The Secret to Doing EVERYTHING at Dark Universe in One Day

Universal’s Epic Universe is set to open on May 22nd, 2025, and we’re getting closer to knowing all there is to know about this new theme park!

Epic Universe will feature lands inspired by Super Nintendo World, the How to Train Your Dragon-themed Isle of Berk, a new installment of the Wizarding World, and what might be the most exciting: Dark Universe, the home of the Universal Monsters. We’re inside Epic Universe and putting every new land to the test!

We recently got a sneak peek into Epic Universe and we are feeling all the things! Specifically, we never want to leave Dark Universe! As you enter through the Dark Universe portal’s entrance, you’re immediately immersed in Darkmoor Village. This is the town Universal has created to house the classic tales of good versus evil, some of the most identifiable monsters in horror history, and will invite you to dine with vampires or sit around to listen to stories from accomplished creature captors abound.

Today we’re putting the land to the test and sharing how you can do everything in this area in ONE DAY! To start you off, we recommend heading to Monster’s Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.

This dark ride will take you deep into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor, where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein performs her “twisted experiments.” To witness her genius experiments come to life, she’s invited you inside to demonstrate her ability to control monsters. However, her plans go awry when her attempts to control Dracula fail, allowing an opportunity to unleash a horde of enraged monsters.

We got to check out this ride for ourselves, and all we can say is: WOW. This might be one of the most incredible rides we’ve ever been on — and we’ve been on quite a few. Frankenstein’s Manor looks just like the concept art, and this ride is unique because it features multiple pre-shows — that are just as incredible as the ride itself! You’ll spot several different animatronics that look so realistic you might pee your pants (just kidding) but we don’t want to spoil too much.

The second thing to focus on is the Character Meet and Greets with the monsters! They have some of the most notable stories in cinematic history, like Frankenstein’s monster, the Bride of Frankenstein, Victoria Frankenstein’s servant, Ygor, The Invisible Man, an eccentric monster hunter, and a talented musician who regales guests with songs and tales of the classic Universal Monsters stories.

During our time in the land, we met The Invisible Man and loved how the interaction made the land come to life. We’re ranking this one so high because it’s something we recommend doing throughout your time in the land. Next up, you’ll want to head to The Curse of the Werewolf.

This is a spinning family coaster that looks to give you some serious thrills as you zoom through scenes inspired by The Wolf Man. We really enjoyed this ride while we were in the land. It was a slower coaster but the spinning vehicles added a level of thrill that we liked! We will note that feedback from others is a bit mixed when it comes to this attraction so consider coming back to it later in the day if the lines are on the longer side. In the queue, you will enter the encampment of The Guild of Mystics, where you’ll be greeted by the guild’s all-knowing seer and leader, Maleva, who cautions you against those who carry the mark of the werewolf.

At this point, you might be getting snacky, during your quest to do everything but first, we think you need to stop by the Darkmoor Makeup Experience. 

At this location, disciples of Dr. Septimus Pretorius have converted his old lab into a parlor where you can undergo a terrifying transformation. You can become a werewolf, vampire, mummy, or other spooky options through face paint and temporary tattoos. We recommend doing this earlier in the day so you can get your full money’s worth! Finally, you can’t do everything without eating!

Those who find themselves drawn to the darkness might enjoy a meal at Das Stakehaus. As Darkmoor’s most ominous restaurant, this quick service restaurant is a dining hall run by vampire “familiars.” They’re ready to size up unsuspecting patrons to be part of the vampires’ feast. As we stopped in to check out the atmosphere we spotted statues of Dracula with a stake through his chest, portraits of his brides, and more spooky decor!

Or, you could take your chances dining at The Burning Blade Tavern. (Or both since we’re doing everything!) Darkmoor’s monster hunters have transformed this old fiery mill into their famed hangout. You’ll find a menu of burgers, wings, bratwurst, pretzels, and specialty beverages to dine on while listening to stories of the infamous “Hounds,” which are boastful hunters from beyond Darkmoor. The inside of this tavern will feature an impressive display of monster heads these creature captors consider their “trophies.” During our time in Dark Universe, we noticed a majority of the seating was outside for this spot so be prepared for that. 

You can also stop in at De Lacey’s Cottage. You’ll find De Lacey’s Cottage food stand near Frankenstein Manor where the original Frankenstein’s Monster once received sustenance and friendship. This stand is said to offer a variety of snacks and cool treats like cinnamon bread, ice cream, twisted taters, and more. We think it will be great for a quick stop between Monster meet and greets, rides, and your makeover!

Our time in the land has been absolutely incredible and we can’t wait to continue to explore everything it has to offer. Make sure you stay tuned to AllEars for more theme park news!

It’s Happening! We Went INSIDE Epic Universe for the FIRST TIME!!

 

Are you excited about this new land? Tell us in the comments.

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