Epic Universe Preview Dates Now Open for Universal Resort Guests, Visa Cardholders, and More

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Epic Universe is getting closer. And now, more people than ever can get in early.

Universal Orlando Resort has officially expanded the Epic Universe preview dates to include more than just Annual Passholders. If you’re staying at a Universal hotel, using a Military Freedom Pass, or a Universal Visa cardholder — you’re in.

Let’s walk through exactly who qualifies, what you need to know, and how to book your spot.

---

What Is Epic Universe?

Epic Universe is Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, opening May 22, 2025. It’s the largest Universal project in decades and features five themed lands:

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
• Super Nintendo World
• How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
• Dark Universe
• Celestial Park

Each land brings in new rides, dining, shows, and immersive environments. It’s a huge step forward for Universal, and fans are ready.

---

Epic Universe Preview Dates Start April 17

Previews for Epic Universe begin April 17, 2025, and will run through May 8, 2025.

Here’s who can buy preview tickets right now:

• Annual and Seasonal Passholders
• 2025 Military Freedom Pass holders
• Universal Rewards Signature Visa cardholders
• Guests staying at any Universal Orlando hotel

Universal has also shared that more groups will be added soon, meaning general public previews are likely coming.

These preview tickets are not free — all guests, including Passholders and hotel guests, need to purchase a single-day ticket for entry. Prices vary by date, ranging from around $123 to $144.

---

What to Expect During the Preview Window

The goal of these previews is to give small groups early access while Universal finishes final work before the grand opening. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Attractions may be limited. Some rides or shows could be in soft-opening or still testing.
• Ministry of Magic may not be ready. As of now, the Wizarding World ride is not confirmed to be operating.
• Crowd sizes are unknown. Universal has not said how many tickets will be released per day.

Still, this is a rare chance to be one of the first guests to experience a brand-new theme park.

---

Why These Preview Dates Matter

Universal has never done anything on this scale before. And the last time a new U.S. theme park opened was Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 1998. This is a big deal — and the chance to preview it early is a real advantage if you’re planning a 2025 trip.

Unlike normal openings, this preview is staggered and paid, meaning Universal is controlling demand and park load more carefully.

If you want to be ahead of the crowds, now’s your chance.

---

What To Do Next

✅ If you’re a hotel guest, Passholder, Military Freedom Pass user, or Visa cardholder — you can purchase the individual ticket at your Universal Resort Ticket desk.
✅ Book your Universal hotel stay if you want early access and don’t already have a pass

Universal has said more groups will be added soon, so if you’re not eligible yet — keep checking back.

Epic Universe is going to change the theme park game. If you want to be one of the first through the gates, these preview dates are your shot.

We’ll keep updating you with any changes or additions to the preview access list — so stay tuned.