Harry Potter and 4 other fandoms get awesome upgrades at Epic Universe in Universal Orlando Resort

For fans of various genres and franchises, Universal Orlando Resort's Epic Universe is so much more than just another theme park. Imagine it as level-up immersion! According to new information, Opening May 22, 2025, it doesn't just transport you to your favorite worlds of make-believe. but it allows you to live within them. For some fans, this destination won't be a vacation spot – it'll feel like coming home.

Keeping great stories alive

We remember good stories. They evolve, transform, and sometimes come back in new ways. We can relive the past while still anticipating the future, even though some complain about reboots. According to USA Today, he Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort is reviving favorite shows and expanding "new and innovative" products as well as experiences. Says Justin Lafoe, global parks merchandise and retail officer, "We are thrilled to bring fan-favorite worlds to life and give guests thae chance to bring home a piece of their adventures with them."

1. Harry Potter fans: more intense chapter

Harry Potter fans, prepare yourselves. The Ministry of Magic is about to materialize in all its grand, shadowy glory. Universal has announced "an all-new collection of interactive wands exclusive to Epic Universe and wand accessories with a Parisian twist." Drawing inspiration from the second Fantastic Beasts film, "Les Galeries Mirifiques will sell wizarding gear and memorabilia, including 1920s-era wizarding robes complete with berets and neck ties." Even better, "Fantastic Beasts fans will even be able to take an interactive Niffler home with them."

This new area takes us deeper into the darker and more mysterious side of the magical world. It’s the Wizarding World like we’ve never seen before.

2. Super Mario fans: power-up in real life

Mario fans, strap yourselves in! The Mushroom Kingdom is no longer a pixelated fantasy—it's a real, walkable world where you can punch question blocks in the real world, dodge Piranha Plants, and zip by scenery that looks like it sprang from a Nintendo Switch game.

This is not a theme park—it’s where the lines between gaming and reality blur, turning nostalgia into a hands-on adventure. The games are on! New "experiential Power-Up Bands" will let guests "join interactive activities, win digital keys, collect digital coins and stamps, track teir score, check their rankings and more."

3. How to Train Your Dragon Fans: Berk is real!

To all How to Train Your Dragon fans: Ever dream of flying? Berk is no longer a cartoon. It's real!

Hear that distant dragon roar? That's real too. This is Berk, and it's waiting for you. In this land, "guests can adopt a dragon via a crossbody egg carrier that holds a plush dragon" and that makes the adventures all the more interactive.

4. Classic Monster Fans: A horror fan's dream

Old-school horror fans, take cover! Universal's monsters aren't so retro after all. Frankenstein and Dracula live on! They're over there, hiding in the fog.

The swinging lamps? The spooky silence? It's all an act - or is it? Gothic horror never felt so real. Also, "At Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, guests canb become fashionably monstrous with elaborate face paint."

5. Sci-Fi Enthusiasts: A ride through the future

Sci-fi fans, get ready! While Universal hasn't revealed all the details, the upcoming Stardust Racers roller coaster promises high-speed thrills with a cosmic twist. Themed around racing through the stars, this could be the closest thing to a futuristic space adventure. (Based on the Universal Orlando Resort site.)

Futuristic skylines? Mesmerizing glimpses of faraway galaxies? A rollercoaster that defies gravity? Whatever it is, the future is here.

More than just a theme park

Aside from rides, Universal Orlando Resort's Epic Universe has much more in store. You're not just a spectator; you're part of the story.

A world where wizards, gamers, explorers, and dragon riders all belong! It's a home. And the countdown has started!