Hoppin’ news! Universal Epic Universe will open May 22, 2025 — and you can save on your Universal Orlando Resort tickets when you purchase through Undercover Tourist, up to $124 per ticket!
Your Orlando vacation is about to get a lot more epic. On May 22, 2025, Universal Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort's long-awaited fourth gate will officially open — transporting guests to five incredibly themed worlds home to over 50 unique experiences. Prepare to soar with dragons, collect coins, cast some spells and unleash your inner monster. Magic, mystery and mayhem await you at Universal Epic Universe ... and tickets are on sale now! While there are still more exciting details to come as we gear up for the opening of Universal Epic Universe, here is what we know so far — and you can bet we'll keep you updated as we learn more. Here we go!
What We Know About Universal Epic Universe
Universal Epic Universe promises to "take guests on a journey where beloved stories expand into vibrant lands." A game-changer for theme park entertainment, Epic Universe presents a level of immersion and innovation you won't find anywhere else — transporting you to expansive worlds that are nothing short of epic. The addition of this incredible fourth park transforms Universal Orlando Resort into a vacation destination we know we won't want to leave. (A week at Universal Orlando to explore all four parks? Yes, please!)
Download our infographic for an overview of the five Epic Universe worlds. Wherever your story takes you, your journey will begin by walking through the Emerald Gate and the Chronos device at the entrance to Epic Universe. Harnessing the energy of the Universe that powers Celestial Park — "the world between worlds" — Chronos allows Universal to open the portal to other epic worlds.
When Does Epic Universe Open?
Epic Universe will officially open May 22, 2025.
You may have seen others reporting from Epic Universe — previews of the brand-new theme park are going on now for team members, annual pass holders, select media and hotel guests. If you're staying at a Universal Orlando hotel from April 17 to May 19, 2025, visit the planning center in the hotel's lobby once you've checked in to see if you can purchase a preview ticket! Even better? During this preview period, hotel guests can get into Epic Universe an hour before the park opens. Check out more about the Epic Universe previews here.
Epic Universe Hours of Operation
Epic Universe hours of operation can be found on the Universal Orlando website and the Universal Orlando app.
When Will Tickets for Epic Universe Go on Sale?
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Theme Park Tickets
Tickets for Universal Epic Universe are on sale now! To choose your ticket, first:
- Look for "PLUS 1-day Universal Epic Universe" in the ticket name to be sure the new park is included in your entitlement.
- Then, decide whether you'd like Park-to-Park access (allowing you to move freely between Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure — including the Hogwarts Express — and/or Universal Volcano Bay, should you choose a 3-Park ticket).
- OR a Base ticket, which would grant you access to one park per day.
- To begin, multi-day Universal Orlando tickets will only include 1 day of Epic Universe access (no matter the ticket length).
Florida Residents can save on 2-Day and 3-Day Florida Resident tickets and packages that include one day at Epic Universe.
Additionally, as of March 13, 2025, 1-Day Universal Epic Universe tickets are available for dates June 1, 2025, and beyond, directly through Universal. Check out our Epic Universe ticket guide for everything you need to know when purchasing!
When you purchase your multi-day ticket for two days or longer, you do not need to specify the date that you plan to visit Epic Universe. You'll just need to indicate the first date that you would like your overall ticket to be valid. However, if you're purchasing a single-day ticket to Epic Universe, you do need to choose the day you're visiting the brand-new theme park.
Express Pass
Express Passes that include Universal Epic Universe are on sale now! You can purchase either a 1-Day Express Pass for Universal Epic Universe only (through Universal Orlando Resort) or 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-Day Express Passes valid for Universal Epic Universe, Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure (through Undercover Tourist). Note that, currently, Express Unlimited Passes are not available, only the standard Express Pass with one-time access to each ride at Epic Universe.
VIP Experience
1-Park 1-Day VIP Experience Tickets for Universal Epic Universe are also on sale which entitles one guest to a four-hour tour of the brand-new theme park, priority entrance at participating rides and attractions based on itinerary at the discretion of Universal Orlando, one VIP priority access, a VIP Experience souvenir lanyard, an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience in the park, a VIP discount at select merchandise locations within the park on the day of your VIP Experience and one complimentary valet parking on the day of your VIP tour.
Additional Upgrades
Additionally, My Universal Photos Packages, which include Universal Epic Universe, are on sale. You can either purchase a 1-Day Photo Package (available at Epic Universe starting May 22, 2025) which includes one day of unlimited digital downloads of your theme park photos from participating locations within Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay and Epic Universe or a 3-Day Photo Package which includes three consecutive days of unlimited digital downloads of your theme park photos from participating locations within the four theme parks.
Hotels
Reservations are currently available for Universal Stella Nova Resort, Universal Terra Luna Resort and Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel — all of which are open now.
How Many Days Do You Need at Epic Universe?
We have been blown away by everything this brand-new park has to offer. Right now, single tickets only offer one-day access to Epic Universe, but you could certainly spend more than a day exploring the park. If you'd like to do and see it all, we'd highly recommend utilizing Early Park Admission (which officially begins on May 23, 2025) and Express Pass to maximize your day at Epic Universe. (Psst ... Undercover Tourist can help you save on your Universal Orlando vacation, including Express Passes!) With the addition of Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort is evolving into a weeklong destination, so our best ticket recommendation is:
- Universal 2-Park 2-Day (Base) PLUS 1-Day Universal Epic Universe Ticket — save up to $31!
- 2 Days at Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure (1 theme park per day; Park-to-Park access not allowed)
- 1 Day at Universal Epic Universe (Park-to-Park access not allowed)
- OR, if budget permits, Universal 2-Park 2-Day (Park-to-Park) PLUS 1-Day Universal Epic Universe Ticket — save up to $76!
- 2 Days at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure (Park-to-Park access allowed; has access to Hogwarts Express)
- 1 Day at Universal Epic Universe (Park-to-Park access not allowed)
- Beyond either of the above tickets, add a 3-Day Universal Express Pass to maximize your time — save up to $47!
- Skip the regular line one time at each participating ride and attraction for three (3) calendar days at Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Epic Universe
Epic Universe Worlds
Now, how about we talk about those "epic worlds" I mentioned earlier?
Celestial Park
An imaginative world full of gardens, waterfalls and nature trail-like pathways, Celestial Park "puts the 'park' back in 'theme park." Admire the architecture inspired by astrology and mythology, as you stroll through the living gardens. Additionally, when you're ready to reenter the real world at the end of the night, you'll experience an epic transformation as the entire area lights up in a breathtaking display. This is the place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the frogciting worlds around you. Hungry for more? Well, you're in luck! We also know what you'll get to enjoy while exploring the ethereal Celestial Park. Check out our guide to the heart of Epic Universe.
Super Nintendo World
Mamma Mia! Super Nintendo World allows guests to become players in the Nintendo-themed land, blurring the lines between reality and video games. It isn't the first Super Nintendo World — Universal Studios Japan opened its version in March 2021 and Universal Studios Hollywood opened its version in 2023 (hop over to our full post for all of the deets!). Get ready to step through that iconic green pipe and discover a new way to play as you enter the worlds of favorite characters, such as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Donkey Kong. From adventurous attractions to interactive challenges, level up with our guide to Super Nintendo World to learn about everything you can explore in Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic
Universal Orlando has conjured up another chapter of the beloved Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Prepare to enter a different era in this all-new land that blends 1920s wizarding Paris from the "Fantastic Beasts" films with the iconic 1990s British Ministry of Magic from the "Harry Potter" series. From Grindelwald's rise to power to Voldemort's demise, this Epic Universe world blends these fan-favorite stories, opening up the Wizarding World on a global scale. Once you step through the Epic Universe portal, you're immediately transported to 1920s Paris. The bustling stone streets of Place Cachée, the popular shopping district in wizarding Paris, are lined with Haussmannian buildings, shops, cafes and ... a circus. For the first time ever within the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can travel across countries and timelines by using the Métro-Floo for an adventure at the British Ministry of Magic with Harry, Ron and Hermione. Learn all about this enchanting addition to the Wizarding World in our guide to the Ministry of Magic.
How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk
Have you ever wanted to soar with dragons? Well, all your greatest Viking dreams are about to come true! Step inside the home of Hiccup, Astrid and our favorite winged fury, Toothless, and explore a colorful utopia based on the wildly popular film franchise. Prepare to embark on an unfrogettable adventure! Set in between the second and third films during the golden age of harmony between Vikings and dragons, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk is the largest of the four worlds surrounding Celestial Park. A visual and sensory masterpiece showcasing handmade Viking-size features, this awe-inspiring eighth-century village is home to five jaw-dropping attractions for dragon trainers of all ages and so much more. Fly on over to our full guide for everything you need to know about Isle of Berk.
Dark Universe
Hold your breath and prepare to enter a dark, new world of monsters. Dark Universe breathes new life into the classic Universal Monster family — such as introducing the experiments of one Dr. Victoria Frankenstein — and reimagine the creatures you know and love in an ominous and unfrogettable experience. As soon as you step through the foreboding portal crackling with electricity, you'll enter the mysterious village of Darkmoor. Home to monsters, monster makers, monster hunters and villagers just trying to survive, Dark Universe takes place in the present day, in a world where all the Universal Monster stories are real and have hoppened. Darkmoor is the terrifying result. Learn about all the pulse-pounding thrills and spine-tingling chills that await you in our guide to this eerily immersive world.
Epic Universe Rides
Whether it's been your dream to soar with dragons, win the prized Golden Cup, come face-to-fangs with the original beasts of the silver screen or battle alongside your favorite wizards, Universal Epic Universe is where fiction and fantasy become reality. With attractions and experiences for frogs of all sizes — from timid tadpoles to the bravest of thrill-seekers — this brand-new theme park truly has something for everyone.
Check out our list of the top 10 attractions we're most frogcited about and then hop over our guide to height requirements so you can set expectations and prep your frog squad for a full day of epic adventures. Also, hop over to our guide to Universal Orlando's virtual line system. Depending on availability, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry might utilize it. Be sure to keep your eyes on signage as you enter the park and the Universal Orlando app!
Epic Universe Food
A long day of dragon training and spell casting is sure to leave any frog hungry. Luckily, when it comes to dining options at Universal Epic Universe, the culinary wizards did not disappoint. With more than 15 dining locations in Celestial Park alone — and significantly more in its adjacent worlds once you make your way through those portals — there's no shortage of mouth-watering bites to fuel up on during your day at this thrilling theme park. Hop on over to our guide to the irresistible food and drinks of Universal Epic Universe to start concocting your ideal meal plan. (Butterbeer Crêpe and Mac and Cheese Cones, we're coming for you.)
Epic Universe dining reservations can be made on the Universal Orlando website. The only two restaurants in the theme park that take reservations are Atlantic and The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant — both located in Celestial Park. Additionally, reservations for Flora Taverna and Bar Helios — restaurants inside Universal Helios Grand Hotel that overlook the entire theme park — can be made through Resy.
Epic Universe Merchandise
No vacation is complete without the perfect souvenir. Thankfully, there's plenty to choose from just beyond the Chronos device. From adorable dragon eggs to scrumptious sweet treats to wicked wizarding wands, the merchandise selection at Universal Epic Universe is seemingly never-ending. Check out our guide to the must-have Epic Universe merch so you know where to head to armor up for dragon training, unleash your inner monster and so much more. Oh, and don't froget to grab a Power-Up Band to make the most of your time in Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country.
Transportation and Parking
Epic Universe is located on a 750-acre site near the Orange County Convention Center, just south of Sand Lake Road and east of Universal Boulevard at 1001 Epic Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819. It's about 12 minutes away from the main Universal Orlando Resort site and is the largest Universal park in the United States. The new footprint nearly doubles Universal's total available acreage! Because of its location, transportation and parking are a little different than what you might be used to at Universal CityWalk.
Universal Orlando guests are able to take advantage of complimentary resort shuttle bus transportation to travel between Epic Universe and the resort's current theme parks, as well as all Universal Orlando hotels. If you're staying at Universal Stella Nova Resort, Epic Universe is accessible via a walking path in addition to the complimentary shuttle. If you're staying at Universal Helios Grand Hotel, you get to enjoy a special dedicated entrance to Epic Universe so you can be walking among the citizens of Celestial Park within seconds!
Regular self-parking is $32. Power Annual Passholders receive 50% off regular parking after their first visit and Preferred and Premier Annual Passholders receive free regular parking after their first visit.
Prime parking is $50-60 and a Prime Upgrade (for select groups and Preferred Annual Passholders after their first visit) is $18-28. Premier Annual Passholders receive free prime parking after their first visit. RV/Bus parking is $42. EV charging is available at Epic Universe in Prime Parking. Receive a complimentary upgrade to Prime Parking with Avis and Budget car rentals from Orlando International Airport. (A voucher and payment for regular parking are required.)
Designated accessible parking spaces are available at Epic Universe with a valid disability placard or license plate, which must be properly displayed at all times. EV charging is available at Epic Universe in Prime Parking. (Subject to availability. Additional fees will apply.)
Valet parking before 6 p.m. is $32 for two hours and $65-75 for over two hours. After 6 p.m., it's $32 for two hours and $40-75 for over two hours. Preferred Annual Passholders receive 50% of valet parking after their first visit and Premier Annual Passholders receive free valet parking after their first visit.
The drop-off/pick-up area for Epic Universe is located at 1222 Epic Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819. There are three zones to choose from: Red, Blue and Yellow.
Things to Know Before Visiting Epic Universe
Once you pass through Chronos, your only priority should be the epic day ahead of you. Here are some important things to know beforehand so you don't have to worry about it during your journeys through the portals.
Family size lockers measuring 11 inches by 17.75 inches by 17.7 inches and large lockers measuring 11 inches by 11.75 inches by 17.7 inches are both available to rent near the park entrance. Standard-sized lockers for small loose articles inside the queues of Hiccup's Wing Gliders, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Stardust Racers are free while you ride.
Family Care & First Aid
The Family Care Center and the First Aid Station are located adjacent to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic right next to Universal Helios Grand Hotel. There's also a satellite first aid facility located at Guest Services to the right of the park entrance. If you have any questions or need special assistance, ask any team member.
Diaper-changing stations are available in all restrooms.
Double strollers are available for rent upon entering Epic Universe. Stroller rentals are $40 per day, including tax. You may also bring your own stroller if you find it more convenient.
Our first piece of advice is to lather up on the sunscreen before you enter through the Emerald Gate. (We may or may not have ended up looking like tomatoes after our first visit to the park. Lesson learned!) Shade is few and far between but you'll find it near the shops at the front of the park, at the benches surrounding Cosmos Fountain, at the entrance to Donkey Kong Country in Super Nintendo World, underneath the towering portals and, of course, inside shops and restaurants. Outdoor queues are also all mostly shaded.
Be sure to also stay hydrated throughout the day! Water fountains and water bottle fill stations can be found all around the park and even in the queues of most rides. You can even get free cups of water at any quick-service location or Coca-Cola Freestyle machine.
Need to cool off? Visit the Snow Wraith in How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk for a frosty blast, prance through Astronomica for a stellar soaking or take a ride on Fyre Drill to get absolutely drenched. Or just enjoy the blissful air conditioning (and phenomenal performances) at Le Cirque Arcanus and The Untrainable Dragon!
Epic Universe Preview Center
With so much hoppening at Universal Epic Universe, it's pretty hard to wrap your brain around the sheer magnitude of it all. That's why — before entering through the Emerald Gate — we recommend hopping over to Universal CityWalk and taking a peek inside the Epic Universe Preview Center. Here, you'll have the opportunity to survey a massive model of the entire theme park so you can get the ultimate lay of the land. Be sure to download the Epic Universe Preview Center augmented reality app before your visit so you can experiment highlights of many of the rides and attractions at Epic Universe ... and get a better feel of what exactly you're looking at.
Additionally, this is gonna be your best place to stock up on merch prior to your visit to Universal's fourth gate. From Nintendo plush hats and dragon headbands to fantastic beasts and the hottest creature couture, purchase what you need here to properly rep your favorite fandom.
Can't wait until then to take a peek behind the portals? Then join Universal Orlando Resort on its National Epic Universe Portal Tour, coming to select cities this spring. This mystical tour gives fans a frogciting glimpse into the epic adventures that await them in the immersive new theme park. Approach the mesmerizing 30-foot-tall Chronos (a replica of the icon of Universal Epic Universe) and witness action-packed sequences that celebrate the incredible stories that await you past the Emerald Gate. Be sure to visit the structure at night for an awe-inspiring, spectacular night show with dynamic lighting and all-encompassing music and don't froget to enter a sweepstakes to win a trip to Universal Orlando Resort — where you can experience Epic Universe for yourself — while you're there!
The National Epic Universe Portal Tour is open to guests on the below dates from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (subject to change):
- April 11-13: Atlanta, GA (Pemberton Place, adjacent to World of Coca-Cola)
- April 23-26: New York, NY (Rockefeller Center)
- May 16-18: Philadelphia, PA (The Rocky Steps)
- June 13-18: Chicago, IL (Pioneer Court)
What are you most excited about at Epic Universe? Share your reactions in the comments below!
Related: Your Complete Guide to Universal Epic Universe Tickets — On Sale Now!
Hoppy planning!
