Looking for a way to get the most out of your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood? Look no further than the Universal Express Pass!
This incredible service offers you a chance to enjoy the park’s most popular attractions with minimal wait times and maximum convenience.
With Universal Express Pass, you can skip the regular lines, avoid the Universal Studios Hollywood wait times and experience the excitement and thrills of the park’s most thrilling rides and attractions without the frustration of long queues.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Harry Potter, a thrill-seeker looking for a rush, or just looking to make the most of your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, the Universal Express Pass is the perfect way to upgrade your experience.
So why wait in line when you can skip ahead and start enjoying the magic right away?
With Universal’s Express Pass, the adventure starts now!
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Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass at a Glance:
- It’s an add-on to your regular Universal Studios Hollywood admission ticket that gives you access to a separate, shorter line
- With the Universal Express Pass, you can only use the Express Line once per day per attraction (except for Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge)
- You can also use the Express Pass once per day to skip each attraction, and seated show, and one-time (per day) reservation-free entry into SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ when reservations are required
- Cost starts at $209 per person and DOES include park admission
Keep reading to see if the Universal Express Pass is worth the money!
What is the Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood?
The Express Pass is a premium service offered at Universal Studios Hollywood that provides guests with priority access to some of the park’s most popular attractions.
With this pass, you can skip the line at Universal Studios Hollywood and enjoy reduced wait times, allowing you to experience more rides and attractions in less time.
The Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass offers a one time skip-the-line pass for select attractions and includes the cost of admission.
Who should get an Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood?
The Express Pass is ideal for you if you want to make the most of your time at the park and if you want to enjoy the ultimate Universal Studios Hollywood experience without the hassle of long lines.
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How does the Express Pass Work at Universal Studios Hollywood?
As previously mentioned, the Express Pass works by providing you with priority access to select rides and attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Guests who purchase an Express Pass can bypass the regular lines and enter the attraction through a separate, shorter queue to avoid the Universal Studios Hollywood wait times.
This allows you to experience the ride or attraction with reduced wait times, providing a more seamless and enjoyable experience.
The Express Pass is scanned at the entrance of each participating attraction.
There is a limited number of Express Passes available each day, so it’s recommended to purchase in advance.
With the Express Pass, you can maximize your time at the park and enjoy a hassle-free experience with minimal wait times.
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Which rides at Universal Studios Hollywood use Express Pass?
Currently, the Express Pass includes one express access to each ride, attraction and seated show per day (excluding Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge) AND one-time (per day) reservation-free entry into SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ when reservations are required to enter the land.
At Universal Studios Hollywood, you can use Express Pass on the following attractions (subject to opening):
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Jurassic World: The Ride
- Transformers: The Ride-3D
- The Simpsons Ride
- The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride
- Flight of the Hippogriff
- Backlot Studio Tour
- WaterWorld
- Entrance to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD (when reservations are required)
Something to Remember About the Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass
The exact list of participating rides and attractions may vary depending on the day and time of year.
So, I recommend checking the Universal Studios Hollywood website or ask a Team Member for the most up-to-date information.
With the Express Pass, visitors can enjoy priority access to some of the park’s most thrilling and exciting experiences.
How do you get an Express Pass for Universal Studios Hollywood?
There are several ways to get an Express Pass for Universal Studios Hollywood.
The easiest and most convenient method is to purchase it online.
Simply select to purchase a Universal Express ticket rather than general admission. This guarantees Express Pass for the day of your visit AND your park ticket.
You can also purchase the Express Pass at the park on the day of your visit, but availability is not guaranteed.
There are only a limited number of Express Passes available per day.
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How much is Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Universal Studios Hollywood has a variable pricing scale that varies throughout the year.
You will find admission, including Express Pass, is more expensive on expected busy dates and cheaper on dates the park is typically quieter.
When purchasing Universal Express online, prices start from $209 and can be as much as $309 on peak park dates.
If you purchase Express Pass separately from your admission ticket, a limited number of Express Pass upgrades are available at the park gate.
Prices vary from $70-150 with the highest price tag on the busiest dates.
Can you add Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood?
If you purchase general admission for Universal Studios Hollywood and later decide you would like Express Pass, a limited number of Express Pass upgrades are available to purchase on the day at the park gate.
Prices are from $70 and vary by date. Express Passes available on the day are subject to availability and will sell out fast on busy park days.
However, it’s a better deal if you get you Express Pass/Ticket in advance.
Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide
Other ways to purchase an Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood
Although it is advised to purchase your Express Pass directly from Universal Studios Hollywood, there are also a number of third party retailers you could purchase from.
You can also purchase Express Pass from trusted sources such as Viator.
Please ensure you are purchasing from a reputable third party retailer.
Should I get a Universal Express Pass during Christmas?
Getting a Universal Express Pass during Christmas is highly recommended if you want to make the most of your time at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year at the park with long wait times for popular rides and attractions.
By purchasing an Express Pass, you can skip the line at Universal Studios Hollywood and enjoy reduced wait times, allowing you to experience more of the park’s offerings during your visit.
Plus, the Express Pass also provides an opportunity to take in the park’s festive holiday decorations and shows without worrying about long lines.
If you’re planning on visiting Universal Studios Hollywood during Christmas, an Express Pass is an investment in a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
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Should I get an Express Pass for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood?
If you’re planning on attending Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood, the Express Pass is a must-have for a truly unforgettable and terror-filled experience.
The event draws large crowds, which can result in long lines and extended wait times.
With the Express Pass, you can bypass those lines and enjoy priority access to all the spine-chilling mazes and haunted attractions that the event has to offer.
From the terror of the scary Backlot Tour to the madness of the haunted houses, you’ll have more time to scream your lungs out and less time standing in line.
So if you’re ready to face your fears and have an unforgettable Halloween experience, don’t hesitate to purchase an Express Pass for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood!
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Can I do Universal Studios Hollywood without an Express Pass?
While Express Pass can be hugely beneficial to your Universal Studios Hollywood experience, there is no huge need to purchase it.
You can still enjoy all the same attractions without it.
While an Express Pass can provide priority access and reduced wait times for popular rides and attractions, it’s not a requirement for having a fun and memorable visit to the park.
Additionally, there are plenty of shows, performances and interactive experiences to enjoy that don’t require any wait time at all.
Although an Express Pass can enhance your experience, it’s not necessary to have a great time at Universal Studios Hollywood.
The major benefit of Express Pass currently is the inclusion of reservation-free access to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD if reservations are required on your day of visit.
VIP Experience vs. Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass
The VIP Experience and Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass are both premium add-ons that can enhance your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood.
Plus, the VIP Experience provides a personalized guided tour of Universal Studios Hollywood, which includes:
- Front-of-line access to ALL rides and attractions (including the Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge)
- A gourmet lunch (the highlight of the tour)
- Access to exclusive areas of the park not shown to the general public
On the other hand, the Universal Orlando Express Pass offers priority access to select rides and attractions at Universal Orlando, reducing wait times and allowing you to experience more of the park’s offerings at a lower cost.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your preferences and budget.
If you’re looking for a more personalized and exclusive experience, the VIP Experience is the way to go (a great deal if it’s in your budget).
But if you want to enjoy reduced wait times and access to select attractions without breaking the bank, the Universal Orlando Express Pass is a great option.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
Is the Express Pass worth it at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Whether or not the Express Pass is worth it at Universal Studios Hollywood depends on your priorities and preferences.
If you value maximizing your time at the park and want to experience as many popular rides and attractions as possible, the Express Pass can be a worthwhile investment.
With reduced Universal Studios Hollywood wait times, you can fit more into your visit and avoid spending significant amounts of time waiting in line.
However, if you don’t mind waiting in lines or prefer to take your time exploring the park, the Express Pass may not be necessary for your visit.
Additionally, the cost of the pass may not be justifiable for those on a tight budget.
On busy days, it is incredibly beneficial but quieter days can be just as easy-going without it.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Express Pass depends on your individual circumstances and priorities.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Steph is a UK-based freelance travel writer and theme park enthusiast.
She currently lives in England with her partner and son but is passionate about exploring the world.
(Original Article Date: May 19, 2023/Updated by Editor on March 3, 2024)