"It's alive! It's alive!" Welcome to a land where mist and mystery fill the air and monsters lurk in the shadows. Ripped from the silver screen and zapped to life, the terrifying creatures of Universal Monsters have found their home in Universal Epic Universe, the resort's fourth gate. From spine-chilling coasters to dining options that are sure to silence a howling stomach, here's everything that awaits you on the other side of Dr. Frankenstein's electrifying portal.
Hop To
FAQs
- What is Dark Universe? Dark Universe is one of five immersive worlds within the all-new theme park, Universal Epic Universe, which is officially open as of May 22, 2025.
- What will I find in Dark Universe? Dark Universe invites guests to step into the shadowy realm of the iconic Universal monsters (and you may even bump into monster hunters and other villagers).
- What attractions are in Dark Universe? The world features two fangtastic thrill rides: Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Curse of the Werewolf.
- What monsters can I meet in Dark Universe? You may find yourself face-to-face with familiar monsters such as Frankenstein and his bride, Ygor and the Invisible Man — or visit Darkmoor Monster Makeover Experience to become a monster yourself!
What Is Dark Universe at Epic Universe?
Upon stepping through the foreboding portal, guests will find themselves in a foggy, decaying cemetery on the edges of the village of Darkmoor. Full of upended tombstones and twisted roots, this resting place is anything but final ... as things don't stay buried here for long. Once you've made your way through the graveyard, you'll enter the village proper.
Here in Darkmoor, the stories are real. Dr. Henry Frankenstein played god and created a monster. Larry Talbot was bitten by a beast. Dr. Jack Griffin did the impossible and became invisible. The embers of the past burn bright in this ravaged land that monsters, monster makers, monster hunters and villagers just trying to survive all call home.
A first-of-its-kind theme park environment, Dark Universe toes the line between "being family-friendly and PG-13" as it pushes "the boundaries on intensity in a way only Universal could achieve."
Explore this grim world of myth and mystery where monsters roam in the Epic Universe map, now available on the Universal Orlando app! Plus, view all the highlights of Dark Universe in our downloadable deep dive infographic.
When Did Dark Universe Open?
Universal Dark Universe opened with Universal Epic Universe on May 22, 2025. Epic Universe features five toadally immersive worlds. Besides Dark Universe, you'll find Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic. Undercover Tourist offers big savings on Universal Epic Universe tickets — up to $88 per ticket! Here's some truly frogciting news: Epic Universe 2026 tickets are now on sale!
Universal Orlando Resort also opened three brand-new hotels in 2025: Universal Helios Grand Hotel (located inside Epic Universe!) and sister properties Universal Stella Nova and Universal Terra Luna Resorts.
Universal Dark Universe Rides
The dark energy powering the portal will pulsate through the entire village and connect at the top of Frankenstein Manor, the towering focal point of Dark Universe. It's within these blackened stone walls that your close encounter with the iconic Universal Monsters begins. Things only get more frightening from there ...
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
Almost a century after Dr. Henry Frankenstein created life where there was none, his great-great-granddaughter, Victoria, is seeking to bring greatness back to her family name. She's invited you inside her foreboding estate for a demonstration of her incredible ability to control the monsters that haunt the streets of Darkmoor. Dracula, however, is not too fond of the idea and has unleashed a horde of enraged monsters. Prepare to plunge into the catacombs below Frankenstein Manor and come face-to-fang with some of the most terrifying creatures to ever roam the planet. Check out our guide to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment for everything you need to know about this hair-raising, game-changing attraction.
Curse of the Werewolf
Right now, you can Buy 3 Days and Get 2 Days FREE at Universal Orlando Resort (including Epic Universe!)! Valid for visits through Dec. 16, 2026, excluding blockout dates.
Deep in the woods on the edge of Darkmoor, you wandered across the secluded, colorful encampment of The Guild of Mystics. The guild's all-knowing seer and leader, Maleva, unfortunately comes bearing bad news. It seems you've been cursed with the mark of the werewolf, which means you're the beast's next victim.
The next thing you know, you're put in a wagon and sent out into the woods where a pack of hungry werewolves await. You'll tear through the dark forest at 37 miles per hour, spinning wildly as you attempt to evade gnashing teeth and razor-sharp claws. Surrounded by glowing eyes and blood-curdling snarls, you'll come face-to-fang with a fearsome predator in the old Darkmoor armory before arriving back at camp forever changed. (Awoooo!)
This careening coaster is even more spooktacular at night when you can bask in the glow of both the moon and the energy pulsating from Frankenstein Manor.
Entertainment Experiences in Universal Dark Universe
Get ready for your close-up! Only in Darkmoor can you encounter the infamous Universal Monsters ... and even transform into one yourself!
Meet the Monsters
You never know who you'll see strolling the crumbling streets of Darkmoor. We urge you to be on the lookout for the legendary Frankenstein's Monster and his drop-dead gorgeous Bride, two of the village's most recognizable residents, who tend to appear in the shadows next to Pretorius' Scientific Oddities (more on that below). You may want to ask them about the goings-on over at Frankenstein Manor ...
@undercovertourist You’re not going to want to miss these FRIENDS when you visit Dark Universe… #epicuniverse #universalorlando #universal #universalmonsters #frankenstein ♬ original sound - Undercover Tourist
You may also find Ygor (the Internet's darling) carrying out Victoria's eerie errands — notably by his cart next to Curse of the Werewolf or in the cemetery at the entrance of Darkmoor. (Issuing a potential gore warning for certain items he may have on his person.)
SAVE UP TO $88
Universal Epic Universe tickets are on sale. Snag big savings through Undercover Tourist!
Try, if you can, to see The Invisible Man. Dr. Jack Griffin hangs out near The Lion's Head Inn and won't hesitate to verbally tear you to shreds or, if you get on his good side, plot some dastardly deeds with you.
Strike up a conversation with courageous monster hunters at The Burning Blade Tavern. These fearless warriors have plenty of tales to tell about their dangerous pursuits and loads of free advice to give should you find yourself staring down a wicked creature.
Lastly, keep your ears open as a roaming violinist wanders the village, regaling visitors with sinister songs and haunting tunes of old. This mysterious musician normally hangs out near the Burgomaster's office and is worth a listen.
Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience
Disciples of Dr. Septimus Pretorius have converted his old lab into a parlor where terrifying transformations still take place to this day. Sit back, relax and let the monster makers work their magic as they use their talents to experiment on you and unleash your inner love of Universal Monsters. Become a werewolf, vampire, mummy or something even more fashionably monstrous through the use of elaborate face paint and temporary tattoos.
There are two different types of experiences available: the Transformation Ticket ($169 for adults and $109 for tadpoles ages 5 to 9), which includes face makeup and matching accessories, and the Experiment Ticket ($45), which is for full face makeup only — both available via the Universal Orlando website! The Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience is for aspiring monsters ages 5 and up. Tadpoles under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a frog 18 years or older who may be asked to assist with minor children.
At your appointment, you'll select a design from a variety of makeup looks and, if you choose the Transformation Ticket, your accessories will match the selected makeup look. The experience takes approximately 20 minutes. Tickets are both date- and time-specific, subject to availability. You must arrive at the venue on the scheduled date and time listed on the ticket. Late arrivals may result in forfeiture and rebooking will be at the discretion of Universal Orlando. Separate theme park admission is required. Note that monsters will not be able to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages at any of the Universal theme parks or Universal CityWalk while in the makeup, so plan your day accordingly!
Check out our dastardly guide to the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience for all the howling deets!
Restaurants in Universal Dark Universe
In Darkmoor, you're either predator or prey. Take shelter in one of the village's highly themed eateries, devour some delicious fare and avoid becoming a carnivorous creature's next meal. (Sink your teeth into more specifics in our Epic Universe food guide.)
Das Stakehaus
Deep under Darkmoor in the ancient catacombs resides a swarm of bloodthirsty vampires. In the land above, the bloodsuckers' loyal familiars run a dining hall where unsuspecting patrons come to put some meat on their bones. Keep an eye out for all the paintings, depicting the world of vampires from their point of view as the heroes.
Indulge in a hearty menu of steak, burgers, sandwiches and more in an old inn shrouded in mystery. Herbivores can even sink their teeth into Our Favorite Vegan Familiar's Stuffed Cabbage and anyone with a sweet tooth will absolutely die over the Red Velvet Death. But watch out — the food on your plate isn't the only thing that's mouthwatering.
The Burning Blade Tavern
Back in the days of Victoria's great-great-grandfather, a mob of angry villagers torched an old windmill. Of course, in a town where the echoes of history continue to howl, some flames are never truly extinguished.
Now a favorite hangout for The Hounds — Darkmoor's resident monster hunters — this tavern serves up a delicious menu of burgers, potatoes, chicken and pretzels (all only available via mobile order at the pick-up window) and specialty beverages (only available at the bar) and is adored with an impressive display of "trophies" (aka beheaded monsters). Order the Pure of Heart for a drink and a show or the Souvenir Monocane Mocktail to sip Dr. Griffin's infamous elixir. Listen closely to the creature capturers' tales of triumph ... and the sound of spontaneous combustion. Every 20 minutes, the mill atop this watering hole erupts into a fiery, spinning inferno. (You'll know it's about to ignite when you hear the Darkmoor bell tower ringing.)
De Lacey's Cottage
The amiable homestead where the original Frankenstein's Monster once received sustenance and friendship still resides near Frankenstein Manor. Today, it serves succulent sweets and savory treats, including Warm Hearted Cinnamon Bites (our go-to pick-me-up in Darkmoor) and the Frank & Friends Pretzel.
@undercovertourist Here are the descriptions of some of our favorites so far: Das Burger - Seared Angus burger with tomato pepper chutney, white cheddar cheese, grilled onions, cherry peppers, and bacon on a black bun with fries 🍔🍟 Red Velvet Death - Red velvet heart “beet” coffin cake with chocolate crumbs and puffed rice maggots 💀🪦 Monocane Mocktail - Monin pineapple syrup, Monin blue raspberry syrup, Monin passion fruit syrup, emerald luster dust, and Sprite mocktail 🍍 Warm Hearted Cinnamon Bites - Warm cinnamon sugar donut bites with cream cheese icing and streusel 😋 Pure of Heart - Misguided Spirits Hinky Dink’s Workingman’s Whiskey, The Bitter Truth Violet Liqueur, DeKuyper Creme de Cassis, lime juice, pineapple juice, honey syrup, and blackberry essence, topped with ginger beer ❤️ For our complete guide to Dark Universe, check out our blog post on our website UndercoverTourist.com. 🔗 #epicuniverse #darkuniverse #universal #universalepicuniverse #universalorlandoresort #universalorlando #universalmonsters ♬ 'Bout It - JMSN
Shopping in Dark Universe
Once you wander the streets of Darkmoor, the village will never truly leave your heart. It's nice to have a physical memento, though. Looking for more details on Epic Universe merch? Be sure to jump over to our full post!
Pretorius' Scientific Oddities
Dr. Pretorius' previous residence is now a wondrous emporium where his macabre items are on display — and for sale! From flasks to bags to full-blown costumes, this shop has everything you need to satisfy your hunger for all things Universal Monsters.
The Guild of Mystics
Stop by this wondrous wagon where you can pick up a colorful t-shirt, magical charm or even a piece of hand-crafted jewelry. (I have purchased more t-shirts here than I care to admit. The merch design at this unassuming little hut is absolutely next level!)
Manor Storehouse
After you've helped Victoria with her experiment, wander through this once-abandoned part of the Manor where you'll find monster-themed souvenirs, apparel, jewelry, candy and collectibles ... and possibly even relics from the storied past of the legendary Frankenstein family. It's here where you'll find the famed Dark Universe vinyl with music by the legendary Danny Elfman who composed the score for the entire wondrous world of Darkmoor — which is also now available on streaming platforms!
Can't Miss in Dark Universe
These top experiences are to die for — here's what we think you shouldn't miss in Dark Universe (in no particular order):
- Riding Monsters Unchained: Frankenstein's Experiment
- Meet the resident monsters and Darkmoor villagers
- Transforming into a monster yourself at the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience
- Getting a drink at the Burning Blade Tavern
- Dining at Das Stakehaus
Monster lovers ... welcome home. Are you looking forward to venturing into the shadows of Darkmoor? What are you most excited to experience in Dark Universe at Epic Universe? Let us know in the comments below!
Related: Everything We Know So Far About Universal Epic Universe
Keep hopping!
