You know those emails you have to read twice just to make sure they’re real? That was me when the invitation for an exclusive preview of Universal’s Epic Universe landed in my inbox. My jaw might have actually dropped. For a mom who spends most of her theme park days armed with snacks, strollers, and carefully timed schedules, the idea of a girls’ trip to see a brand-new park—and stay at the new Universal Helios Grand Hotel during its opening week!—felt like a dream.
It was time to hang up the diaper bag, grab my favorite colleagues, and experience the magic from a whole new, and let’s be honest, much quieter perspective!
Checking In to a Dream: The Helios Grand Hotel
From the moment we walked into the Helios Grand Hotel, the vibe was just… special. We were practically giddy, like kids on the last day of school. For a few days, there were no schedules to keep, no little hands to hold—just pure, grown-up fun.
But let me tell you about the best part, the holy grail of theme park perks: the hotel is located at the back of Epic Universe and has its own private entrance. Forget the usual mad dash to the main gates with the morning crowds. We could just wander from our hotel lobby, through a gorgeous garden path, and step right into the park. It felt like having a secret VIP key, and my feet were already thanking me. It’s a total game-changer, and I don’t think I can ever go back!
Stepping into New Worlds
With our spirits high and comfy shoes on, it was time to explore. The park is set up like a giant compass, with the beautiful Celestial Park at the center and portals that transport you to four completely different worlds, perfect for each guest in your travel party. Universal did so well with this one there is something for everyone to enjoy in this theme park.
Celestial Park & The Constellation Carousel
This area is the stunning heart of Epic Universe. It’s home to the Constellation Carousel and the magnificent coaster, Stardust Racers. This isn’t your average carousel. Instead of horses, you ride on sparkling, celestial creatures that glide under a canopy of stars. It’s one of those simple, beautiful attractions that just makes your heart happy.
Dark Universe
Okay, let’s talk about Dark Universe, because WOW. As a spooky fan, I think a part of my soul now lives in this world. You walk through a massive portal etched with “It’s Alive! It’s Alive!” and are immediately transported to the village of Darkmoor, where Universal’s classic monsters roam. You can practically feel the crackle of electricity in the air. My absolute favorite ride here was Monsters: Unchained, a dark ride that takes you deep into Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s laboratory. It is brilliantly spooky and so well done! This world is a masterpiece.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic
Just when I think The Wizarding World can’t get any more magical, they go and create 1920s wizarding Paris and the British Ministry of Magic. My inner Harry Potter nerd was doing a happy dance. Walking through the Floo Network-inspired entrance, with its iconic green tiles, honestly felt like stepping right into the movies. We stopped for a drink, and I tried the Beau Thé Bleu d’Occamy—a beautiful blue tea that, with a stir of a “magical” tea bag, transforms into a glittering purple. Seriously, how do they come up with this stuff? Pure magic in a cup.
Super Nintendo World & Donkey Kong Country
The wave of nostalgia that hits you when you enter Super Nintendo World is no joke. I was instantly 10 years old again, sitting cross-legged in front of the TV trying to beat a level of Super Mario Bros. The same goes for Donkey Kong Country. Seeing the mine carts gave me a little flash of anxiety from all the times I tried to beat Donkey Kong—if you know, you know! That level still haunts me.
And while this was a girls’ trip, the mom in me couldn’t help but make a mental list of everything my kids would flip out over. The How to Train Your Dragon land, Isle of Berk, went straight to the top of that list. It looks absolutely breathtaking, and I can already picture their faces.
A Well-Deserved Toast at Bar Helios
After logging more steps than I can count (all worth it!), we capped off our epic day back at the hotel with reservations at Bar Helios. It felt so luxurious to just sit down and have someone bring you a fancy cocktail and amazing food while you overlook the park twinkling at night. If you’re staying at the hotel, you have to do this!
We were ready to eat, and the menu did not disappoint. My absolute must-try’s:
-Wagyu Beef Sliders: So juicy and flavorful.
-Hot Butter Crispy Calamari: It had a unique, delicious kick.
-The Night Goddess: The perfect, refreshing cocktail to end the day.
-The Shattered Rose: A dessert that’s as fun to watch them make at your table as it is to eat!
A Magical Trip for the Books
I’m still buzzing from this whole experience. Getting to be a “grown-up” at a theme park and just soak it all in with friends was such a treat and so different from our usual family adventures.
And here’s a quick tip if you’re planning your own trip: there is SO much to see and do. If you’re trying to tackle Epic Universe in just one day, I would absolutely recommend getting an Express Pass. It’ll help you maximize your time and make sure you get to see everything without spending your day in line.
But you know what? Even on a girls’ trip, the mom-heart is always there. As I rode the Constellation Carousel, all I could see were my daughters’ faces lighting up with that same goofy grin. As I walked through the Isle of Berk, I could almost hear my son’s squeals of delight. This trip was an incredible adventure for me, but the best part is knowing the next adventure here will be with them. And that, right there, is the real magic.
Passports and Park Maps 