nights. It’s all uncharted floor, and unpredictable. Crowds and attendance might be superior, terrible, or someplace in between.
Getting in Form
Epic Universe continues the development of Common’s stringent visitor containment insurance policies, that means aggressive restraints even on the slower transferring sights. This had the recipe for being one other Secret Lifetime of Pets: Off the Leash, a slow-moving darkish trip that many bigger friends can not expertise attributable to its restraints. Fortunately, that’s not the case.
All the pieces we’ve heard means that Common Orlando took visitor suggestions to coronary heart with Epic Universe, and the restraints are largely pleasant to Pooh-sized friends. There are limits on this, however the identical is true with Walt Disney World–TRON Lightcycle Run and Avatar Flight of Passage would really like a phrase.
I’m concerning the worst particular person to talk to this, so it’s all second-hand from mates who reported being pleasantly shocked. There are many sources tailor-made to this kind of visitor, however the salient level is you in all probability don’t have to concern embarrassment or accessibility points for those who’re a bigger visitor. Common appears to have completed a very good job threading the needle on the subject of Epic Universe’s seats and restraints.
The larger problem, and the one I completely did discover, is all the stairs. On my days in Epic Universe, I in some way managed to log an upwards of 20 flights per day. It looks like each single attraction has stairs each within the queue and at unload. In fact, sights are additionally accessible, so there are elevators, however ready round for these won’t be a great use of your time.
Personally, I don’t suppose Epic Universe includes an extreme quantity of strolling on account of the portals. My common steps per day was decrease, and significantly so, than prior days at Walt Disney World. However the distinction is that I used to be actively attempting to keep away from spending time outdoor as a result of warmth and lack of shade and I did far more rides per day than my norm. So I’m not likely positive that step depend was consultant of a mean visitor’s day.
Level being, you would possibly wish to work on endurance and get in form a bit earlier than Epic Universe. The one-two punch of the warmth and the steps makes this a park that may be unduly tiring. It was for me regardless of fewer steps, and I’m decently in form.
Digital Line for #1 Experience
Common’s Digital Line system is worse than even Walt Disney World’s first technology of Digital Queue. Let that sink in. Additionally, I strongly suspect that the worst experiences with Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry will surpass the worst experiences with Rise of the Resistance. For those who’re paying consideration, you’ve in all probability already began to listen to horror tales concerning the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
These will solely get worse. It’s a easy numbers recreation. On a superb day, we’d hazard a guess that fewer than one-third of all friends are experiencing Battle on the Ministry. And that is nonetheless throughout paid previews, when park capability is capped fairly low. That means that later this 12 months, it might be ~15% of friends experiencing Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry on a daily day.
This Digital Line is getting used as a result of Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is tormented by unreliability and downtime woes. The trip breaks down so much. If it have been to put up a wait time, that will measure within the hours, and no matter quantity have been posted usually wouldn’t even be remotely correct attributable to multi-hour breakdowns.
Even when it’s operational, Battle on the Ministry will not be environment friendly. One complete facet of the attraction is commonly offline, and we’ve noticed a gradual and methodical dispatch. I don’t wish to guess as to its present operational hourly trip capability versus theoretical hourly trip capability, however let’s simply say throughput will not be so scorching proper now. No knock on the trip–it’s a extremely subtle attraction in a brand-new park, so that is to be anticipated.
We’ve got a 100% success fee to this point for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry, however that may be very a lot not the norm. (This VL can also be much less “skill-based” than its counterparts, so our luck will run out in the end.) For those who decide to do Epic Universe, you must go in with the expectation that you’ll not get to trip Battle on the Ministry.
This implies skipping what is certainly the target #1 attraction within the park, and greatest trip Common Inventive has ever constructed. An important planning put up you may learn is our VL information: How one can Be part of the Digital Line for Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry.
Breakdowns & Downtime
As you’ve in all probability witnessed for those who’ve spent any period of time being a Walt Disney World fan, new sights have rising pains and are sometimes tormented by issues their first few months. This isn’t a uniquely Disney downside. It’s the character of the beast as sights turn into extra advanced.
Epic Universe is a complete park of latest rides, lots of that are progressive and envelope-pushing. Harry Potter and the Battle on the Ministry is by far the most important offender on this regard–therefore it utilizing the Digital Line–but it surely’s removed from the one problematic attraction. Just about each single one of many park’s marquee sights has ranges of downtime increased than what friends would take into account cheap.
Throughout previews, there have been some actually tough days. We’ve got not skilled these, fortunately, however have talked to mates who’ve (and have noticed from afar through the Common Orlando app).
A number of headliners happening has a cascading impact even throughout previews, inflicting congestion in eating places with lengthy delays for cell orders, and spiking the wait occasions of the rides which can be open. Take into account that that is throughout days when attendance is closely capped. When rides come again on-line, the backlog of Specific Cross means sky-high standby wait occasions.
Suffice to say, you’re not going to wish to be in Epic Universe the primary time there’s an operational meltdown with the park working at or nearer full capability. It’s going to be a nightmare. And it’ll be one exacerbated by the above issues concerning the lack of shade, in addition to adequate crowd-absorbing counterprogramming.
Within the medium or long term, we don’t anticipate any of this to be a lot of a difficulty. Virtually each new attraction or land has preliminary rising pains, particularly the superior ones. Once more, Epic Universe is a complete park of these! We’re not attempting to be crucial or nitpick–that is extra of a sober “it’s what it’s” kind of commentary.
A 12 months from now, our expectation is that Epic Universe is working easily and with a excessive diploma of effectivity. Most of the issues on this listing, together with trip reliability, will resolve themselves over time. There’s one thing to be mentioned for experiencing a brand-new theme park, however there’s additionally a non-monetary price to doing so. Think about each earlier than taking the plunge.
Talking for ourselves, we’re inclined to attend to go to Epic Universe till Winter 2026. Our household has a visit deliberate for this summer time that we’re prone to postpone for the explanations above and extra (additionally solely attending to spend at some point at Epic Universe and our daughter’s age). Whereas I will likely be returning to Epic Universe many occasions within the months to come back, that’s primarily “for analysis.” I’ll undoubtedly have loads of enjoyable, however our household trip will doubtless be delayed till subsequent 12 months for extra optimum circumstances.
Want journey planning suggestions and complete recommendation to your go to to Central Florida? Make certain to learn our Common Orlando Planning Information for every little thing about Islands of Journey and Common Studios Florida. Additionally take a look at our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Information for every little thing about these parks, resorts, eating places, and a lot extra.
YOUR THOUGHTS
Will you be attending Epic Universe this summer time for its opening season, or will you skip it till the brand new park settles right into a groove? Involved about unreliable rides, how scorching the park will get, or anything mentioned right here? Excited for Tremendous Nintendo World, Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic, Darkish Universe/Traditional Monsters, or the How one can Practice Your Dragon lands and/or sights? Assume Epic Universe will likely be a 3rd gate that’s a worthy addition to Common Orlando Resort…and probably on par with Disney’s greatest lands? Any questions? We love listening to from readers, so please share some other ideas or questions you’ve within the feedback beneath!
