Happily Adventures After | Home of HAA Disney

Hey Howdy HAA Everyone,
Welcome back to Happily Adventures After!

London here, and today we’re stepping outside the Disney bubble to explore Universal Orlando’s newest park: Epic Universe. Thanks to our incredible correspondents, Shelley and Jeff, we can bring you our HAA Disney: Top 10 from their perspective! This trip was packed with thrills, magic, and immersive details—though we didn’t get to everything (sorry, Isle of Berk 🐉), there were plenty of highlights worth sharing.

So grab your Floo Powder, power up your Super Star, and step into the shadows of Darkmoor—here are the Top 10 Highlights from our first adventure into Epic Universe (with a stay at Terra Luna Hotel)!

1. Terra Luna Hotel 🌙✨
   Our home base impressed with sleek design, comfort, and great service. The on-site restaurant stayed open until 11 p.m.—perfect for post-park meals. At $99 USD/night with an AP promo, it was unbeatable value.
2. Late-Night Dining 🍔🥤
   Having access to real food after the parks closed was a lifesaver. Between the restaurant and room service, it beat the usual late-night scramble.
3. Smooth Park Flow 🚍
   Universal nailed crowd movement. Even at a brand-new park, getting in and out was organized and efficient—far less stressful than some Disney exits.
4. Super Nintendo World 🍄🎮
   Bright, energetic, and playful, it feels like stepping into a Mario game. Hot and crowded thanks to its valley layout, but undeniably fun and full of nostalgia.
5. Celestial Park 🌌🌿
   The hub ties everything together with lush landscaping and sweeping pathways. More than a connector—it’s an attraction of its own.
6. Monsters Unchained 🧛‍♂️⚡
   Darkmoor is gothic and atmospheric, with jaw-dropping effects and characters. At just a 15-minute wait, this was one of the best ride-value experiences.
7. Ministry of Magic 🪄🏛️
   Even before the ride, the land itself is stunning. Walking the 1930s-style streets feels like entering Fantastic Beasts, with themed dining and bakery scents adding to the immersion.
8. Battle of the Ministry 🎆🧙‍♂️
   The star of the park. A seamless blend of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts storytelling in a thrilling ride. Long waits (60–70 minutes), but the magical queue kept us engaged.
9. Themed Portals 🚪🎶
   Each portal is a story on its own, with unique music and atmosphere that instantly transport you to another world.
10. Immersive Details ✨👀
    From cobblestones and gothic edges to playful soundscapes and themed scents, Epic Universe shines in the little things. It’s a park made for exploring.

Final Thoughts 🌟
Epic Universe is a triumph. Yes, it leans coaster-heavy and could use more indoor attractions, but its theming, atmosphere, and efficiency make it a must-visit. Pair it with Terra Luna Hotel for a seamless, magical getaway.

Let me know, have you been to Epic Universe? What is your Top 10?

HAA Disney: Top 10 – Epic Universe Highlights (Timestamp 28:55-40:57)

Have a great and blessed day,

London (and Jeff and Shelley)