Do You Need Express Passes at Universal Orlando?

Do you need Express Passes at Universal Orlando? If you’re planning a Universal Orlando vacation, this may be one of the first questions you find yourself asking. The truth isn’t a simple yes or no, so we’ll discuss Express Passes at Universal in detail today!

Once you’re finished here, you should have a better idea if you need Express Passes or not for your trip. Plus, the best way to get them if you do!

Before we get started on what to do on a rainy day at Universal Orlando, let me introduce myself. My name is Amy, and I’m a Universal Travel Agent, a travel blogger, and a long-time Universal Annual Passholder. Contact me for more information. I’d love to help you book your Universal Orlando vacation!

If you’re flying into Orlando for your vacation, I recommend renting a car from Discount USA Car Rental. They offer the absolute best rates on rental cars; you don’t pay until you pick it up, and cancellation is free.

What Are Universal Orlando Express Passes?

First things first: it’s important to understand what an Express Pass is. Some people might call them “Fast Passes,” but at Universal, they are called Express Passes. In fact, Disney doesn’t even have “Fast Passes” anymore; they have Lightning Lanes.

There are two main types of Express Passes: an Express Pass that can be used once per ride, and an Unlimited Express Pass that can be used (you guessed it) as many times as you like.

When You Might Not Need Express Passes at Universal Orlando

If your family is visiting during a slower time of year, Express Passes may not be necessary. On weekdays during off-peak seasons, like late January or early September, regular lines are often manageable. With careful planning, you might be able to ride most attractions without needing the pass.

Here are some strategies to use that might help you avoid needing Express Passes:

• Arrive early to enjoy popular rides before the crowds build. If you have Early Park Admission (by staying at one of the fabulous Universal Orlando hotels), you get an extra hour!

• Use single rider lines when kids are old enough and okay with splitting up. If this is your first or only trip to Universal Orlando, I don’t recommend this. These lines skip most of the ride queue, which is part of the experience!

• Plan around slower times and check wait times on the Universal Orlando app in real time. If school is in session, wait times are usually much lower!

For families visiting multiple days, staying flexible and enjoying a more relaxed pace, skipping the Express Pass can be a cost-saving option.

When Express Passes Are Worth It

On the flip side, Express Passes can make a huge difference during busy times. Think holidays, spring break, summer, and weekends.

If you only have 2 or 3 days to experience all 3 Universal parks, Express Passes can help you fit in more rides without spending your entire day waiting in line. If you have kids who don’t do well waiting in long lines, Express Passes might be a must!

The Best Way to Get Express Passes at Universal

While Express Passes can be purchased separately at the gate or with your Universal vacation package, the easiest and (usually) cheapest way is by staying at a Universal Orlando Signature Hotel that includes Express Passes.

While there are currently five Signature hotels, only three include Express Passes, so choose wisely!

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort all include Express Passes for each day of your trip for your entire group.

Let’s do some math for a family of 4. Let’s say that Express Passes are $180 per person, per day, and Loews Royal Pacific is $600 per night. You can easily see that the math just makes sense. I’ve seen the Signature hotels dip into the 400s, making it an even better deal! You can read more about which Universal Orlando hotels offer Express Pass here!

A ghost room might be another option to help you get two days of Express Passes. Check out our guide to ghost rooms at Universal Orlando to learn more.

How do you get Express Passes at Universal Signature hotels?

Your hotel key will act as your Express Passes, so keep them with you at all times! You will need one for each member of your party.

Express Passes at Epic Universe

As of right now, Express Passes at Epic Universe are separate and not included in your stay at Royal Pacific, Portofino Bay, or Hard Rock Hotel. So if Epic Universe is a priority, you may want to purchase Express Passes that are specifically for Epic Universe.

Since Epic Universe is new and very popular, it might make sense to add at least one day of Express Passes here, even if you don’t need them for the other parks.

Express Passes at Universal Orlando

So, do you need Express Passes at Universal Orlando? It depends, but if the budget allows staying in one of the three Signature Resorts that include them, I’d say go for it! If that doesn’t work within your budget, try to avoid busy times, take advantage of Early Park Entry, and utilize Single Rider lines to get the most out of your trip.

If you’re ready to plan your family’s trip to Universal Orlando or need a little help figuring it all out, contact me today! I’d love to help you plan the perfect Universal vacation for your family.

We have lots more Universal Orlando and Epic Universe tips on the blog. Check them out!

• A full history of Earl the Squirrel at Universal Studios
• What to Do on a Rainy Day at Universal Orlando
• The Legend of Zelda at Universal Orlando (what we know so far)
• 10 Cheap Souvenirs in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• A Guide to Power-Up Bands at Super Nintendo World
• Universal Orlando Planning Guide

About Florida Travel With Kids

Florida Travel with Kids was started by a family who loves to travel the state of Florida with kids! This site will help you explore the fun state of Florida and all of the kid-friendly activities you’ll find here.

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