Express pass needed May 2023?

[Ike&Jakesmom]

We are looking at getting 2 day passes for May 18 & 19. We have a DVC reservation, but wondering if crowds would be large enough that we should get one night at a premier resort to have express pass. We were there last year during Memorial day week and express pass was a savior. Looking for opinions on what to expect from crowds during the middle of May. Thank you!

 

[Smugpugmug]

I went mid May last year and had Express. The crowds weren't crazy like peak periods such as spring break and Christmas, but I found Express to be very helpful regardless. I was able to do everything I wanted to do at least once (I bought the one time use pass for around $100). The longest waits were for food at quick service places - it took forever for my order to be ready. Since you won't have early park admission, your only issues will be Hagrid's and Velocicoaster (there is a rumor that Velocicoaster will be added to Express but as of typing this it has not).

 

[keishashadow]

We have a DVC reservation, but wondering if crowds would be large enough that we should get one night at a premier resort to have express pass

Highly recommend DVC members lop a pricier weekend day or two off that reservation & book one of the on-site deluxe resorts

 

[Amirah95]

Yes. Get the express pass.

 

[quhawk]

I went mid May last year and had Express. The crowds weren't crazy like peak periods such as spring break and Christmas, but I found Express to be very helpful regardless. I was able to do everything I wanted to do at least once (I bought the one time use pass for around $100). The longest waits were for food at quick service places - it took forever for my order to be ready. Since you won't have early park admission, your only issues will be Hagrid's and Velocicoaster (there is a rumor that Velocicoaster will be added to Express but as of typing this it has not).

Velocicoaster added the Express Pass on 2/22/23. 90 min standby = 35 min Express pass wait. Express Pass is very spendy, however if you want to make best use of your time, then get it.

 

[Amirah95]

Velocicoaster added the Express Pass on 2/22/23. 90 min standby = 35 min Express pass wait. Express Pass is very spendy, however if you want to make best use of your time, then get it.

Yeah this would happen after my trip. LOL. That Velicicoaster queue was brutal. so glad they added express pass.

We do not do UO without Express pass no matter the season. Waits are long in the afternoon and evenings.