Universal Orlando always gives it their all during Halloween Horror Nights, with a lineup of truly terrifying haunted houses and scare zones to walk through. But with the arrival of a new theme park this year, we’re turning our attention to what could be the newest Halloween hotspot — and one that’s open all-year-round!
Over at Universal’s Epic Universe, there’s a land entirely dedicated to classic monsters like Dracula, The Wolf Man, Frankenstein’s Monster and more. Known as Dark Universe, this land is home to immersive attractions, themed dining and character encounters, all set inside the shadowy village of Darkmoor.
Much like the park’s other themed areas, you enter through an electricity-charged portal where you’re transported to a gothic village filled with details from Universal’s classic monster films. As you make your way around the vine-covered towers and the majestic Frankenstein Manor serving as a landmark, you’re treated to original music composed by the legendary Danny Elfman.
What to expect at Dark Universe
Beyond the rides, you can meet and interact with the inhabitants of Darkmoor, including Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s Monster and the Bride of Frankenstein. Moving all throughout the land are also Ygor, The Invisible Man and an ominous musician. You truly never know who can be lurking around!
You can also become a monster yourself — fashionably monstrous, that is — thanks to the official Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience. Here, skilled artists will give you a full transformation with face paint or temporary tattoos, all within a transformed old lab of Dr. Pretorius.
What rides you’ll find at Dark Universe
Within Darkmoor Village, there are two main attractions. Centered around the very creatures that make up the land, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment takes guests deep into the halls of Frankenstein Manor, where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein conducts her twisted experiments. Chaos ensues when Dracula gets involved and you’re swept into the darkness as you encounter The Mummy, Creature from the Black Lagoon and others.
Take a look at a full ride-through below (but beware, spoilers ahead!):
The other attraction is Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning family coaster that takes riders through the deep woods that werewolves call home, racing to escape them before they become one themselves.
Where to eat at Dark Universe
Of course, all that walking (and standing in line for rides) is sure to make you hungry. You can feast at the vampire-themed Das Stakehaus, which serves kebabs, burgers, sandwiches and more. In fact, the restaurant is run by vampires’ “familiars,” or servants.
You can also sink your teeth into wings, bratwurst, pretzels and more at The Burning Blade Tavern, which is exactly what it sounds like! Inspired by the fiery scene in 1931’s “Frankenstein,” a windmill atop the tavern erupts into flames from time to time.
And if you’re in the mood for some light snacks, De Lacey’s Cottage is where you’ll find twisted taters, cinnamon bites, cool treats and more.
While mapping out all of the terrific things to do this Halloween, be sure to include Universal’s Dark Universe on your list! For more info on Epic Universe, head over to their official site.