Are You Ready to Unearth the Secrets of The Dark Universe?
By: April Menendez
Universal Studios is taking their attractions to the next level with Epic Universe, a brand-new theme park in Orlando that’s sure to captivate and awe visitors like never before!
One of the most highly anticipated lands within this park is “Dark Universe” which promises to immerse guests in a shadowy, thrilling realm inspired by classic monster films. From cutting-edge attractions to chilling themed restaurants, this land will be a must-visit for classic Universal monster fans alike.
So, what exactly is the Dark Universe? The Dark Universe is a homage to Universal’s classic monster movies that have thrilled audiences for decades. This immersive new land will bring together classic monsters (think Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, and the Wolfman) with a new generation of characters, such as Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, Henry’s great-great granddaughter. This immersive world will blend myth and reality, all while transporting you directly into the heart of the monsters’ world!
Attractions that Will Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat: Dark Universe will be home to two new attractions that anyone who grew up loving all things scary and creepy will love!
- Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. In Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, Dr. Victoria Frankenstein continues the work of her ancestors deep below the family estate. A demonstration of her experiments to control monsters goes awry when Dracula leads a revolt of enraged monsters including The Wolf Man, The Mummy, The Creature from the Black Lagoon, and more!
- Curse of the Werewolf– In this thrilling family coaster, Maleva, leader of The Guild of Mystics, welcomes you to a secluded wagon camp. Here you’re warned of the creatures who prowl the deep woods. Before long, you’re riding Curse of the Werewolf- surrounded by glowing eyes and gnashing teeth, you’ll spin and weave through the forest as you attempt to escape a pack of werewolves.
Eerie and Unique Dining Experiences
When you’ve had your fill of thrills, the Dark Universe World offers equally exciting dining options that perfectly match the dark and immersive atmosphere of the park:
- Das Steakhouse- Shrouded in mystery, Das Steakhouse is an old inn and dining hall built over the ruins of ancient catacombs. Here you can enjoy a meal surrounded by vampire artwork and artifacts. In fact, the restaurant is run by vampires’ “familiars,” or servants. Just don’t venture down to the catacombs below, or you might find yourself on the vampires’ menu.
- The Burning Blade Tavern– This tavern is the old mill which Darkmoor Village’s monster hunters have transformed into their hideout. Here guests will discover stories of the countryside’s most accomplished creature capturers along with a menu of burgers, wings, bratwursts, pretzels, and beverages. The mill at the top of this tavern erupts into flames every 20 minutes!
The Dark Universe isn’t just about pulse-pounding rides and unique restaurants—there’s also plenty of fun to partake in even for
the youngest monster fans, including iconic monster meet and greets, and a classic monster makeup experience.
Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience
At Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, monster makers have converted Dr. Pretorius’ old laboratory into a parlor to continue the spirit of his demented experiments. Here skilled artisans use their spectacular talents to transform their customers and release their inner love of Universal Monsters- be they werewolves, vampires, mummies, or something even more fashionably monstrous.
Darkmoor Village Character Meet & Greets – Visit Darkmoor Village and meet some of its unusual inhabitants, including Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s servant. Yoor: The Invisible Man; a courageous monster hunter; or a talente musician who may regale you with songs. Feel free to say hello and take photos with them. But beware. You never know who – or what – may be lurking in the shadows.
Frankenstein’s Monster and Bride of Frankenstein Meet & Greet – They’re destined to be together for all of eternity. And you can capture them for all time in a photo you’ll treasure forever. Meet the legendary Frankenstein’s monster and the alluring Bride of Frankenstein together in the village of Darkmoor.
There you have it! Whether you’re a Universal Studios regular or a first-time visitor, Dark Universe will be an unmissable experience, with enough thrills and chills to fulfill your eerie monster dreams. With its blend of beloved movie monsters, cutting-edge technology, and immersive storytelling, Dark Universe World at Epic Universe is poised to become a theme park destination unlike any other. So mark your calendars, get your monster squad ready, and prepare for a journey into the darkest and most exhilarating corners of cinematic history!
