Less than five months since its highly anticipated opening, Epic Universe is facing growing health concerns that are drawing attention for all the wrong reasons. What many hoped would be Universal’s crowning achievement is now the subject of online discussions as visitors express worries over a specific issue that, if ignored, could lead to significant consequences for guest health.
This concern is not about the usual complaints of long lines or expensive snacks, as many guests are calling upon Universal Orlando Resort to promptly address a situation affecting their well-being. The current situation highlights a crucial lesson: even a visually stunning new park can encounter challenges in its early days.
Universal’s established theme parks, like Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, and Volcano Bay, have long maintained high standards for cleanliness and safety. These parks have developed robust operational processes over the years, rarely encountering the widespread health issues seen emerging at Epic Universe.
The park opened in May 2025 to enthusiastic crowds eager to explore themed areas such as SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. Although the park has dazzled visitors with its visual appeal, the intricacies of operational excellence, especially in sanitation, have been slower to develop.
The primary concern arises in the Isle of Berk section, themed around the beloved “How to Train Your Dragon” franchise. While this lively area features engaging attractions, including a popular roller coaster and interactive experiences for families, attention has also turned to the Viking Training Camp playground where both excitement and concern collide.
A decorative fountain, designed to enhance the aesthetic of the area, has become a hotspot for visitors treating it as an informal water source. Instead of just being a scenic feature for guests to admire, social media posts show people washing their hands, splashing water on their faces, and even filling water bottles from the fountain. This behavior raises serious health alarms, as the water is not filtered or sanitized for human contact, posing a significant risk of bacterial contamination.
Health experts discourage drinking from such fountains, emphasizing that they are not designed for that purpose. With many guests reportedly interacting with the same water throughout the day, the potential for spreading germs increases, especially in Florida’s hot climate.
Universal can take immediate action to remedy this situation. Installing clear signage warning against drinking and touching the fountain would be a vital first step. Additionally, providing more water refill stations nearby could offer a safe and accessible alternative for hydration. Other theme parks have successfully navigated similar issues, and Universal has the chance to do the same.
This experience serves as a learning opportunity for Epic Universe, which has already dazzled guests with its immersive environments and thrilling attractions. As it continues to shape its identity, demonstrating effective health and safety measures will be paramount. Simple adjustments, such as prominent signage and more water stations, could significantly improve guest safety and comfort, allowing Epic Universe to uphold its reputation and address concerns swiftly. This proactive approach will be essential in ensuring that the park’s early challenges do not overshadow its many successes.