Universal Orlando just made a quiet but bold move that might change the way guests skip lines forever. The resort has officially started testing Single Attraction Access—a brand-new way for guests to bypass standby lines at select rides. And if this sounds familiar to Disney fans, that’s because it is.
For years, Universal has relied on Express Pass as its signature skip-the-line option. But this new system looks a whole lot like Disney’s Lightning Lane, and fans are already buzzing about what it could mean for the future of the parks.
A New Way to Skip the Line
Guests visiting Universal Studios Florida recently spotted new signage at Revenge of the Mummy offering Single Attraction Access. This allows visitors to purchase one-time, same-day line-skipping access for that specific attraction through a QR code in the Universal app.
Unlike Express Pass, this isn’t bundled into a package or tied to your hotel stay. You pick the ride, pay for it, and bypass the line. Once inventory runs out, that’s it for the day—making this a more limited and flexible option than the traditional all-day Express.
Disney’s Playbook, Universal’s Strategy
This is essentially the same strategy Disney implemented when it retired Genie+ and shifted to its new Lightning Lane system. Rather than forcing guests into a one-size-fits-all package, Disney lets guests pay individually for select popular rides, in addition to having the Multi Pass for the rest of the attractions.
Universal’s approach mirrors that model but keeps it simple for now—one ride, one purchase, no time slots to manage. It’s a more flexible entry point for guests who don’t want to pay premium prices for an entire Express Pass but still want to experience at least one major attraction without the wait.
Why This Matters for Universal
There’s a lot of strategy behind this move. Express Pass demand is sky-high during peak seasons and can sell out. By adding a single-attraction option, Universal taps into an entirely new tier of guests—those who might not pay $100+ for a full pass but are willing to spend $20–$30 for one key ride.
It’s also a clever way to better manage crowds. By controlling inventory for individual rides, Universal can balance the flow between standby and Express lanes. That keeps waits more manageable while generating additional revenue.
What’s Next for the Parks
So far, Single Attraction Access has been spotted at Revenge of the Mummy and Skull Island: Reign of Kong. But that’s likely just the beginning. If this pilot program performs well, Universal could roll it out to its most in-demand attractions like Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Jurassic World VelociCoaster, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
And with Epic Universe now open, it’s easy to imagine this becoming a permanent option across all Universal parks.
The Future of Line-Skipping
For years, Universal had the simpler system compared to Disney: pay once, skip everything. But this new tier gives the company a way to offer more options without taking away the original Express Pass. It’s a hybrid strategy—and one that gives guests more control over how they spend their time and money.
It’s also a sign of where the industry is heading. More flexibility, more customization, and yes… more ways to spend. Whether fans love it or hate it, Universal just signaled that big changes are on the horizon.
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