The Ultimate Orlando Travel Guide for Epic Universe Visitors

Where to Eat, Stay & Explore Before and After Your Park Day So, you’re planning a trip to Epic Universe — Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated new theme park opening May 22, 2025. But here’s the truth: there’s a LOT more to an Orlando trip than just riding Stardust Racers or casting spells in the…


Last updated on April 19, 2025 By Katiria Torres Luna
The Ultimate Orlando Travel Guide for Epic Universe Visitors

Published date on April 19, 2025

Where to Eat, Stay & Explore Before and After Your Park Day
So, you’re planning a trip to Epic Universe — Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated new theme park opening May 22, 2025.
But here’s the truth: there’s a LOT more to an Orlando trip than just riding Stardust Racers or casting spells in the Ministry of Magic. From where you stay, what you eat, and how you explore the city beyond the parks, your trip can become an unforgettable, well-rounded vacation with just a little planning.
Here’s your complete Orlando travel guide designed just for Epic Universe visitors — let’s help you make the most of every moment.
Where to Stay: On-Site vs. Off-Site
Stay On-Site at Universal (For Total Convenience)
Staying at a Universal hotel gives you major perks:
  • Early Park Admission to Epic Universe
  • Free transportation to all Universal parks
  • In-park purchases sent to your hotel
  • Free Express Passes with Premier hotels (huge time-saver!)
Top Picks:
  • Helios Grand Hotel – The in-park hotel at Epic Universe!
  • Hard Rock Hotel – Closest to Universal Studios Florida
  • Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Affordable, family-friendly retro vibes
  • Aventura Hotel – Sleek, modern, and perfect for couples or solo travelers
Pro Tip: Book early for Helios Grand Hotel — it will be the most in-demand resort in 2025.
Stay Off-Site (More Space, Less Price)
If you’re traveling with a large group or on a tighter budget, Orlando has tons of off-site options within 10–20 minutes of Epic Universe.
Best Areas to Stay Off-Site:
  • International Drive (I-Drive) – Budget hotels, restaurants, walkable entertainment
  • Lake Buena Vista – Closer to Disney but still within a 30-minute drive
  • Downtown Orlando – For nightlife, events, and urban vibes
Look for hotels with free shuttle service to Universal and Epic Universe!
️ Where to Eat: In-Park Bites + Local Favorites
Epic Universe Dining Must-Trys:
  • Toadstool Café (Super Nintendo World) – Fun meals for gamers of all ages
  • Berk’s Viking Feast Hall (Isle of Berk) – Giant portions + Viking theming
  • Parisian Café (Ministry of Magic) – Elegant dishes with magical flair
  • Cosmic Shake Diner (Celestial Park) – Burgers, fries, and galaxy milkshakes
️ Great Local Restaurants Near the Parks:
  • Cafe Tu Tu Tango (I-Drive) – Creative small plates with an artsy atmosphere
  • Miller’s Ale House – Casual, affordable, and perfect for big groups
  • The Cheesecake Factory – Huge menu and family-friendly
  • Seito Sushi (Dr. Phillips) – Local favorite for sushi and Asian fusion
Want to save money? Eat a big breakfast outside the park and snack your way through the themed lands!
What to Do Outside the Parks
If you’re in Orlando for more than 2–3 days, definitely plan some off-park experiences to mix things up!
Entertainment & Attractions:
  • ICON Park – Observation wheel, SEA LIFE Aquarium, great restaurants
  • iFLY Orlando – Indoor skydiving for all ages
  • Orlando Science Center – Hands-on fun for kids and curious adults
  • Gatorland – Classic Florida fun with gators, zip lines, and shows
  • Kennedy Space Center – Worth the 1-hour drive for rocket lovers
️ Shopping Options:
  • Orlando International Premium Outlets – Big brands at a discount
  • The Mall at Millenia – Upscale shopping and dining
  • Universal CityWalk – Great for souvenirs, themed dining, and nightlife
Getting Around Orlando
Orlando is spread out, so transportation matters. Here are your best options:
  • Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Most flexible, especially for off-site hotel guests
  • Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels (on and off-site) offer free parking and transportation
  • Rental Cars: Ideal if you’re doing day trips to the beach, space center, or shopping outlets
  • I-Ride Trolley: Great option if staying near I-Drive
Pro Tip: If you’re staying on-site, skip the rental car — Universal’s transportation is free and efficient.
Packing & Planning Essentials
  • Refillable water bottles (Florida is HOT!)
  • Rain ponchos (Showers happen, even in summer)
  • Battery packs for phones and devices
  • Download the Universal Orlando App for Virtual Queue info, mobile food orders, and park maps
  • Magic-appropriate wardrobe (comfy shoes, layers for indoor AC)
Sample Trip Itinerary for Epic Universe Visitors
Day 1: Arrive in Orlando, relax at the hotel, explore CityWalk or I-Drive
Day 2: Full day at Epic Universe — ride, eat, repeat
Day 3: Half-day at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure, then ICON Park at night.
Day 4: Optional off-park day – Kennedy Space Center, shopping, or Gatorland
Day 5: Departure (or one more loop around Super Nintendo World!)
Let’s Keep the Orlando Planning Party Going in the Comments! Are YOU heading to Epic Universe in 2025? Have favorite Orlando restaurants, hotels, or must-dos outside the park?
Let’s build the ultimate Orlando travel guide together — one family, foodie, and fun-lover at a time.
✅ Where are you staying — on-site or off-site?
✅ Got a must-eat restaurant near Universal I should know about?
✅ What’s your plan for post-park relaxation or day trips?
Whether it’s your first Orlando trip or your fifteenth, this community is your travel squad. Let’s help each other plan better, eat tastier, and explore farther.
Drop your travel plans, recommendations, or questions below — and share with a friend who needs this guide!

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