Orlando, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort’s long-awaited Epic Universe theme park — the first new park to open in Orlando in more than 25 years — is drawing massive attention with its cutting-edge attractions and immersive themed lands. Standout features include “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry,” a fully interactive Super Nintendo World, and elaborate themed dining experiences.
But the magic comes at a cost.
Base admission starts at around $140 per person. Add-ons like Express Passes, interactive accessories, and themed snacks can quickly double or triple that total. However, with careful planning, it’s possible to enjoy Epic Universe without overspending.
Buy Discounted Tickets Through Authorized Resellers
While Universal occasionally offers military discounts and other promotions, authorized ticket reseller Undercover Tourist often features the most competitive prices. For instance, a two-day ticket package that includes one day at Epic Universe and another at either Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure is $7 cheaper through Undercover Tourist than at the gate.
Longer stays result in even greater savings — a five-day ticket bundle that includes Epic Universe is currently $47 less than buying directly from Universal.
Skip the Extras — Unless They Truly Matter
The park offers numerous upsell items such as $85 interactive wands, $45 Power-Up Bands for Super Nintendo World, and Express Passes starting at $140. While these can enhance the experience for fans, they are not essential to enjoying the park. Visitors can still experience major attractions without purchasing these add-ons. For those who do want a wand, buying secondhand via platforms like eBay or Poshmark can offer significant savings.
Stay Hydrated — For Free
Florida’s heat and limited shade make hydration a priority. While outside food is mostly prohibited, guests are allowed to bring refillable water bottles, with plenty of filling stations available — even within attraction queues.
Share Meals to Cut Costs
Portions inside Epic Universe are often generous enough to split. Among the most shareable dishes:
- Smoked Master’s BBQ Feast ($75) at The Oak & Star Tavern: Four meats and four sides feed up to four people.
- Thawfest Platter ($50) at Mead Hall: Includes chicken drumsticks, salmon, sausage, fries, and sauces — enough for two or three guests.
- Pizza Moon pies (around $19): Specialty pizzas large enough for two.
Snack items like the $12 mac-and-cheese-filled Dragon Fire Chicken Spire or $9 butterbeer (or “Bieraubeurre”) can also be split to stretch budgets.
Invest in Refillable Souvenirs
Refillable popcorn buckets and drink sippers are a smart investment for groups. A themed Super Star popcorn bucket in Super Nintendo World, priced at $40, includes a free initial fill and $2.19 refills all day. Similarly, the $34 1-Up Mushroom drink sipper offers unlimited refills on the day of purchase.
Use Hotel Points and Shuttles to Save on Lodging
Several off-site hotels near Universal Studios Florida offer convenient access to Epic Universe via free shuttle service and are eligible for hotel point redemptions. The DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando, for example, frequently has award availability and competitive cash rates, and it’s within walking distance of the resort’s free CityWalk entertainment district.
Enjoy Epic Universe Without a Park Ticket
Visitors can still enjoy the atmosphere of Epic Universe without paying for park admission:
- CityWalk: This retail and dining district features many of the same themed merchandise items available inside the park — including Hogwarts wands and Mario plushies. A butterbeer counter is also located here.
- Epic Universe Preview Center: A large-scale 3D model of the park, augmented reality features, and digital tours offer a unique virtual experience.
- Bar Helios at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel: Overlooking Epic Universe, this rooftop bar provides a panoramic view of the park and its fountain show. Though reservations and minimum purchases are required (e.g., $24 for wings, $10 for a beer), the experience is significantly cheaper than a full-day admission and offers a relaxed alternative for enjoying the park’s ambiance.
With thoughtful planning and selective spending, visitors can experience the excitement of Universal’s most ambitious theme park to date — without overspending.
