How to Beat the Florida Heat While Exploring the Magic in Epic Universe
We just got back from an AMAZINGLY EPIC trip to Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe! The trip was incredible and I can’t wait to share all of my Epic Universe Tips and Tricks… I will say “that Florida heat is next level!”. Add to it that Epic Universe is a brand new theme park with baby trees and not much shade, I’m glad I thought ahead and took a few precautions to make sure we stayed as cool as possible.
With the sun beating down and excitement running high, staying cool is essential for a fun and safe day at the park. Here are my top Tips for Staying Cool at Epic Universe so your magical adventure doesn’t melt away.
You can also check out: 10 Tips for Staying Cool at Disney World
Table of Contents
1. Bring an Umbrella…but Not for Rain
Yes, Florida is notorious for afternoon thunderstorms, but your umbrella will actually be most helpful for shade. Many of the walkways in Epic Universe are wide open with little tree cover, so bringing a compact umbrella can offer some instant relief from the scorching sun… especially while waiting in outdoor queues or watching shows.
2. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is your superpower! You can refill your bottle for FREE at the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines located throughout most of the park. Don’t worry about buying a drink pass, the best way to keep cool is by drinking water. My family loves these little electrolyte packets to mix in the water to add some flavor without any sugar.
Important tip- there are no Freestyle machines in the Wizarding World, so fill up before venturing into the Ministry of Magic
3. Use Mobile Order for Indoor Dining
When the sun gets unbearable, it’s the perfect time to head indoors for a meal. Save time (and avoid standing in long lines outside) by using mobile ordering on the Universal Orlando app. Scope out cool indoor spots like Toadstool Café in Super Nintendo World, Mead Hall in the Isle of Berk, Pizza Moon in Celestial Park, Le Goblet Noir in the Wizarding World, or Das Stakehouse in Dark Universe for a tasty meal and a much-needed air-conditioned break.
4. Take Advantage of Indoor Attractions
Epic Universe is packed with immersive indoor experiences. I highly recommend spending the heat of the day (typically 12-4pm) doing the indoor rides.
In Super Nintendo World this is the perfect time to wait for Mario Kart. The queue line winds through Bowser’s Castle which is nicely air conditioned!
Over in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Battle at the Ministry queue line is completely indoors and might even be as good as the ride itself. Universal dropped $1 billion dollars on this ride and a lot of that money went into the immersive experience you’ll get while waiting in line for the ride!
In Dark Universe, the best bet would be Monster’s Unchained which is partially outside when the queue gets extremely long…but once you reach the inside it’s dark, cool, and entertaining.
The heat of the day is also the perfect time to go see The Untrainable Dragon at the Isle of Berk. This show is fully inside and air conditioned. Then you can head over to Mead Hall (under the mountain) and grab a delicious meal.
5. Wear Moisture-Wicking Clothing
This might seem simple, but what you wear makes a big difference. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics and avoid dark colors. Moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, and even hats help regulate your temperature and keep you from feeling sticky and uncomfortable.
My husband and son like to layer these cooling shirts underneath their graphic tshirts. The fabric helps wick away sweat and then it cools quickly whenever we enter an air-conditioned space.
I personally like to wear dresses (like this) that are light and flowy with some chafe-proof shorts underneath….I like these because it has a pocket for my phone. I’ve found that this is the best way to keep cool at the theme parks….and I still look cute for all the family picks!
6. Personal Cooling Devices are a MUST
Florida is no joke when it comes to heat…especially during the extra hot summer months. But, even if you’re going in the spring and fall, you never know what the weather might bring with the strong Florida sun!
That’s why I try out all of the different types of cooling devices, these are the best that I’ve found so far:
- Frogg Toggs are the BEST cooling towels I’ve tried! Simply wet these lightweight towels and place them on your face or around your neck for instant cooling. You don’t even need cold water to make these work!
- We’ve been using the O2COOL Misting Fans for over 10 years! Nothing compares to the cooling relief that a little water mist mixed with the personal fan extends. Note: when I refill my water bottle, I add some ice into this and it keeps me even cooler!
7. Cool Down with a Frozen Treat
Epic Universe has no shortage of icy goodies to help beat the heat. Whether it’s a wizarding world frozen butterbeer, a fruity potion from Super Nintendo World, or a classic ice cream cone from a street cart, a cold snack is a fun (and delicious) way to cool off.
8. Take Midday Breaks
If you’re traveling with kids or planning a full day in the park, consider taking a break during the hottest part of the day. This is where staying on property is worth the price! You won’t believe the recharge you’ll get from heading back to the room for an hour to just relax! Pacing your day can keep everyone refreshed and ready to explore more lands.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the Heat Steal the Magic
Florida’s heat can be relentless, but it doesn’t have to put a damper on your day at Epic Universe. With a little planning (and some shade), you’ll stay cool while making unforgettable memories.
More Posts to Read Before Visiting Epic Universe
- Hidden Gems at Dark Universe in Epic Universe
- Hidden Gems at The Ministry of Magic in Epic Universe
- Hidden Gems at The Isle of Berk in Epic Universe
- Hidden Gems of Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe Orlando
- Universal’s Epic Universe Family Guide