Credit: Andrew Boardwine, Inside the MagicUniversal Orlando Resort shared some significant and shocking operational changes after guests were left scratching their heads on operations related to Epic Universe.
Epic Universe Makes Shocking Operational Change
It was a sweltering August afternoon in Orlando, the kind of heat that makes even the most die-hard theme park fan consider retreating to the hotel pool. But for thousands of guests at Universal’s Epic Universe, the real frustration wasn’t the weather—it was their phones.
For hours, the Universal Orlando Resort app’s operating hours feature was down, leaving visitors guessing how long they had before the gates closed. Was it 8 p.m. like usual? Or was something else going on?
Then, as the app flickered back to life, fans saw something they didn’t expect: the hours for Epic Universe were… different. And not just by a little.
Before we spill the whole story, let’s get into why this seemingly small update could be a big deal for your next trip—and how you can take full advantage.
Epic Universe Extends Hours for Labor Day Rush
On August 15, 2025, Universal quietly updated its app to show new operating hours for Epic Universe. Starting August 24 and running through September 8—including Labor Day weekend—the park will stay open until 10 p.m. instead of the earlier 8 p.m. closing time.
A technical problem today prevented display of Epic Universe operating hours in the UOR app.
A technical problem today prevented display of Epic Universe operating hours in the UOR app. pic.twitter.com/c2B0ISW4yP
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) August 15, 2025
The change comes just months after Epic Universe opened and right before its first major holiday rush. According to sources familiar with park operations, the decision likely came from guest feedback and the optics of closing the company’s most ambitious park early during peak season.
Epic Universe now has operating hours in the UOR app. – @bioreconstruct on X
Epic Universe now has operating hours in the UOR app. pic.twitter.com/UVZe6Lr0HW
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) August 15, 2025
While Universal has not made an official press release, the extended hours are now visible in the official app and have already been generating buzz on social media.
How to Make the Most of the Extra Hours
If you’re visiting during this two-week window, these extra hours are golden—especially if you know how to use them.
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Arrive in the late afternoon to avoid the worst heat and daytime crowds, then take advantage of cooler evening lines.
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Prioritize nighttime-only experiences like illuminated rides, after-dark photo spots, and special lighting effects in themed areas.
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Stack virtual queues late in the day—some rides may offer last-call return times that are easier to grab as other guests leave.
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Eat dinner early so you’re free to explore attractions while many are stuck in restaurants during prime hours.
Pro tip: Lines for headliners like Celestial Odyssey and How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk tend to drop significantly after 8:30 p.m., when day guests start filtering out.
Insider Hacks for Late-Night Epic Universe
Frequent visitors know that nighttime in the park feels completely different—and not just because of the cooler air.
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Alternate exits: The back pathways near the park’s lagoon can help you beat the post-fireworks crowds.
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Hidden snack spots: The smaller kiosks in the park’s fantasy realm stay open late and often have shorter lines than main dining areas.
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Overlooked rides: Certain attractions see shorter waits in the final hour—check the app for anything under 20 minutes and knock out multiple rides quickly.
Why Fans Are Celebrating
For many, this isn’t just about two extra hours—it’s about Universal showing flexibility and commitment to guest experience. Social media posts from parkgoers show excitement, with some even adjusting their vacation days to take advantage.
It also means guests get to experience Epic Universe’s immersive lands at night—a completely different atmosphere full of dramatic lighting, live entertainment, and unique photo opportunities. For a park designed with so much detail, those extra hours could make all the difference.