If you’re thinking about visiting Universal Orlando Resort, there’s never been a more exciting time to go—especially with the addition of the brand-new Epic Universe.
We’ve always enjoyed Universal for its mix of thrills, immersive lands, and a slightly more “grown-up” feel compared to Disney. With Epic Universe now part of the lineup, it takes the experience to a whole new level.
Here’s our take on what to expect and how to plan your visit.
The Parks at Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando now includes:
- Universal Studios Florida
- Islands of Adventure
- Volcano Bay (water park)
- Epic Universe (newest park)
Each one has its own personality, which is part of what makes Universal such a fun destination.
Epic Universe: The Game Changer
Epic Universe is a huge addition and completely changes how you plan a Universal trip.
What stands out:
- Brand-new themed lands
- Next-level technology and immersion
- A layout that feels more open and modern
But what really impressed us most is just how immersive the lands feel. Universal has always done a great job with theming, but Epic Universe takes it to another level—you really feel like you’ve stepped into a completely different world in each area.
Mike actually attended opening day, and the reaction was simple: wow. From the moment you walk through the portals into each land, it feels like something entirely new and different from anything else in Orlando.
And we have to mention the food—Epic Universe really surprised us here. There are some great dining options throughout the park, but our favorite was Pizza Moon. It’s fun, themed, and honestly just really good pizza—definitely a spot we’d go back to.
Our take:
If you’re planning a trip, Epic Universe isn’t just worth a visit—it’s worth building part of your trip around.
Why We Love Universal
Here’s what keeps us coming back:
- Thrill rides – Universal definitely leans more toward high-energy attractions
- Immersive lands – Especially areas like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Walkability – It’s easier to get around compared to some other destinations
- More adult-friendly vibe – Great for couples and adults without kids
Things to Plan For
Universal is fun—but it helps to plan ahead.
- Crowds can be heavy, especially at newer attractions
- Express Pass may be worth it on busy days
- Epic Universe will likely be very popular for a while
Where You Stay Matters More Than You Think
One tip we always recommend when visiting Universal Orlando is to seriously consider staying at one of their deluxe (Premier) hotels.
Here’s why:
- Express Pass is INCLUDED with your stay
- You get easy access and close proximity to the parks
- It can save a lot of time waiting in lines
And here’s the part many people don’t realize:
If you price out buying Express Passes separately plus staying at a standard hotel, the total can often be equal to—or even more than—just staying at a deluxe hotel that already includes Express Passes.
For us, that convenience alone can completely change the experience—less waiting, more rides, and a much more relaxed trip.
Our take:
If it fits your budget, this is one of the best “value” upgrades you can make at Universal.
How Many Days Do You Need?
With Epic Universe now open, we’d recommend:
- 3–4 days total for a relaxed visit
- 1 day per park (at minimum)
If you’re short on time, you’ll want to prioritize your must-do rides and experiences.
Don’t Skip CityWalk
One area that sometimes gets overlooked is CityWalk—and it really shouldn’t.
CityWalk is where you’ll find:
- A wide variety of restaurants
- Bars and clubs
- Quick bites and sit-down dining
- A fun nighttime atmosphere
After a long park day, it’s a great place to unwind. Whether you’re grabbing a casual meal or looking for something a little more lively, there are plenty of options.
It also adds to that more adult-friendly feel that we enjoy about Universal compared to other destinations.
Our take:
Plan at least one evening to explore CityWalk—it’s part of the experience, not just an add-on.
Final Thoughts
Universal has always been a great option for a fun, high-energy trip—but with Epic Universe, it’s become a destination that can easily compete with any major theme park experience.
We especially enjoy it for the mix of thrill rides and immersive environments, and it’s a great option for adults or couples looking for something a little different.
If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, Universal is absolutely worth including—especially now.
Great info