Epic Universe is shaping up to be a game-changer for theme park fans, but that doesn’t mean every “upgrade” fits every park-goer.

While plenty of guests love the idea of grabbing a refillable mug and getting unlimited soda, I passed. And I passed for a few really specific (and honestly practical) reasons that might help you figure out whether this add-on is right for you, too. Let’s break it down

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I Just Want Water, and I Can Bring My Own Bottle

Refillable mug? Cool idea. But if I’m being honest, I don’t need all the bells and whistles — just give me water and I’m good. Epic Universe has made it super easy to fill up your own bottle with filtered water with their refill stations throughout the park.

Also, the freestyle machines are accessible for everyone, even if you don’t have a refillable cup. I’ve brought my own insulated water bottle and was thrilled to see how simple it was to stay hydrated without paying extra.

When it’s 90 degrees and I’m melting, I’m not reaching for soda — I want ice-cold water. And not having to commit to a mug I barely use? That’s a win.

I’m Not a “12 Cups of Coke” Kind of Person

Let’s be real: if you’re going to drop $12–$15 on a refillable mug, you kind of need to be a heavy soda drinker to get your money’s worth.

Sometimes, I just want one Coke. Not six. Not even three. And I don’t love the idea of just drinking soda because I paid for it. If I get one refill and I’m done for the day, I’m now holding a $12 reminder that I overspent.

If your plan is to ride a few coasters, grab dinner, and head out, you’re probably not going to get more than two refills in. That’s around $2–$2.50 per drink if you split it out, which is fine, but not a deal. I’d rather just buy a fountain drink once if I want one and call it a day.

I Might Not Be in the Park Long Enough to Justify It

This one might be the biggest dealbreaker for me. We tend to pop into Epic Universe in the late afternoon or evening, especially during summer when it’s cooler and crowds are starting to thin out. That means we’re usually there for maybe three or four hours max.

In that window, we’re not stopping every half hour for a drink. Maybe we grab one while waiting in line, and then another at dinner. That’s it. Again, that puts us in that two-refill territory — still not worth the full mug price.

The refillable mugs are a better value for people who arrive early, stay all day, and like to sip on soda, Powerade, or tea constantly. That’s not how we do the parks, so the math just doesn’t add up.

Sometimes I’d Rather Try the Cocktails and Mocktails

Epic Universe is packed with incredible drinks, and we’re not just talking soda.

Every new land has its own themed bars and lounges, and the specialty cocktails and mocktails are a huge part of the experience. From glowing drinks in Celestial Park to immersive concoctions in How to Train Your Dragon’s land, it’s the kind of stuff you want to try at least once (or twice… or three times).

And none of those are included in the refillable mug. So if I’m spending money on drinks in the park, it’s going toward those fun, unique creations, not unlimited lemonade.

Final Thoughts

Look, refillable mugs aren’t a bad deal — but they’re definitely not a one-size-fits-all situation. If you’re in Epic Universe for a full day, plan to stay in the same park, and love soda, go for it. But for folks like me who just want some cold water and maybe a single fizzy drink, the math — and the value — just doesn’t make sense.

Stay tuned to DFB for more on Epic Universe!

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What about you? Have you gotten your money’s worth from a refillable mug in the parks—or did it end up being more hype than help? Let us know in the comments below.