Since its debut, Epic Universe has operated separately from Universal Orlando Resort’s existing Annual Pass structure. Guests with Premier, Preferred, or Power passes can’t simply walk in—they need a separate ticket.
Sure, Universal has offered some perks: a modest ticket discount, savings on snacks and souvenirs, and maybe a small break on select park experiences. But full access? Not yet.
Those benefits are only guaranteed through the end of 2025. And that’s where the story takes a turn.
A Quiet Setup for a Big Change
By ending the current passholder perks at Epic Universe on December 31, 2025, Universal might be signaling something big on the horizon. The timing feels too specific to be random. Ending discounts right as the new year begins could be the clearest clue that the resort is preparing to roll Epic Universe into its Annual Pass program starting in 2026.
If that happens, it would mark a major shift. Instead of buying separate one-day tickets to visit Universal’s newest park, passholders could enjoy full access to all three parks with a single pass. That means more freedom, easier park-hopping, and fewer headaches when planning your day.
It sounds like a dream scenario, and for many passholders, it would be. But there’s a catch—and it’s a big one. Adding Epic Universe to the UOAP system won’t come without a price. Quite literally.
Universal knows the value of what they’ve built, and they’re unlikely to give it away without adjusting the cost of entry. So while 2026 could be the year of ultimate access, it’s also likely to be the year of the most significant Annual Pass price jump we’ve seen yet.
What’s That Going to Cost?
Adding a park like Epic Universe to the passholder perks means Universal will need to recover that value somewhere, and all signs point to a price hike.
For Premier passholders, that could mean an increase of $100 or more. Preferred passes might see a bump in the $50–$75 range. Even the lower-tier passes could nudge upward, especially if Universal adds limited Epic access to entice more upgrades.
Universal built something massive, and now that they’ve hooked the audience, they’re going to make sure it pays off.
It’s a Win for Some, a Loss for Others
The added cost might be worth it for super fans who visit frequently. Getting a third park—especially one as impressive as Epic Universe—adds a ton of value.
But for casual visitors or budget-conscious families, this could be a turning point. Many who’ve enjoyed the passholder experience for years might have to step back and ask if it’s still affordable. Is the cost even worth it?
Big Perks, Bigger Decisions
There’s no official word yet, but signs suggest 2026 will bring hefty changes to the UOAP program. If Epic Universe joins the pass, it’ll open new doors while closing others for those who can’t stomach the cost increase. And that’s the trade-off Universal fans will have to face soon.
