As Universal Orlando Resort prepares for the grand opening of its highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park, fans have been eagerly awaiting any new updates. The park promises to bring groundbreaking attractions and a fresh experience to guests, further expanding Universal’s reach in the competitive theme park market.
However, a recent hint has stirred excitement, as Universal suggests that its most loyal fans — Annual Passholders — could soon enjoy a new perk at the upcoming park, fueling discussions about what’s in store for them when the gates of Epic Universe finally open.
Related: Epic Universe’s Dark Universe to Feature Exclusive Monster Interactions
Epic Universe is shaping up to be a game-changer, with groundbreaking new attractions like SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, Dark Universe, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic, and How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk. With such a massive expansion on the horizon, Universal knows they need to cater to an eager crowd that is anxiously awaiting the opportunity to explore the new park.
Universal Annual Passholders have been a vital part of the resort’s fan base, enjoying perks like free parking, discounts on food, and exclusive access to certain events. However, these benefits have sometimes fallen short when it comes to new offerings such as Epic Universe.
Passholders have found themselves excluded from accessing this new park right away, as their passes do not yet grant automatic entry.
One of the more sought-after benefits for Annual Passholders has been the inclusion of Universal Express access, which allows guests to bypass regular lines after 4 p.m. at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. For some, this perk can be a game-changer, especially on busy days when wait times can stretch to well over an hour.
And it seems that Universal might have let slip that APs will be able to use their Express Pass at Epic Universe!
Related: New Ticket Option Now Available for Epic Universe
X (formerly Twitter) Steven Iglesias posted a screenshot in which Universal revealed that the Express Pass after 4 p.m. perk would be available at Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, AND Epic Universe!
@AliciaStella pic.twitter.com/21sIlQLmD7
— Steven Iglesias (@Stigg00) March 18, 2025
The Universal Express Pass has been a paid feature for many parkgoers, so the idea of it being rolled out for Epic Universe at no additional cost is an intriguing proposition.
The post, which quickly went viral across fan forums, hinted that the usual Universal Express pass, which allows guests to skip regular lines, might be extended to the new park. For the first time, Epic Universe could be included in the perks for those with an existing Annual Pass.
While this news sparked a flurry of excitement, the post was quickly retracted by Universal. However, as we all know in the digital age, once something is online, it’s hard to erase. Fans quickly took screenshots, and the buzz only grew from there.
Annnnnd it’s gone…
Annnnnd it’s gone… pic.twitter.com/zBJb40nJae
— JayGleck (@jaygleckner) March 18, 2025
The post from Universal had noted that restrictions apply, leaving some questions unanswered. Would Epic Universe only be accessible for Express Pass access after a certain time or after purchasing an additional ticket? And what specific restrictions could Universal place on the new perk?
It’s important to note that Universal has not confirmed whether all Annual Passholders will automatically receive this perk.
As it stands, Epic Universe is expected to be an additional charge for those holding certain Annual Passes. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details from Universal as to how the perk will roll out.
Many have taken to social media to discuss the implications of the perk. “This could be a huge win for Universal and its passholders,” said theme park enthusiast Alicia Stella. “I hope they follow through with this idea, as it would make a lot of us feel more valued as loyal customers.”
As we await more details about the Epic Universe experience and how it will integrate with the Annual Passholder perks, it seems that Universal is committed to offering something truly special for the future. Will the park be able to deliver on this promise and keep the excitement building? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of Universal Orlando Resort is looking brighter than ever.
For now, it remains to be seen when Universal will officially announce the availability of the Express Pass for Epic Universe, and whether it will be a permanent feature for Annual Passholders.
Will you be heading to Epic Universe when it opens in May, or will you wait for the crowds to die down and visit later? Which new land are you most excited to explore? Share your thoughts in the comments!
