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As Disney Prices Skyrocket, Universal Cuts Ticket Prices, Adds New Ride to Express Pass

in Featured, Theme Parks, Universal Studios, Universal Studios Hollywood

Posted on by Krysten Swensen 2 Comments
Universal Studios Hollywood Backlot Tour

Credit: Universal

For decades, Walt Disney World Resort was the ultimate Florida vacation destination. But that all changed when Universal Studios Orlando opened up just 2o minutes away. Since then, Universal has expanded to two theme parks and a water park, and its third theme park — Epic Universe — is set to open next summer. Many are wondering if Disney will soon fall behind its theme park competitor.

However, it’s not just the Universal Orlando Resort that is working on growing its dedicated fan base.

Guests walk through Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida
Credit: Universal

Related: Universal Guest Called “Creepy” for Inappropriate Marilyn Monroe Encounter

Just about one hour away from Disneyland Resort, located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, is Universal Studios Hollywood. The theme park opened just nine years after Disneyland Park, but due to extreme space limitations, it has not been able to expand like Disneyland. That does not mean that Universal execs have been sitting back and doing nothing.

In fact, they are working really hard to make the people who visit their parks feel extra appreciated.

A couple happily posing in front of the universal studios glamour tram, with a picturesque backdrop featuring lush greenery and a vintage-style building under a clear sky.
Credit: Universal

Related: Universal Announces Momentous Change Coming to 60-Year-Old Attraction

There are a lot of perks that come with being a Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Passholder — including discounts on food and merchandise, special Passholder events, and Passholder appreciation days. There are also different Annual Passes to fit a variety of budgets.

Now, when a guest first purchases a Universal Hollywood Annual Pass, the pass is valid for one year. After that, the guest can renew, or they can choose to just pay monthly and stop the pass whenever they want.

The WaterWorld set at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

Related: A Guide to Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Passes

Well, Universal recently surprised guests paying monthly by lowering their monthly payments. But that’s not all! They also shared that Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge was being added to its Universal Express Pass. Those who have a Platinum Annual Pass have the Universal Express Pass included after 3 p.m.

Universal Studios Hollywood Dropping the annual pass price 🤯 and now Elgible express for Mario kart! WIN WIN BABY! I love being an annual pass holder to @UniStudios 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Universal Hollywood is also currently offering a great ticket option for those who might not want an Annual Pass but still want to enjoy the theme park for more than just one day. Guests can head over to the Universal Studios Hollywood website and take advantage of the “Buy One Day, Get a 2nd Day Free!” There are some blackout dates, mainly on Saturdays, but the entire month of August is not blacked out, so guests can take advantage of those summer days.

There are currently four different Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Passes available. Guests can choose from the Platinum Annual Pass, the Gold Annual Pass, the Silver Annual Pass, and the California Neighbor Pass.

Guests riding Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge at Universal Studios Hollywood
Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

While Universal Studios Hollywood can’t expand much, it is working with its limited space. Theme park construction crews are currently hard at work on a brand-new roller coaster: Fast and Furious: Hollywood Drift. The new coaster, which is built into a hill, is set to open in 2026.

Do you think Disney should take a few lessons from Universal Studios? Let us know in the comments!

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