As Universal Orlando Resort continues to gear up for the highly anticipated debut of Epic Universe on May 22, excitement is building across its fanbase. This new park, which promises cutting-edge attractions and immersive experiences, is set to expand the resort’s offerings, making it one of the most innovative theme parks in the world.
However, recent buzz surrounding an unexpected perk for Universal’s Annual Passholders has taken the spotlight, creating waves of anticipation long before the park’s opening.
In a surprising move, Universal has hinted that rides at Epic Universe could be included in the list of attractions for Annual Passholders to enjoy with exclusive benefits.
This early hint at a new benefit for Universal’s most loyal fans is a game-changer, particularly because it would offer passholders priority access to the long-anticipated park. The Universal Express Pass, which allows Premier Annual Passholders to skip regular attraction lines after 4 p.m., is largely considered the best Annual Pass perk.
It was social media user Steven Iglesias who first raised the Epic Universe Express Pass question, spotting the language change on Universal Orlando’s website. His tweet quickly gained traction as it showed that the two-park Premier Pass could allow guests to use Universal Express after 4 p.m. not only for Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure but also for Epic Universe.
@AliciaStella pic.twitter.com/21sIlQLmD7
— Steven Iglesias (@Stigg00) March 18, 2025
Related: Universal Epic Universe Approaches Grand Opening with Crowd Control Measures
While Universal has since removed the original post, fans across social platforms are still buzzing about the possibility. Many have taken to online forums, wondering if the perk will be permanent or if it is simply a limited-time offer designed to drive engagement with the new park.
Universal’s decision to tease this perk so far ahead of Epic Universe’s opening may be a strategic move to keep the fanbase engaged. With the addition of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry to Magic, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, and other exclusive experiences, Universal knows it has a captive audience eager for more.
By offering the Express Pass benefit, it strengthens its relationship with annual passholders, ensuring that their loyalty is rewarded as they help usher in the newest chapter of the Universal brand.
Related: Epic Universe Entry Just Got Easier: Universal Announces Major Ticket Update
Still, questions remain. How will Universal handle peak crowds when Epic Universe opens? Will the Express Pass access be limited to certain times or specific attractions? What impact will this have on regular ticket sales versus Annual Passholder benefits? As fans eagerly await the full reveal, Universal’s bold hint has certainly created anticipation and excitement, leaving fans eagerly speculating about what’s to come.
With Epic Universe opening in just a couple of months, Universal is clearly planning to make a big splash. And for its loyal Annual Passholders, it seems there may be even more to look forward to, with the potential for exclusive access and perks that could set the new park apart from the rest of the resort’s offerings.
Are you planning to visit Epic Universe when it opens in May, or will you wait for the crowds to thin out and go at a later time? Which new land are you most excited to check out? Let us know in the comments!
