Express Pass or not?

[sjc07]

We're a family of 5 (including 3 kids ages 8-11) going to Universal for 2 full days during the week before Christmas. None of the Premier hotels that include EP Unlimited passes are available for the 2 nights we plan to be there so we plan to stay at either a Prime or Prime Value hotel.

Given the timing (probably high crowds?), is it likely that I would need to buy EP in order for us to experience the rides and attractions that are a good fit* for us?

*The kids are tall enough for any ride that has a 48" min but we're not planning to go on any coasters that go upside down or are super high. I think the Hagrid ride would be the most "thrilling" we would do. They're fine with rides that have VR elements and don't get dizzy.

We're planning to take advantage of the early admission each of the 2 days but wondering if that's enough to get us through the appropriate rides at both parks. If not, would buying EP for just 1 one day be sufficient?

 

[Smugpugmug]

Express fluctuates price wise based on how busy Universal predicts the parks will be and the price increases closer to your desired date. According to Undercovertourist (a reputable ticket reseller), 2 park one time Express for the week before Christmas is approximately $181 per person with tax and unlimited is $211.

Those prices are insane so if it doesn't fit into your budget then I would absolutely utilize early entry. The fact that you are doing 2 days helps as well in terms of trying to get everything done.

 

[sjc07]

Express fluctuates price wise based on how busy Universal predicts the parks will be and the price increases closer to your desired date. According to Undercovertourist (a reputable ticket reseller), 2 park one time Express for the week before Christmas is approximately $181 per person with tax and unlimited is $211.

Those prices are insane so if it doesn't fit into your budget then I would absolutely utilize early entry. The fact that you are doing 2 days helps as well in terms of trying to get everything done.

Thanks for the info. Thankfully the problem solved itself tonight. I've been checking room availability constantly and finally just got lucky...saw a room pop up at one of the Premier hotels and managed to book it. It's crazy how much of a savings it is (for a family of 5) to get the Express passes that way than to stay at a Value hotel and get them separately.

 

[PrincessWithABlaster]

Thanks for the info. Thankfully the problem solved itself tonight. I've been checking room availability constantly and finally just got lucky...saw a room pop up at one of the Premier hotels and managed to book it. It's crazy how much of a savings it is (for a family of 5) to get the Express passes that way than to stay at a Value hotel and get them separately.

Fellow family of 5 - the EP at premier hotels is a great deal!