rewrite this title The Cheapest Ways to Visit Universal’s Epic Universe in 2025 – NerdWallet

Universal’s new Epic Universe is the first theme park to debut in Orlando, Florida in more than 25 years, and it’s already getting a lot of attention. Highlights include technologically impressive rides like Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, clever food concoctions themed to each world and an entire land that puts you inside a Mario game.

But it’s expensive. Tickets start at about $140. Want to skip the line? That’ll be at least another $140 per person for an Express Pass. Want to throw a virtual fireball? That’ll be $45 for a Power-Up Band. Want an order of butterbeer crepes? Hand over $20.

Here’s how to see Universal’s most ambitious theme park yet without overspending.

Universal sometimes offers military discounts and other promotions on tickets. But if those options aren’t available, Undercover Tourist, an authorized reseller, generally offers the best deals on tickets. While savings might only be a few bucks per ticket, it adds up — especially for families. For example, a two-day ticket package consisting of one day at Epic Universe and one day at either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure is $7 cheaper on Undercover Tourist than at the gate.

Longer stays come with more savings. For example, a five-day ticket package (with one day for Epic Universe) is $47 cheaper through Undercover Tourist than buying direct.

The park sells a lot of extras: interactive wands (one model is $85), Power-Up Bands ($45) and Express Passes for skipping long lines ($140+). But you don’t need all of these add-ons to enjoy the park. NerdWallet has an entire guide on what you can skip at Epic Universe without missing out. Unless you’re a Potterhead or Nintendo enthusiast, most of these interactive extras aren’t essential.

With minimal shade and intense Florida heat, staying hydrated is essential. Although Universal generally doesn’t allow outside food, it makes exceptions for small snacks, food required for special dietary needs and food required for medical reasons. Refillable water bottles are also allowed — and filling stations are abundant, even in ride queues.

Epic Universe food is expensive, but portions can be generous. Share dishes like these to stretch your dollars:

Even snacks are better shared:

Speaking of sharing, you can maximize value with larger groups when you purchase a refillable popcorn bucket or mug. Styles vary by each themed world, but in Super Nintendo World you might drop $40 on a Super Star popcorn bucket that doubles as a souvenir. The first fill of popcorn is free, and refills cost $2.19 each for the rest of the day. If you’re splitting servings with a group, that’s a good deal.

The refillable drink bottles function the same way. For $34, you might buy the 1-Up Mushroom sipper, which includes free refills on the day you purchase it.

Several offsite hotels are within walking distance of Orlando’s two older Universal parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, and offer free shuttles to Epic Universe. Some even qualify for free-night redemptions using credit card points. One standout is the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando, which often has award availability and competitive cash rates — and you can walk to CityWalk from there, the free-to-visit outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment district operated by Universal Orlando Resort.

Even if you don’t enter the park gates, you can still get a small taste of Epic Universe by strolling through CityWalk and exploring the stores and restaurants.

This massive store carries much of the same merchandise sold inside the parks, from Hogwarts wands to plush Marios.

Plus, the store has its own butterbeer counter, so you can sip the iconic butterscotch drink without paying park admission (it’s still about $9 for a butterbeer, but you’ll skip the ticket cost).

Also in CityWalk, this space showcases a massive 3D model of the park. Download a free app and augmented reality (AR) technology even lets you interact with the map, letting you look inside attractions.

It’s not quite the same as experiencing the rides in real life, but it’s still fun to explore the park’s layout virtually.

Book a table at Bar Helios at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, which overlooks Epic Universe.

Reservations are available on Resy, so use The Platinum Card® from American Express (or another card with Resy perks) to snag a coveted evening table, where you can admire the fountain show playing out down below. You’ll need to order food or drinks to enjoy the view, though. An order of chicken wings costs $24, and a basic Budweiser is $10 (before tax and tip).

Still, it’s a far less expensive way to experience the park’s atmosphere than buying a full-day ticket. Plus, it’s a lot more relaxing — and you’ll get a meal out of it.