Universal Epic Universe, the newest theme park at Universal Orlando Resort, has made significant strides in inclusivity for plus-size travelers since its grand opening on May 22, 2025. As the first major theme park to debut in the Orlando area in 25 years, it features five immersive worlds, including beloved franchises like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World. But how accessible are the rides for plus-size guests? Many creators within the plus-size community have taken to social media to share their experiences and insights on ride accessibility.
Vikki Tuppay, a prominent voice in the plus-size travel community known as Dream Big Vikki, has openly shared her experiences at Epic Universe. Tuppay, who stands at 5 feet 6 inches and weighs 270 pounds, highlights the importance of dimensions for plus-size travelers, especially in theme park settings where access can often be limited. She notes, “Universal is hard for me. Some days I’ll fit on something and some days I won’t.” This sentiment resonates with many who navigate the challenges of finding rides that accommodate larger body types.
Universal’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in the resources they provide, such as an accessibility guide and test seats available at most attractions. These measures aim to help guests gauge their fit before committing to lengthy queues. According to Universal Destinations and Experiences, they strive to “design our attractions and experiences to safely accommodate a range of guests” based on continuous guest feedback.
Insights from Plus-Size Travelers
Jason Vaughn, a travel agent and content creator at Fat Tested Travel, has shared his experiences visiting Epic Universe on two occasions. Vaughn, who is 5 feet 8 inches tall and has weighed between 325 and 350 pounds during his visits, recalls his initial struggles with certain rides. “The first time I went, I did not fit on a few of the rides,” he explains. He specifically noted challenges with the Curse of the Werewolf and Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, although he found Hiccups Wing Gliders to be a tight fit.
Yet, Vaughn observed improvements over time, as Universal has introduced modified seating for several rides. He was pleasantly surprised to discover that he could now fit on the Dragon Racer’s Rally, a ride that flips guests upside down, thanks to these accommodations. “The only ride fit on right now is Stardust Racers,” he adds.
Community Perspectives on Ride Accessibility
Other creators, like Jose Velazquez from the Amusement Park Dad channel on YouTube, have similarly expressed their appreciation for the efforts made by Universal. Velazquez, who is currently 5 feet 10 inches and weighs 370 pounds, noted that while he has faced challenges with overhead restraints, the park has been accommodating. “I found that they’re really making a huge effort to create it more accessible for bigger riders, and I was very appreciative of that,” he shared.
Many of these content creators emphasize the importance of utilizing the test seats available at most rides. Vaughn encourages others to take advantage of these options, stating, “If you don’t see a test seat, ask about a test seat.” He also reminds guests that some rides have multiple test seats located at different points in the queue, allowing for additional opportunities to check fit.
Challenges and Recommendations for Plus-Size Guests
Despite the improvements, Tuppay and others advocate for more detailed information regarding ride specifications, such as seat depth and width, similar to how height restrictions are often posted. “I actually brought a tape measure to Epic with me and measured seats, because again, none of that information is anywhere,” she explained, highlighting a common frustration among visitors.
While the accessibility guide provides information on which rides allow service animals or remain wheelchair accessible, it lacks specific details about body size accommodations. This gap in information leads many plus-size travelers to rely on peer insights to set realistic expectations for their visits.
Both Tuppay and Vaughn encourage plus-size travelers to approach their theme park experiences with an open mind. “There were so many things that I had absolutely no faith in I was going to fit on, and I did,” Tuppay remarked, noting that the park has become increasingly size-inclusive.
What Lies Ahead for Universal Epic Universe
As Universal Epic Universe settles into its role as a leading theme park destination, the ongoing feedback from the plus-size community will likely play a vital role in shaping future inclusivity measures. The park’s commitment to listening to guest experiences suggests that more enhancements could be on the horizon to improve accessibility for all visitors.
For those planning a visit, it’s essential to keep updated with the park’s accessibility resources and connect with fellow travelers who share their insights. As the conversation around inclusivity continues to evolve, plus-size travelers can look forward to more enjoyable and accommodating experiences in theme parks like Universal Epic Universe.
Have you experienced ride accessibility challenges in theme parks? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
