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Universal Prepares Guests for May Closure That Could Affect Family Experiences

Epic Universe continues to be one of the most talked-about theme park destinations right now, especially as it heads into its first busy summer season. But before that rush fully kicks in, there’s a quick reminder that could make a difference for guests visiting in May.

Universal's Epic Universe entrance lit up at night
Credit: Universal

Viking Training Camp in Isle of Berk will temporarily close beginning May 4 and will stay closed through May 22.

On paper, that might not seem like a major loss. It’s not one of the park’s headline rides, and it doesn’t usually draw long wait times. But once you understand what this space offers, it becomes clear why this closure is worth noting—especially for families.

Viking Training Camp is designed as an open, interactive environment where kids can climb, explore, and engage with the themed surroundings. It’s less about riding something and more about experiencing the world in a hands-on way. In a park filled with high-energy attractions, this type of space provides a much-needed balance.

How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, Epic Universe
Credit: Joel/Coconut Wireless, Flickr

That balance is what will be missing during those few weeks in May.

For parents, having a place like this can make a big difference in how a park day unfolds. It’s somewhere kids can recharge without feeling like they’re stepping away from the experience. Without it, you may need to rethink how you pace your day, especially if you were planning to spend a lot of time in Isle of Berk.

The closure window itself—from May 4 through May 22—falls right in a period when many guests try to visit before peak summer crowds. That’s why this reminder matters. It’s easy to overlook smaller updates like this when planning a trip months in advance, but once you’re there, it can stand out more than expected.

There’s also the added factor of other nearby closures, including Mine-Cart Madness beginning May 3. Even if that one is short-lived, it still contributes to shifting crowds around the park, which can impact wait times and overall flow.

Universal's concept art for the Viking Training Camp playground in Epic Universe
Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

So what should you do if you’re visiting during this time?

The best strategy is simple: adjust expectations and stay flexible. You’ll still have plenty to experience throughout Epic Universe, including the rest of Isle of Berk, but you may want to plan for alternative ways to take breaks and keep younger guests engaged.

This isn’t a long-term change, and Viking Training Camp is expected to reopen before the summer season hits full swing. But for those visiting in early May, it’s the kind of detail that’s better to know ahead of time.

Consider this your reminder—because it’s always easier to plan around a closure when you see it coming.

Brittni Ward

Brittni is a Disney and Universal fan; one of her favorite things at both parks is collecting popcorn buckets. While at Disney World Resort, Brittni meets the princesses and rides Kilimanjaro Safaris. At Universal, Brittni enjoys the Minions and watching Animal Actors on Location! When not at Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando, Brittni spends time with her family and pets.

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