What You Need to Know Before You Visit Universal's Epic Universe

—and for good reason. This isn’t just another theme park. It’s unlike anything Universal has done before. If you’re heading there soon, there’s a few things you should know before you go.

Here’s the thing—Epic Universe plays by its own rules. If you’re used to the way the other Universal parks work, you might run into a few surprises. A little insider info can make your visit a whole lot easier, so you can jump right in and make the most of your time there.

Epic Universe Is Its Own World

The first thing you’ll realize is that Epic Universe isn’t attached to CityWalk like Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

Universal’s three new hotels—Stella Nova, Terra Luna, and Helios Grand are great options if you want to be close to Epic Universe. Helios Grand has its own private entrance and the other two are walking distance to Epic Universe, so you don’t have to worry about shuttles or parking. You’re a quick walk away from the brand-new theme park.

If you’re staying at another Universal hotel, no worries! Shuttles will take you to Epic Universe, so you don't have to worry about how you’re going to get there. While you can’t walk there, it’s still an easy ride and a smooth start to your day.

Whether you’re staying at one of the new hotels or another Universal resort, Universal Studios makes getting to Epic Universe easy. All you need to think about is which resort will meet your family’s needs.

You’ll still need a ticket to enter Epic Universe. However, facial recognition is being used in new ways, especially when it comes to the ride lockers.

Just like at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventures, popular thrill rides require you to get a locker before you get in line. But, here’s where Epic Universe is different. Instead of using your park ticket, you’ll scan your face to open and close your locker. It’s a smart improvement over the system at Universal’s other parks. If you’ve ever panicked mid-roller coaster wondering if your ticket was still in your pocket (or halfway to Hogsmeade), you’ll appreciate this upgrade. Facial recognition means fewer things to keep track of—and one less thing to lose.

However, facial recognition only works if the system can recognize you. This is important to keep in mind if you intend to do the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience in Dark Universe. It's a lot of fun—but if you do it before using a facial-recognition locker, the tech might not recognize you.

Each Land Feels Like Its Own World

At Epic Universe every land feels like stepping into a whole new story. One minute you're in a dragon village, the next you’re dodging Koopas or casting spells. It’s the kind of thing that makes kids’ jaws drop—and let’s be honest, adults too.

Some areas are packed with action—loud, fast, and totally immersive. That’s part of what makes Epic Universe so exciting. However, this can be overwhelming for little ones or those who experience sensory challenges.

Thankfully, the whole park isn’t one big adrenaline rush. There are quiet spots and slower-paced areas where you can slow down, regroup, or let the kids run off some energy without standing in another line. Knowing where those moments are ahead of time helps keep the day balanced—and that’s something I always make sure my clients have built into their day.

No Unlimited Express Passes

Thinking about getting Express Passes to skip the lines at Epic Universe? It can be a time-saver—but there are a few important details to know before you add it to your plans.

A few of the biggest new rides—like Donkey Kong Mine Cart Madness, Dragon Racers Rally, and Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry—aren’t included in Express Pass. So even with this skip-the-line pass, you’ll still need to wait in the regular line for those. These are some of the most in-demand attractions, so it’s worth planning your day around them early.

If you’re staying at one of Universal’s Signature hotels, the usual perk of complimentary Unlimited Express Passes doesn’t carry over to Epic Universe. You'll still get those passes for the other parks, which is a great perk—but you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want to use Express at Epic.

So is it worth it? That really depends on what you want to do at Epic Universe. If skipping a few lines here and there will help your day run smoother, then it's absolutely going to help you. Just understand that it won’t get you to the front of every line.

There’s So Much to Play With

Epic Universe isn’t just about the rides—it’s about getting hands-on with the worlds around you. Universal has gone all-in on creating spaces where you can touch, activate, and play your way through the lands. Take some time to think about where you'll want to start—sometimes getting there early can make a world of difference.

In the Wizarding World, you’ll find interactive wands—just like at the other parks. Wave them near golden medallions and shop windows to cast spells and bring little scenes to life.

Over in Super Nintendo World, Power-Up Bands steal the show. These wristbands let you collect digital coins, unlock mini-games, and fully dive into the land’s interactive challenges. You’ll even need one to access the big Bowser Jr. finale.

And in the How to Train Your Dragon land, it’s all about those smaller moments—tucked-away surprises and playful elements that help bring Berk to life.

You don’t need any of these extras to have fun—but if your kids love exploring or getting involved, they can add a whole new layer of magic. With a little bit of planning (and info on what each land offers), you can decide which extras are worth it for your family.

Before You Go… 

There’s a lot to explore at Epic Universe—but that doesn’t mean you have to figure it all out on your own. Planning a trip that actually fits your family is easier than you think. From the must-dos to the little things that make a big difference, I’ll make sure you’re ready for all of it.

With so many brand-new lands to explore, brand new unique rides, and all the surprises waiting around every corner, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed. But I’ll help prepare you, so your family can relax and enjoy each other’s company instead of scrambling to figure out what comes next.

What’s the first thing you’re most excited to experience at Epic Universe? Is there a ride you can’t wait to try, a land you’ve been dreaming of exploring, or maybe something completely different? Let’s talk about it in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s on your Epic Universe bucket list!

Katie Sackewitz

Travel Advisor

@TravelCommandCenter

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