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Are you confused about how to choose the BEST Universal Orlando Annual Pass for you?

No need to worry because I will guide you to the best choice in this guide!

Annual Passes are a crowd favorite among many theme park aficionados. Mostly because they often pay for themselves within a few visits.

And luckily, this is no different for Universal Theme Parks and Resorts in Orlando, FL. 

Today I’m going to talk you through Universal Orlando Passholder perks, tips, and tricks so you can decide if an annual pass purchase is the right move for you! 

(Spoiler alert: It probably is!)

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What are Annual Passes at Universal Orlando?

A Universal Orlando Annual Pass allows you to pay one price for admission to their theme parks throughout the year without having to keep buying a ticket every time you visit the park.

The Universal Orlando Annual Passholder Basics

Let’s first go through the different Universal Annual pass tiers and what to expect from each one.

Annual Pass Price Tiers: How Much a Universal Orlando Annual Pass?

As you may have already suspected, there is more than one Universal OrlandoAnnual Pass type.  The cost of a Universal Orlando Annual Pass ranges from $324.99 to $755 depending on the type of pass you choose and if you’re a Florida resident.

Choosing which one is right for you depends on what perks you are interested in and how much you’re willing to pay. And the good news is, I’ve already done all the research for you! 

Keep reading below for our easy-to-understand annual pass breakdown by price and perks, starting with the most inexpensive two park pass and going to the most comprehensive.  

The “Seasonal Pass”

Price: $429.99 ($324.99 for Florida Residents)

What’s Included in the Universal Seasonal Annual Pass Besides Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure Park Admission:

• 10% off multi-park passes
• Discounts on Universal Orlando Hotelsand Merchandise
• Access to the Universal Passholder Lounge daily 

The Fine Print:

• No Self-Parking Discounts
• Blockout Dates Apply: December 17 – 31, 2022
• No Flex Pay (payment plan) Option
• There’s no Special Event Admission

The “Power Pass”

Price: $474.99 ($374.99 for Florida Residents)

What’s Included in the Universal Power Pass Annual Pass Besides Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure Park Admission: 

• 15% off multi-park passes
• Discounts on Universal Orlando Hotels and Merchandise
• 50% off Self-Parking
• Access to the Universal Passholder Lounge daily 
• Select Special Event Admission i.e. Mardi Gras

The Fine Print: 

• Blockout Dates Apply: December 17 – 31, 2022

The “Preferred Pass”

Price: $539.99 ($439.99 for Florida Residents)

What’s Included in The Universal Preferred Annual Pass Besides Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure Park Admission:  

• 15% off multi-park passes
• Discounts on Merchandise and Universal Orlando Hotels 
• Select discounts on select food and drink in-park
• One hour early park admission to Universal Studios or Universal Island of Adventure (check with Universal Orlando for specific operating hours of each park, which change on a daily basis due to certain events and offerings)
• Free self-parking and discounted prime parking
• Access to the Universal Passholder Lounge daily 
• Select Special Event Admission i.e. Mardi Gras

The Fine Print: N/A

The “Premier Pass”

Price: $754.99 ($639.99 for Florida Residents)

What’s Included in the Universal Premier Annual Pass Besides Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure Park Admission: 

• 15% off multi-park passes
• Discounts on Merchandise and Universal Orlando Hotels
• Select discounts on select food and drink in-park
• One hour early park admission
• Free prime and self-parking
• Access to the Universal Passholder Lounge daily 
• Select Special Event Admission i.e. Mardi Gras
• One Halloween Horror Nights admission (valued at $85 per person)
• Free valet parking on select dates
• One Universal Express Passafter 4 p.m. (express line for reduced wait time, valued at approximately $70+)

The Fine Print: N/A

Read how to find your perfect vacation home rental in Orlando by Clicking HERE!

Universal Orlando Annual Pass: 2 Park Pass Vs 3 Park Pass 

As you can see for yourself at UniversalOrlando.com, in addition to choosing what tier pass you would like, you’ll also need to decide between a 2 Park or 3 Park pass. 

A 3 Park Pass allows for unlimited entry to Universal’s Volcano Bay water park (opened in May 2017)  in addition to their traditional Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure Theme Parks.  

To help you decide between a two and three park pass, keep in mind that Universal Volcano Bay is about a 12 minute ride from Universal’s other two theme parks, which makes it slightly less convenient if you’re hoping to park hop between the three parks. If you’re parking, you’ll need to park in the garage and take the bus over to Volcano Bay.

How to Get to Volcano Bay from Universal?

As previously mentioned, to get to Volcano Bay, you have to park at Universal Orlando’s main parking garage and take Universal’s complimentary shuttle. 

A bit more of a hassle than the walk or Hogwarts Express train ride guests use to hop between Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios parks, but not too much so.

So, before deciding on the type of pass you choose to buy, know your intentions. Do you enjoy water parks or are regular theme parks more your thing?  

Should you get the Universal Orlando 3 Park Annual Pass?

It’s about a $100 difference between a two or three park pass; but to be honest, just two trips to Volcano Bay will make the 3 Park Pass worthwhile, since a one day adult ticket to the water park currently stands at $80 ($70 for Florida Residents).  

The good news is though, if you’re still unsure, go with a two park pass for now. At any point you can pay the difference and upgrade your two park pass to a three!

ORDER NOW to secure your Universal Studios theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.

3 Easy Tips for Taking Full Advantage of Your Universal Orlando Annual Passholder Perks

Now that we have the basics out of the way, let’s go through a few tips to help your decision.

1. Know When to Go

If you choose the “Seasonal” or “Power Pass,” which are the two most inexpensive tiers of Universal Orlando’s Annual Passes, blackout dates will apply.

This means that in 2022, your Seasonal or Power Pass will not be able to grant you access into the parks during high season: December 17-31.

For more details concerning this and other Universal Orlando Passholder perks and parameters, visit Universal and click “View Details” under each pass type that you’re considering.

Read: 5 Incredible Universal Orlando Packing List Tips (Ultimate Guide & Checklist)

2. FlexPay Payment Plan

A little anxious about dropping a few hundred dollars in one fell swoop?  Don’t worry, Universal Orlando has thought about that and has the perfect solution!

You are more than welcome to spread out your Universal Orlando Passholder payments over the course of a year to make this worthwhile purchase more financially appealing.

Especially because there are no extra interest payments or credit checks to worry about.

The only drawbacks to FlexPay? First, it isn’t available on the “Seasonal Pass” option.

And second, it does automatically renew, so just stay on top of it if you don’t plan to keep your Universal Orlando Annual Pass for more than 12 months.

3. Special Florida Resident Prices

As you can see from the pricing breakdown above, discounted Florida resident pricing does apply to Universal Orlando’s Annual Passes! 

So, if you want to take full advantage of this savings, make sure you’re prepared to do so.

In order to prove your Florida residency, make sure to have the proper paperwork with you such as:

• Florida State Driver’s License
• Voter Registration Card
• State Issued ID
• Florida Based Military ID
• College ID

All of these are appropriate forms of Florida residency proof.

Or, if none of the above are in your wallet, don’t fret.  You can also bring personal mail from your Florida state address with a matching photo ID.  

This correspondence should be from a federal or state institution, and needs to be no more than 60 days old. Utility bills, auto insurance policies, and homeowner’s insurance are also applicable.  

What to Know Before You Buy Your Universal Orlando Annual Pass

Now that you know what to expect with your Universal Annual Pass and how much it cost, let’s go through a few of the most common questions I get.

Do Universal Passholders get discounts on tickets?

Yes!  Universal Orlando Passholders of every tier get discounts on multi-park passes.  

So, what does this mean for you? 

If a friend or family member is just coming to visit for a day or two, you can purchase them a multi-day park pass at a discounted rate upon showing your Universal Orlando annual pass.

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

When is the best time to buy my Universal Orlando Annual Pass?

To be honest, right now is the best time to buy your Universal Orlando Annual Pass if you plan on visiting within the next 12-15 months.

That’s because from time-to-time, Universal Orlando will offer an upgrade to their 12 month annual passes to 15 months, three additional months for free!

However, if you don’t have a trip planned within the next 15 months or if this deal is not available to you, don’t fret! 

Universal Orlando Annual Passes are always valid for at least 12 months, so simply buy it as close to your trip as possible.

That way, you still have almost an entire year to use the pass again before it expires!

Additionally, keep in mind that Universal Orlando can update the terms and prices of the passes on January 1 of every year.

Therefore, if you’re concerned about a price spike or perk change and plan to go soon, buy ASAP. That way you know exactly what you’re getting and how much you’re getting it for.

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Do Universal Annual Passholders get discounts on hotels?

Yes! Arguably one of the biggest Universal Orlando Annual Passholder perks, besides unlimited park entry, is discounts on Universal hotel rates.

These offers are always changing, so be sure to check them out here  periodically to see what hotel deals are waiting for you.

But, in general, Universal Orlando Annual Passholders can expect up to 30% off on Premier or Preferred Hotels and up to 25% off of Prime Value Hotels.

What is the Universal Passholder Lounge?

The Universal Orlando Annual Pass Lounge, also known as UOAP Lounge, is an exclusive, convenient place for Passholders to rest, recharge, and shop during their park visit.

You can find it on Hollywood Boulevard in Universal Studios.

Typically open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., this air conditioned lounge offers an ice-cold Coca-Cola cooler, phone charging stations, and exclusive Passholder merchandise for purchase!

Additionally, at the Universal Passholder Lounge, you can pick up your free button each month to show off your Passholder pride!

Can someone else use my Universal Orlando Annual Pass?

Unfortunately your Universal Orlando Annual Pass is for you and you alone. Upon purchase, you will be asked to provide your full name and fingerprints.  

Each time you scan your Universal Orlando Annual Pass card for park entry, your identity will be verified through fingerprint match.

If this proves to be problematic, you will then have to present a photo ID that matches the name on your annual pass and your face.

ORDER NOW to secure your Universal Studios theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.

I’m visiting Universal Orlando right now and just decided I want an Annual Pass…am I too late?

If you’re currently visiting Universal Orlando Parks and have a park ticket that is still valid i.e. a multi-day pass,there is still time to upgrade that pass into an annual pass!

Before exiting the park on your final day, visit Guest Services,The Box Office, or the Ticket Counter to ask about upgrading to an annual pass by simply paying the difference.

Can I use my Universal Orlando Annual Pass in California?

Unfortunately the Universal Orlando Annual Pass is called just that for a reason…it’s only applicable in Florida. And while that might not be what you wanted to hear, we do have some good news!

Another competing magical theme park, which also has locations in California and Florida, if you catch our drift, does offer an annual pass that allows for both California and Florida park entry.

However, that pass costs $1,000 or more, depending on the tier you pick.  

My point? Why not pay a fraction of the price and know that you’ll get your money’s worth either way. 

Because, if you decide to visit Universal California, you can buy a separate ticket package as appropriate and likely pay less in the long run.

UOAP: Passholder Appreciation Days in August and September

From now through September 30, 2022, Universal Orlando Annual Passholders will be celebrated with a variety of fun and unique upgrades to enjoy during Passholder Appreciation Days!

1. Collectible Magnet for Universal Annual Passholders

During this year’s Passholder Appreciation Days, you are able to get a magnet that commemorates one of the most popular rides in the park, Revenge of the Mummy.

From August 15, 2022, you’ll be able to pick up your special magnet from: 

• UOAP Lounge in Studio Styles in Universal Studios Florida
• Toon Extra in Universal’s Islands of Adventure 

2. Special Annual Passholder Merchandise 

To celebrate Passholders, Universal is offering exclusive merchandise such as an all-new spirit jersey, stemless cup, and more!

3. Unique Food Just for UOAP Members

One of my favorite things to experience as an Annual Passholder is all of the unique foodie optionsthat are available just for us!

This year Universal is offering over fifteen limited-time dishes all over the resort and I will go through each one of them below by theme park and destination.

CityWalk Food Treats for Universal Annual Passholders 

1. Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food: Quesadilla Ahogada Birria style Grilled Quesadillas with Braised Short ribs, Black Beans, Menonita Cheese and Queso Fresco topped with ranchera sauce and queso. Served with Guacamole & House Rice – $17.95 + tax
2. Jimmy Buffett’s® Margaritaville®: Cajun Chicken Pasta with Grilled Chicken & Penne Pasta tossed in a Cajun Boursin Cheese Cream Sauce – $19.95 + tax
3. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen:Ratatouille Pasta with Eggplant, Zucchini, Peppers, Cherry Tomatoes, Parmesan, Lemon, Fresh Basil, Chili Oil, Cavatappi Pasta. – $15.95 + tax
4. VIVO Italian Kitchen: Calamarata Pasta with Paccheri pasta, Calamari Tubes, Cherry Tomatoes, Roasted Tomato Broth. – $24.00 + tax
5. Pat O’Brien’s®: Crawfish Etouffee Nachos with Cajun Spiced Fried Tortilla Chips, Crawfish Etouffee, Cheddar & Jack Cheese, Sour Cream, Green Onions. – $14.95 + tax
6. Bigfire: Nutella Croissant Bread Pudding served with whiskey caramel, maple pecan ice cream. – $10.00 + tax
7. NBC Sports Grill & Brew: Thai Burger with an 8 oz Beef Patty, Sweet & Sour Peanut Sauce, Tangy Carrot & Cabbage Slaw, Toasted Brioche Bun. – $16.95 + tax
8. Voodoo Doughnut: Mango Ginger Kiss with Glazed Yeast Shell Doughnut, Mango Custard Filling, topped with Ginger Icing and Crystalized Ginger. – $3.75 + tax
9. Bob Marley–A Tribute to Freedom℠: Manchester Kebabs with Grilled Beef Loin Kabobs served with beef gravy, island rice and seasonal vegetables. – $21.95 + tax
10. The Cowfish® Sushi Burger Bar: Mt. Fuji Roll with Tempura Shrimp, Kani, jalapeno cream cheese and avocado and flash fried. Topped with chipotle salmon, Tuna and a Pickled Apple Onion Slaw, with scallions and sesame seeds. – $20.00 + tax

Universal Studios Florida Food Treats for Universal Annual Passholders 

1. Lombard’s Seafood Grille: Crab Okonomiyaki with Asian style savory crab and cabbage pancake, Hoisin, Wasabi Mayo and Sriracha drizzles, frisee salad – $16.00 + tax
2. Finnegan’s Bar & Grill: The “Maloney Stack” with Half pound all beef burger, braised short rib, beer battered onion rings and ale cheese sauce, served with wedge fries. – $18.95 + tax

Islands of Adventure Food Treats for Universal Annual Passholders 

1. Confisco Grille: Dan Dan Noodles with Spicy Sichuan noodles, hot pepper shaved beef, preserved vegetables, toasted peanuts, scallions – $21.95 + tax
2. Mythos Restaurant: Hummus Kawarma with Lemon Hummus, Spiced ground lamb, toasted pine nuts, charred scallions, grilled pita – $15.00 + tax
3. Comic Strip Café: Brisket Grilled Cheese with Texas toast stuffed with Shaved brisket, provolone and cheddar cheese, Hickory barbecue, French fries – $13.49 + tax
4. Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous™: Willy Wallo Lasso with Creamy vegan fettuccine Alfredo with chick’n – $12.99 + tax

Universal’s Volcano Bay Food Treats for Universal Annual Passholders 

• Whakawaiwai Eats: Island Chicken Pancit Bowl with Sautéed vegetables, Noodles and grilled Chicken tossed in a sweet and Tangy Island sauce – $16.99 + tax

4. Hotels Deals and Freebies for Universal Orlando Annual Passholders

You’ll be happy to know that you can also receive exclusive Universal Annual Passholder perks at the onsite hotels!

Discounted Hotel Rates

Take advantage of the discounted Universal Orlando hotel rates starting at $109 per night, plus tax at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resortand Universal’s Aventura Hotel, available to book through September 28, 2022. 

For more information and for booking, visit Universal Orlando Resort Reservations. 

Free Foodie Treats at the Universal Orlando Hotels!

This is one of the best perks of the Universal Orlando Passholder Appreciation Days. All eight hotels will offer special food and drinks just for you AND they’re free!

You’ll be able to get select complimentary dishes with the purchase of certain adult entrées. Plus, you’ll also be able to receive discounts on signature souvenir mugs. 

Read how to find your perfect vacation home rental in Orlando by Clicking HERE!

Below are the free Annual Passholder offerings currently available:

• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: One (1) complimentary Chocolate Dipped Cannoli with the purchase of an adult dinner entrée at Trattoria del Porto, per Passholder, per visit1 .
• Hard Rock Hotel: One (1) complimentary glass of house wine or draft beer with purchase of an adult entrée at The Kitchen, per Passholder, per visit
• The Loews Royal Pacific Resort: One (1) complimentary order of the Homemade Pretzel Rods with the purchase of select specialty dinner entrée at Jake’s American Bar, per Passholder, per visit 3. One (1) complimentary Krab Rangoon with the purchase of select adult entrée at Islands Dining Room, per Passholder, per visit
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: One (1) complimentary seafood ceviche with the purchase of select adult entrée at Amatista Cookhouse, per Passholder, per visit 5. One (1) complimentary order of Locuritas (Spanish Cookies) with the purchase of two select tapas at Strong Water Tavern, per Passholder, per visit

Discounted Signature Souvenir Refillable Mugs at Universal Orlando Hotels

Annual Passholders can receive 20% off one (1) signature souvenir refillable mug at the following locations:

• Urban Pantry at Universal’s Aventura Hotel
• Bayliner Diner at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
• Beach Break Café at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
• Pier 8 Market at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

Overall, is the Universal Annual Pass worth it?

Finally, the big question you’ve all been waiting for! Is the Universal Annual Pass worth it? 

Overall, we definitely would love to say yes, but the answer certainly varies from person to person.

To help you out, let’s do some simple math!

A two day, two park pass, which would allow you to go between Universal Studiosand Universal’s Islands of Adventure for two full days, costs around $295 for non-Florida residents or $227 for Florida residents.  

On the other hand, the lowest tier of Annual Pass, the “Seasonal Pass,” costs $430 for non-Florida residents or $325 for Florida residents and allows you to enter and hop between the two parks as many times as you would like throughout the year (excluding black out dates).

So, what does that mean? Even if you’re not a Florida state resident, a Seasonal Pass pays for itself in less than three park day visits! 

Not to mention all of the other Universal Orlando Passholder perks such as hotel discounts and the Universal Passholder Lounge.

And what about the higher tier annual passes? They quickly pay for themselves if you plan on driving to Universal Orlando and self-parking.  

But, compare that with the completely free parking enjoyed by Preferred and Premier Passholders and see how quickly the savings add up!

Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the latest podcast episode on Apple or on your non-Apple device now!

Final Thoughts…

So, the bottom line? If you hope to visit Universal Studios in Orlando, FL for three days or more, an annual pass is definitely the way to go! 

If you plan on getting dropped off and not park your car, the Seasonal Pass will quickly pay for itself! 

Or, if you hope to drive and park each visit, then spring for the Preferred or Premier Pass so that parking will pay for itself.

After that, it’s really just up to you what other perks you prefer. Is a free Halloween Horror Nightscalling your name? 

Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the latest podcast episode on Apple or on your non-Apple device now!

Or are you dying to visit during the high holiday season in late December? Then it might be time to save all your pennies and go Premier.

Whatever you choose to do, I’m sure you’ll enjoy your time at Universal Orlando. 

And to make the most of your Passholder experience, periodically check back here to get the latest Universal Orlando Annual Passholder perks!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

Gina is a former Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line Cast Member who enjoys reliving the magic by writing helpful tips and tricks for future guests! 

Check out more about her Disney adventures and writing endeavors at www.ginaarfi.net.

UP NEXT: 19 Amazing Ways to Do Universal Orlando on a Budget

(Original Article Date: August 11, 2016/Updated on August 15, 2022 by Editor)

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