The countdown has officially begun for one of Universal’s most highly anticipated theme park openings to date — Epic Universe. As the new park gets ready to welcome guests next month, fans are buzzing with excitement over the park’s innovative new lands and attractions. From How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, the upcoming park promises to be an immersive experience unlike any Universal has created before.
But alongside the thrilling rides and breathtaking theming, a crucial piece of news has just dropped that will undoubtedly enhance visitors’ experience — especially those seeking to maximize their time at this sprawling new park.
Related: Epic Universe’s Opening Magic Hit With First Major Reality Check
Universal Orlando has recently confirmed major updates regarding its Universal Express Pass for Epic Universe, and it’s sure to be music to the ears of thrill-seekers eager to skip the long lines. For those who already enjoy the benefits of Universal Express at other parks, there’s good news: you’ll be able to use it at Epic Universe too.
However, there are some details you’ll need to know before you pack your bags for the grand opening on May 22, 2025.
One of the biggest talking points is the announcement that Annual Passholders, while not receiving exclusive early entry to the park, will still enjoy some special perks.
Those with a Premier Annual Pass who buy a ticket for Epic Universe will have the opportunity to use their Universal Express Pass after 4 p.m. perk each day during their visit. This perk allows you to bypass the standard lines at many of the park’s most popular attractions — offering a huge convenience when the park gets crowded, particularly in the opening months.
While this news is undoubtedly exciting, it’s important to note that guests who don’t hold a Premier Pass can still purchase Universal Express, but with a catch. Not every attraction at Epic Universe will be available for Express Pass access. Universal has confirmed that every ride will feature an Express line, with the exception of three major attractions:
- Mine-Cart Madness
- Dragon Racers Rally
- Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
These exclusions come as no surprise to many, considering the cutting-edge designs of the rides in question. Mine-Cart Madness, located in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, promises to be a thrilling roller coaster that may have logistics too complex for an Express Pass to accommodate at launch. Similarly, the Dragon Racers Rally in the How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Bern and the Harry Potter attraction also fall outside of the Universal Express system — at least for the time being.
As Epic Universe opens its gates next month, there’s no doubt that the crowds will be massive. Universal’s decision to implement Universal Express at the new park is a direct response to this anticipated demand. With limited capacity and high visitor volume, the Express Pass option offers a valuable way to make the most of your time.
Related: What’s in the Latest Epic Universe Reveal? Fans Can’t Get Enough
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that, like all Express Passes, availability is first-come, first-serve. This means that guests should plan ahead and be prepared to act quickly if they want to secure access to shorter wait times.
Universal is also selling single-day tickets and multi-day passes for Epic Universe, so whether you’re planning to visit for a day or make it part of a larger Universal vacation, you’ll have plenty of options. As we approach the park’s grand opening, it’s clear that Epic Universe is going to be one of the hottest destinations in Orlando.
So, what are you most excited about? Will you be among the first to experience the park, or are you planning to wait for the crowds to thin? Whatever your strategy, it’s sure to be a visit you’ll never forget.
