Question about EP during very busy times

[lsumommaof4]

Hi all,
We are going to Universal between Christmas and New Year’s. We are staying at Portofino so we will have EP. What can we expect wait times to be during this crazy time with EP? Thanks in advance!

 

[bbeagle]

Hi all,
We are going to Universal between Christmas and New Year’s. We are staying at Portofino so we will have EP. What can we expect wait times to be during this crazy time with EP? Thanks in advance!

Many rides will be 1-2 hour waits. Your express pass would cut those times down to 30-45 minute waits. You'll still be waiting, but far less than those without EPs.

Check out this site for last year. I chose a random date of Dec 27, 2021.
https://touringplans.com/universal-studios-florida/wait-times/date/2021-12-27



And for IOA:

 

[bbeagle]

Given those wait times, it looks like a 1-day trip to Universal/IOA during Christmas Week without Express Passes is not really doable. You will only be able to ride like 1/4 of the rides there, and miss out on most of the entertainment.

A 2-day trip to Universal/IOA WITH Express Passes seems doable. Even then, you won't ride 'everything' unless you're committed to JUST rides and nothing else.

 

[Chi35364]

I think you should budget upto 20/30mins for headline attractions during those times. For most it will be under 10min wait.

 

[Skywalker3]

EP will back up some if the ride goes down, so just be prepared for that possibility. Also, we always find the trains load slowly, even w express, and the Seuss Trolley. Once, had a longer wait than expected at Rip Ride at rope drop, even w express, but it was due to ride issues/delays. but EP will be so wonderful during that crazy, busy time for sure! Enjoy Portofino!!! and GEAUX TIGERS!!