I recently went on a VIP Tour at Epic Universe, and I learned a few lessons along the way!

Celestial Park in Epic Universe

Epic Universe is full of thrilling attractions and adventure, and on my VIP Tour, I got to experience it in a new way. However, there were a few things I learned the hard way while doing the VIP Tour, so learn from my experience.

Before we get into it, let me tell you a little more about the tour itself. The tour experience, officially known as a Non-Private VIP Tour, gathers together parties who’ve booked for the day — a group of no more than twelve (12) guests per tour —  on a “structured, guided walking tour of Universal Epic Universe” including VIP Priority access to some of the park’s most popular rides and attractions, behind-the-scenes experiences (based off availability), Universal Express access to participating attractions following the tour’s completion, and 10% off merchandise throughout the day.

Epic Universe

The experience is not a cheap one, as a single spot costs $489.99, NOT including the $174.00 price of a one-day admission to Epic Universe, which is required to take the tour. So in total, the experience cost nearly $700 after taxes. That overall price includes the roughly 4-hour tour, and Universal Express access (using your VIP Lanyard once per ride) for the rest of the day. Of note, the tour does include breaks for food, but meals are not included.

Learn More About the VIP Tour Here
Isle of Berk
1. Epic Universe is Basically a Stairmaster Workout

One thing I was completely unprepared for was just how many stairs there are throughout Epic Universe. Between attraction queues, shortcuts between lands, and even some ride exits, you’ll find yourself climbing stairs all day long. When you’re moving at VIP tour pace, you don’t always have time to stop and recover before heading to the next attraction.

Super Nintendo World

The best thing you can do is prepare ahead of time. Wear your most comfortable walking shoes (not the ones you’re trying to break in), stay hydrated, and don’t underestimate how physically demanding the day can be. If stairs are difficult for you, don’t be afraid to let your guide know early in the tour so they can help accommodate your needs whenever possible. A little preparation can make a huge difference by the end of the day.

Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
2. It’s Still a Brand-New Theme Park

It’s easy to assume that spending hundreds of dollars on a VIP tour means you’ll have a perfectly seamless day, but that’s simply not the reality right now. Epic Universe is still a brand-new park, and with that comes some growing pains. During my visit, there were moments when attractions experienced delays, temporary downtime, or operational hiccups that reminded me that this park is still finding its footing.

Ministry of Magic

My biggest tip is to adjust your expectations before you arrive. A VIP tour can help you maximize your day, but it can’t magically prevent ride breakdowns or operational issues. Instead of focusing on what you might miss, embrace the flexibility that comes with visiting a new park. Build some extra time into your plans afterward and remember that even the newest, most advanced attractions occasionally need a little extra attention.

Le Cirque Arcanus
3. Four Hours Isn’t Nearly Enough Time

Before my tour, I assumed four hours would feel like plenty of time to experience Epic Universe. I was very wrong. Because the tour is designed to get you to as many attractions as possible, the pace is incredibly fast. You’ll move from ride to ride with very little downtime, which is great for checking major attractions off your list, but not so great if you actually want to soak in the details of each land.

Viking Training Camp

My advice? Don’t make your VIP tour the only time you plan to spend in the park. If possible, schedule the tour earlier in the day so you’ll still have several hours afterward to explore on your own. Epic Universe is packed with hidden details, interactive elements, unique restaurants, and incredible theming that deserve more than a quick glance while you’re rushing to your next attraction. The VIP tour is an excellent way to conquer the rides, but the real magic (yes, we’re borrowing Disney’s word for a moment) happens when you finally slow down and explore at your own pace.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders!

At the end of the day, I don’t regret spending $700 on an Epic Universe VIP Tour — but I definitely learned some valuable lessons along the way. If you’re planning to book one yourself, going in with realistic expectations can help you get the most out of the experience and avoid some of the surprises that caught me off guard. For more theme park tips and news, be sure to follow us at AllEars.net.

4 Exclusive Perks You Only Get with VIP Tours at Epic Universe

Would you want to take a VIP tour at Epic Universe? Tell us in the comments below!

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