When you think of romance, roller coasters and wands might not be the first things that come to mind. But walking into Universal's Epic Universe in Orlando with your significant other, you quickly realize this place is built for adventure (and lots of selfies!).
Thanks to a press trip orchestrated by Expedia - which highlighted how travelers can bundle flights, hotels, and park tickets for major savings - we got to experience every corner of this place: from the gaming tunnels of Super Nintendo World, to the haunted streets of Dark Universe, the dragon-filled Isle of Berk, and the spellbinding Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
Here are some of the most romantic things couples should look out for on their next trip.
Watch the Nightlights at Celestial Park
The nightly light spectacle in front of the Grand Helios Hotel is the park's heartbeat. We arrived at Celestial Park, the glowing hub that connects you to all the worlds, just before dusk, with the sky turning violet and a calm hush rolling over the lawn.
At 9 p.m., about an hour before closing, the park seems to hold its breath when the water show began: fountains pulse, pathways glow, and the statues of Apollo and Luna stood proud nearby. The show was almost poetic - and so romantic!
Ride Mario Kart & Aim With Your Head
In Super Nintendo World, Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge is a two-seater mixed-reality ride that's ideal for duos. But here's what they won't tell you: the helmet they strap on you is how you aim. You want to point the front of your helmet where you want to shoot. In other words: aim with your head!
Pretend You're in Paris at the Wizarding World
Step through the portal and say bonjour! Tucked right at the entrance of the Wizarding World is the sweetest little café, Café L'air De La Sirène, a spot that's made for lingering. Grab a latte, split a pastry, and do a little people-watching while you snap a few cute selfies together. It's practically begging to be your "we're in Paris" moment.
Pro tip: Keep your eyes on fellow witches and wizards pulling out their wands. Alleyways, hidden storefronts, random corners - spells are hiding everywhere. The best part is stumbling upon the magic by accident. (You don't have to buy a wand there, you can use any wand you've bought at any Harry Potter store in the past.)
An Epic Picture at the Ministry of Magic
Whether you're on a date or traveling with family or friends, there's nothing more magical than entering the Ministry of Magic. Towards the back of the Wizarding World, you'll find the entrance to its new ride, Harry Potter and the Battle of the Ministry.
When you enter the Ministry, you'll pass through a swirling portal that bursts with fog. Couples (and kids at heart) were leaping in and out just for the thrill of it. Half the fun is seeing how goofy your photos turn out as the mist wraps around you. That's well worth a social media post or two.
Don't Miss the Live Shows
In the Wizarding World, "Le Cirque Arcanus" is a theatrical circus show inspired by Fantastic Beasts. Expect puppetry, special effects, and GIANT magical creatures.
Over at Isle of Berk, you can catch "The Untrainable Dragon," a 30-minute musical show with songs, puppets, and the joy of dragons - including one that flies directly over the audience.
Pet a Dragon (Yes, Seriously)
Just outside The Untrainable Dragon stage, Toothless (yes, that Toothless, from the film How to Train Your Dragon) is waiting for a photo op. A friendly handler invites guests to pet him and even offers to snap your photo. Don't pass this up.
Find the Sassy Portrait
When you walk into the Wizarding World, there is an alley to your right. There you'll find an interactive portrait of one of the sassiest witches ever. She'll chat you up, ask what you're wearing, challenge you to cast spells, and point you toward hidden pockets of the land.
This isn't pre-recorded. She responds in real time to your questions and comments, and if you joke with her, she'll waste no time giving you a battle of the wits.
Rooftop Cheers at Bar Helios
Once you've explored the park, head up to Bar Helios, on the 10th floor of Helios Grand Hotel (the only hotel inside Epic Universe). The view over Celestial Park is sweeping and is one of those vistas you quietly savor, maybe with a cocktail in hand.
Related: The Food Options at Universal Epic Universe Are Out of This World, Here's What You Can't Miss When You Go
Take a Side Trip for the VelociCoaster
If your both brave enough to venture outside Epic Universe, head next door to Islands of Adventure for the legendary VelociCoaster. I spotted more than a few couples in line having the same debate: "Should we? … Shouldn't we?" Here's your answer: yes. Absolutely yes.
This launch coaster rockets from 0 to 70 mph in seconds, and while it looks wild (and it is), the ride is surprisingly smooth. You'll clutch each other like it's the end of days, which, oddly, makes it one of the most romantic experiences in Orlando.
Afterward, pop over to Café 4 to catch your breath. They have an outdoor seating area that looks directly into the ride as riders fly by. It's way more fun to watch their faces and be relieved it's not you.
Next: All the Rides at Universal Epic Universe, Including the Secret Attraction, Ranked
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