Universal Epic Universe theme park opened May 22, 2025. The first year of operation brought opening ceremonies, the press and numerous awards for the rides and lands. But ultimately a theme park isn’t based on awards, it is based on memories made by those who visit. And for one family from Australia it was a major travel milestone (kilometric point for our non-Americans).
Kelly Marie shared a post about her trip in our Universal Epic Universe theme park Facebook Group. We had to reach out and learn more about a family who traversed the globe to visit our part of the world, Central Florida. Kelly and family not only visited Universal Epic Universe, but used it as the first step into their exploration of the United States of America.
Aussies at Epic Universe | Family interview
Did you visit because of Universal Epic Universe and was it your first time visiting the United States of America?
Epic Universe was not the main reason we visited but we were definitely excited to see what Epic Universe was about. We had not been to Florida or anywhere in the US before and were very excited to finally visit. Living so far away we undertook a big goal, financially & timely. In 8 months we saved & researched, we watched many YouTube videos & the Facebook pages helped with some of the advice shared and questions we asked.
How was your visit to Universal Epic Universe?
Epic Universe was so special to us because it was the first park we went to the day after arriving. We woke up early, went to I-HOP for breakfast & excitedly filled our stomaches with pancakes & anticipation about how our first park day would go. We hopped on the bus at Surfside [Inn and Suites, a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel] and eagerly watched out the window, we spoke to Americans on the bus and could hardly contain ourselves.
We stepped off the bus onto the pavement and I remember the feeling, it felt cool in the air and so calming with the music playing. I grabbed my youngest son’s hand, squeezed it & said words to the effect of; “I can’t believe it, we’re here, we made it happen” my eyes misty with emotion. My heart felt full before we had even arrived at the gates. Walking around Epic was just that, epic. Everywhere we looked it was “wow look” “omg, look” “oh awesome, look at that” our eyes wide and our mouths even wider with delight! The calm & ease of the park delighted us. In the morning early access we were in the thick of it getting in front to make it to be a handful of the first to ride MoM [Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry]. Afterwards we were in relax mode, going with the flow & soaking up Epic Universe & embracing being “in it.”
Did you have a favorite ride?
We cannot agree on a single ride that we all say is number 1. We give credit to all our favourites which include Battle at the Ministry, Stardust Racers, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Hiccups Wing Gliders. Each have their own unique experience and we love them all.
Did you have a favorite meal experience?
We experienced a lovely meal at Atlantic on a day where a storm was brewing, we watched it come over as we sat at our table eating delicious meals. We must mention Pizza Moon too, it was a wonderful place to sit and marvel at the design and regroup together to reflect on our experiences.
Would you come back?
We are currently talking about where we would like to go and unfortunately we are on limited time once again. Between work and school we will only have another two, maybe three weeks. We did manage to hire a car and headed to Tampa for Busch Gardens, Iron Gwazi was a blast! We would love to explore what Florida & America has to offer.
Was there a top tip to share and a personal favorite memory at the park?
Our top tip would be to stay at a Universal [Orlando Resort] Hotel to take advantage of the early access. We were at the parks for around 10 hours a day so Surfside was perfect for us, we didn’t need luxury, just the basics. Top memories, wow, what a question! My eldest (16 years old) says Nintendo Land [Super Nintendo World] was his favourite & my younger son (14 years old) says Ministry of Magic was his favourite.
Universal Epic Universe trip planning
Kelly Marie and family had a blast and shared their trip on our Universal Epic Universe Facebook Group. We encourage all readers planning to visit the park to come checkout trip reviews, tips, tricks and magical moments shared in the group. If you are looking for Universal Epic Universe advice, we also have articles helping you plan a great vacation:
- Visiting Universal Epic Universe WITHOUT Express Passes
- Matching family outfits tips for vacations
- Renting Harry Potter Wands & Nintendo Power-Up Bands
- Best ways to enjoy Epic Universe while pregnant
- Where to stay? Stella Nova or Terra Luna?
