Toothless Uncovered at Epic Universe, Yoshi Spotted on Mount Beanpole & More

Phil Wood

An update to the epic universe features a model of a dragon with saddle straps, situated in a wooden structure partially covered by a slanted roof, complete with a nearby winch mechanism.

Toothless Uncovered at Epic Universe, Yoshi Spotted on Mount Beanpole & More

Aerial photographer bioreconstruct shared new snaps of the Epic Universe construction site this week, including photos of Toothless from “How to Train Your Dragon” uncovered on Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, Yoshi spotted on Mount Beanpole, and more.

Epic Universe Overview & Entrance

Aerial view of the Epic Universe theme park featuring various rides, attractions, and buildings, including a central circular fountain and surrounding greenery. Update 9/15: The park's new section is now open to visitors.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Since our last Epic Universe update, much of the theme park has started to take shape. In the above photo, you can see the Helios Grand Hotel, Celestial Park, Dark Universe, and more as the park’s construction continues.

Aerial view of a construction site with workers, machinery, and partially built structures including a large ornate archway and surrounding buildings. Epic Universe appears to be taking shape beautifully. This update, dated 9/15, captures the hustle and progress from above.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

At the Chronos, the portal of Epic Universe, an American flag waves in the air as the structure has reached its tallest point.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Aerial view of a road junction under construction as part of the 9/15 update, featuring multiple lanes, freshly planted trees, construction vehicles, and adjacent green spaces.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Landscaping is in progress at the guest access road for Universal Helios Grand Hotel. As you can see from the photo, this road travels over the Epic Universe perimeter service road.

Aerial view of a construction site featuring two domed buildings, surrounded by palm trees and various construction materials and machinery. Pathways and landscaping appear partially completed. Epic Universe Update gives a sneak peek into progress as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Here, we have a view of the dome construction at the Helios Grand Hotel’s pool. The inner dome was recently installed. If you zoom in, each beam of the structure is numbered 1-32. The outer dome is currently being assembled at ground level.

Aerial update: An unfinished park with winding pathways, trees, and a central pavilion at the Epic Universe construction site. Nearby vehicles and equipment are visible along with surrounding buildings and undeveloped areas. (9/15)
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Cabanas are being constructed near the pool as seen in the top center of this photo. You can see the zero-depth entry to the pool at the bottom left.

Aerial update: An epic universe unfolds as a building with multiple copper domes rises under construction near a shimmering body of water. The structure boasts large arched windows and is surrounded by scaffolding around the domes. 9/15
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Work continues on the domes of the hotel. The three surrounding domes appear to be finished, but the large center dome is still being covered. For scale, the yellow movable scaffolding at the left is about 18 feet tall — just to give you an idea of how massive this hotel is.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Aerial view of the Epic Universe theme park under construction with various structures, pathways, and machinery visible; construction crews and materials are spread across the site in this 9/15 update.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

In How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, work is in progress outside of the land’s portal for a back-of-house gate, seen at number 1 in this image. Number 2 marks the guest exit from the land, showing that guests will only travel into the land via the portal.

An aerial view of a large blue dragon statue beside a decorated boat in the Epic Universe. Nearby, a worker in a hard hat inspects the site. Construction materials and wooden structures surround the area. Update 9/15: progress continues steadily, adding more intricate details to this magical land.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

This aerial shot shows a large dragon statue and a Viking ship staged in the front bay of the land. Like in the films, the dragon statue will “breathe” fire.

Aerial view of a theme park under construction featuring a Viking-themed area with colorful buildings, a large wooden ship in a water area, and ongoing work around a roller coaster track. Update 9/15: The Epic Universe project is steadily progressing towards completion.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Trees were recently planted along the shoreline of the bay.

Aerial view of a construction site with amusement park rides being installed at Epic Universe. Various colored ride parts, white structural beams, cranes, and scattered construction materials are visible in this 9/15 update.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Here, an arm of Dragon Racer’s Rally is partially raised. Nearby, framing for tents over the queue has gone up.

UOR Epic Universe How to Train your Dragon Isle of Berk Dragon Racers Rally Concept Art FINAL 1

Once complete, the area for Dragon Racer’s Rally will look like this concept art.

Aerial view of the Epic Universe construction site featuring multiple cranes, steel frameworks, heavy machinery, and various building materials scattered across the ground. Update as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Another angle of Dragon Racer’s Rally shows the other arm is partially raised. You can see just how close guests in flight will get to the queue tents.

An update to the epic universe features a model of a dragon with saddle straps, situated in a wooden structure partially covered by a slanted roof, complete with a nearby winch mechanism.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Bioreconstruct initially caught Toothless at Hiccup’s Winged Gliders in our last report but wasn’t able to get a better photo… until now.

This incredible shot shows how detailed the figure is. It appears his giant paw rests on a button — perhaps he will be the one to launch riders “into the sky”?

Aerial view of a colorful amusement park attraction under construction, featuring small, vibrant houses and structures on a rocky, green hillside setup. 9/15 Update: This new addition promises to be an exciting part of the Epic Universe.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Dragon houses look vibrant and colorful in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.

Aerial view of a construction site featuring a large, partially built fantasy gate with a dragon head statue above the entrance and scaffolding surrounding the structure. This Epic Universe update from 9/15 showcases the monumental progress being made.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Above is the entrance to Hiccup’s Winged Gliders, the land’s family coaster. The entire structure is gray with primer, just waiting for its final paint job. A dragon head sticks out from the upper front area.

Aerial view of a construction site featuring a partially completed, large detailed sculpture with scaffolding on the front. The Epic Universe update reveals the sculpture depicting two large figures integrated into a green, rocky landscape as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The entrance to Mead Hall is still covered in scaffolding. However, the statues to the left and right were recently painted and weathered.

Aerial view of the construction site on 9/15, featuring various machinery, including a green lift and blue equipment, surrounded by trees, building materials, and workers hard at work. Update: This is part of the Epic Universe project.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

New theming was recently added to Spit Fyre Grill. At the right, a dragon now sits above the restaurant’s sign. To the left, a dragon and an arch mark the entrance to a dining area. At ground level, we can see the staging of targets for the Fyre Drill boat ride.

Aerial view of an amusement park water ride featuring pirate and Viking-themed boats, vibrant decorations, and various structures surrounded by water. As part of the Epic Universe update set for 9/15, visitors can expect even more thrilling adventures in this newly enhanced section.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Speaking of Fyre Drill, bioreconstruct got a view of the ride’s start, which seems to have all its targets installed. Many boats are staged throughout the water path. A temporary dam can be seen at the station on the right.

Celestial Park

Aerial view of an epic construction site with a dome-shaped glass structure at the center, surrounded by partially completed buildings and equipment. Update from Epic Universe as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

This aerial overview of Constellation Carousel in Celestial Park shows that some walls and scaffolding are up, potentially indicating that the turntable is moving for testing. The blue pavement seen at the left of this image was recently added.

Aerial update on 9/15: An Epic Universe construction site showcases a yellow roller coaster track with multiple loops, adjacent to a green-roofed building, surrounded by machinery and workers.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

At Stardust Racers, scaffolding remains on the center rockwork by the station. Since our last update, Universal shared a first look at the new roller coaster.

Aerial view of a construction site with a green arched structure, machinery, trees, and scaffolding – part of the latest Epic Universe update as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Looking above the entrance to Stardust Racers, this frame was recently painted green. Vines are starting to cover the sides and will eventually cover the frame completely.

A detailed model of a garden scene features several structures, including a curved bridge, trees, and various plant life - an immersive glimpse into Epic Universe.

You can see the intended final look in this shot from the park model at the Epic Universe Preview Center in CityWalk.

Super Nintendo World

Aerial view of a construction site featuring colorful structures resembling elements from a video game, with numerous construction workers, scaffolding and equipment present, part of the latest update for the upcoming Epic Universe as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Peach’s Castle in  Super Nintendo World had its turret roofs recently added. However, only one has been painted pink so far.

Aerial view of a themed construction site featuring colorful structures, stone walls, scaffolding, various equipment, and decorations, resembling a popular video game world. This Epic Universe update on 9/15 perfectly captures the magic in-progress.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Various construction materials are staged throughout the land as work continues. Toward the bottom left, you can see a piranha plant loaded on a platform, likely for transport to its installation location.

Aerial view of a construction site featuring a gray castle with towers and scaffolding around it. Various colorful structures and construction equipment are visible in the surrounding area, part of an Epic Universe update as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Bowser’s face is coming together on the facade of Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. The main tower with horns still looks as though it needs its final paint and weathering.

An aerial view of the Epic Universe construction site showcases buildings and sculptures inspired by a video game, with vibrant colors and several large green trees amidst scaffolding and construction workers. Update: 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The many Yoshis of Yoshi’s Adventure are covered up with black tarps. Scaffolding remains on the lower levels of the land.

A construction site features a partially built structure resembling a video game landscape, complete with a character statue, green hills, and coin blocks. As of 9/15, the scene includes a blue crane working tirelessly to bring this Epic Universe vision to life.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Bioreconstruct spotted Yoshi on Mount Beanpole in Super Nintendo World. The top of the How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk portal can be seen to Yoshi’s left.

Aerial view of the Epic Universe construction site featuring large cartoon-like structures, trees, and a model of a character on a white airplane behind green fencing. Scaffolding and machinery surround the area. Update as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

In the background on the ground level of this photo, Funky’s Fly ‘n’ Buy from “Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze” can be seen surrounded by scaffolding in Donkey Kong Country.

Aerial view of a construction site with scaffolding, machinery, and partially built structures, including a white cylindrical object and a purple crane. This 9/15 update highlights the progress at the Epic Universe site.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Here’s another angle of Funky’s Fly ‘n’ Buy, housed in a “downed” airplane.

Aerial view of a construction site featuring colorful structures, scaffolding, green artificial trees, and workers in safety gear, suggesting an Epic Universe amusement park under development. Update 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The arrow in this photo points toward the warp pipe that will connect Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country.

Aerial view of the colorful construction site at Epic Universe on 9/15, featuring multi-level structures with various equipment, scaffolding, and workers present. Stairs and unfinished buildings are prominent in the image.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The arrow in this photo points to the start of framing for the themed mushroom cap of Toadstool Cafe.

Aerial view of a roller coaster track winding through a tropical-themed area with palm trees, leading into a tunnel in a building at Epic Universe. Maintenance workers and construction equipment are visible in this update from 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Heading over to Donkey Kong Country, Dixie Kong can be spotted along the beginning track of Mine Cart Madness.

Aerial view of a construction site featuring a large, partially completed temple-like structure with scaffolding and decorative elements, including statues and a drum. Roads and vehicles are visible beyond. 9/15 Epic Universe Update.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Here’s a current look at work on the theming at the top of Mine Cart Madness. The golden idol facade still remains behind scaffolding.

Aerial view of the Epic Universe construction site for a theme park attraction with visible roller coaster tracks, various construction equipment, scaffolding, and partially built structures. Update as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

A new structure was recently added along with tents for the ride entrance of Mine Cart Madness. You can see the coaster’s exit walkway along the wall.

Aerial view of the Epic Universe theme park construction site featuring a roller coaster track, a large blue building with decorative foliage, and various construction equipment and materials scattered around. Update as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The arrow in this image points to what will be interactive drums for guests to play in the land.

Aerial view of Epic Universe theme park under construction, featuring roller coaster tracks, multiple construction vehicles, scaffolding, and various building structures. Update as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

This image shows an aerial look at current work on a photo op that will be Donkey Kong’s house, as well as a barrel-themed snack stand, reportedly named Bubbly Barrel.

Aerial view of a construction site featuring various machinery, structures in progress, and workers. A large crane is prominent in the scene, and a roller coaster track is visible in the background. This 9/15 update offers an exciting glimpse into the development of Epic Universe.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Here’s another view of the photo op and snack stand. A Screaming Pillar can be seen at the right.

An aerial view of the Epic Universe construction site update on 9/15 showcases a roller coaster track, a water feature with a small pool, and various construction equipment and materials scattered around.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Painting is in progress at a water feature on Mine Cart Madness. Here, carts will skim across the water, while the actual coaster track is sideways and underneath.

Dark Universe

Aerial view of a large construction site featuring buildings, pathways, and a partially built theme park with various structures, greenery, and machinery visible.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Flying above Dark Universe, we can see that the last of a large dirt bank has been removed. A new flat dirt staging area sits near the center of this photo between Oak and Star Tavern and Pizza Moon. The dirt bank originally extended behind Curse of the Werewolf.

Curse of the Werewolf

Aerial view of a theme park under construction featuring a partially completed roller coaster, buildings, trees, construction vehicles, and work sites.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

During his trip above Epic Universe, bioreconstruct caught a photo of The Curse of the Werewolf testing in Dark Universe.

Aerial view of a theme park area with a rustic building resembling a tower, surrounded by greenery and pathways. Construction materials and equipment are visible in the background.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Over at The Burning Blade Tavern, landscaping in the area appears complete. From the ground, the windmill will look as though it’s sat upon a terraced hill. You can spot an outdoor lounge under the roofing at the bottom right of this image.

Aerial view of an amusement park under construction, featuring roller coaster tracks, scaffolding around buildings, and machinery on-site amid surrounding greenery.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

In this photo, you can see a lot of The Curse of the Werewolf track. The barn in the middle of this spinning ride will shuttle trains backward and then forward to return to the station.

Aerial view of a theme park area featuring winding paths, green trees, a small wooden structure, and a section of a roller coaster track. Construction equipment is visible in the background.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The queue for The Curse of the Werewolf is taking shape. The entrance for the attraction will be between the carriages in the lower right portion of this photo.

Aerial view of a roller coaster track curving through a green, tree-filled area in an amusement park. The track passes over black netting. Trees and a path are visible below.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Coffins have been added to carriages alongside the edge of The Curse of the Werewolf queue.

An aerial view of an outdoor construction site with scaffolding, green construction equipment, various building materials, and partially built structures surrounded by trees and greenery.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Themed tents are starting to take shape near the heavily forested section of the queue. This is near the attraction’s initial launch. The steel frames are a new addition to the brown frames that were present a few weeks ago.

Frankenstein Manor

Aerial view of a large building under construction or renovation, with scaffolding covering a central section and construction equipment, including a crane, visible around the site.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Scaffolding sits around the main entrance of Frankenstein Manor. The tallest section of the peaked roof was recently added.

Aerial view of a construction site with two cranes, construction workers, safety barriers, and partially built structures surrounded by trees and pathways.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

We can now see the pavement in front of Frankenstein Manor. It was covered in plywood immediately after being cast months ago.

Aerial view of construction site with scaffolding on a building, surrounding trees, and construction equipment, including a green crane. Scaffolding and barricades surround the structure.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Guests will cross a ramp to get to Frankenstein Manor. The pathway is starting to take shape but is currently covered in a protective sheet.

Village of Darkmoor

Aerial view of a construction site with medieval-style buildings and several construction vehicles, including green cranes and equipment, surrounded by trees and unfinished structures.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

This photo gives a wide look at the village of Darkmoor in Dark Universe. The buildings in the area have been built up considerably since the last update.

Aerial view of a construction site featuring part of a themed attraction with scaffolding, exposed rock-like structures, and workers in hard hats on rooftops. Surrounding trees and equipment are visible.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Work is being done to the base of the portal to Dark Universe. The picture above shows the structure that guests will walk under to get to the land.

Aerial view of a construction site with buildings, pathways, and landscaping, showcasing ongoing development and various construction equipment scattered throughout the area.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The above photo shows all of Dark Universe. Frankenstein’s Manor is at the bottom left, the village of Darkmoor is above it, and The Curse of the Werewolf is to the right.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic

Aerial view of a large construction site with various buildings, structures, and equipment. A nearby water body and roller coaster tracks are visible in the surrounding area.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic is scene in the middle of this photo right next to the Helios Grand Hotel. This world will have the largest building at Epic Universe.

Aerial view of a theme park construction site with scaffolding, a tall pillar, and buildings surrounded by greenery. Ground has pathways with some equipment and vehicles visible.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Here is the portal to the The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic. Check out the golden hand with the wand at the top.

Aerial view of a theme park under construction, showing unfinished buildings, pathways, construction vehicles, and equipment scattered throughout the site. Trees and a pagoda-style structure are visible.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

From the opposite side of the entrance, we can see the back of Meteor Astropub. Bricks are being installed on the outside of the building.

Aerial view of a construction site with scaffolding, cranes, and partially built structures. Red canopy and numerous buildings in varying stages of completion are visible. Trees and green areas are in the foreground.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Scaffolding covers the arch in the center of this photo. The arch is going to be a replica of Porte Saint-Denis in Paris. Letters are being inscribed on the arch. You can just make them out through the scaffolding.

An aerial view of a construction site featuring a complex of interconnected buildings with gray roofs, scaffolding, and workers on a crane. A blue tent is visible in the central courtyard area.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The wall at the bottom left of this photo had previously been open so that construction crews could transport equipment. It has since been sealed. Rumors indicate that a show building could be added on the outside of this wall years from now.

View of an enclosed courtyard surrounded by multi-colored buildings under renovation with construction equipment and a blue canopy visible.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The storefronts are under construction and look more colorful every day.

Aerial view of a construction site with a facade painted to resemble Parisian buildings. Equipment and scaffolding are visible, and a sign reads "Bistrot Beaucaire.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The above photo shows the shortest portion of the new Harry Potter world. Despite being shorter than the rest of the land, it will still be taller than Diagon Alley.

A large sign featuring a giant beer bottle with the text "BIÈRAUBEURRE" and "Le bonheur c'est la Bièraubeurre!" is displayed next to an electrical service van parked on a dirt area.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

A French Butterbeer billboard has been installed.

Aerial view of a construction site with several historic buildings being renovated. Numerous cranes and construction equipment are visible, with ongoing work on the roofs and facades.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The center of the street between the buildings is now visible after scaffolding was removed. The steep hill with stairs in between the buildings is meant to look like Montmartre in Paris.

Aerial view of workers at a construction site featuring a cylindrical steel structure, a large circular platform with black netting, and several dome-shaped components on the ground.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

These white structures are going to be Sacré-Cœur turrets just like you would see in Paris.

Aerial view of a building complex under construction with several cranes, construction equipment, and materials visible around the site.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The arrow in this photo shows where the turrets will eventually be placed, adding to the background theming of the land.

Aerial view of a movie set designed to resemble a European city block with detailed buildings, colorful facades, and large red umbrellas covering a section of the street. Construction equipment is visible.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The red tent under construction is the entrance of Le Cirque Arcanus. Guests will exit the show at the end of the street in the center of this photo.

Aerial view of a construction site on a multi-story building with scaffolding and workers. Other equipment and materials are scattered around the site.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Beneath the scaffolding in the bottom left of this photo, you can get a better look at the exit from Le Cirque Arcanus.

Aerial view of a construction site with scaffolding, cranes, and workers. There is a large red canopy structure and surrounding buildings with varying architectural styles.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The triangular facade at the center of this photo is the tallest point in the new world. The construction workers and equipment allow you to see just how high it truly is.

Aerial view of a city block with multiple buildings and rooftops, including a distinctive red canopy structure.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

This intersection is where five full-size Paris streets come together. You can see a tunnel that leads to an inner courtyard at the bottom of the photo.

Aerial view of a construction site in an urban area with colorful facades; scaffolding, construction equipment, and workers are visible.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The arrows in the above photo show two of the three entrances to the inner courtyard.

An aerial view of a grand, white stone building with columns and a large inscription on the facade, featuring a tiered fountain in front. The building is surrounded by other structures.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

A statue is being built atop the fountain beneath the arch in the above photo.

Aerial view of a construction site with the facade of several multi-story buildings, displaying different architectural styles. Scaffolding and construction equipment are visible on the ground.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The yellow arrow in the above photo points out the curved shape of the Paris Metro entrances. This will serve as the entrance to Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, the land’s main attraction.

Universal Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resorts

Aerial view of a modern building with a colorful mural, adjacent to a large outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees, situated in a landscaped area near residential structures. Update: 9/15 - this vibrant complex looks like something straight out of an Epic Universe.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

The concrete around the pool at Stella Nova Resort is being cast one stripe at a time.

Aerial view of a construction site with a large curved building, adjacent roads, a small pond, and landscaping in progress. This 9/15 update captures the developments at Epic Universe, showcasing its impressive scale and meticulous attention to detail.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

This photo shows the Terra Luna resort and it’s under construction pool.

Aerial view of a modern, multi-story hotel with a unique curved design, adjacent parking lots, landscaped green space, pools, and surrounding roads in an urban area; Epic Universe update as of 9/15.
Image Source: bioreconstruct

Our final photo shows how close these two resorts are to each other. You’ll also notice that construction is going on in the top right corner of this photo. This will be a dual-branded EVEN and Staybridge Suites hotel that is set to open in 2025.

What do you think of the Epic Universe update? Let us know what you’re most excited about in the comments!

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