The 10 Best Hidden Easter Eggs in the Isle of Berk
From subtle nods to the original books to deep cuts from the TV series, here are the secrets you won't want to miss in Epic Universe's new land.
ORLANDO, FL – Stepping into the How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk at Universal's Epic Universe is like walking directly into the world of the beloved animated films. The land is a stunning achievement in immersive design, from the towering Viking statues to the massive, fire-breathing dragons. But beyond the incredible rides and shows, the land is also a treasure trove of hidden details and clever Easter eggs, placed there by the designers as a reward for the most dedicated fans.
After scouring the village and connecting the dots, we've compiled a list of the ten best hidden secrets you should look for on your next visit to Berk.
1. A Tribute to the Original Books
Before you even enter the main village, look closely at the rockwork near the entrance portal. Tucked away among the larger, more ornate dragon carvings is a small, simple carving of a Common or Garden Dragon. This is a deliberate and charming nod to the original How to Train Your Dragon book series by Cressida Cowell, where Toothless was not a sleek Night Fury, but a small, common breed of dragon. It’s a beautiful tribute to the story’s origins.
2. Hiccup's Failed Inventions
Hiccup wasn't a master inventor from day one. In the first film, he created several failed flying contraptions before perfecting Toothless's prosthetic tail. As you explore the land, particularly in the corners and out-of-the-way spots near the main workshops, you can spot the discarded remnants of these early attempts—a broken wing here, a failed catapult there. They are a fun reminder of Hiccup's journey from outcast to leader.
3. Fishlegs' Dragon Stat Cards
Every true fan knows Fishlegs is the resident dragon encyclopedia of the group. Near one of the merchandise shops, take a moment to examine the detailed carvings on a wooden wall. You'll find what appear to be lovingly carved versions of Fishlegs' famous dragon stat cards, complete with illustrations and runic stats for different dragon breeds, just like the "Top Trumps"-style cards from the franchise.
4. The "Sheep Toss" Game
Dragon Racing was the official sport of Berk in the second film, and the main objective was to snatch sheep from the fields and drop them into baskets. While there isn't a full Dragon Race, you can find a clever nod to it in the village games area. One of the ring toss-style stalls features baskets that are clearly modeled after the sheep-launching catapults from the movie, complete with painted sheep as the targets.
5. Valka's Hidden Symbol
Hiccup's mother, Valka, was a master dragon rider who spent years living among them. Her signature staff was topped with a unique, swirling symbol representing her connection to the dragons. As you approach the entrance to "The Untrainable Dragon" show, look down at the pavement. The intricate stonework subtly incorporates Valka's hidden symbol, a tribute to the matriarch of Berk.
6. Gothi's Hut
The silent, eccentric village elder, Gothi, plays a small but vital role in the franchise. While you can't go inside her home, a small, highly detailed recreation of her hut can be found tucked away in the village. Peer through the window, and you'll spot specific props and runic drawings that are pulled directly from the films, a testament to the land's incredible attention to detail.
7. Carvings of Berk's History
The Mead Hall is the central dining location in the land, but it's also a museum of Berk's history. While the land's timeline is set between the second and third films, the massive, carved wooden pillars and beams inside the hall depict key scenes and characters from the entire film trilogy, including moments from Hiccup's youth and Stoick's reign as chief.
8. Stoick's Ship in the Play Area
The Fyre Drill water play area is a fantastic spot for kids to cool off, but it also contains a heartfelt tribute. The main Viking ship that serves as the area's centerpiece is named "The Valiant." This is a direct reference to Stoick the Vast, serving as a memorial to the ship that was sunk and used for his Viking funeral in the second film.
9. The Ancestors of Berk
As you wander through the village, pay close attention to the large, carved Viking statues that overlook the lagoon. These aren't generic figures; they represent famous Vikings from Berk's history, including some of Hiccup's legendary ancestors who are mentioned in the expanded lore of the franchise.
10. The Sound of a Screaming Death
This is an Easter egg you have to listen for. In the ambient sound loop of the land, which is filled with the sounds of Vikings, dragons, and the sea, the sound designers have reportedly mixed in the very faint, distant shriek of the "Screaming Death." This is a deep cut for fans of the Dragons: Riders of Berk television series, as the Screaming Death is one of the most terrifying and memorable dragons from the show.
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