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Universal Orlando Resort has retracted a previously announced benefit for its Premier Passholders just weeks ahead of the opening of its newest theme park, Epic Universe.
The change comes after a post in Universal’s official Annual Passholder Facebook group stated that the Express Pass after 4 p.m. benefit—currently available at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure—would also apply to Epic Universe starting May 22. That post has since been disavowed by the company.
UPDATE: Universal Orlando has released information on the passholders perks that will be available at Epic Universe. Premier Passholder’s Express After 4 benefit WILL NOT be offered. I’m told that was incorrectly posted in the official passholder FB group.
UPDATE: Universal Orlando has released information on the passholders perks that will be available at Epic Universe. Premier Passholder's Express After 4 benefit WILL NOT be offered. I'm told that was incorrectly posted in the official passholder FB group. pic.twitter.com/i3SPLADS7M
— Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) April 14, 2025
A Universal spokesperson confirmed to journalist Ashley Carter that the benefit was “incorrectly posted,” and that Premier Passholders will not be able to use the Express line at Epic Universe after 4 p.m. as previously suggested.
Express Pass System and Price Comparison
Universal’s Express Pass allows guests to skip regular lines at most attractions. It comes in two tiers: the standard Express Pass, which grants one-time access to each ride, and Express Pass Unlimited, which offers repeat access throughout the day. Prices fluctuate depending on the season and demand, ranging from $119.99 to $349.99.
Unlike Disney’s Lightning Lane system, which charges guests for individual ride access, Universal packages its Express Pass as a broader offering. Though significantly more expensive on paper, the Express lines at Universal parks are often shorter and more predictable.
Credit: Universal
One of the long-standing perks for Universal Premier Passholders has been the ability to enter Express lines after 4 p.m. at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure without purchasing a separate pass. That benefit, however, will not be honored at Epic Universe.
Other Annual Passholder benefits, such as complimentary parking and discounts on merchandise and dining, will still apply at the new park. However, free Express access will not be among them.
Epic Universe Nears Official Opening Amid High Demand
Epic Universe is scheduled to open to the public on May 22. Early previews and press tours have highlighted the scale of the project, which includes four lands based on IP: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe.
The park also introduces an original concept, Celestial Park, which features astrology-themed attractions and the Helios Grand Hotel. Though the area was expected to include frequent character encounters, reports suggest that Universal has scaled back entertainment offerings ahead of launch.
Credit: Universal
Epic Universe is expected to attract significant crowds in its first months. The company has not commented on whether Express Pass access for Premier Passholders might be added later.
Universal’s decision to remove the benefit reflects a cautious operational approach during the opening phase of the park. For now, the only way to access Express lines at Epic Universe will be through a separate purchase—regardless of passholder status.
Have you visited Epic Universe yet?
