Last May, Universal Studios opened its newest park, Epic Universe. Since then, thousands of people a day visit this new park. There are five unique worlds represented in Epic Universe, each by entering a different custom portal and having its own themed attractions; How to Train Your Dragon’s Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World and Celestial Park, which is located at the center of the park. Many people have tried comparing Epic Universe with the other two Universal parks as well as Disney World. Some say that Epic is a great new addition to Universal Studios, while others have differing opinions.
Several students on the cross country team had the opportunity to visit Epic Universe earlier in August as a reward for running at least 200 miles over the summer.
“The whole park had a really cool theme of adventure and mystical vibes, which is similar to Islands of Adventure, but still unique. It was a bit smaller than the other two parks, but I think it has room for expansion and the design is amazing,” said junior Cora Fannin.
While this new park may be smaller than the other ones featured at Universal, the environment makes up for it, making visitors feel as if they really stepped into that specific world.
“The music was a big thing for me it was always playing in the back no matter where you are, so it felt like you were in a movie,” said sophomore Annie Watterson.
Along with the atmosphere, some of the most popular attractions include Stardust Racers, Donkey Kong Mine-cart Madness, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders and Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. These attractions create an immersive experience for all riders.
“My favorite world at Epic Universe was probably the How to Train Your Dragon World and one of my favorite rides was there as well. It was very well done and I think they brought the movies to life,” said Fannin.
While the attractions are the main focus on Epic Universe, there is also several creative snacks and foods for visitors to try and enjoy while walking through the parks. This adds on to the immersive experience, making you feel as if you are actually eating in that specific land.
“Some interesting foods were the butterbeer at Harry Potter World and the mac and cheese cone at How to Train Your Dragon,” said freshman Bennett Brearly.
Some people have viewed Epic Universe as a more teen-focused park because of the higher intensity of the rides as well as the atmosphere, including Dark Universe, which may frighten younger visitors. However, Watterson has a different take on this.
“I really think they have something for everyone there, there were a lot of stroller stations and things like that which were amazing, but they also had a lot of stuff for older kids as well,” said Watterson.
Watterson wasn’t the only one impressed by what Epic Universe had to offer. Many visitors left the park surprised by just how much they enjoyed it.
“It honestly surprised me a bit by how much I liked it, so yes, it exceeded my expectations. I think the loyal Universal people are excited about the new park and the Mario, How to Train Your Dragon, and Harry Potter parts definitely drew some people in,” said Fannin.