A Complete Guide to Universal’s Epic Universe

What is Epic Universe?

Universal’s Epic Universe is a new, massive theme park in Orlando, Florida, featuring five themed worlds, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park. It is the largest Universal park, spanning 750 acres. Guests enter through a central hub called Celestial Park and then explore the four themed lands through portals. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of each area:

• Celestial Park: The central hub, a world between worlds, offering a blend of daytime gardens and nighttime illuminations. It features attractions like the Stardust Racers and Constellation Carousel. 
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic: Expands the Wizarding World by introducing a new era blending the 1920s Parisian setting from Fantastic Beasts with the iconic 1990s British Ministry from the Harry Potter series. 
• Super Nintendo World: Features interactive attractions based on the Super Mario franchise, including Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and Mine-Cart Madness. 
• How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk: Immerses guests in the world of the How to Train Your Dragon films with attractions like Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, Fyre Drill, and the Dragon Racer’s Rally. 
• Dark Universe: A sinister world themed around Universal Classic Monsters, featuring attractions like Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Curse of the Werewolf. 

I have been following this park for years, seeing all the videos and podcasts from Theme Park Stop, and getting to see the Epic Universe Preview Center in the Orlando’s CityWalk. I could not believe, that as an Annual Passholder I was about to embark on an adventure to see this park in the Preview Phase of the Opening.

In the last post, I narrated my travel experience to Orlando, and in this one I will do a deep dive of each world of the Epic Universe park.

1) CELESTIAL PARK

The Portal

The entrance to Epic Universe is an amazing portal into Celestial Park, the hub of the entire park. From there, you can go into the other 4 worlds through other incredible portals: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.

The Attractions

Celestial Park has the most intense roller coaster of the park, and a couple of attractions:

• Stardust Racers: Share a race across the cosmos on Stardust Racers, a breathtaking, dual-launch coaster reaching incredible speeds up to 62 mph. Board a comet and rocket to the furthest reaches of the stars, at heights up to 133 feet along 5,000 feet of track. Race along an inverted crisscross, known as the “Celestial Spin” in a dazzling display of blazing colors and ethereal music.

I rode this roller coaster a few times during my 3-day preview, and let me tell you that all the launches were insane. Loved, loved this ride, but especially when it is launched dually both Green and Yellow. Seeing the people on the other cart while you ride it is one of the most intense, unexpected sensations ever.

• Constellation Carousel: Climb aboard this imaginative carousel where the cosmic energy of the universe enables guests to ride the constellations themselves. Guest carriages include celestial lions, dragons, peacocks and more. Each carriage turns 360 degrees while lifting riders up to 6 feet in the air. Celestial music and color dazzle your senses as you whirl and twirl together across the Milky Way.

I was on the verge of riding this carousel during my last minutes of my 3-day adventure. At the end, I did not go in it. I have never been fan of carousels, or any rotating rides like tea cups.

• Astronomica: Astronomica is an interactive water play area with dancing fountains in Celestial Park. This giant compass is a star map guiding explorers to the thrills of Universal Epic Universe and beyond.

The Dining

Dining options in Celestial Park include:

• Frosty Moon: Tucked away among the greenery of Celestial Park is the Frosty Moon ice cream stand, featuring a fuchsia ice cream cone ringed with gold orbits atop the kiosk, hinting at the snowy treats inside.

This is where I got this cup of ice cream and it was amazing. I needed it during the Florida heat.

• Atlantic: Across the shimmering waters of the Neptune pool in Celestial Park, Atlantic is an undersea culinary fantasy. Inside glass walls reminiscent of an enormous Victorian aquarium, starfish dwell peacefully with serene, illuminated fish swimming above you. Indulge in exceptional seafood and steaks or enjoy a cocktail at the lively Aquaria Bar.
• The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant: Take a culinary journey across Asia at The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant in Universal Epic Universe. Step inside a bustling courtyard, where it’s always evening under the glow of ethereal lanterns. Enjoy authentic Pan-Asian cuisine as dazzling neon dragons chase across the walls or curl up with a cocktail at The Tiger Bar.
• The Oak & Star Tavern: Follow the aromas of savory barbecue to The Oak & Star Tavern at Universal Epic Universe. Located in a cosmic garden in Celestial Park, you can gather with family or friends round the fiery hearth of an ancient, starlight-filled oak tree. The tavern is also home to The Plastered Owl bar, where you can enjoy a drink and lively conversation.
• Pizza Moon: Turns out the moon really is made of cheese… and pepperoni. Gather your group and blast off to Pizza Moon in Celestial Park, an early 1900s Victorian theater converted into a spectacular eatery where the finest pizzas in Universal Epic Universe are prepared. From a basic cheese pie to the works, every pizza deserves a standing ovation.
• Meteor Astropub: A vibrant gastropub with a celestial twist awaits beer enthusiasts, cocktail lovers and burger connoisseurs. Enjoy all the pub fare you know and love in this meteor-themed hangout. Stop in for a quick bite and stay for a stellar time.
• The Plastered Owl: Amazing ales and good times are on tap in this whimsical bar. Named for a comical celestial owl, this hot spot serves up the coldest beers from the tap of the ancient tree at the tavern’s center. While here, check out the adventures of the Plastered Owl and his companions captured on the wall carvings all around you.
• Star Sui Bao: Perched near Stardust Racers in Celestial Park, Star Sui Bao is an Asian food cart offering unique takes on the traditional steamed Asian bao bun.
• Comet Dogs: Treat your tastebuds to out-of-this-world hot dogs. With all the best toppings, Comet Dogs is sure to please. Grab a bite and enjoy the celestial music and sights of Constellation Carousel nearby.
• CelesTiki: It’s the trendiest tiki bar in the cosmos! Explorers can enjoy exotic drinks that can’t be found anywhere else in the universe, like Waturi Punch, a refreshing rum cocktail. Sip up and chill out.
• Bar Zenith: Ignite your tastebuds with this invigorating concoction featuring light rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and a splash of mint essence. A sprig of mint and a lime wheel complete this feel-good sipper.
• Starbucks Coffee: TWO Starbucks locations to satiate your caffeine intake.

This is a lot of Dining options, but it makes sense since this is the hub of the park, and serves as a lowkey (although not free) CityWalk for all the guests.

The Atmosphere

I decided to call the atmosphere of a world to the architecture, the immersion and everything around. What I like the most of Celestial Park is the fountains and the show that they make, and how beautiful it looks during the night. What I might do not like it is the lack of shade, and this world can be a little bit quiet during the day, even when other worlds like Super Nintendo World are crowded and loud. It is very ominous.

The world is very beautiful though.

Something that Universal did not stay shy away from was being able to see other worlds from any given spot lol. For example in this beautiful sunset view there is the The Frankenstein Mansion on the back.

2) DARK UNIVERSE

The Portal

The second world I checked for the first time was Dark Universe. I was really excited about this land, since I am a big fan of Halloween Horror Nights, and the Universal monsters.

The Attractions

• Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment: In Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, Dr. Victoria Frankenstein continues the work of her ancestors deep below the family estate. A demonstration of her experiments to control monsters goes awry when Dracula leads a revolt of enraged monsters including The Wolf Man, The Mummy, the Creature from the Black Lagoon and more.

One of the most anticipated rides of this park, with a top notch technology next to the Harry Potter ride. I went on this attraction a few times during my 3-day preview, and I liked it a lot. I gotta say that the first time I rode it, it malfunction, and kind of ruined the magic forever. After this malfunction, they gave a Express Pass for other attractions, except for the Harry Potter ride, and the Donkey Kong ride. I was surprised on how little waits this ride can have, and I believe it is because of the loading system is very fast and frequent.

• Curse of the Werewolf: Maleva, leader of The Guild of Mystics, welcomes you to a secluded wagon camp. Here you’re warned of the creatures who prowl the deep woods. Before long you’re riding Curse of the Werewolf – surrounded by glowing eyes and gnashing teeth, you’ll spin and weave through the forest as you attempt to escape a pack of werewolves.

I got to ride this roller coaster a few times, and even though it was short, it was so much fun. No spoilers but the turning around and the speed are just amazing.

Meet and Greets

Meet Some of the Monsters of Dark Universe: Visit Darkmoor Village and meet its inhabitants, including Frankenstein’s Monster and his Bride; Ygor; The Invisible Man; a courageous monster hunter; or a musician who may regale you with songs about the village. Feel free to say hello and take photos with them. But beware. You never know who – or what – may be lurking in the shadows.

The Dining

• Das Stakehaus: Shrouded in mystery, Das Stakehaus is an old inn and dining hall built over the ruins of ancient catacombs. Here you can enjoy a meal surrounded by vampire artwork and artifacts. In fact, the restaurant is run by vampires’ “familiars”, or servants. Just don’t venture down to the catacombs below, or you might find yourself on the vampires’ menu.

I went twice to this restaurant during my 3-day adventure, and oh boy! The theming is fantastic. The lights turning flashing red every few minutes was amazing. The art and decoration around is scary but not at the level of HHN, more family friendly.

On day 1 I got the Carved Staked Steak, carved strip steak, charred green onion mashed potatoes, roasted baby carrots, acorn squash, crispy maitake mushrooms with a bloody jus. The steak was so juicy and delicious. I would definitely try this again for sure.

On day 03 I came back to this restaurant to get the “Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich, flash-fried marinated chicken breast tossed in a tantalizing blood orange sauce served in a sinister black bun with tangy pickles, a slaw and crispy fries. I have never had a bad chicken sandwich. Maybe regular, but never bad, and this one was not good. They ruined it by adding tons of relish. OMG, I had to finish it so I was making faces as I was eating it. Not a fan. The fries were good tho.

• The Burning Blade Tavern: The Burning Blade Tavern is the old mill which Darkmoor Village’s monster hunters have transformed into their hangout. Here guests will discover stories of some of the countryside’s most accomplished creature capturers along with a menu of burgers, wings, bratwursts, pretzels and beverages.

I did not get to go in this bar, but the burning blades were amazing.

• De Lacey’s Cottage: Near Frankenstein Manor sits De Lacey’s Cottage, where the original Frankenstein’s Monster once received sustenance and friendship. Now snacks and cool treats are offered here to those wandering through Darkmoor Village. Visitors can refresh themselves with cinnamon bites, pretzels and more.

The Atmosphere

This is definitely not a scary zone from the Halloween Horror Nights. In fact, the characters that you could see roaming around can get very funny if you converse with them. The portal and the land in general at night look very cool.

Darkmoor is the name of the town we’re visiting in Dark Universe, and it is full of Easter eggs if you are into the Universal Monsters movies.

3) HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON – ISLE OF BERK

The Portal

The third world I visited in Epic Universe, was probably the least unexpected for me, but became probably one of my favorites. I prepared for this land in the last couple of months by watching all the movies, since I had no knowledge of this franchise, and they were really good. Top tier.

One thing I would say about this land it’s that it is very kinetic. There is a lot happening at the same time, so be aware.

The Attractions

• Fyre Drill: Ruffnut & Tuffnut have created a watery boat battle where teams of Vikings compete to outscore and out-soak each other.

I did not go on this ride but I would see the people coming out of it, and they were soaked. Do not attempt to go on it believing you will not get wet. Even their shoes were useless afterwards. There are paid dryers at the exit, like in other rides in the other Universal parks but it is a no for me. It looks very fun tho.

• Hiccup’s Wing Gliders: Get a dragon’s eye view as Hiccup’s latest flying contraption sends you swooping and soaring, above and around the Isle of Berk. The roller coaster of this world, I would say it is a Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure lite, very fun and funny, with narration and music from Hiccup, some incredible animatronics, and launches! This is the hidden gem of the park, and I would definitely recommend it to everyone. I rode it every day of my 3-day adventure, and I even used the Express Pass I got for Monsters on this one. The music at the end of the ride just made me tear a bit, and I did not even know these movies until recently. Very powerful ride.
• Dragon Racer’s Rally: Hold on tight and practice aerobatic maneuvers on a Viking-made dragon-riding trainer in hopes of becoming a champion dragon-racer. Some say these last two attractions have their names switched, and I agree since it can be confusing. Anyways, I did not go on this ride. I have never been a fan of this kind of attractions, but will probably try it later on.
• Viking Training Camp: At Viking Training Camp, junior Vikings will discover all types of dragons in this sprawling, colorful, interactive play area. Adventures include multiple towers to climb and explore, a fun agility course, Viking drums and chimes to play, an interactive sheep launcher game, plus slides and activities for the youngest Vikings. For obvious reasons I did not go in this part of the world.

The Entertainment

• The Untrainable Dragon: When a new dragon shows up on the Isle of Berk, the Vikings think they may have finally met their match. Hiccup and Toothless, with help from Gobber and Astrid, work together to solve the mystery of The Untrainable Dragon. Experience the wonder of dragons onstage and soaring overhead in this spectacular, music-filled, heart-warming live show.

I saw this show back in Universal Beijing, and I had no idea what happened in it, but I loved it. I mean, I kinda understood the plot. Best show of the park, maybe miss it if you do not have much time.

Meet and Greets

Visit the Haddock Paddock and meet Hiccup and Toothless. You may meet Astrid with Stormfly, and other favorite Vikings and dragons around Berk. You might even catch dragons flying high overhead.

I think this is the stellar part of this land, meeting these characters. The lines were long!

The Dining

• Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel: No dragon rider’s day is complete without a tasty bite from the festive racing-themed food stand, Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel. After cheering on their champions, Vikings can enjoy Mac & Cheese cones in a variety of styles.

Another very famous spot in this world, with long lines, everyone trying to get their hands in one of these cones. I got the Dragon Fire Chicken Spire, just because of the protein, and it was very good. The breading is just fluffy and salty enough. I need another one right now.

• Mead Hall: Here’s the place to eat and drink like a Viking! The massive Mead Hall is Berk’s main gathering place, a grand chamber hewn from mountain rock where Vikings feast on a hearty menu including meat, fish, sandwiches and desserts. Beverages include assorted meads, ciders and ales.
• Spit Fyre Grill: Welcome to Spit Fyre Grill, located in a bustling trader’s market offering delectable Viking fare from all across the sea. New Viking arrivals can drop anchor to find a hearty meal at this quick-serve eatery featuring delicious helpings of greens, grains or rice topped with a variety of meats flame-seared by a helpful (unseen) dragon fry cook.

The Atmosphere

Like I said earlier, this land is just so kinetic, probably only beat by Super Nintendo World. There are dragons everywhere, colorful structures, rides, screams from people on the rides. Well, a lot happening. But I think that is what it makes it so cool.

4) THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER – MINISTRY OF MAGIC

The Portal

Entering the third Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando is just amazing. You can hear the Time Turner as you pass through the portal, since we are going back in time to the 1920s Paris.

The Attractions

• Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™: Travel by Métro-Floo from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic™ where Dolores Umbridge™ is about to stand trial. Board a lift and join Harry, Ron, and Hermione as you journey deep into the Ministry’s many departments. Thrilling adventure, fantastic beasts, and unexplored mystery await in Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™.

The only ride in this world, and perhaps the best ride I have ever been on, this attraction had me on awe and yelling the entire time. I felt I was in it, and everyone in my car was too. I exclaimed WTF at the end, and people laughed. It was incredible. I think the last time I felt this immerse in a ride, and in disbelief was during Pirates of the Caribbean in Disneyland Shanghai.

But unfortunately, there is a reality we have to accept with this ride, and it is that it’s so technologically advance, that it goes down a lot, like a lot lot. And right now it is using a Virtual Line.

The queue and the Ministry itself inside is amazing. If you do not get a virtual line, ask at the entrance if you can go see the Ministry at least.

The Virtual Line: My Experience and Tips

Ok, this one deserves its little section, because it is just so much. It’s unfortunate that this is how this ride is being handled, but given the ride going down a lot, being closed a lot, and being the precious jewel of the park, I believe it is going to stay like this for a while. So this is my experience with the Virtual Line for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry.

Drop times for the Virtual Line as of today are 11 AM, 3 PM and 6 PM. On Day 01, when I was buying the tickets at the entrance, it was going to be almost 3 PM, the second drop time, I was told by the guests services to get on it as soon as I scanned my ticket at the entrance. And that I did. It was a Thursday where they park was going to close at 9 PM, so it was a little bit crowded. The ride was closed until 3 PM, so everyone who got a time at 11 AM, had times from this time.

I got in the park, and looked for a secluded area close to the Other World Mercantile in Celestial Park, and at 3 PM I checked for the Virtual Line on the app. Nothing happened. The button did not turn blue, and I felt defeated, but it was nothing. When I started walking like at 3:02, I saw it turned blue, and I quickly clicked on it, but it was too late, all the spots had been taken.

Waited for the 6 PM dropped and the same thing happened. It was not on time. I kept going back and forth between my Universal profile and the virtual line button, until it turned blue, I clicked on it and it said to pick the return time. I picked any really, and it kept saying it was not available. Mind you, I did all this super quickly. I continue picking times, until the app did this (…) and I thought I had gotten it.

Nope, I did not. It stayed like that and then said no times were available. At this point it is not recommended to go out of this window. Keep switching from 1 to 2 or 3 to 4 people on your party (how many there are), and it would refresh and hopefully show more times. I had heard that if you go in the line close to the park closing they would let you in and ride it, but this rumor is untrue. They did not let me in the ride and dramatically said at 9 PM that the attraction was closed for the day. Wasted time.

The next day, on Friday, the park was going to be closing earlier, at 6 PM. I was hoping it would deter people to come to the park, and I was glad I came that day because it indeed was the case.

Got to Epic Universe at 10:30 AM, and I knew for the next 40 minutes the focus was going to be get the Virtual Line. 40 minutes that will not come back if I do not get the Virtual Line. But at this point I had gotten some experience and was hopeful.

Without further ado, these are my tips and tricks to get a Virtual Line for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Epic Universe:

• Be in place and on time: Drops occur at 11 AM, 3 PM and 6 PM for now. It is probably going to change when the times of the park change, and they might add one drop at 9 AM when it is set to start once opens. You have to be physically in the park. If the attraction opens with the park, an additional drop will occur around 10:45 AM to fill in the initial spots. This is the trick I recommend, not only because it will allow you to go into the window of the Virtual Line, but also because if you do not get into the first batch of times, just stay in that window. Do not close, and continue changing the number of people on your party, one up, one down, to keep refreshing. This is how I got my second Lighting Lane. Many people were out of this window waiting for the Virtual Line button to turn blue, while I was already inside refreshing times. Other drops occur randomly throughout the day, and you could maybe check while on line for a ride or something, but I would not recommend wasting time on this.
• Be quick and locked in: You gotta be efficient with this one, quick with those fingers, tapping and tapping until you get it.
• Screenshot the VL: Once you get it, screenshot it. Worst thing that could happen is the system going down and deleting your virtual line. At least with the screenshot you have proof you got it.
• No Universal Wifi: Use your phone service for this one. I personally used 5G, but many people still prefer the LTE.
• No save battery: turn off save battery, and any other function or app that is slowing down your phone, like Bluetooth, websites, etc. Only have the Universal App opened.
• Look for an isolated spot. Be away of crowded areas. Run a speed test on your navigator to see if the area you are in is good.
• Battery and device care optimize button / Memory Clean Now: This one I did and it made my phone run smoothly. It just slightly increases your chance of getting the VL.
• Do not argue with the park workers: If you did not get the Virtual Line, let it go. Remember that you will be able to ride sometime in the future, probably to the point of boredom, so I understand that it is frustrating not to get the VL, but until Universal changes their methods, there is nothing we can do.

I got 2 Virtual Lines on that Friday where the park was not crowded:

And the next day, on a Saturday, I got only one Virtual Line at the 11 AM drop. I was not able to participate in the 3 PM drop, as I was still on the attraction, and was not lucky on the 6 PM drop.

The Entertainment

• Le Cirque Arcanus™: In an attempt to bring Le Cirque Arcanus back to its former glory, ringmaster Skender has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase which contains fantastic beasts from around the globe. It’s up to circus employee Gwenlyn to rescue the creatures in this spectacular mix of live performers, amazing puppetry, dazzling special effects and more.

This is the only original show of the 2 in Epic Universe, and it is cute. I would recommend to see it at least once. It has nice visual effects, as you would expect from a magical show, and it has a surprising appearance at the end.

The Dining

• Café L’air De La Sirène™: The streets of wizarding Paris are home to delightful cafes, including Café L’air De La Sirène. Dine inside or outside as you enjoy French baked goods, sandwiches, plats du jour and desserts. You can quench your thirst with Butterbeer™ along with a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks including beer, cocktails and French wines.

The Bierauberre Crêpe lives to the hype. It is the perfect amount of sweet, and works well as a dessert or meal.

And of course, I could not stop getting a Bierauberre or butterbeer in this land.

• Le Gobelet Noir™: A mysterious time worn auberge (small inn) sits in the shadowy corners of Paris’s Place Cachée. This is Le Gobelet Noir, where Dark magic is always on the menu. Here, away from the prying eyes of the Paris Ministry, Dark witches and wizards have gathered for centuries to share a hearty meal, a drink and hushed conversations.

This is located in the Epic Universe version of the Knockturn Alley called Place Cachee, or Hidden Square.

It looks amazing inside.

But the only thing I got here was another butterbeer lol. I think I had to throw it away before the Arcanus show started.

• Bar Moonshine: Tucked away in a quiet street corner is Bar Moonshine, where American witches and wizards in Paris can enjoy a taste of home. Along with non alcoholic beverages like Butterbeer™, you’ll find American cocktails and a variety of beers and wines. It s all served amid décor featuring U.S. Quidditch™ team pennants and other items of wizarding Americana.

The Atmosphere

Walking into this world I was in awe. The structures are so tall! Like this arch is just so amazing looking. This was definitely one of my favorite worlds to just hang around. Not only because I love Paris and Harry Potter, but I think it offers a nice shade and a lot to see and do.

At night it just look amazing. My only complaint is that many people are not going to care about the Fantastic Beasts theming. It seems the ride was going to be about this franchise, and then after it flopped hard, they switched it to Harry Potter and Dolores Umbridge again, and the disconnection not only in place but in time between Paris and the English Ministry is just a little bit unsettling.

But other than that, this world is just amazing.

Also, of course, like in the other Wizarding Worlds, you can do tricks with your wand on some spots in the land, and some of them are pretty impressive.

5) SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

The Portal

The first world you see coming into Celestial Park, but the last I visited was Super Nintendo World. Just because I had seen it in Hollywood and Japan, but nothing else. This, though, was going to be the biggest Super Nintendo World ever, and the most complete, with all the attractions running from day one.

Just be aware this world is open for Early Entry guests, the ones staying at the Universal hotels, so it would be full at any given time. It is also the only world divided in two lands: Super Mario Land™ and Donkey Kong Country™.

The Attractions

• Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge: On Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, you’ll put on special goggles and steer through iconic courses alongside Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach. In this interactive ride, you’ll collect digital coins and throw shells to try to defeat Team Bowser and win the Golden Cup. With multiple outcomes, it’s a different experience each time you ride.

I rode it a couple of times. The first time I did Single Rider and I was by myself in the car. The second time was on the busy 3rd day (a Saturday), and I waited a long time in the Single Rider line, but this time they were really loading every car. I got the highest score btw.

• Yoshi’s Adventure™: Take a ride with Yoshis and search for the glowing eggs in this enchanting, family-friendly attraction. On Yoshi’s Adventure™ you’ll weave your way through iconic Mushroom Kingdom landscapes, encountering many familiar characters and spotting hidden colored eggs along your journey.

This was a cute ride that I did not have the willingness to do in Japan (hundreds of minutes wait time), and in Hollywood it does not exist. Here, it was a walk on, and I liked it. I probably would not do it on a busy day, but I would go back in it.

Make sure to earn the golden egg after doing all the activities.

• Mine-Cart Madness™: It’s up to you to help Donkey Kong protect the Golden Banana on Mine-Cart Madness™. Enter the majestic Golden Temple, board your mine cart and take off in this thrilling family coaster. Speeding through the mine, you’ll appear to jump across gaps in the track and perform other eye-popping feats from the Donkey Kong Country video games.

The only portal within a land, Donkey Kong Country has definitely a different energy than the Mario Brothers Land.

And this ride is definitely going to be one of the busiest of the park. Very slow loading system and capacity. Single Rider was not too fast either. The ride is very jerky, and I cannot believe it is on purpose, but other than that the simulated jumps and twists and turns are amazing.

Meet and Greets

Meet Some of Your Favorite Characters at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™:

• Meet Mario and Friends Face-to-Face: There’s no mistaking those famous caps and mustaches! Meet Mario and Luigi and have your picture taken together.
• Snap a Royal Photo with Princess Peach: Enjoy an audience with Princess Peach in her gazebo and take your photo with the Mushroom Kingdom’s loveliest character.
• Strike a Pose with Toad: Toad may be small, but he’s got a big smile and a big heart. Come meet Toad and snap a photo with him in the Mushroom Kingdom.
• You’ll Go Bananas Over Meeting Donkey Kong: Meet Donkey Kong Country’s most famous resident at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™. Say hello and pose for photos with Donkey Kong himself!

The Dining

• Toadstool Cafe™: Fuel up at Toadstool Cafe, where you can watch Chef Toad cooking up some of his favorite recipes and see playful scenes of the Mushroom Kingdom through the windows. Enjoy tasty creations prepared daily, including soups, salads, and sandwiches, as well as delicious entrees and delectable desserts.

Difficult to get a table in the other parks, here it was pretty easy. Although, I was not able to order since there was no internet service in here, and the Universal wifi was not working for me. I felt frustrated not being able to order from my phone and left.

• The Bubbly Barrel: Enjoy a cool, tropical drink beneath the thatched roof of The Bubbly Barrel. Here, in the heart of Donkey Kong Country™, you’ll find the perfect refreshment for your adventures in the jungle.

The DK Crush Float went viral over that weekend and I had to try it. It was a Dole Whip on top of a crush soda and omg. It was so good. I would definitely try it again.

• Yoshi’s Snack Island™: Yoshi’s Snack Island is a cozy burrow tunneled into the base of Mount Beanpole. Here you can enjoy a variety of juices and fruit-based specialty beverages, inspired by Yoshi’s favorite food: fruit! My favorite stand in Japan was not available during previews. The drinks are so good!
• Turbo-Boost Treats: Tap the brakes and make a pit stop at Turbo-Boost Treats for some Mario Kart™ race day snacks. Whatever your appetite is revved up for, you’ll find something to get you refueled and ready to play.

The Atmosphere

Well, it is Super Nintendo World. The most kinetic world in the park and I think in any park ever. Everything is moving, there is loud music and colors. Meet and greets, attractions, dining options, games with the Power-Up Band™ and mini games like Bowser Jr.’s Shadow Showdown. You could literally spend a whole day here, for sure.

Nintendo Super Star Store

Officially part of Celestial Park, but next to the Super Nintendo World Portal is Nintendo Super Star Store. Here you can find all the merchandise for this world and more. The Link and Zelda references make people think that