Universal Single Attraction Express Pass Option Being Tested

Hey Universal Vacationers! If you’ve ever stood in line for Revenge of the Mummy while putting back your fourth Butterbeer of the day, you’ve probably thought the same thing I have:
“I’d totally pay just to skip this one ride.”

Well, Universal Orlando might finally be reading our minds. They’re currently testing something new called the Universal Single Attraction Express Pass — a pay-per-ride version of their popular Express system. And if it sticks around, this could completely change how guests approach their day at the parks.

Let’s break down what’s happening, why this test matters, and how it stacks up against the classic Express Pass options you already know.

What’s the Universal Single Attraction Express Pass?

Right now, Universal Orlando is testing the Single Attraction Express Pass on two rides:

• Skull Island: Reign of Kong at Islands of Adventure
• Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Studios Florida

The concept is simple — instead of buying the full Express Pass for every eligible ride in the park, you can pay $24.99 per person for Express access to just one ride.

You’ll only see this option if it’s being offered that day, and it’ll be advertised right at the attraction entrance. When you see it, you scan a QR code and purchase the add-on in the Universal Orlando app. Then, boom — you’re skipping that standby line like a pro.

It’s basically Universal’s version of Disney’s Individual Lightning Lane, but with one major difference (at least for now): the attractions offering the Single Attraction Express are still included in the full Express Pass lineup. Disney separates theirs out. Universal hasn’t — yet.

Why Universal Testing This Makes Total Sense

Let’s be honest — Universal’s Express Pass is awesome, but it’s not cheap. If you’ve ever looked at prices and hesitated, you’re not alone. The Single Attraction Express Pass bridges the gap between “I don’t want to wait 80 minutes” and “I don’t want to spend $300.”

It’s a classic business move that also benefits guests. Here’s why it makes sense:

1. More flexibility. Not everyone wants to drop hundreds on Express Pass access for every ride. A single-ride option gives guests control over what’s worth paying for.
2. Guest satisfaction boost. By giving people the choice, Universal avoids the all-or-nothing frustration that often comes with add-on passes.
3. Extra revenue potential. Let’s face it — $24.99 per ride adds up fast. If even a small percentage of guests buy in, it’s a win for Universal.
4. Low-risk test. It’s only two rides, temporary, and fully controlled. That gives Universal room to analyze the impact before scaling it.

If the test succeeds (and it likely will), this model could roll out to major attractions like Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or Jurassic World VelociCoaster. That’s when things get really interesting.

Let’s Talk Numbers — How It Compares to Regular Express Passes

Here’s a quick breakdown of Universal’s current Express Pass pricing, so you can see where the $24.99 single-ride add-on fits in.

Prices vary based on crowd levels and date. Always check the official Universal Orlando website for up-to-date pricing.

Compared to that, $24.99 per person for one attraction feels downright reasonable — especially when you’re talking about rides with hour-plus standby waits.

If Universal were to expand the Single Attraction Express Pass to all major rides, it could open up a middle ground for guests: skip-the-line for a couple must-dos without paying full Express prices.

How It Works During Testing (Step-by-Step)

1. Head to one of the rides currently testing the feature.
2. Look for signage advertising Single Attraction Express Pass at the entrance.
3. Scan the QR code with your phone.
4. Purchase the $24.99 pass for that specific attraction in the app.
5. Enter through the Express line and enjoy your much shorter wait.

It’s that simple. No kiosk. No paper ticket. No confusion. Just a quick digital transaction — and a fast pass to the front.

Is It Worth It?

Alright, real talk — is the Universal Single Attraction Express Pass worth $24.99?

It depends.
If you’re visiting during a busy season (like summer or holidays), it can absolutely be worth it. Waiting 75+ minutes for The Mummy in peak heat is no one’s idea of fun. Spending 25 bucks to save an hour of your life? Easy choice.

But if you’re visiting on a lower crowd day, it might make sense to skip it. Universal’s standby lines can move fast when crowds are lighter, especially if you rope drop or use the Universal app to time your rides right.

Could This Become Permanent?

It’s early days, but I’d put money on this becoming a long-term addition. Universal rarely tests something that doesn’t have potential upside. The real question is how they’ll package it.

There are a few possible paths:

1. Keep it simple. Keep Express Unlimited, Express (one-time use), and add Single Attraction Express as a third option.
2. Go Disney’s route. Separate top-tier rides from the Express lineup and make them single-purchase only.

The first one is my favorite. Imagine buying the standard Express Pass, riding Hagrid’s once, and then purchasing a Single Attraction Express for a second go. That’s a win-win.

My Honest Take

As someone who’s stood through his fair share of 100-minute queues, I think Universal’s Single Attraction Express Pass is brilliant. It gives budget-conscious guests a chance to save time without overspending. It gives Universal more ways to serve different types of parkgoers. And it keeps up with Disney’s evolving Lightning Lane system — without going full Genie+ chaos.

If you see the option pop up on your next visit, give it a try. Think of it as a test drive for a feature that might just become a permanent part of how we do Universal.

Final Thoughts

The Universal Single Attraction Express Pass is a win for flexibility. It’s Universal’s way of saying, “Hey, we get it. Not everyone needs everything.” And that’s exactly the kind of change that makes a day in the parks a little more customizable — and a lot more fun.

So next time you’re walking through a Universal park, keep an eye out for that QR code. Your future self — the one who didn’t spend an hour in line — will thank you.

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!