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My Second Trip to Epic Universe Was Even More… Epic!
When Universal Orlando named it Epic Universe, they weren’t exaggerating — and after two preview visits, I can confidently say this new park is living up to the hype and then some. My first visit came courtesy of an extended VIP media preview (thanks, Universal!), but my second time around, I joined the masses with an Annual Passholder preview ticket. And let me tell you — somehow, this trip was even more magical, immersive, and jam-packed with adventure. Here’s a breakdown of my experience during round two of Epic awesomeness:
Related: Universal Orlando Debuts New Annual Passholder Button Starting May 1st
Mac & Cheese Cones That Deserve a Viking Victory
We started our day in the Isle of Berk, and I finally got to try the viral Mac and Cheese Crunch Cones from Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel. Let’s talk about the Dragon Fire Chicken Spire Mac & Cheese Cone — a fiery flavor bomb filled with creamy mac and cheese, Nashville-style pulled chicken, hot honey, Calabrian peppers, chimichurri, and crispy onions, all inside a crunchy cone. Every bite brought the heat, richness, and that herby chimichurri zing. It’s spicy, savory, and downright craveable. Highly recommend this one for foodies and flavor chasers.
Meanwhile, my family opted for the Goldfish Mac & Cheese Cone, a comforting classic that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with Goldfish crackers for a nostalgic crunch. It’s perfect for younger adventurers or anyone who prefers their Viking feasts without the fire.
A Show Worth Roaring About
We also caught another showing of The Untrainable Dragon, and even on a second viewing, this stage show stole the spotlight. My family was seeing it for the first time, and their jaws hit the floor. Stunning visuals, heartfelt moments, and some truly magical puppetry — it’s easily the standout live entertainment offering in the park.
Racing into Super Nintendo World
Next, we zipped over to Super Nintendo World, where I got my first ride on Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge. This is not your average kart race. With augmented reality goggles, motion simulation, and interactive gameplay, you’re not just riding — you’re in the game. Steering alongside Mario and launching shells at Team Bowser? Sign me up again.
Hot tip: even if someone in your party isn’t riding, have them walk through the queue. It’s massive, detailed, and pure Nintendo nostalgia.
Banana-Pineapple Bliss in Donkey Kong Country
At The Bubble Barrel, we sampled the DK Crush Float — and oh banana, was it good. This over-the-top float combines banana DOLE Whip, Pineapple Fanta, caramel popcorn, chocolate pieces, and sprinkles inside a souvenir Donkey Kong barrel cup (or a standard one with a cute DK spoon!). It’s creamy, fizzy, crunchy, and ridiculously fun — a sweet symphony that’s perfect for DK fans and sweet tooths alike.
Dark Universe: Where Monsters Mingle and Magic Creeps
Our journey into Dark Universe was filled with unforgettable moments — and not just the rides.
Let’s start with Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment — this is now my favorite ride in the park. Yes, it edged out Battle at the Ministry (sorry, wizards). The queue immerses you in gothic horror with some of the best animatronics I’ve ever seen — Victoria Frankenstein and the Monster are both jaw-dropping. Once you board, it’s a heart-pounding tour through the Universal Monsters universe, guided by the ever-chaotic Igor. It’s intense, cinematic, and flat-out thrilling.
Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning family coaster, was more intense than I expected (in a good way). It’s short, sweet, and full of howling fun — but don’t wait more than 45 minutes for it.
At Das Stakehaus, we dove into the Darkmoor Black Wings — smoky, spicy, and topped with cheddar and charred scallions. They come with a pimento cornbread skull (yes, seriously) and a tangy slaw. These wings packed major flavor and heat — a must-try for spice fans.
We also tracked down the land-exclusive Screaming Berry soda on the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. It’s fruity, refreshing, and a great partner to your monstrous meal. On our last trip, we loved the Celestial Spritz soda in Celestial Park too — both are fun, flavorful additions that add some sparkle to your sips.
But what truly elevated our Dark Universe experience this time? The meet-and-greets.
- The Invisible Man was easily one of the coolest character encounters in the park — you’ll find him just outside Das Stakehaus, offering witty banter and incredible illusions.
- Across from him, we found The Bride of Frankenstein, and her presence was haunting in all the best ways. Her mannerisms, her voice — absolutely captivating.
- We also encountered villagers of Darkmoor, including a spooky violin player who told chilling tales while serenading guests with eerie melodies.
- And then there’s Igor, Victoria Frankenstein’s frazzled lab assistant, who was bustling about looking for test subjects — er, volunteers — for experiments.
These live characters brought the land to life, adding personality and atmosphere that made Dark Universe feel like a fully breathing (and maybe slightly cursed) world. It’s this theatrical layer that really sets the land apart and makes it one of the standout zones of Epic Universe.
Ministry of Magic (and a Butterbeer Bonus)
Before we wrapped up, we stopped by The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic. While we didn’t win the virtual queue lottery for Battle at the Ministry, we did grab a Butterbeer (served in a collectible stein, naturally) and tried out some of the interactive spell locations — which are loads of fun.
Epic After Dark
As the sun set, Epic Universe truly lived up to its name. The nighttime atmosphere is nothing short of magical — glowing signage in Celestial Park, Stardust Racers whizzing through the sky, and the dreamy streets of Paris inside the Wizarding World made for an enchanting end to the evening.
We even treated ourselves to Valet Parking, thanks to our Premier Annual Pass. Not hiking back to the car after 12 hours of theme park thrills? Chef’s kiss.
Final Verdict
Related: Shopping Our Way Around Epic Universe
Even after two visits, I still haven’t done it all — and that’s part of the charm. Universal’s Epic Universe is layered, immersive, and built for repeat adventures. Whether you’re racing through Mario Kart, running from werewolves, sipping Butterbeer in 1920s Paris, or just soaking in the after-dark vibes, this park offers an experience that is, well… truly epic.
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