This article originally
appeared in the June issue of AGENTatHOME magazine. Subscribe here to receive your free copy each month.
Universal’s Epic Universe theme park will undoubtedly wow your clients with its intriguing lineup of innovative, adventurous experiences. For those advisors who haven’t had a chance to see the Orlando theme park for themselves, here are some tips on how your customers can make the most of their vacations.
Book Two-Day Stays
One day isn’t enough to experience everything inside Epic Universe, which made its debut late last month – so guests shouldn’t plan to park hop. After all, there’s a generous number of attractions to experience within the five immersive lands, including How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe, which features a unique vehicle ride and life-like monster animatronics.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic also uses next-level technology that immerses riders into a cinematic adventure. Rounding out the offerings are Celestial Park and Super Nintendo World.
Super Nintendo World. (Source: Universal Orlando)
Unfortunately, I noticed that some technical issues occurred during the soft opening, and the rides were occasionally closed. Advise clients to pack their patience; if any rides are must-dos, they should prioritize them and get in line early.
“In order to experience all of the attractions, plus the shows, the entertainment and the incredible attention to detail, clients are going to want more than one day,” said Mary Bezeau, a travel advisor with 3D Travel Company, who recommends booking a VIP tour for one day and using the second to explore more leisurely.
Select On-Site Properties
Epic Universe opened three new hotels near its attractions, and across different budget categories. Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews property, connects directly to the park. Half of the 500 rooms at this Signature Collection resort – which offers more upscale experiences – face the park, providing visitors with magnificent and sweeping bird’s-eye views. Although there are some very fun, kid-friendly themed family suites, they are not located on the park-facing side.
Loews and Universal Orlando have also opened two value-category hotels: Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort. A short bus ride or a 10-minute (unshaded) walk brings guests to the theme park entrance.
Find Places to Cool Off
Orlando gets very hot and humid, particularly during the summer months. Thankfully, most lines are indoors with strong air conditioning, with the exception of Curse of the Werewolf and the rides at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.
Celestial Park at night. (Photo Credit: Universal Orlando)
There are also other areas where visitors can cool off, including a shaded children’s play area, and a fantastic indoor theater performance complete with flying dragons and a water ride where visitors will get drenched.
Evenings also offer a completely different experience, and guests will be well-served to visit each land again when the sun goes down.
Plan Trips Well In Advance
There has been a lot of hype surrounding Epic Universe, which is expected to draw a legion of visitors. Some restaurants are currently on a reservation-only system with no openings for weeks, such as Bar Helios, the rooftop lounge overlooking Epic Universe.
This also means that any add-on experiences are likely to book up quickly.
With so many cutting-edge attractions, immersive lands and on-site perks, Epic Universe is a game-changer for theme park vacations. Help your clients make the most of it – by planning smart and booking early.
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