Universal Orlando Guests Stunned as Early Park Entry Gets a Full Overhaul

Universal Orlando Resort has announced a change to its early park admission, which will affect every park, including Epic Universe. Here’s what you need to know.

Early Park Admission Changes Announced for All Universal Orlando Parks

The sun hasn’t even risen yet, and hundreds of eager guests are already lined up outside the gates of Universal Orlando Resort. For those in the know, this isn’t just dedication — it’s strategy. Early Park Admission (EPA) can make or break your day, especially during peak travel months when crowds are thick and wait times climb faster than the VelociCoaster’s launch.

But here’s the catch — not every guest can take advantage of this coveted perk, and even those who can are about to see major changes in November that could completely alter their morning plans. Before you finalize that park itinerary or book your hotel, you’ll want to understand exactly what’s happening — and how to stay one step ahead.

Universal’s Early Park Admission benefit has long been one of the best-kept secrets for maximizing your trip. It’s exclusive to on-site hotel guests and certain Annual Passholders, offering up to an hour of access before the general public. That might sound small, but in the world of theme parks, 60 minutes can mean the difference between conquering Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure twice — or waiting in line for two hours.

What’s Changing: Universal’s Updated November Early Park Admission Lineup

Universal Orlando has just confirmed that the Early Park Admission schedule and attraction lineup will change between November 10 and November 20, and fans of the Wizarding World will definitely feel it.

From now through October 31, Early Entry to Islands of Adventure is available every day for hotel guests and Premier Annual Passholders (Preferred Passholders can join in on select days). During this period, early access includes:

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

• Flight of the Hippogriff

• Jurassic World VelociCoaster

• Ollivanders

• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

However, during November 10th–20th, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey will close for refurbishment — a move that temporarily changes the entire EPA experience. During those dates, guests will instead have access to:

• Flight of the Hippogriff

• Jurassic World VelociCoaster

• Ollivanders

• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Volcano Bay and Epic Universe: Don’t Miss These Overlooked Perks

If your plans include Universal’s Volcano Bay, Early Park Admission will still be available on select days throughout the rest of 2025. Those dates include:

• Now through October 28

• October 31st – November 2nd

• November 5th – 11th, 14th – 16th, 19th – 24th, 27th – December 2nd, December 5th – 7th, 10th – 16th, 18th – 21st, 24th – 29th, and December 31st

During Volcano Bay Early Entry, guests can enjoy:

• Honu and Ika Moana of the Honu ika Moana

• Krakatau Aqua Coaster

• Ko’okiri Body Plunge

• Waturi Wave Pool

Meanwhile, Epic Universe — Universal’s massive new theme park — offers Early Park Admission every single day through December 31, featuring:

• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

• Yoshi’s Adventure

• Stardust Racers

• Constellation Carousel

• Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment

• Curse of the Werewolf

Insider Tips: How to Maximize Your Early Park Admission

To make the most of your morning advantage:

1. Arrive 45 minutes before Early Park Admission begins — security and transportation can still take time.

2. Head straight to Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure — its wait times balloon faster than any other ride once general admission begins.

3. Mobile order breakfast through the Universal Orlando app to save time between attractions.

4. Use single rider lines later in the day — you’ll cover more ground faster.

5. Download the Universal app’s wait time tracker to adjust your strategy in real time.

Why It Matters: The Power of Planning Ahead

This update might seem minor — just one attraction temporarily closing — but it can completely change crowd dynamics across Islands of Adventure. When Forbidden Journey goes down, many early guests will rush to Hagrid’s and VelociCoaster, making those lines swell sooner. Smart guests will pivot to Ollivanders or Flight of the Hippogriff first, then circle back once crowds spread out.

Early Park Admission isn’t just about getting on rides first; it’s about starting your day relaxed, not stressed. Those who plan strategically can finish major attractions before 10 a.m. and enjoy shorter lines, cooler weather, and a calmer experience — something every Universal fan can appreciate.