Did I buy the Express Pass for nothing?

[leannej613]

When I ordered the tickets, the lady on the phone talked me into the express pass and said it would be short lines etc. but after reading here i see that it is only good for ONE trip on the rides?? She said it was for certain rides but she definitely didn't mention the fact that it is not unlimited trips in the express pass lane for those rides. Now I kind of feel like I paid the extra money for nothing. I mean sure it will be nice to get on the ride faster but thinking I paid that for 7 of us for only one trip seems expensive in my opinion. Granted I have never been there and we only have one day at Island of Adventures but... what is your opinion??

 

[Mtnman44]

It really depends on crowd levels when you are there, but if you only have one day at the park, the express passes will save you a lot of time. Without them, it is not assured that you will be able to do everything that you want in one day. Note that Harry Potter big ride does not have an express line.

 

[AJA]

It's hard to say without knowing crowd levels (like the pp mentioned) if crowds are heavy, with 7 people in the group and everyone wanting to make sure they get to do their "must see attraction" you'll be very glad you have express pass.

In the future though it may save money to wait and see how crowded it is before paying extra for express.

 

[RMulieri]

I agree with the 2 PP..Hard to say how busy it will be and whether the pass will be justified.But YES it is only good for one ride per eligible attraction.In order to get unlimited express, you would have to stay onsite or purchase an unlimited bundle.
Express pass is Park specific, Date Specific and non-refundable
The rides exluded are : Pteranodon Flyers, Ollivanders Wand show, Harry Potter Forbidden journey and Rip Ride Rocket coaster

 

[damo]

When are you going? Tons of people buy them, so they must not be a waste of money. However, if the crowds are low when you are going then you probably would have been fine without them.

Of course the people at Universal are going to try and sell you whatever they can. Can't blame them for that.

 

[leannej613]

Thanks! I am sure it will be nice and like you said, assure we get to ride our top picks. We are going Thursday October 25th

 

[damo]

A bit of advice. Don't use the express pass until the crowd builds later in the day. Ride without it when you can and then use it for your second ride.

 

[bowtie7]

Also remember if you are going on a moderately busy day, to save the use of the express pass for the peak afternoon time. You may be able to walk on rides at the start of the day, but on even moderate days, lines get longer as the park fills up.

 

[dvcterry]

we generally don't buy them until we are there, but yes we do buy them, especially if we don't stay onsite. you'll be happy when you don't have to wait 75 min.