Everything You Need to Know About Express Passes at Epic Universe
Epic Universe opens May 22nd 2025, and Universal has just announced and details on the tools we need to make the most of our time in the park. Express Passes are now available, so it is time to gear up and get ready to experience the newest theme park in Orlando for a day of packed full of fun, without the long lines. So if you’ve been holding off on getting your Epic Universe tickets now is the time along with purchasing your Express Pass, because these passes are a game changer when it comes to maximising your time in the park.
Let’s break down everything you will need to know about the Express Passes, what they cover, how much they cost and why they might just be worth every penny.
The What and Working of these Express Passes
If you’ve ever used Universal’s Express Pass at Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure, you might think these will work the same way, however, at Epic Universe there are some key differences you need to know before you buy.
Simply put, an Express Pass is your golden ticket to skip the regular lines at most of the attractions in Epic Universe. If you’re someone who likes to make the most out of your park day—whether you’re planning a whirlwind adventure or just want to avoid standing in long queues—you’ll want to get your hands on this. And trust me, it’s worth the investment if you’re visiting during peak times, or if you just want more time riding your favourite attractions instead of waiting for them.
But before you rush off to grab one, let’s talk about the pricing and options available, so you can make the best choice for your park visit.
Epic Universe Express Passes will let you skip the standby line once per participating attraction, but unlike the Deluxe hotels at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, none of the hotels will include the Epic Universe Express Passes (at least for now). So regardless if you are booked to stay at a Deluxe hotel you’ll need to purchase Express Passes separately, and you’ll be required to select the exact date you want to use them. Once purchased, they are non-transferable and assigned to individuals in your Universal account.
The other thing of note here is these unlike the unlimited Express Pass, they are single use per attraction only, so if you want to experience an attraction twice on the same day will be need to use the normal standby line and queue with the other park guests.
How much for a Express Passes
Now, the Express Passes are not exactly cheap, but when you break it down, it might be well worth it to get a head start on those rides. The pricing can vary, depending on the date you visit, and like most theme park offerings, they are higher during peak times (we’re talking holidays, weekends, and summer).
Pricing for Epic Universe Express Pass during the first few weeks, you’ll be looking at a starting at $120.99 USD (roughly £95 GBP) per person. However, that’s not the full picture. Prices for the first few weeks are $260 USD (around £200 GBP), that’s double the base price, so if you’re visiting in peak season, be prepared to pay premium prices.
Remember that the Express Pass price is for each individual, so if you’re planning on taking the whole family, those costs will add up pretty quickly.
The Important Details: What You Get and What You Don’t
Rides included with Express Pass
Here’s a full list of attractions currently included
Celestial Park:
- Constellation Carousel
- Stardust Racers
Dark Universe:
- Curse of the Werewolf
- Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
Super Nintendo World:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
- Yoshi’s Adventure
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk:
- Hiccup’s Wing Gliders
- Fyre Drill
- The Untrainable Dragon Show
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic:
- Le Cirque Arcanus Show
Not all rides accept Express Pass, and three major attractions are currently not included:
- Dragon Racer’s Rally (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)
- Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness (Super Nintendo World)
- Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (Ministry of Magic)
This means that if you’re dead set on these rides, its time to get comfy in that standby line. But things could change as the park operates and adapts over time, so keep an eye out, you might get lucky later!
Key Benefits of the Express Pass
For those still on the debating to get an Express Pass, let’s talk about the big benefits.
- Save Time: Allowing you to skip the general queue, saving hours of waiting time.
- Busy Days: If you’re visiting during opening weeks or peak season, the lines are sure to be Epic and long.
- Flexibility: You can buy Express Passes as a add on to single or multi-day tickets, no need fr a new ticket.
Tips for Using Your Express Pass
- Know the Attractions: Know which rides are included and which ones aren’t, so you can plan your day accordingly.
- Early Bird Gets the Ride: You will more out of your Express Pass if you arrive at the park early and take advantage of the lower crowds. Get those high-demand rides done before everyone else shows up! And save your Express Pass for when the Park get busier
- Reserve Early: If you’re visiting during a busy period, book your Express Passes ahead of time. This way, you don’t miss out on availability when the park is packed.
Who Should Buy Express Pass?
If you’re visiting during peak season or in the opening weeks, Express Pass is highly recommended, lines could see wait times of three hours or more per ride. So for many visitors, skipping the lines is worth the price.
Epic Universe VIP Tours: The Ultimate Park Experience
If Express Pass is the fast lane, a VIP Tour is an entirely different level of luxury. This isn’t just a “skip the line” option it’s a full on, experience for guests who want to take theme park adventure to the next level.
What’s Included in the VIP Tour?
The VIP Tour at Epic Universe is a personalised, 4 hour guided experience which includes priority access to all the park’s attractions led by your very own expert Universal team member.
You’ll have the flexibility to create your own itinerary, pick the rides you want to experience, and go straight to the front without having to wait in long queues and even bypassing the Express Pass line.
What’s included in your VIP Tour experience:
Guided Tour: You’ll have a VIP guide at your side the entire time.
Priority Access to Attractions: Better then Express Pass, your guide will walk you right to the front of the line.
Included Single Ride Express Passes: After your VIP tour ends you will still be able to use the Express Pass
Valet Parking: You’ll also get free valet parking for one vehicle.
Personalised Experience: You can let your guide know if you want to customise your tour to visit specific attractions or explore parts of the park that interest you most.
Pricing for VIP Tours
Luxury comes at a price. The VIP Tours start at $389 USD (around £300 GBP) per person. That said, during peak times for example opening weekend, the price is $650 USD (approximately £510 GBP) per person. But for that price, you’ll get priority access, an expert guide, and a hassle free experience.
Is the VIP Tour Worth It?
If your credit card hasn’t faint and you have the budget. Experience Epic Universe in style, with the VIP Tour. It’s ideal for families who want to maximise their time in the park, those looking for a more exclusive experience, or anyone who takes their theme park day to the extreme.
Bare in mind that VIP Tours have limited availability, so they can sell out quickly. If this is something you’re seriously considering, book early to ensure you don’t miss out!
Where to Buy Your Tickets
Looking to make your Orlando dreams a reality without watching your wallet do a disappearing act like Figment in a puff of imagination? Look no further than our trusted affiliate partner: AttractionTickets.com – the UK’s No.1 provider for Florida attraction tickets and theme park hotels!
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To secure your Express Pass or VIP Tour, head over to AttractionTickets.com. As the UK’s No.1 provider for Florida attraction tickets, they offer:
Alternatively VIP Tour tickets can be purchased from the official Universal Orlando website.
With Express Passes and VIP Tours in high demand, don’t wait too long to book—otherwise, you may find yourself waiting a lot in line instead.
Final Thoughts: Wrapping It All Up
Epic Universe is set to bring theme park immersion to a new level, with new high tech attractions and massive new lands o explore. So, whether you’re looking to skip the lines with an Express Pass or walk on the side of luxury of a VIP Tour, Universal’s Epic Universe is making it easier (not cheaper) than ever to get the most out of your park day. The goal of this guide is help you know your options and choosing the one that best fits your needs, budget, and park goals.
If you’re heading to Epic Universe, I highly recommend considering these options for a smoother, more enjoyable experience. But remember, like any Disney or Universal trip, it’s all about planning ahead and getting the most out of your adventure.
Ready to jump in? Book those Express Passes, lock in your VIP Tour, and get ready for a magical (and efficient) time in the park!
Note: You can find links for booking your tickets and tours right on the Beyond the Magic Vacations website! Don’t forget to check out our affiliate links for special deals on hotels, travel gear, and park tickets. Happy travels!
Are you heading to Epic Universe for opening weekend? If so, are you considering an Express Pass or VIP Tour upgrade to enhance your experience? We’d love to hear your thoughts and plans! Drop a comment below and let us know – we can’t wait to hear from you!”
