Universal Orlando Resort has introduced a new way for guests to skip long attraction lines – without committing to a full-day Express Pass.
The newly launched “Universal Express Now” allows visitors to purchase line-skipping access for just one attraction at a time, marking a significant shift in how the resort offers its premium queue service.
Florida News Blitz writer Taylor Stephenson is here to break down all the details about the new pass and how it works…
How the New Pass Works
Unlike traditional Express Pass options that cover multiple rides, Universal Express Now is designed for flexibility. Guests can select a single participating attraction and use the Express queue during a designated return window.
The pass is:
- Valid for one ride, one time
- Restricted to a specific time slot
- Only available on the day of your visit
- Purchasable exclusively through the official app while inside the park
If a ride temporarily closes during a guest’s return window, the access period may be extended through the end of the day.
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Limited Availability Across Parks
Universal Express Now is not guaranteed to be available at all times. Instead, it is released in limited quantities depending on ride capacity and wait times.
The offering can appear across all three Universal Orlando parks. Availability may vary throughout the day and by attraction, meaning guests may need to act quickly when slots open.
A More Affordable Alternative
Early testing of the concept priced the single-use pass at around $25 per ride, making it a significantly cheaper alternative to traditional Express Passes, which can cost well over $100 depending on the day.
This à la carte approach gives guests the option to skip the line at their most desired attraction without purchasing a full-day upgrade.
How It Compares to Existing Options
Universal Orlando continues to offer its standard Express products, including:
- Universal Express Pass – skip the line once per ride
- Universal Express Unlimited – skip the line multiple times per ride
The new Express Now option differs in that it focuses on a single attraction experience rather than all-day access.
What It Means for Guests
The introduction of Universal Express Now reflects a growing trend in theme parks toward more customizable, pay-per-ride upgrades. It also mirrors similar systems used at Walt Disney World.
For visitors with limited time – or those targeting just one high-demand ride – the new option could provide a convenient and cost-effective solution. However, with availability fluctuating, planning and timing will be key.
