(A version of this article was shared with Pirates and Princesses and published on June 20, 2024.)
Classic frights are creeping into Orlando. No, we’re not talking about Halloween Horror Nights. We’re plunging into Dark Universe – one of five themed lands coming to Universal’s Epic Universe in 2025.
Back in January, Universal Orlando dropped a bombshell announcement offering a few tasty tidbits coming as part of Epic Universe – scheduled to open in 2025. As part of the announcement, Universal identified five themed lands which will make up the resort’s fourth theme park, joining Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay water theme park.
The themed lands of Epic Universe will include:
- Celestial Park (details released January 30, 2024)
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
- SUPER NINTENDO WORLD (details release May 2, 2024)
- Dreamworks How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk (details released March 28, 2024)
- Dark Universe
Today, Universal unearthed some deliciously gory details on Dark Universe – a land destined to celebrate the classic bread-and-butter monster characters of Universal cinema.
Dark Universe
Enter the Village of Darkmoor and take a stroll through the crumbling streets of a mythic yesteryear. This foreboding world is home to unearthly legends and monstrous experiments – a shadowy realm where legend meets reality. Speaking of legend – Darkmoor has been plagued for centuries by frightening monsters and mad scientists twisting the laws of nature and discarding the rules of science. Do you dare learn more?
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
In this thrilling indoor attraction, Dr. Victoria Frankenstein continues the work of her ancestors deep below the family estate. Her attempt to control the classic monsters around Darkmoor goes awry when the vampire Dracula leads a revolt of enraged monsters deep below the Frankenstein estate, including The Wolf Man, The Mummy, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, and others.
According to Universal’s designers, this motion simulator thrill ride will push the limits of figure animation technology. And with a minimum height requirement of 48 inches, this experience will not be for the faint of heart!
Curse of the Werewolf
You’ve been warned! When you enter this secluded wagon camp, you’ll be welcomed by Maleva, the all-knowing seer and leader of The Guild of Mystics. But be aware – creatures prowl the deep woods. If you choose to weave through the forest on Curse of the Werewolf, you just might find yourself surrounded by glowing eyes and gnashing teeth, being chased by a pack of werewolves lurking in the woods.
This family-friendly thrill coaster will twist and turn for over two full minutes, reaching speeds up to 37 miles per hour. Guests 40 inches and over are welcome to ride.
Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience
Dr. Pretorius’ old lab has been converted into a parlor to continue the spirit of his demented experiments. At Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, skilled artisans use their talents to experiment on their special guests, releasing their inner love of Universal Monsters. Werewolves, vampires, mummies – they’re all on the table. Or perhaps you can think of something even more fashionably monstrous?
This makeup experience – including original creations from industry-leading and award-winning makeup and special effects artists – will make Disney’s Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique look like mere “child’s play.”
Meet the Monsters
A visit to Darkmoor Village wouldn’t be complete without meeting a few of its horrific inhabitants. Some of the village’s unique residents include Frankenstein’s Monster (and his Bride), Ygor, and The Invisible Man (not sure how that one will work, but I’m excited to find out).
In addition to these gothic icons, guests may also meet a courageous monster hunter or the whimsical village musician. All are available to say hello and take photos. But we have been warned about who – or what – may be lurking in the shadows.
Das Stakehaus
Das Stakehaus is an old inn and dining hall built over the ruins of ancient catacombs. In this mysterious restaurant – run by vampires’ “familiars” (servants) – guests can enjoy a hearty meal while surrounded by vampire artwork and artifacts. The many paintings in this quick-service eatery depict the world of vampires from their point of view – painting them as heroes in their stories, while also displaying some of Darkmoor’s history, and referencing its architecture.
The Burning Blade Tavern
The Burning Blade Tavern is an old mill which Darkmoor Village’s monster hunters have claimed and furnished as their hangout. Unlike Das Stakehaus, this tavern boasts stories of some of the countryside’s most accomplished creature capturers, even featuring a few treasured trophies. This quick-service location will feature a menu of burgers, wings, bratwursts, pretzels and specialty beverages.
Keep an eye on the windmill at the top of The Burning Blade Tavern – it will erupt into flames several times an hour!
De Lacey’s Cottage
Located near Frankenstein Manor, De Lacey’s Cottage food stand serves up a variety of snacks and cool treats like cinnamon bread, ice cream, twisted taters, and more.
Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities
Here, guests can take home a treasured piece of the immortal world with commemorative merchandise and mementos. More info to come on this “curious” merchant.
When initially revealed, the concept for Dark Universe sounded like some great classic monster fun. But upon seeing the concept art and reading the descriptions of the land and its experiences – this land looks absolutely amazing. And just in case you need another reason to be excited about Dark Universe – the music for the land will be score by music legend (and Disney Legend) Danny Elfman!
Check out this video tour of Dark Universe. It truly looks EPIC!
Want to immerse yourself in some of these details now? Universal Orlando recently opened the Epic Universe Preview Center, located in Universal CityWalk. It includes a model of the park, along with select information, photo experiences, and merchandise.
Are you brave enough to enter Dark Universe? Sometime in 2025, you can discover this area for yourself! Contact Facts and Figment Vacation Planning to start the process. There are great deals to be had, and I can help you find them. My travel planning services are absolutely FREE, and I can help you score the best, hardest-to-get deals to make your vacation more affordable.
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