Less than five months after its grand opening, Epic Universe is finding itself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. What should be Universal’s shining achievement is now at the center of a brewing health concern that’s spreading fast—both in the park and online. Guests are taking to social media with warnings about a problem that might seem small at first glance but could have significant consequences if left unchecked.
This isn’t about long lines or expensive churros. Visitors are calling on Universal Orlando Resort to act quickly and fix an issue that’s putting their well-being at risk. And while the problem is focused on one specific land, it’s becoming a lesson in how even a stunning new park can stumble in its early days.
Universal’s Older Parks Have a Better Track Record
Universal knows how to run theme parks. Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, and Universal Volcano Bay have had years to refine their operational processes, including maintaining clean, safe, and well-managed parks. These established parks rarely face widespread health concerns like the one now making headlines at Epic Universe.
That’s why regular guests are raising eyebrows. They expect the same standard of safety and sanitation across all Universal parks, but Epic Universe is still the new kid on the block—and that means it’s still working through its opening-year growing pains.
The New Park Feeling the Pressure
Epic Universe launched in May 2025 to massive crowds and sky-high expectations. Fans flooded the park to experience themed lands like SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. From the start, it was clear Universal had delivered a visual masterpiece.
But operational excellence can take time to catch up with design magic. While attractions and crowd flow have remained mainly stable, sanitation is proving to be one area where the park is still adjusting. And the most enormous red flag is waving over one of the most beloved lands in the park.
The Issue Begins at the Isle of Berk
How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk is a fan-favorite zone that captures the spirit of the hit DreamWorks films. It’s bright, full of energy, and loaded with attractions that immerse guests in Viking culture and dragon lore. The roller coaster here is already a hit, families love the meet-and-greets, and the land’s interactive details give it incredible replay value.
However, not all the attention the Isle of Berk is receiving is positive.
Where the Playground Meets the Problem
The Viking Training Camp playground is meant to be an interactive wonderland for families. Kids can bang drums, climb towers, launch sheep, and burn off some energy before jumping back into the action. But just steps away, a massive decorative fountain is becoming a genuine health concern.
A Fountain Turned Water Station
This fountain was designed as a scenic, relaxing area where guests could cool down nearby—not in it. Instead, people are treating it like a free water source. Visitors have been spotted splashing their faces, rinsing their hands, dunking their heads, and even filling up water bottles. Social media is filled with videos that show exactly why guests are alarmed.
This isn’t just gross. It’s dangerous.
Why It’s So Unsafe
Unlike official water refill stations, this decorative fountain isn’t meant for human contact. The water isn’t filtered or sanitized to drinking standards. When dozens—maybe hundreds—of guests touch the same water throughout the day, germs and bacteria thrive. Add in Florida’s heat, and it’s the perfect recipe for illness.
Health experts warn against drinking from decorative fountains for precisely this reason. It’s not built for consumption, but many parkgoers may not be aware of that.
How Universal Can Fix It
This is a fixable problem. The first step: clear, unmistakable signs around the fountain—“Do Not Drink” and “Do Not Touch.” Adding more refill stations or freestyle machines nearby would provide guests with an easy and safe alternative. Other parks have successfully addressed similar issues, and Universal can do the same here.
A Learning Curve for Epic Universe
This is one of those opening-year lessons no theme park wants to face but often has to. Epic Universe has already proven it can wow guests with immersive lands and thrilling attractions. Now it needs to demonstrate that it can match this with smart, proactive health and safety measures.
A few signs and a couple of extra water stations might not sound groundbreaking, but they could make a huge difference. Five months in, Epic Universe has a clear opportunity to fix this issue before it escalates any further.
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