Top Things Fans Can Look Forward to in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe

It’s only a matter of time now before Universal Epic Universe opens on May 22, 2025, transforming Universal Orlando Resort into the ultimate four-theme-park destination, and as far as how I’m feeling, hyped is a dramatic understatement. As a fan of the film and television series myself, I’m especially excited for How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and every bit of its vibrant, dragon-filled adventures. My fellow fans, let’s dive into the details of all the things we can look forward to at the highly anticipated opening of Isle of Berk at Epic Universe!

Basking in the Isle of Berk

First, let’s just take a moment to relish that soon, we’ll be walking — or rather, flying — with the dragons of Berk. Kind of insane, I know.

From the big screen to an even bigger scene, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk is truly a work of art brought to life. Nestled high above the sea is an immersive village that welcomes you with a familiar pair of massive Viking and dragon statues as seen in the films, a lagoon overflowing with ships and a picturesque view of the dragons’ domains, rocky cliffs, and towering mountains. The scale of it all is nothing short of astounding.

This alone is enough to get my blood pumping in excitement as we’re about to venture into a land that is literally larger than life. Everything is true and authentic to the Vikings of Berk, from the 9-foot-tall door frames to the handmade benches. The dragons that rule the skies are a sight to behold as well, and you can watch in awe as they soar above while you make your way around the theme park to each of the thrilling attractions in Isle of Berk.

Cracking a Smile with Hiccup, Toothless and Friends

Hiccup and Toothless: The iconic duo that gave life to the “How to Train Your Dragon“ franchise. Wouldn’t it be SO cool if you could meet them in real life? Isle of Berk is real life, remember? Which means you totally can meet them!

Haddock Paddock is the place to go where you can hang out with Hiccup and his trusty partner in crime, Toothless. (Side Note: I can’t wait to see how awesome he looks up close!) The rest of your favorites like Astrid and Stormfly, Ruffnut and Tuffnut and other Vikings can be found wandering about the wild world of Berk, and they’re far from camera shy.

In Berk, you’re constantly surrounded by the endless number of dragons that take flight in the skies. A Monstrous Nightmare or a Gronckle might be soaring above, so be on the lookout. You may even catch Gobber locked in as he works on his forge during your time here!

Watching an Incredible Live Stage Show  

I know the series is called “How to Train Your Dragon,” but what if there was a dragon that couldn’t be tamed? This attraction’s namesake brings that possibility to life in an action-packed live stage performance called The Untrainable Dragon. It’s a vibrant, visual storytelling of a new dragon that has just made the Isle of Berk its new home, and it’s not taking kindly to the Vikings who are there to train it.

In this captivating live show, you’ll be up close and personal with Hiccup, Toothless, Gobber and Astrid as they try their hands — and claws — at taming this barbaric beast. Watch your head; a dragon just might take flight and soar above the heads of onlookers bold enough to stick around for the show!

Having a Blast on Thrilling Rides

My life-long dream superpower has always been flight, so I strongly resonated with Hiccup when he developed a flight suit that would help him fly without the help of Toothless. Now, at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, you too can fly high in the sky on Hiccup’s Wing Gliders. This coaster sports wings on either side and soars you into the sky for a perfect dragon’s-eye view of the theme park.

Who’s ready to become one with the Vikings? I know I am! You’re not a real Viking until you’ve gone dragon racing. That’s where Dragon Racer’s Rally comes into play; if you’ve ever doubted your dragon-racing skills before, now’s your chance to take them to new heights. Dragon Racer’s Rally is a thrilling attraction where you can practice (or show off) your aerobatic maneuvers and barrel rolls on the all-Viking-made dragon-riding trainer. Ride this a few times and maybe you’ll be good enough to beat Astrid in a dragon race.

I hope you paid attention during all those fire drills when you were in school because we’ve got one in Isle of Berk, and it’s here to stay — plus, this one’s way more fun! Buckle up for Fyre Drill, a boat ride that will undoubtedly make a splash. This family-friendly attraction puts your fire-fighting skills to work at Berk’s Fyre Skööl as you board your ship and put your water cannons on full blast. All you have to do is aim for the flame-like targets…and also the other boat occupants (oops, did I almost forget to mention that?). Totally easy, right?

Dining as the Vikings Do  
 

You can’t train your dragon on an empty stomach! Real Vikings know how to throw down on a good meal and do so at Mead Hall, the dining hub of Isle of Berk. Mead Hall is every Viking’s go-to place to congregate, enjoy some good grub and have a grand old time. Feast on meals fit for a Viking that include meat, fish, sandwiches and desserts, and guests aged 21 and older with valid photo ID can sip on a slew of meads, ciders and ales. You’ll be dining surrounded by walls draped in tapestries that tell the most thrilling of dragon tales while nestled beneath a giant chandelier that lights up the room and fosters a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Turning Kids into Future Vikings

was 9 years old when the first “How to Train Your Dragon” film came out in 2010, so you can imagine how invigorating it will be to see the franchise come to life all grown up in 2025 at Universal Epic Universe. It’s electrifying to witness a piece of my childhood become a core part of future children’s.

On that note, this part of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk isn’t just for the kids at heart — it’s actually for the kids! Viking Training Camp will be the ultimate interactive play area for junior Vikings to hone their skills and discover all sorts of dragon species. From climbing towers and taking on challenging agility courses to launching sheep and playing drums and chimes, the Viking Training Camp is a haven for your little ones.