Guide on How to Get Early Park Admission to Universal Orlando 2024

Guide on How to Get Early Park Admission to Universal Orlando 2024

morning-early-admission-universal-studios-orlando

Guide on How to Get Early Park Admission to Universal Orlando 2024

This post is the ultimate handbook for securing Universal early park admission! Guests can experience the magic sooner with this exclusive Universal Orlando privilege. EPA allows select visitors to enter popular parts of the parks like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay a full hour before the general public. Traditionally, this benefit is reserved for Universal Orlando hotel guests and Universal Annual Passholders. But did you know that The Park Prodigy offers a golden ticket to this early access, too? Yes, you can also revel in the Universal early park admission! Dive in as we unravel how you can leap ahead of the crowd and make the most of your adventure!

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Universal Orlando and take the most advantage of early park admission, be sure to check out our Universal Crowd Calendar!

Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

2024 Universal Studios Early Park Admission Overview

So, what is Early Park Admission at Universal Orlando Resort? Early Park Admission at Universal Orlando Resort is a special perk allowing eligible guests early access to the magic of the three Universal Orlando theme parks. This privilege lets you enter the parks one hour before the official opening, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy select attractions, including the famed Harry Potter rides, with significantly reduced wait times. Guests with Early Park Admission credentials can enter specific areas within the park, where checkpoints ensure that only eligible visitors can access the rides and attractions during this special hour. Exclusive to guests of Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels and holders of certain tickets, Early Park Admission enhances your visit by providing a more intimate, crowd-free experience, ensuring you make the most of every enchanting moment at the resort.

How to get Early Park Admission to Universal? 

One of the frequently asked questions about Universal Orlando early park admission is how to secure this early entry privilege. Gaining this early access is simpler than you might think! If you purchase any of the multi-day discount Universal Orlando tickets through The Park Prodigy, you’re automatically eligible! Additionally, this perk is available to guests staying at any of the Universal Orlando on-site hotels, as well as preferred annual pass holders. By availing of these options, you can ensure your trip to Universal Orlando starts on a magical note, right from the early hours!

Is Hagrid’s Open for Early Park Admission?

This question is among the top inquiries we receive, and understandably so, given the ride’s soaring popularity! Generally, Hagrid’s welcomes early birds during Early Park Admission on days when Universal’s Islands of Adventure participates in the early morning magic. Recognized as the crown jewel during Early Park Admission at Universal, it’s no surprise guests are eager to hop on Hagrid’s Motorbike! Our golden tip? Even with early access, we recommend arriving at Universal 45 minutes to an hour prior to the official opening times. This head start gives you the edge in your magical day, beginning with Hagrid’s exhilarating journey!

Related Post: Harry Potter Early Park Admission Multi-Day Tickets

2024 Universal Studios Early Park Admission Schedule

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Many guests ask, ‘When is Early Park Admission offered?‘ The 2024 Universal Early Park Admission schedule is usually unveiled two months in advance, but it’s crucial to understand that early entry isn’t available for every park every day. Typically, Universal alternates Early Park Admission between its two primary theme parks, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, in addition to Volcano Bay. However, there are special times throughout the year when all three Universal Orlando parks simultaneously welcome early park guests! To simplify your vacation planning, we’ve integrated the Universal Early Park Admission calendar hours into our Universal Crowd Calendar. This tool doesn’t just clue you in on early entry details; it also offers insights into crowd sizes, daily ticket prices, and typical weather conditions, all aimed at perfecting your upcoming Universal Orlando adventure!

BONUS TIP: We always suggest checking out the Early Park Admission on the Universal Orlando app as Universal tends to update the app before the official website!

What is the Current Universal Studios Early Admission Schedule?

Universal Orlando Park Early Admission Period 2024 Dates Available Attractions
Universal Studios Florida 1 hour prior to park opening November 19 – November 26

December 22 – December 31

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™, Ollivanders™
Universal’s Islands of Adventure 1 hour prior to park opening October 10 – December 31 Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, Flight of the Hippogriff™, Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Ollivanders™, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™
Universal’s Volcano Bay 30 minutes prior to park opening October 12 – October 30 November 2 – November 5 November 8 – November 14 November 17 – November 19 November 22 – November 28 December 1 – December 11 December 15 – December 17 December 20 – December 31 Ohyah of Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides, Ohno of Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides, Honu of the Honu Ika Moana, ika Moana of the Honu ika Moana, Krakatau Aqua Coaster, Ko’okiri Body Plunge, Waturi Wave Pool

Related Post: Ranking all of the Harry Potter Rides at Universal

What Time is Early Park Admission at Universal Orlando?

florida vs california harry potter

Many enthusiasts are eager to know, ‘What time does Early Park Admission start at Universal?’ The start times for Early Park Admission at Universal Orlando Resort are seasonally influenced and vary between parks. For thrill-seekers heading to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, the gates typically open early from 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM in quieter periods, and an hour earlier, from 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM, during bustling peak seasons. Those planning a splash at Volcano Bay can expect early entry generally scheduled between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM, though it’s a concise 30-minute window. However, bear in mind, that these timings aren’t set in stone and might shift. For the latest on the 2024 Early Park Admission schedule, be sure to consult our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar; it’s your go-to source for the most current, precise information, ensuring your Universal visit is nothing short of magical!

What Time is Universal Studios’ Early Admission in 2024?

Determining the start time for what time the one-hour early park admission starts at Universal Orlando is as simple as pinpointing the park’s opening hours and planning to arrive an hour earlier. To make things even clearer, here’s a breakdown:

  • Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure: Early Park Admission typically runs from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM but can be as early as 7 AM.
  • Volcano Bay Water Park: Get ready to dive in as early as 8:30 AM.

However, during those high-traffic peak seasons, the excitement starts even earlier! The parks often open their gates sooner, meaning Universal early park admission can begin at 7:00 AM. To avoid any hiccups in your adventure, it’s wise to double-check the current hours with your Universal Orlando hotel front desk upon arrival. Better yet, for the most accurate, up-to-the-minute information, download the Universal Studios app and have the details right at your fingertips!

What time should I arrive to use Early Park Admission?

  • Based on our seasoned experience, we recommend arriving precisely one hour before the Universal Early Park Admission begins. Why so early? Because this strategy positions you at the front of the line, ready to step into the theme park the moment it opens! This approach is particularly beneficial for those choosing Islands of Adventure theme park for their early entry, as it paves the way to be among the first thrill-seekers on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

By leveraging this tactic, we’ve consistently been among the initial riders on both Hagrid’s and the VelociCoaster within the first magical hour, even during peak periods! Plus, during less crowded months, you might just find time to squeeze in a third adventure. This proactive approach truly unlocks a morning of unforgettable memories at Universal Orlando!

Related Page: Secure Your Universal Early Park Admission Multi-Day Tickets Today!

Which Rides Are Open During Universal Early Admission in 2024?

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Islands of Adventure Rides Open for Early Park Admission:

  • Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
  • The VelociCoaster
  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Flight of Hippogriff
  • Olivanders Wand Shop

Universal Studios Rides Open for Early Park Admission:

  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
  • Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
  • Revenge of the Mummy (seasonal)

Universal Volcano Bay Rides Open for Early Admission:

  • Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
  • Ohyah of Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides
  • Ohno of Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides
  • Honu of the Honu Ika Moana
  • Ika Moana of the Honu ika Moana
  • Krakatau Aqua Coaster
  • Ko’okiri Body Plunge
  • Waturi Beach

Related Post: Ultimate Guide to Universal For Kids

On-Site Hotels with Early Admission to Universal Orlando 2024

hotels with shuttle to universal

As highlighted earlier, numerous hotels offer early access to Universal Studios, enhancing your magical experience from day one. Every Universal Orlando Resort Hotel provides the coveted benefit of early park admission. But that’s not all! Guests can also revel in additional perks like Free Universal Express passes (available at select hotels), complimentary transportation, and priority seating at certain on-site restaurants. These advantages ensure not only an early start to your adventure but also a smooth, enjoyable, and truly VIP experience throughout your stay at Universal.

What Universal Orlando Hotel Includes Early Park Admission?  

  • Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel (Express Pass included)
  • Loews Portofino Bay Hotel  (Express Pass included)
  • Loews Royal Pacific Resort  (Express Pass included)
  • Sapphire Falls Resort
  • Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
  • Universal’s Aventura Resort
  • Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites

It’s crucial for guests to remember that Early Park Admission at Universal Orlando accompanies every day of your stay at the resort’s hotels, encompassing both your check-in and check-out dates. This perk ensures you get the most magic out of every moment! Plus, for those who’ve booked a vacation package, don’t overlook a small but mighty ticket to your early adventures: your hotel key! Yes, this handy item isn’t just for your room — it’s also your passport to early park admission! Ensure you have it with you when you head to the parks; it’s your golden ticket to starting the fun ahead of the crowds!

Related post: The Best Rides at Universal: Our Top 7 Thrilling Rides Ranked

Is Universal Early Park Admission Worth It?

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“So, you’ve absorbed the essentials but might still be pondering: is Universal early park admission actually worth it? In a word, emphatically yes! The advantages of Universal early park admission are immense, especially if you’re allocated just one day to dart through both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. This is especially true if you are only visiting Universal for one day and trying to see both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.

Why Universal Early Park Admission is a Game-Changer

Here’s the magic: some of the most thrilling rides reside in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. As you might guess, this translates to some of the lengthiest wait times. However, by utilizing Universal Orlando early admission, guests can dive into 1-2 attractions before the broader wave of visitors cascades in. This privileged entry can equate to saving 1-3 invaluable hours, contingent on the crowd’s size that day. It’s not merely early entry; it’s your fast pass to the magic!

Related Post: Complete Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Benefits of Universal Early Park Admission Tickets

Everybody has different plans and priorities when visiting Universal, so how do you know early park admission is worth it for you? If any of the below scenarios apply to you, then it’s absolutely worth it!

  • You’re trying to ride the new Velocicoaster, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Escape From Gringotts, Hogwarts The Forbidden Journey, or Flight of the Hippogriff with significantly less wait.
  • You want to enjoy The Wizarding World of Harry Potter while it’s less crowded.
  • You’re visiting during a day when crowds are heavy (we recommend any crowds 7+ on our Universal Orlando crowd calendar.
  • Any time you’re visiting Volcano Bay (we have been able to get on 4-5 rides before the parks even open!)
  • You’re only visiting Universal for one day and you’re trying to get as much done as possible.
  • You want to enjoy a nice breakfast at one of the open restaurants before your busy day at the parks.
  • You want to take pictures and shop in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley with fewer people around.

Related Post: Harry Potter Early Park Admission Tickets

How to Use Universal Orlando Early Park Admission at Harry Potter World

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To truly capitalize on your Universal early admission, our insider tip is to arrive at the gates not just on time, but AT LEAST 30-45 minutes in advance. Why, you ask? Well, in our experience, Universal occasionally opens the park’s gates a tad earlier than the scheduled early admission time. This early bird strategy is particularly golden if you’re working against the clock with just a single day to plunge into all the thrills the parks have to offer. Trust us, when it comes to seizing the day at Universal, the earlier, the better!

Which Park Should You Start with During Early Park Admission?

Recently, we’ve pivoted to a new recommendation: kickstart your day at Islands of Adventure to make Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey your first conquest. Not only does this strategy skyrocket your chances of securing a spot through Universal virtual line for Hagrid’s (trust us, you’ll want to be in the park when those elusive time slots drop on the app), but it also sidesteps the heartbreak of missing out due to the ride’s immense popularity. Yes, the demand for Hagrid’s is that intense, often leaving some Universal guests out in the cold.

But there’s more wizardry afoot at Islands of Adventure, home to nearly the entire Wizarding World of Harry Potter collection of rides, except one. Expect a surge of fellow enthusiasts rushing in as the park swings open its gates. Regardless of your park of choice, our golden rule is this: head straight for the Harry Potter ride that’s topping your thrill list! Because the magic waits for no one, and you’ve got enchanting memories to create!

What should I bring to get into Early Park Entry at Universal?

Never set off for early admission without your room key and park tickets tucked safely with you — they’re your golden keys to an early start at Universal! Some hotels like to sprinkle a little extra magic by providing guests with a special wristband. If you’re one of the lucky recipients, wear it with pride; it’s your VIP pass to early fun! Did you buy your Universal Multi-Day tickets or Universal Hotel through The Park Prodigy? We’ve got you covered! You’ll receive an E-travel document, your digital proof of early park admission access. Keep it handy, as it’s your ticket to ride the wave of adventure ahead of the crowds!

When can I start to use my Early Park Admission perks?

Get ready to dive into the fun from day one! With on-site Universal hotels, your early park admission perk isn’t just for a one-off experience; it’s valid from the moment you check in until the day you wave goodbye. That’s right, your access stretches from your check-in date to your check-out date! But remember, there’s a small catch you won’t want to overlook: you need to officially check in before you dash off to the parks. So, make a quick pit-stop at the reception, get all set, and then? The exhilarating world of Universal awaits, with fewer crowds and more magic per minute!

Related Post: Guide to Universal’s Harry Potter Wands

Universal Orlando Early Admission During The Holidays

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A crucial tip often overlooked is how quickly Universal parks reach capacity, especially during the festive season. Picture this: it’s the holidays, and families are buzzing with excitement, all flocking to Universal Orlando to bask in the yuletide joy. There are also a lot of families who love visiting Universal Orlando during Christmas. Now, combine that with limited entry due to capacity constraints, and you’ve got a race against time!

Maximize Your Holiday Fun with Universal Early Admission

During these peak times, the parks are so in demand they hit their limits within just 1-2 hours after the gates swing open. So, if you’re dreaming of a Universal Christmas, early admission isn’t just a perk; it’s your golden ticket to ensuring you’re not left out in the cold! With Universal early admission is absolutely worth it, you’re not just beating the crowds, you’re guaranteeing a day of adventure, minus the stress of being turned away. Plus, it’s your chance to sprint straight to blockbuster attractions like Escape From Gringotts before the wait times balloon to over 2 hours. Trust us, when the holiday bells are jingling, early admission is your secret sleigh ride to seamless, magical experiences!

Related Post: Tackle the Holidays at Universal Orlando like a Pro!

Universal Orlando Early Admission Tickets

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As discussed one of the easiest ways to get 2024 Universal Orlando early park admission is to buy your Universal tickets from us! All of the Universal Orlando tickets we sell through our small business will include this early admission to the parks for free. And we feel like this can be a huge time saver later on in the day especially if you combine the Universal early admission with our free Universal park plans! 

To learn more about how you can purchase Universal Orlando tickets with Early Park Admission be sure to check out our ticket page!

Universal Orlando Early Park Admission 2024 FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I get Universal Early Park Admission?

A: Guests staying at Universal Orlando Resort hotels, Universal Annual Passholders, and those purchasing their tickets through authorized resellers like The Park Prodigy are typically eligible for Universal Early Park Admission.

Q: Is Ollivanders open during Early Admission?

A: Another popular question we receive regarding early park admission at Universal is, is Ollivanders open during early admission? And Ollivanders is open in Diagon Alley located in Universal Studios Florida for early park admission. It is not open in Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure during early admission at that park.

Q: Does Universal Early Park Admission include access to all parks?

A: The early admission benefit applies to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay. However, it’s important to check the specific details as access might vary depending on the time of year and whether any special events are taking place.

Q: Is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure available during Universal Early Park Admission?

A: While Hagrid’s attraction is highly popular and availability can vary, guests are generally able to access it during early park admission when Islands of Adventure is open for early entry. Arriving early increases your chances of riding Hagrid’s due to its immense popularity.

Q: How does Universal Early Park Admission benefit guests during peak seasons?

A: During peak times, especially holidays, the parks can reach capacity quickly. Universal Early Park Admission allows guests to secure their entry before the parks become too crowded, and also enjoy shorter wait times for popular attractions.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out Universal Orlando Tickets! Not only will you save money vs buying direct, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits that can help save you up to three hours in the parks!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!

Michael Belmont

Michael Belmont is the owner at Theparkprodigy.com, an authorized Disney and Universal travel agent. He specializes in Disney and Universal theme park tickets and vacation packages, as well as daily park plans to help optimize vacation time. Michael and The Park Prodigy have been featured on ABC’s Florida affiliate, WTFV, as well as over 10 Disney focused blogs. As owner, Michael manages The Park Prodigy blog and social media, a Disney themed podcast, and a Disney and Universal focused YouTube channel. Prior to starting The Park Prodigy, Michael was a long time Disney and Universal enthusiast, frequent visitor of the parks, and even served as a Walt Disney World Cast Member in Orlando, Florida!