Visiting Universal’s newest theme park might come with long lines as every guest seeks to experience everything for the first time. That’s where Epic Universe Express Pass comes in. Is it worth it to buy the Express Pass at Epic Universe? How much does it cost? Does Express Pass really save time? Who should buy it?
What Is Epic Universe Express Pass?
The Express Pass is a separately purchased add on that allows you to skip the regular line at certain rides and attractions.
How it Works Inside Universal Epic Universe
Look for the Express Pass entrance and have your ticket add on scanned to enter for a shorter wait at the following rides:
- Curse of the Werewolf
- Fyre Drill
- Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
- Hiccup’s Wing Gliders
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
- Mine-Cart Madness
- Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
- Stardust Racers
- Yoshi’s Adventure
Epic Universe Express Pass also works at these shows:
- The Untrainable Dragon
- Le Cirque Arcanus
How Much Does Epic Universe Express Cost?
The price varies by date but can be somewhere in the $179.99 to $359.99 range per person, per day.
Purchasing multiple days together makes Express Pass a little cheaper per day. The 3 Park Multi-Day Express Pass also includes Epic and ranges from $269.99 to $864.99 per person.
This is in addition to Universal tickets for Epic Universe which start at $139 for a single day.
With a family of four, Express Pass can easily add $800 per day.
If you’re on a budget, or prefer to spend that money elsewhere on your trip, it may be a better choice to strategize an efficient itinerary instead of buying this optional add on.
Pros of Epic Universe Express
1. Much Shorter Wait Times
You may walk on to some rides or only wait 5 minutes instead of the posted 120 minutes.
2. Great For Single Day Visits
It’s easy to make the most of short trips or tight itineraries with Express Pass. You may be able to get everything in on one day with this add on instead of spending additional days in the park.
3. Less Stress, More Flexibility
There isn’t as much pressure to be there for park opening or stay until the park closes. (It’s beautiful at night though so don’t totally skip that!)
4. Peak Seasons Advantage
Express Pass can be especially helpful during holidays, spring break, long weekends and summer time.
Cons of Epic Universe Express
1. It’s Pricey
Adding on Express Pass can easily double your cost per day for everyone in the group.
2. You Don’t Always Need It On Slow Days or Multi Day Trips
Lower crowd days may not justify this added expense.
The Express Pass can’t get you on an attraction faster if there isn’t a sustained wait.
3. Not All Attractions Are Included Or Have Zero Wait
Not all experiences are included with Express at Epic Universe.
Don’t expect to have no wait at all for every attraction.
One of the longest waits in the park is usually for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. While this is included, the point where Express merges with the regular line is quite a ways back. You may still wait 20-30 minutes depending on how things are moving.
4. You May Miss Parts of The Attraction
Some rides have great queues that feel like part of the story like Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.
Is Epic Universe Express Worth It for Families? For Adults and Thrill Seekers?
If waiting in line is a pain point on your family theme park vacations, Express Pass may be the answer you’ve been looking for. It can be especially helpful to avoid middle of the day lines in the sun for little ones.
Parties with only adults and thrill seekers will also love the ability to easily go on rides more than once. With the extra time Express Pass gives you, revisit your favorites using the regular line. (Unlimited Express is not yet available at Epic Universe.)
When Epic Universe Express Is Definitely Worth It
- If you’re going for just one day and want to get as much as possible in.
- During the busiest of times when attraction waits can be multiple hours long.
- For special occasions like birthdays or first visits when you want to do something special.
When You Can Skip Epic Express Passes
This costly benefit isn’t for everyone. You may want to skip it if:
- Waiting in queues is fine to you if they are interesting to look at. (Prioritize seeking shorter wait times in outdoor switch back queues like all of the rides in the Isle of Berk, Curse of the Werewolf in Dark Universe and Stardust Racers in Celestial Park.)
- You will be in the park multiple days.
- You are focused on value.
- You’re confident in your planning skills and will take advantage of the resort guest early entry and stay until park close.
Ready to experience Epic Universe with an Express Pass for yourself? Save time and money by purchasing discounted Universal Orlando tickets and Express Passes through Unlocked Magic before your trip.
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