Universal Studios Hollywood is giving theme park fans another way to experience its attractions, but the latest option comes with a pretty expensive price tag.
The California theme park has introduced a new annual pass that offers more benefits than its previous highest membership tier.
While the price might surprise some visitors, the additional perks could make it worthwhile for guests who frequently visit Universal Studios Hollywood.
Universal Introduces Its Most Expensive Annual Pass Yet
Universal Studios Hollywood has officially added the Diamond Annual Pass to its existing membership lineup.
Previously, visitors could choose between the California Neighbor Pass and Silver, Gold, and Platinum Annual Passes.
The Platinum Pass was Universal's most expensive option, but the Diamond membership now takes that position.
The new Diamond Annual Pass costs $999.95.
Visitors who prefer monthly payments can put down $449.95 and pay $50 per month for one year with 0% APR.
After the first year, the membership automatically renews monthly.
Although the price is considerably higher than other passes, Universal has included several benefits that could appeal to frequent visitors.
What Does the New Diamond Pass Include?
Diamond Passholders receive admission without blockout dates, allowing them to visit throughout the year.
They also receive complimentary parking and Universal Express access beginning when the park opens.
The Express benefit allows one-time daily access to each ride, attraction, and seated show.
That's a major difference from Universal's Platinum membership, which doesn't allow guests to begin using its Express benefit until after 3 p.m.
However, the Diamond Pass offers more than regular park admission.
Members also receive one complimentary general admission ticket to Halloween Horror Nights, one complimentary general admission ticket to Universal Fan Fest Nights, and one VIP Experience ticket.
These additional experiences could make the membership particularly appealing to visitors who already purchase separate tickets for Universal's special events.
Universal Makes Changes to Its Platinum Pass
Alongside the Diamond announcement, Universal has reduced the price of its Platinum Annual Pass.
The membership now costs $599.95, with monthly payments available for $28.19.
Platinum members still receive complimentary parking, admission without blockout dates, and one general admission ticket to Halloween Horror Nights.
They also receive Universal Express access after 3 p.m. at participating attractions and seated shows.
However, the Platinum Pass doesn't include the additional Fan Fest Nights admission or VIP Experience ticket offered with Diamond.
The new membership arrives as Universal Studios Hollywood continues expanding its attractions, including the recent debut of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.
With more experiences available, Universal is giving visitors additional reasons to return throughout the year.
Whether the Diamond Pass is worth nearly $1,000 will depend on how frequently guests visit and how much they value the premium benefits.
