Back to Epic Universe: Characters, Cocktails, and Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss!

I went back and it was EPIC (again)! My second trip to Universal’s Epic Universe wasn’t about riding every attraction or rushing from land to land. This time, I slowed down and took in all the extras the characters, the drinks, the atmosphere, and some seriously cool merch I totally missed the first time. And wow… this park keeps on surprising me in the best ways. If you’re planning your first (or next) trip, you’ll definitely want to know what stood out this time around.

Meet the Real Stars: The Characters of Epic Universe
 

Let’s talk about the magic-makers. The actors and actresses bringing these characters to life? Absolutely phenomenal. From the moment they stepped out, you could feel their energy. The makeup? Flawless. The commitment? Oscar-worthy. They didn’t just pose for pictures they told stories with every interaction. Whether it was an eerie creature from Dark Universe or a familiar face in another realm, these performers are the heartbeat of Epic Universe.

Seriously don’t just walk past them. Stop, watch, chat. These characters bring a spark to the park that you won’t find on any map.

And of course, I finally got to meet the iconic duo Mario and Luigi! They were an absolute blast. Yes, they talk, and yes, it makes the experience so much more magical. The character interaction feels straight out of a Nintendo game. They joked around, struck some hilarious poses, and really brought that Super Mario charm to life. If you’re a fan of the franchise or just grew up playing the games getting a photo with Mario and Luigi is a must.

Another highlight? The Isle of Berk characters, especially Gobber the Belch, who had me cracking up the entire time. He was totally in character, loud, hilarious, and full of wild Viking energy. I caught one of my favorite interactions on video watch it here on Youtube shorts: 

Over in Dark Universe, I met Igor yes, that Igor, who was literally picking people’s noses with a severed arm. Gross? Absolutely. Hilarious? Even more so. This kind of unhinged, horror-comedy energy makes Dark Universe unforgettable. Check out the chaos for yourself in my YT Short clip: 

And then… there was Frankenstein and the Bride of Frankenstein. Not only were they towering and intimidating, they were weirdly charming. I may or may not have walked away with a new monster crush because Frankenstein and I? We had a moment. So yes, I’m now in a committed (joking) relationship with Frankenson. You had to be there.

Drink Like You’re in Another World (Because You Are)
 

If you’re into themed drinks, this is your moment. My second trip turned into a tasting tour—and it did not disappoint.

Pure of Heart – Burning Blade Tavern (Dark Universe)

My new favorite and not just because it’s delicious. This mysterious, violet-hued cocktail is said to be crafted to ward off werewolves, and it feels like something pulled straight from a gothic fairytale. It’s made with Misguided Spirits Hinky Dink’s Workingman’s Whiskey, The Bitter Truth Violet Liqueur, DeKuyper Crème de Cassis, lime juice, pineapple juice, honey syrup, blackberry essence, and topped with ginger beer. Spicy, sweet, floral and unforgettable. (Also, my first time trying ginger beer. Instant fan.)

Reaper Reserve

Don’t let the dark color fool you this beer may look heavy, but it tastes incredibly smooth and light. With cozy notes of cinnamon and vanilla, it reminded me of sipping spiced eggnog by a winter fire. Holiday vibes in a stein.

Plastered Owl (return visit)

Still a top-tier drink and an absolute must-try. I covered this one in my first Epic Universe review, and it’s just as good the second time around.

Mocktail Magic

First Light Mocktail – Meteor Astropub, Celestial Park

Blue raspberry, vanilla crème, cold foam, and galactic sugar sprinkles. Beautiful and tasty.

Eccentric Orbit – Bar Zenith, Celestial Park

Grenadine, stone fruit, tart cherry syrups, purple prism powder, and Sprite. Tart, fizzy, and totally unique.

Merch Drop: Wings Up, Riders!
 

I finally explored the Isle of Berk merch area, and WOW. There’s this one backpack that made my inner Viking scream a flight suit-style bag with wings, just like Hiccup’s. It’s sleek, detailed, and makes you feel like you’re ready to take to the skies with Toothless. If you’re a How to Train Your Dragon fan, this is a must.

Nintendo Ride Tip: Crack the Egg Code on Yoshi’s Adventure!
 

This time around, I also rode Yoshi’s Adventure in Super Nintendo World and I finally cracked the mystery of those egg buttons on the ride! Here’s the trick: when you see a colored egg during the ride (red, green, blue, etc.), you need to press the matching color button on your console. When you get it right, you’ll hear a special sound that lets you know you successfully collected that egg. It’s a fun interactive layer that makes the ride even more engaging especially for gamers and completionists. Keep your eyes peeled and your fingers ready!

Ride Highlight: The Constellation Carousel is Out of This World
 

If you think the Constellation Carousel is just another standard theme park carousel think again. This attraction is on a whole other level. The ride doesn’t just spin in a circle. The celestial creatures actually move in multiple directions—they spin, they go up and down, and they glide with a grace that makes it feel like you’re floating through space. To top it off, there are multiple music tracks that play during the ride, adding an extra layer of magic and variation every time you ride. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, this ride is a must-do in Celestial Park.

Let’s Talk Shade (or the Lack Thereof)
 

Okay, time for real talk: Epic Universe needs more shade. Weather in Florida is already blazing, and this park offers very few places to cool off. The lack of cover can really zap your energy so be ready with sunscreen, a cooling towel, and lots of water.

If you remember the model in the Epic Universe Preview Center at CityWalk, there were way more trees and shaded areas planned. But what we’ve got now? Mostly cutbacks. Celestial Park also seems to have scaled down entertainment, which is a bummer because it deserves to be the vibrant core of the park. 

Final Thoughts: Epic
 

Even with the heat and a few cutbacks, my second visit to Epic Universe proved just how much heart, soul, and imagination went into this place. From jaw-dropping characters to unforgettable drinks and immersive details, there’s always something new to discover.

This park isn’t just about rides it’s about stepping into a story, living the fantasy, and experiencing the unexpected. If you’re a theme park fan like me, you’re going to fall in love all over again with each trip.

Hot Tip: Take your time, hydrate, stop to appreciate the smaller moments, and always—ALWAYS—try the signature drinks. You never know when you’ll find your new favorite.