Following a full day of exploring the Universal Epic Universe, I can confidently say that the How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk stood out as my favorite attraction. This immersive world is a key component of Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort’s latest theme park, set to open its doors to the public on May 22, 2025. Ahead of the grand launch, Universal has been organizing preview events, including one for media representatives, which I had the privilege to attend on behalf of Screen Rant.
During this exclusive media event, I delved into the five distinct “worlds”that make up Epic Universe: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, and, of course, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. Although I thoroughly enjoyed each area, my expectations varied. I had anticipated that Dark Universe would capture my heart due to my passion for horror, yet Isle of Berk emerged as my top choice for several compelling reasons.
6 Isle Of Berk’s Park Design
Universal Created a Unique Space for HTTYD
Upon entering the How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, I was already familiar with the artist renderings of this world, yet witnessing it firsthand was a delightful surprise. Stepping through the portal, I was greeted by a large inscribed stone marking Berk, the home of the franchise’s beloved characters. The lagoon’s striking giant statues immediately captivated my attention, serving as a central design feature of the park. The surrounding structures transported me right into the vibrant universe of How to Train Your Dragon.
The Viking village’s architecture combined beautifully hand-carved wooden designs, enhancing the area’s immersive feel. While water elements were prominent, the lush greenery effectively showcased Berk’s picturesque “rolling hills.”The food options, shopping venues, and attractions encircle the lagoon, offering numerous spots to explore or seek refuge from the sweltering Florida sun.
5 How To Train Your Dragon Elements For Every Age
There’s Something for Everyone in Berk
Guests arriving at Isle of Berk may not all be familiar with the How to Train Your Dragon films, but that poses no issue. The world offers a wealth of engaging features suitable for visitors of all ages, regardless of their prior knowledge of the franchise. Unlike the more intense offerings of Dark Universe or the mature themes found in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Isle of Berk presents an array of experiences that cater to everyone without requiring additional expenses.
In fact, I could easily spend an entire day within Isle of Berk, and I strongly suspect others will feel the same way. Whether you’re eager to hop onto rides inspired by How to Train Your Dragon or simply relax and sip a cold beverage like a Viking, plenty of enjoyable options await. The park even features a live show, interactive character encounters, and striking visual elements inspired by the films, including flying dragons. Indeed, the immersive environment invites visitors to linger and explore.
4 No Extras Required to Enjoy How To Train Your Dragon – Isle Of Berk
All Fun is Included with Your Park Pass
One of the highlights of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk is that all interactive elements are included with your park admission. In contrast to attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, where many exciting features require purchasing interactive wands for access, or Super Nintendo World, which necessitates a Power-Up band, Isle of Berk operates differently.
All three rides within Isle of Berk are available to Epic Universe visitors, along with live shows and character meet-and-greets—all included in your entry fee. I particularly enjoyed observing the various areas featuring moving set pieces, such as the playful baby dragons squabbling over fish, the frosty Snow Wraith, and sheep cleverly disguised. Each design element truly brought the beloved films to life.
3 The Untrainable Dragon Live Show
As part of the media preview event at Epic Universe, I had the fantastic opportunity to watch two new live shows, including The Untrainable Dragon at Isle of Berk. Without revealing too much, the premise revolves around Hiccup assisting Astrid and Gobber with an “untrainable”dragon. The show features live actors, musical performances, exciting action sequences, and captivating animation.
Due to camera restrictions during the live performance, some images in this article depict artist renderings of attractions from Universal Orlando Resort. However, I was thrilled to see actual dragons incorporated into the show. Among them was Toothless, Hiccup’s loyal companion, who delighted us by flying above the audience several times.
2 Variety of Rides at How To Train Your Dragon – Isle Of Berk
Ride Options Catered to Different Intensity Levels
My fondness for How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk wouldn’t be complete without mentioning its diverse ride offerings. This park stands out as the only one within Epic Universe that features three distinct rides: Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, Dragon Racer’s Rally, and Fyre Drill. The most thrilling of these is Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a roller coaster that involves both Hiccup and Toothless, masterfully utilizing the lagoon area to create a sensation of soaring over the island.
And here are closer looks at 2 rides within HTTYD – Isle of Berk: Hiccup’s Wing Gliders Dragon Racer’s Rally#EpicUniverse pic.twitter.com/mQgiCTlXt6 — Kara Hedash (@kara_hedash) April 10, 2025
Dragon Racer’s Rally also boasts an exhilarating design, allowing riders to control their seats for a personalized experience. Additionally, Fyre Drill serves as a family-friendly water ride suitable for visitors of all ages. Epic Universe offers Isle of Berk an extra advantage with the Viking Training Camp, a play area designed specifically for younger children, complete with an agility course, slides, dragon climbers, and more.
1 Character Meet & Greets at How To Train Your Dragon – Isle Of Berk
Meet the Franchise’s Popular Characters
Several elements made How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk my favorite world within Epic Universe. However, the character encounters ranked as my top experience. While it may seem childish for an adult to be thrilled by a meet-and-greet, I’m certain I’m not alone in this sentiment. Although character interactions occur throughout Epic Universe, Isle of Berk offered something particularly enchanting about unexpectedly encountering actors portraying Astrid and the mischievous twins, Ruffnut and Tuffnut, who authentically embodied their animated counterparts.
Additionally, keep an eye out for Dart, who is set to make appearances at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, delighting fans as the adorably animated baby dragon.
The park also features official meet-and-greets, where guests can interact with character animatronics that respond and react to visitors. I was especially thrilled when Toothless allowed me to pet his head before beaming at my request for a photo. If character meet-and-greets are on your agenda, I recommend arriving at Haddock Paddock early, as it’s destined to be a popular spot in the Universal Epic Universe, making any wait well worth it.