Planning a trip to Epic Universe with younger kids? After previewing the park over two full days and seeing every ride, land, and show there are a few things I really wish parents knew going in. As a dad of 3 young kids myself, I spent most of my time focusing on how parents and kids will experience Epic Universe.
Universal’s newest park has some incredible highlights for families, especially in lands like Isle of Berk and Super Nintendo World. But it’s also a park where a few smart choices can make or break your day, especially with little ones in tow.
Here are 9 tips to help you skip the stress and make the most of your Epic Universe day with younger kids:
1. Bring a Stroller Wagon (Yes, They’re Allowed Here)
Unlike Disney World, stroller wagons are allowed at Epic Universe—and trust me, you’re going to want one. The park is spread out just enough that your kids will get tired, and there isn’t a ton of shaded seating when you need a break. A wagon gives you extra space, shade, and storage without worrying about policy issues.
2. Pack Your Own Shade
This was one of the biggest surprises during the preview: there’s almost no shade in most of the park. The trees are new and small, and the portals are outdoors with full sun exposure. While many of the queues bring welcomed indoor air conditioning, you should prepare yourself. Bring umbrellas, hats, cooling towels, or even a small clip-on fan for your stroller. You’ll be glad you did.
3. Prioritize Berk and Nintendo
If you’re short on time or energy, focus on Isle of Berk and Super Nintendo World. These are the two most engaging lands for younger kids. The How to Train your Dragon portal, Isle of Berk has a fantastic family coaster, a live show, multiple dragon and character meets, roaming characters and an immersive Viking village feel.
Nintendo is packed with characters, shopping, photo ops and interactive games. Even though the number of rides may seem small (there are 3), the Super Nintendo Portal is full of things to do and experience.
4. Don’t Waste Time Rope Dropping Yoshi
Yoshi’s Adventure sounds like the perfect kid ride, but the reality is… it’s just not worth it. It’s short, cramped, and forgettable. If you’ve got early entry, spend it exploring Nintendo or grabbing a Power-Up Band. Save Yoshi for if you happen to walk by with no line. Don’t make it the focus of your morning.
5. Know Your Height Limits Before You Go
A few key rides have height restrictions that may surprise you. Stardust Racers and Monsters Unchained require 48″, and even Donkey Kong Mine-Cart Madness, Hiccups Wing Gliders and Battle at the Ministry has a 40″ minimum. Measure your kids before the trip and plan your priorities accordingly so you’re not setting them up for disappointment in the park.
6. Break Up Your Day with Shows and Characters
Epic Universe’s shows are legitimately amazing, and they’re a great way to rest without feeling like you’re wasting time. Le Cirque Arcanus was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen in a theme park, hands down. The How to Train Your Dragon show in Berk (Untrainable Dragon) is also a must for kids.
The character meets in Epic Universe are some of the best of any theme park out there, particularly for kids. From Mario and Luigi to Hiccup and Toothless, the opportunities to break up the day are available in each portal, and the kids will love the interactions.
Plan these into your schedule instead of just hoping to catch one.
7. Don’t Expect Traditional Snacks
Unlike Disney, Epic Universe doesn’t have a ton of snack carts with pretzels, popcorn, and ice cream around every corner (though they may when the park officially opens May 22).
Instead, they’ve got a few themed options (like the mac & cheese bread cone), but many of them are heavy and hard to eat on the go. Pack small snacks for your kids and plan on sitting down for actual meals.
8. Take Advantage of Freestyle Coke Machines
These self-service drink stations are one of the best family-friendly features in the park. You can pay once and refill all day, and they offer way more than just soda. Water, Powerade, flavored drinks are all easily accessible without waiting in a food line.
This was one of my favorite “small” things in the park.
9. Skip Dark Universe (At Least for Now)
Unless your kid is into old-school horror movies and wants to meet Frankenstein, just skip this land. The theming is intense from the moment you walk in, and while it’s really well done, it’s not made for younger guests. Save your time and sanity by skipping this one.
With the right strategy, Epic Universe can be a really great park for families with little kids. You just have to be selective. Focus on the experiences that they want to see, engage their imagination, keep things flexible, and don’t try to do everything!
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