Orlando's newest theme park, Universal's Epic Universe, opened today, and I've followed the fanfare over the last few weeks as cast members, media and influencers have visited the park for previews. 

Instagram reels, photos and livestreams ranged from people crying with excitement and admiration as they walked in to complaining about rides not working/closed and long wait times. One friend texted me after and during his visits, gushing over the theming of Darkmoor Village in Dark Universe with its ominous music, fog effects, characters like The Invisible Man, Frankenstein's Monster and Ygor, and strolling visitors telling monster stories. I'm not a fan of horror movies or scare jumps, so I'll have to find some bravery to walk through Dark Universe.

I plan to visit Epic Universe in July 2025 during another planning trip for my Maymester 2026 program, when I'll also return to Walt Disney World. Tickets for one day at Epic Universe start from $139, and when I plan to go in July, prices range from $179-$189. It's comparable to Disney pricing, but I tend to find that the other Universal Orlando parks haven't given me the value that Disney offers because I don't ride all of the rides and there are fewer parades and nighttime spectaculars. I'm most excited about the place-building, theming and use of technology at Epic Universe.

I did an Instagram story about the opening with a poll asking people which Epic Universe land looks most exciting. Here's the results, along with the link to the livestream from the grand opening.