Your Ultimate Guide on Getting to Epic Universe: What You Need to Know
- Melissa Lenox
- Jun 13
- 5 min read
Universal's Epic Universe is here, promising unforgettable experiences unlike anything you've seen before! But with a brand-new park comes new questions, especially around ticket options and how to make the most of your visit.
Whether you're planning a trip for the remainder of 2025 or looking ahead to 2026, we've got you covered. This guide will break down the current ticketing system for Epic Universe, highlight important shifts coming next year, and explain how Universal Express Passes can elevate your adventure.
Navigating Universal Epic Universe Tickets: 2025 versus 2026
Navigating tickets for a brand-new park can be tricky, especially when the rules are shifting. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect for 2025 versus 2026 tickets.
For 2025 Visits (Currently):
Separate Admission: For the remainder of 2025, Epic Universe requires a separate admission ticket from Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. You can purchase tickets in one of two ways:
A multi-day ticket to the other Universal Orlando theme parks that includes one day of admission to Epic Universe.
A standalone single-day ticket specifically for Epic Universe.
No Same-Day Park Hopping: Unlike Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, park-to-park access is not available for Epic Universe in 2025. On the day you visit Epic Universe, that is the only park you can enter. Similarly, if you visit Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure, you cannot enter Epic Universe on the same day.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond:
Integrated Access: Universal has announced that starting in 2026, Epic Universe will be fully integrated into their multi-day tickets. This means you'll be able to purchase a single ticket that includes access to all three Universal Orlando Resort theme parks (Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe). A second ticket option will be available if you wish to include Volcano Bay, their water theme park.
True Park-to-Park Hopping: The biggest change for 2026 is that Epic Universe will be included in park-to-park access between all three theme parks! You'll be able to move freely between Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe within the same day, making multi-park visits much more flexible. I love this because I could see spending the day at one of the other two parks, then heading over to Epic, because it truly shines after dark!
Maximizing Your Day: Universal Express Pass
Universal Express Pass is your key to spending less time in line and more time experiencing the thrills. Here’s how it works at Epic Universe and what your options are.
What is Universal Express Pass?
Skip the Regular Line: Universal Express Pass allows you to bypass the standard queue and use a dedicated, shorter line at participating attractions. It's a fantastic way to maximize your time, especially on busy days. And the best part, THERE'S NO SCHEDULING! You just show up in line whenever you want!
Not Included with Admission: It's important to note that Universal Express Pass is not included with your theme park admission ticket. It's an additional purchase.
Can you get it for Free? Yes! If you stay at either the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay or Loews Royal Pacific you can Unlimited Express Passes INCLUDED with your stay. However, those passes are only good at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. Epic Universe is NOT included.
Express Pass for Epic Universe
Express Pass options are always changing. For example, Universal announced just recently that after being open for over 5 years Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventures is FINALLY accepting Express Passes! But here is how Express Pass is currently working at Epic Universe.
Universal Express Pass: This type of pass allows you to skip the regular line one time per participating attraction. This is the ONLY pass available at Epic Universe for both 2025 and 2026.
Universal Express Unlimited Pass: This offers unlimited skips per participating attractions, allowing you to ride your favorites again and again without waiting in long lines. This type of pass is ONLY available at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.
What about Volcano Bay? Express Passes are available, however they have to be purchased separately, access IS NOT included in the theme park passes.
Pricing Varies: The cost of Universal Express Passes is dynamic, meaning prices fluctuate based on the date, predicted crowd levels, and demand. They are generally more expensive during peak seasons.
Purchase in Advance: It's highly recommended to purchase your Express Pass in advance, especially if you are visiting Epic Universe this year because dates are selling out.
Which Rides? Not every ride participates in Universal Express at Epic Universe. These 3 attractions ARE NOT INCLUDED so the only way to enjoy them is to enter the standby line.
Donkey Kong Mine-Cart Madness in Super Nintendo World
Dragon Racer's Rally in Isle of Berk
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry in Ministry of Magic
VIP tour: Even though these attractions are not included in Express Pass you could skip the line with a VIP Tour! Be sure to ask your Coasters & Castles Travel Advisor for more information!
Always check the official Universal Orlando Resort app, website or with your travel advisor for the most up-to-date list of participating attractions.
Get a Head Start: Early Park Admission
Want to experience Epic Universe with fewer crowds? Early Park Admission is your secret weapon.
The Power of Early Park Admission (EPA)
Exclusive Access: Guests staying at Universal Orlando Resort hotels receive the benefit of Early Park Admission, allowing them to enter one of the Universal theme parks one hour before the general public.
Historically only one of the two theme parks are included, it varies based on the month. However the holidays are usually an exception and both parks are open early. But for 2025 Epic Universe is included ALL YEAR!
2026 has not been announced yet so it may be included on the schedule like the other two parks, TBD.
Conquer Headliners: This extra hour is invaluable for experiencing the most popular attractions with shorter wait times. Especially if you don't have Express Passes. Getting a jump start can save you later in the day.
What's Available: Currently at Epic Universe only 3 out of the 5 worlds are open;
Super Nintendo World
Dark Universe
Celestial Park
Check Daily Schedules: Always confirm which park is offering Early Park Admission on the day of your visit through the Universal Orlando Resort app, website or with your travel advisor as it can vary.
Ready for Your Epic Adventure?
Whether you're planning a trip for 2025 or looking ahead to 2026, understanding these ticketing and access options is key to a smooth and magical visit to Universal's Epic Universe.
By choosing the right tickets, considering an Express Pass, and booking an on-site resort hotel to take advantage of Early Park Admission, you'll be well-equipped to dive into every incredible world this groundbreaking new park has to offer!
Get ready to create some epic memories!
Melissa Lenox specializes in concierge vacation planning. I cater to those who don't have time to research and plan a vacation or those who just want some assistance along the way! Where to go, when to go, daily recommendations for your trip and even assistance while you are away so the entire process is seamless and stress free.
My specialties are theme parks, all inclusive resorts and ocean cruises. I am a Senior Travel Advisor with Coasters & Castles Travel and Blog Editor of Main Street to the World.
Follow me on my pages below or contact me at mlenox@travelcnc.com to plan your next adventure!
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