Welcome back! One thing we are constantly asked is… What’s the best Universal park admission option to purchase?
Is there an advantage to picking up a “Park-to-park” pass versus just purchasing the 1-park pass?
It all depends on how you look at it. We’re going to make this as simple as possible. Each pass has its advantages and disadvantages and here they are:
1-Park Pass
Disadvantage
A 1-park pass is just as it states, admission into one park, of your choice for the duration of the day. You’re welcome to come and go as you please, but you are only granted access to one of the three Universal parks in any given day. Our advice for the pass, plan and plan well. The flexibility of “Hey let’s head to the other park and see if we can get on shorter-wait rides” doesn’t exist here. Once you’ve chosen a park, unlimited entry to that park is yours for the day.
Advantage
Having only one choice eliminates fights amongst party members. It is also the most cost effective. Any pass into any theme park in Orlando for the day is going to set you back a few bucks. The 1-park pass will set you back, just not nearly as much as the park-to-park pass. It’s a savings of about 33% on a single day ticket and about 21% on a multi-day ticket.
Park-to-Park Pass
Disadvantage
Ready to tackle all that Universal Orlando Resort has in the same day? You’ll be needing the Park-to-Park pass. Now… open your wallet. For obvious reasons, the Park-to-Park pass costs more. With all of the dozens of attractions to see and experience, how will you possibly get to them in one day? The other disadvantage is when you do decide to move from one park to the next, you’ll lose time. While the Hogwart’s Express is super cool (Reserved for another day) and a convenient solution, it is often ladened with an extended wait going in either direction. Your other option is exiting the park and cutting through CityWalk to get to your next stop. Unless you’re working towards your daily step goal and don’t mind the walk, factor in about 15-20 minutes to get where you’re going (Which is often shorter than Hogsmeade to London).
Advantage
Also, for obvious reasons, spending the additional money brings you additional value. How can you resist the flexibility of being able to jump from park to park to get on all the awesome rides in one day? Many people opt for the 1-day, park-to-park pass, plan their day in a smooth flow of attractions, then get after it at 9am when the parks open. There’s always going to be delays and longer waits on the cooler attractions but with good planning, you’ll get pretty darn close to getting on them all.
So, Which Universal Park Admission Do I Pick?
This is all situational, if you’re staying at a Universal Resort for a few days OR you’re on a tight budget, there’s no reason to spend the extra money to get the park-to-park passes. You have the time to go experience your favorite ride at your convenience.
If you’re looking to make Universal an expedited experience (Shorter time), buy the park-to-park passes so you have enough flexibility to maximize your time. While you do lose time moving in between parks, you have so many more choices for attractions to experience. Keep in mind, this option is more costly but remember the value you get. Plus you can get more done in less time. One fewer days in park admission may help off-set the cost difference. This is your adventure and Universal is here to help you create it.
Helpful information? We’d love a share on Pinterest!