Learn what’s worth it (and what to skip) at Universal’s new theme park Epic Universe, with money-saving tips and sneak peeks of top rides.

Is Epic Universe worth the higher ticket price compared to Universal’s other parks? How can you save money on theme park food, drinks, and add-ons without sacrificing fun? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the newest and most expensive addition to Universal Orlando—Epic Universe—and help you decide what’s worth the splurge, what’s skippable, and how to enjoy a top-tier experience without breaking your budget. But first, they break down the latest travel news, including United and JetBlue’s new BlueSky partnership, United’s downgrade of elite perks, and Southwest’s introduction of bag fees.

Then, Sally recaps her experience at Epic Universe, including Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, Isle of Berk, and a new Wizarding World of Harry Potter. She shares what to expect from the rides, dining, and vibe of each area, which locations offer the best rides and food, whether pricey extras like interactive wands and power-up bands are worth it, and smart ways to enjoy the park without overspending. 

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews.

Resources discussed in this episode:

Best Southwest Airlines Credit Cards of June 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/southwest-airlines-cards 

The Best Days to Fly Around July Fourth in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/fourth-of-july-travel 

The Cheapest Ways to Visit Universal’s Epic Universe in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/epic-universe-cheapest 

Universal Epic Universe: How to Plan Your Trip To One Of Orlando’s Top Theme Parks https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/epic-universe 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: Epic Universe, Universal Orlando theme park, Universal Studios Epic Universe, how to save money at theme parks, best rides at Epic Universe, Epic Universe food prices, Universal Orlando ticket cost, Universal vs Epic Universe, Harry Potter Land Epic Universe, Ministry of Magic ride, Monsters Unchained ride, How to Train Your Dragon ride, Super Nintendo World Orlando, Epic Universe power-up bands, Universal wand prices, theme park loyalty programs, United JetBlue BlueSky, United Excursionist Perk ending, United Premier upgrade changes, Southwest Airlines bag fees, Marriott Emirates transfer, Marriott summer hotel deals, Fourth of July travel flights, Universal Studios ride tips, Epic Universe restaurants, best theme park desserts, Florida theme parks 2025, Universal Studios new park tips, Universal Orlando 2025, Epic Universe bar drinks, DK Crush Float, and theme park spending tips.

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