Epic Universe is the fullest statement yet of what theme parks are today: separate immersive lands based on IP, without an overarching theme.

But the easiest way to save time in line and get on more rides is to purchase a Universal Express pass, Universal's version of a skip-the-line pass. Universal Express lets you bypass the traditional standby line on most attractions and use a much shorter Express entrance.

More than eight years in the making, Epic Universe ups the competition with neighboring Disney World and gives theme-park fans everywhere a new destination for their bucket list.