ORLANDO — Universal Epic Universe has officially opened its doors, offering visitors an immersive experience unlike any other theme park. Guests can explore fantastical worlds based on popular intellectual properties (IPs) like Harry Potter and Super Mario. With a roster of attractions tailored to these famed franchises, the park is set to be a major draw for visitors.
While the highly anticipated rides and shows are sure to attract guests, the park’s creators encourage visitors to delve into the intricate details that make the worlds come alive. Steve Tatham, the executive creative director of Epic Universe, emphasizes the importance of these subtleties. “People talk about our 11 rides at this park and our two spectacular shows. But I just love the little details,” Tatham shared. “Guests can come and simply stroll through the park, enjoying the experiences all around them.”
A prime example of this dedication to detail can be found in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, specifically at the Ministry of Magic. Tatham points out a small jewelry shop featuring a charming Niffler adorning its window, a magical creature known for its attraction to shiny objects. Guests can interact with this Niffler using special wands, triggering delightful movements and effects.
According to Tatham, “Those little details really are the difference between just visiting a theme park and immersing yourself in these iconic stories.” Epic Universe officially opened on May 22, with its central hub, Celestial Park, branching into four distinct worlds, one of which is dedicated to the Wizarding World.
The Wizarding World: Entering a Magical Realm
The Ministry of Magic section is set in the enchanting backdrop of 1920s wizarding Paris, particularly in the Place Cachée, translating to “hidden place.” Here, the beloved characters from Fantastic Beasts intersect with those of the Harry Potter franchise. One of the key attractions, “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry,” transports guests to 1990s London, where they join Harry, Ron, and Hermione at a pivotal event involving the trial of the notorious Dolores Umbridge. “We wanted to create a new story that links the original Potter series with Fantastic Beasts,” said Tatham.
This ambitious ride incorporates a meticulously designed queue that reflects the ministry as depicted in the films. “It really is the most ambitious queue in theme park history,” Tatham affirmed, revealing the challenge they now face in topping this experience.
Diving into Dark Universe: Classic Monsters Reimagined
Adjacent to this magical realm is the Dark Universe, a section dedicated to classic monsters that have long been integral to Universal’s heritage. Chris Frisella, the executive producer of Dark Universe, expressed the significance of incorporating these timeless figures effectively in the park. “Some of the films have been around for nearly 100 years,” he said, discussing how Universal has always sought the right moment to present these iconic characters.
Guests will find attractions like “Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment,” allowing exploration into the haunted world of mad scientists and mythical creatures. Frisella noted, “The ability to transport guests into different worlds has perfectly aligned with our theme here.”
Super Nintendo World: A Game-Lover’s Paradise
Just a stone’s throw away lies Super Nintendo World, inviting fans to step inside a vibrant environment filled with interactive elements. As visitors enter through Peach’s Castle, they are greeted by a breathtaking view of the Mushroom Kingdom. Patrick Braillard, a senior show writer at Universal Creative, described this land as “completely layered,” offering guests an immediate sense of engagement through play.
How to Train Your Dragon: An Immersive Realm
The largest area within Epic Universe is themed around How to Train Your Dragon, specifically the Isle of Berk. Katy Pacitti, an executive producer with Universal Creative, noted that the filmmakers had already established this world and her team worked diligently to bring that vision to life. “We needed to treat this beloved IP with care, ensuring we deliver what fans want to see,” Pacitti stated. This world features three attractions, a live show, and themed meet-and-greets with beloved characters like Hiccup and Toothless, affirming Universal’s commitment to quality and immersive storytelling.
Epic Universe isn’t just a park; it’s an experience designed for guests to explore, appreciate, and enjoy legendary stories amidst rich, interactive environments. From classic monsters to magical realms, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
