Universal's Express Pass on sale on website is NOT the same...

I just called Universal Customer Service, and found out if you buy an express pass ($25 pp for 2 parks, based on 1 specific date) it is NOT the same as staying on property and using your hotel key for front of the line access. The difference is: with the bought pass, you can only go on each ride 1 time! Thus, i.e. if your kids love Spiderman, the first time they won%26#39;t have to wait on the regular line, but if they want to go again (and again), they%26#39;ll have to wait... In summary, the only way to go to Universal, is to stay on property!

Universal's Express Pass on sale on website is NOT the same...

ejan,

We took our daughter last August to Universal and stayed on site at the Hard Rock Hotel and had a wonderful time. I must say that staying on site is the best way to go, because of being able to be in the front of the lines, hardly any waiting, and you are right there at both Universal and Island of Adventures. We usually walked from the hotel to the park but you can also take the boats over. The Hard Rock had great activities planned for the children each day at the pool. We usually went to the parks in the morning and came back and stayed at the pool for the afternoon and then got ready for dinner. I think we only ate away from the property once. Jimmy Buffett%26#39;s Margaritaville restaurant located in City Walk had great food. Hope this helps and you have a great time.

Universal's Express Pass on sale on website is NOT the same...

That sounds great. We have booked the Hard Rock Hotel for next year and are really looking forward to it. This year we did a Disney resort hotel. Could you tell me whether they have a laundry at Hard Rock as we are going on a cruise prior to our week at Universal and I will need to do some laundry.

I actually just booked club room at Portofino (for Nov visit) at AAA rate of $307. Room is very big - over 500 sq ft. - with 2 queen beds. I know my kids (teens) would prefer Hard Rock, but I personally like peace and quiet! Some Hard Rock reviews complain about late night partying (noise in halls)...