If you’ve ever wondered if a Universal Studios Annual Pass is right for you, hopefully, we can clear that up! Universal Studios has a great annual pass program that’s actually pretty affordable. Here’s what you need to know!
Universal Orlando Annual Pass
A Universal Orlando Annual Pass is just what it sounds like. It’s a pass that gets you into the Universal Parks in Orlando for a year. You can choose a pass that allows entry into the two main parks, or a pass that also includes their water park, Volcano Bay.
What does a Universal Orlando Annual Pass cost?
The prices vary depending on which tier pass you want to purchase. Prices range from $299- $800 and you can see all current pricing for Universal Annual Passes here. The best prices are reserved for Florida residents but unlike Walt Disney World’s annual pass program, out-of-state visitors have access to all of the same levels of annual passes that Florida residents do. Almost all of the annual pass tiers also allow for monthly payments.
Depending on how much you plan to go to Universal Studios, this can save you a lot of money. A one-day ticket to Universal starts at $109 per day; and this rate is dependent upon what time of year you are going, if you want to visit both Parks while there and if you have any other add-ons for your ticket.
What discounts are available for UO Annual Passholders?
One of the best parts of being an Annual Passholder is all of the amazing discounts! Universal really takes care of their Passholders. Passholders can receive great discounts on resort stays, merchandise, and food. We recently were able to save about 50% off staying at Loew’s Portofino Bay by using an Annual Passholder discount. Discounts for resort stays change throughout the year, but if you book during the right time you can save a lot of money on your resort. We booked during Annual Passholder appreciation days, but even during the rest of the year, you can expect to save between 25%-30% on your resort.
Annual Passholders at Universal also receive up to 15% off at certain dining locations and up to 20% off of merchandise. Both discounts are dependent upon what level pass you have.
Perks of being an Annual Passholder at Universal Studios
We love perks! Who doesn’t, right? Annual Passholders at Universal Studios get perks based on the type of pass that they hold. Annual Passes are available in several different tiers. At different price points, you can choose which level is best for you. Seasonal, Power, Preferred and Premier passes are all available at different price points. And all offer different benefits. Perks can include things no blackout dates, early entry to the Parks, free parking, and even Express Pass on the highest level pass. All pass types offer resort discounts, park to park admission, and discounts on special event tickets.
You can see all of the benefits for each type of pass here.
Universal Studios also hosts Passholder Appreciation days each year, where Passholders can get even better discounts, special merch, and more. Universal Studios Passholders can also receive a free button each month. The button is complimentary but it does have to be picked up in person.
Is a Universal Orlando Annual Pass Worth it?
Is it worth it? This is always the biggest question we get about pretty much everything that involves spending money. “Worth it” is sometimes hard to gauge, but in this case, it’s really just a matter of doing some math. Universal Studios tickets are not cheap. But annual passes at Universal Studios are a lot more affordable than those at Walt Disney World, especially if you’re an out-of-state visitor.
Obviously, if you are only going to go one or two days in an entire year, then no it wouldn’t mathematically make sense to get an annual pass. But if you plan to visit Universal Studios even just four days during one year, the lowest tier annual pass will save you money. Add on discounts like resorts, merchandise, and food and it actually ends up being a pretty good deal.
Whether or not it’s worth it will really depend on how many times you plan to go and what times of year since ticket prices change throughout the year.
Hopefully, this post has cleared up for you whether or not an annual pass at Universal Studios is right for you. Are you considering an annual pass at Universal Studios? Let us know if you have any other questions!
Melanie Renee is a photographer, writer, designer and mom. Visiting Disney destinations since 2010, she is also an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. When she's not creating her next coffee recipe, or designing apparel at Polka Dot Pixie Shop, she's seeking beautiful sunsets and planning her next trip .
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