Outside the Disney BubbleUniversal

Universal Orlando Rolls Out All-New 2026 Annual Pass

Do You Qualify To Get It?

Universal Orlando Resort has introduced a new Annual Pass unlike anything seen before, and it will rival whatever Disney World offers for this specific group of heroes.

Beloved DreamWorks characters like Poppy, Shrek, and Po pose in costume before a DreamWorks sign outdoors, surrounded by trees and greenery under a bright sky.
Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

When “Thank You” Comes With a Ticket

For military families, every moment together can feel extra precious. Long deployments, weekend trainings, and relocation schedules make downtime hard to come by — but Universal Orlando is helping change that. Imagine enjoying adrenaline-pumping rides, tropical water slides, and magical themed lands without worrying about breaking the bank.

That’s exactly what the theme park giant has in store for 2026, but the details might surprise you. How exactly is Universal planning to honor America’s service members while giving them one of the best deals of the year?

A shot of Celestial Park at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe
Credit: Joel/Coconut Wireless, Flickr

Introducing the 2026 Military Freedom Pass

Universal Orlando recently unveiled its 2026 Military Freedom Pass, a program offering discounted annual access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Priced at just $220, the 2-Park Freedom Pass gives service members and their families a chance to visit the parks multiple times in 2026 without the usual hefty cost.

Universal Orlando announces details for its 2026 Military annual pass. Eligible service members and families can get a 2-Park pass for $220. Epic Universe is not included. For $35 more, the 3-Park option adds Universal Volcano Bay. – @ScottGustin on X

For a slightly higher price$35 more — military guests can upgrade to the 3-Park Pass, which includes access to Universal Volcano Bay. While the new Epic Universe park isn’t included in the base pass, Universal has added a special 1-Day Epic Universe add-on for Freedom Pass holders, making sure service members can still experience the new park at a discounted rate.

A smiling woman and child pose in front of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ride entrance at a theme park, with a large Spider-Man figure overhead and someone’s hands in Spider-Man gloves framing the photo.
Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Key Dates and Restrictions

While the Freedom Pass offers year-long access, there are some blockout dates to note:

2-Park Pass Blockouts:

  • December 25, 2025 – January 4, 2026

  • March 30, 2026 – April 6, 2026

3-Park Pass Blockouts:

  • December 25, 2025 – January 4, 2026

  • March 30, 2026 – April 6, 2026

  • October 26, 2026 – December 18, 2026 (Volcano Bay only)

Tickets must be purchased through Authorized Military Ticket & Travel Offices, and eligible service members can activate up to six tickets per transaction, provided at least one ticket is for the service member. Activation requires a current military or DOD ID at any Universal Orlando front gate ticket window.

Ornate entrance gate with "Epic Universe" sign, tall decorative tower, and celestial-themed elements under a partly cloudy sky, welcoming guests to the enchanting world of Epic Universe with greenery and people visible beyond as the Universal Epic Universe opening takes place as a new expansion project could be coming.
Credit: Andrew Boardwine, ITM

Epic Universe Add-On: A First for Military Members

The standout feature of the 2026 Military Freedom Pass might be the Epic Universe 1-Day Add-On Ticket. This option allows passholders to experience Universal’s newest park for one calendar day at a discounted price.

Each Freedom Pass holder can purchase one add-on ticket per day, with a limit of six tickets per transaction. This ensures that military families can plan trips around their schedules while experiencing an exclusive taste of what this immersive park has to offer.

Stardust Racers in Celestial Park at Epic Universe
Credit: Andrew Boardwine, Disney Dining

Why This Matters

This isn’t just a discount — it’s a statement. Universal Orlando is recognizing the sacrifices military families make, giving them the chance to enjoy moments that are often rare in day-to-day life.

With 2026 set to bring big changes to the resort — including the highly anticipated Epic Universe — the Military Freedom Pass lets service members experience these milestones without worrying about cost. It’s a small but meaningful way to say thank you, making the parks more accessible and creating memories that last far beyond the turnstiles.

In a world where theme park trips can cost hundreds per person, this program makes it clear: Universal sees the value in honoring those who serve, not just with words, but with real, tangible perks.

Author

  • Emmanuel Detres

    Since first stepping inside the Magic Kingdom at nine years old, I knew I was destined to be a theme Park enthusiast. Although I consider myself a theme Park junkie, I still have much to learn and discover about Disney. Universal Orlando Resort has my heart; being an Annual Passholder means visiting my favorite places on Earth when possible! When I’m not writing about Disney, Universal, or entertainment news, you’ll find me cruising on my motorcycle, hiking throughout my local metro parks, or spending quality time with my girlfriend, family, or friends.

Emmanuel Detres

Since first stepping inside the Magic Kingdom at nine years old, I knew I was destined to be a theme Park enthusiast. Although I consider myself a theme Park junkie, I still have much to learn and discover about Disney. Universal Orlando Resort has my heart; being an Annual Passholder means visiting my favorite places on Earth when possible! When I’m not writing about Disney, Universal, or entertainment news, you’ll find me cruising on my motorcycle, hiking throughout my local metro parks, or spending quality time with my girlfriend, family, or friends.

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