Accessibility at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe

Epic Universe is now in its preview phase, and while a complete accessibility guide hasn’t been released yet, we do know all about the Attractions Assistance Pass (AAP). We also know that there are an insane amount of stairs, and how they might affect you. If you’re excited for this brand-new Universal Orlando park, but nervous about accessibility, we’ve got what you need to know, below. Tap any item in the list below to jump straight there.

• Navigating Guest Services and Concierge Locations
• What to know about the stairs that are everywhere
• Rides with Must-See Queues

If you’ve never been to any Universal Orlando theme park, you might want to read up on the Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP) before tackling the info below. Everything You Need to Know: Universal Studios’ Attraction Assistance Pass. That article will also give you a primer on the IBCCES Accessibility Card (IAC). The IAC is a third-party organization that verifies medical diagnoses. Universal has partnered with them to make it simpler to get an AAP when you arrive at the park.

Note that having an IAC does not guarantee you’ll receive an Attractions Assistance Pass. Universal requires a separate conversation — by phone or in person — to assess your specific needs and determine if an AAP is appropriate. And Universal, like Disney, does not automatically issue AAPs for disabilities related solely to restroom access or multiple other conditions.

Navigating Guest Services and Concierge Locations

Let’s start with the park layout. Good news, there are a lot of locations where team members are ready to help. Bad news, not all of the locations are able to help with every need.

Epic Universe features two Guest Services areas. The first is located outside the main entrance, to the right. The second is positioned inside the entrance, between the front gates and the Celestial Park portal, also on the right side. Additionally, there are three Concierge locations spread throughout the park Celestial Park, one between Super Nintendo World and Dark Universe, one near the Harry Potter portal, and another near the Isle of Berk portal.

Location matters because not every Guest Services desk handles accommodations the same way. If you have an IBCCES Accessibility Card (IAC) and have previously spoken with Universal’s Accessibility Team — meaning you have a specific Universal case number — you can visit either Guest Services location or any of the Concierge locations to obtain your AAP. Helpful tip: at the Guest Services outside the park entrance, there’s a dedicated line for guests with an IAC, which can speed up your process significantly.

If You Don’t Have a Universal Case Number

If you arrive at Epic Universe without a Universal-issued case number and you need accommodations (beyond mobility-related needs), there’s only one place to go. You’ll head to the Guest Services inside the park entrance, located between the front gate and Celestial Park on the far right side.

This is the only Guest Services location staffed with Accessibility Team Members trained to assess and issue accommodations in real-time. Whether you already have an IAC or need help starting the process, they are your go-to team.

Accessibility Alert: There Are a Lot of Stairs

After two visits to Epic, my middle-aged knees can confirm that a major accessibility challenge at Epic Universe is the sheer number of stairs throughout the park.

Every attraction except for the Constellation Carousel requires at least one flight of stairs up and one flight down, and several rides involve multiple flights. Whether you use a mobility aid such as a wheelchair, scooter, cane, or simply need extra support due to knee or joint issues, you should check in with an attractions team member at the ride entrance. They’ll help guide you through available accommodations, such as elevators or alternative entrances.

Importantly, if your only concern is avoiding stairs because of mobility limitations, you don’t need to visit Guest Services for an AAP. The attractions teams will assist you directly.

Rides with Must-See Queues (And What to Expect)

A few rides at Epic Universe have queues so immersive and detailed, they’re practically attractions on their own. However, accessibility varies.

At Harry Potter and the Magic of Ministry, the queue is mostly accessible. You’ll only encounter stairs just before the loading area, meaning you’ll experience most of the magical environment without much difficulty.

Unfortunately, the experience is different at Monsters Unchained. The queue here is filled with spectacular animatronics and outstanding theming. However, if you require an elevator, you’ll bypass most of the themed queue, including the Monster and Victoria Frankenstein animatronics.  There’s only one flight of stairs to navigate, so if you’re able to manage even a few steps, it’s well worth it to see the full experience.

More Accessibility Updates Are Coming Soon

Because Epic Universe is still in previews, the full range of accessibility services, policies, and guides has not yet been finalized. Bookmark this page! As Universal releases more information, we’ll update here to keep you informed.

If you have any questions or specific concerns about your upcoming visit, feel free to drop them in the comments.