How to Get Early Access to Epic Universe (Early Park Admission Explained)
Universal's Epic Universe is the most innovative new theme park that just opened on May 22, 2025. While the thrill of experiencing a brand-new park is undeniable, you can also expect major crowds. Fortunately, a powerful advantage that allows gets to enter the theme park 1 hour before it opens: Universal Orlando's Early Park Admission (EPA). We will share everything you NEED to know for early entry into Epic Universe!
What is Universal Orlando's Early Park Admission (EPA)?
Universal Orlando's Early Park Admission is a valuable benefit that allows eligible guests to enter select Universal theme parks up to one hour before their official scheduled opening time. It allows guests to ride the most popular attractions and explore select worlds of Epic Universe with low crowds.
How do you get Early Park Admission?
Several categories of guests typically qualify for EPA so it is important to know if you have it or not! This is a benefit that can not necessarily be purchased.
Universal Orlando Resort Hotel Guests - All on-site hotels (Signature, Prime Value, Value tiers). Valid for entire stay (including check-in/out days). Requires valid hotel room key for each person.
Select Universal Orlando Annual Passholders - Preferred and Premier Passholders. Valid on select dates (check Universal's official website for schedule).
Universal Vacation Packages (via partners) - Guests booking specific vacation packages through authorized partners. Confirm EPA inclusion at booking.
What Can You Do During Early Park Admission?
It is important to note that the specific attractions available during EPA can vary based on operational needs and weather conditions. However, the following areas / attractions are currently open during EPA.
Celestial Park: Stardust Racers
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD: Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge, Yoshi's Adventure
Dark Universe: Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, Curse of the Werewolf
Tips for Early Park Admission at Epic Universe
To make the most of your Early Park Admission at Epic Universe, consider these top tips:
Arrive Early, Earlier Than Early - Don't just aim for the official EPA start time. Arrive at least 45 minutes, and ideally closer to an hour, before EPA officially begins.
Strategic Ride Prioritization (Especially for Super Nintendo World):
Super Nintendo World is one of the most popular portals with the highest wait times.
Donkey Kong Mine-Cart Madness should be your absolute first priority due to its low hourly capacity.
If time allows after Donkey Kong, head to Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge to experience both headliners before the main crowds arrive.
For a quicker experience, Yoshi's Adventure is a good alternative if time is limited since it is on the same level as Mine Cart Madness.
Secret Hack for Super Nintendo World: Use the ground-level bypass doors to the left of the Nintendo Super Star Store in Celestial Park. This saves precious minutes by avoiding escalators and stairs.
Ministry of Magic Rope Drop Strategy:
While The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic doesn’t officially open until the full park open, this is the LONGEST wait in the park so you could spend your full hour of EPA waiting for it to open.
This strategy secures a prime spot at the very front of the line for Battle for the Ministry.
Maximize Your EPA Hour:
Focus on hitting two to three key rides that are high on your priority list. If you really want to ride Stardust Racers, you can walk on maybe multiple times!
Even if you're not a thrill-seeker, EPA offers incredible opportunities for low-crowd photo opportunities and shopping.
You can also play power-up games in Super Nintendo World with low crowds!
EPA from Helios Grand Hotel
Did you know Helios Grand Hotel has a dedicated theme park entrance to Epic Universe? We stayed here and actually got to try out EPA using the dedicated theme park entrance. You can watch the experience here.
I didnt think it would be much of an advantage honestly but it really was! We were some of the first guests into Super Nintendo
Ready to Go on a Theme Park Journey?
We hope this guide sprinkles a little extra pixie dust on your plans for a an EPIC Universe Vacation! Our insights come straight from the heart of the parks, where the magic happens every day. We’re thrilled to share our firsthand experiences and tips to help you create unforgettable moments!
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