Epic Universe isn’t just another theme park—it’s an entirely new kind of adventure. At the heart of this highly anticipated addition to Universal Orlando Resort are five unique portals, each leading to a completely immersive world. Whether you’re stepping into the video game chaos of Super Nintendo World, the dark thrills of Dark Universe, the spellbinding halls of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, the whimsical charm of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, or the futuristic energy of Celestial Park, each portal offers its own story, characters, and cutting-edge attractions. It’s big. It’s bold. And it’s easy to get overwhelmed if you’re not prepared. That’s why I’ve pulled together my top five tips to help you make the most of your visit—whether you’re planning for 2025 or beyond

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Stay Onsite for Early Entry—and a Smoother Experience

One of the biggest advantages to staying at a Universal Orlando hotel is the early park admission. Guests at Universal hotels get access to Epic Universe one hour before the general public, which can make a huge difference, especially with high-demand attractions. This extra hour allows you to get a jumpstart on the most popular rides with shorter wait times, enjoy cooler morning temperatures, and explore the park before it gets crowded. Helios Grand Hotel has it’s own separate entrance! 

Plus, staying onsite means easier transportation—shuttles, water taxis, or walking paths get you to the park quickly and stress-free. With 9 onsite resorts, Universal has a range of hotel options from budget-friendly to luxury, so you can find one that fits your travel style and budget. We’re happy to help you find the best option!

You Won’t Do It All in One Day—So Time Your Visit Strategically

Epic Universe is designed to be, well, epic. With multiple highly themed lands (or “portals”), cutting-edge attractions, immersive storytelling, and roaming characters, there’s simply too much to take in during a single day—especially in the park’s first year. If your goal is to check every ride off your list and experience everything the park has to offer, it might be better to plan your visit in 2026, when crowds may start to level off and technical hiccups have been worked out.

However, if you’re the kind of traveler who loves soaking in the details, appreciating the storytelling, and taking your time to explore the themed lands and interact with characters, 2025 is an excellent time to go. The park will be fresh, the energy will be high, and fans will be buzzing with excitement. You’ll have the chance to experience the magic while it’s still new and discover Easter eggs and design elements before the internet spoils them all.

Consider an Express Pass or VIP Tour for Priority Access

If riding the major attractions at Epic Universe is a top priority, investing in a Universal Express Pass or booking a VIP Tour can seriously upgrade your experience. With an Express Pass, you’ll be able to skip the regular lines at most attractions—saving you hours, especially during peak times or busy seasons. While Express Passes aren’t cheap (and may sell out on high-demand days), the time you save can make the price worth it—especially if you only have one day in the park.

For an even more elevated experience, consider a VIP Tour. These guided experiences include priority access to rides, a tour guide who navigates the park for you, behind-the-scenes insights, and sometimes even reserved seating for shows or meals. It’s the ultimate way to maximize your time and minimize the stress of planning your day around wait times. If this is a once-in-a-lifetime visit or a special occasion, a VIP Tour could be the splurge that makes it unforgettable

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Prepare for the Heat: Epic Universe is Hot—Literally

One of the first things you’ll notice when stepping into Epic Universe is how exposed it is. With wide, open walkways and an abundance of concrete, the park retains a lot of heat—and there’s limited natural shade throughout. And of course since it’s Florida heat it’s essential to come prepared. 

Pack a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap to keep the sun off your face, wear UV-protective sunglasses, and apply (and reapply!) high-SPF sunscreen throughout the day. Cooling towels can be a lifesaver between attractions, especially if you have young kids or older family members in your group. Also, consider bringing a portable fan or misting bottle to help beat the heat while waiting in outdoor queues. Hydration is key too, so don’t forget to drink water regularly—there are refill stations throughout the park near the restrooms, so bring a reusable bottle if you can.

Get a Freestyle Refill Cup—It’s Worth It

Staying cool and hydrated at Epic Universe is a must, and one of the best ways to do that is by purchasing a Coca-Cola Freestyle refillable cup. These cups give you unlimited refills at designated Freestyle machines throughout the park, and you can choose from a huge variety of sodas, flavored waters, and even Powerade. It’s a cost-effective and convenient option, especially if you’re spending a full day in the sun.

Even better—Universal clearly designed the new lockers at Epic Universe with convenience in mind. These refill cups now fit standing up in the locker compartments, so you don’t have to worry about spills or laying them down sideways while you ride. It’s a small detail, but one that makes a big difference for frequent sippers (and theme park veterans know that small details often separate a good day from a great one).

Ready to Experience the Epic? We Can Help!

Epic Universe is shaping up to be one of the most exciting theme park experiences in the world—but navigating all the options, from hotels and tickets to Express Passes and VIP tours, can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. At Inspire More Travel, our experienced travel advisors specialize in theme park vacations and can help you plan every detail of your Universal Orlando getaway. Whether you’re looking to visit in 2025 to soak in the excitement or want to wait for a more complete experience in 2026, we’ll make sure your trip is seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable. Reach out today—we’ll help you unlock the magic of Epic Universe.

Want to know more about each of the portals at Epic Universe? See our Blog Post on An Unforgettable Adventure Begins at Epic Universe.