Special Info for these Crazy Times:
News for 2021:
- Disneyland Finally Scheduled to Reopen
- Planning and Executing Your Walt Disney World Vacation During These Trying Times
- 2021 Walt Disney World Armed Forces Salute Ticket Announcement
- Using Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets in 2021
- Using the Walt Disney World Theme Park Reservation System
- Park Hopping Returns to Walt Disney World Starting in 2021
Everything is Different at WDW since it Reopened. See Our Trip Reports:
- 2022 Disney Armed Forces Salute Timeline
- Our Return to Walt Disney World (Aug/Sep 2020)
- Our Second Trip Back to Walt Disney World (Nov 2020)
- Our Third Trip Back to Walt Disney World (Jan 2021)
Universal Orlando Resort has announced the 2019 continuation of their special ticket offer for current and retired military members.
NEW 29 JAN 2020 – Universal Orlando 2020 Military Discounted 5-Day Park to Park Ticket Offer
The offer consists of a 4-Day Park-to-park ticket good at either 2 or 3 Universal Orlando parks.
UPDATE 15 January 2020 – See our Universal Orlando 2020 Special Military Discounted Tickets and Packages Post
Update 14 January 2020: Expiration of this great offer is now 31 March 2020!
Offer Dates: Tickets are available for use on ANY 4 days between date of purchase and March 31, 2020. Last day to purchase id 28 January 2020.
Ticket Types:
4-Day Park-to-Park Ticket good at 2 parks – Adult & Child
The 2-Park 4-Day Park-to-Park Military Promotional Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to the following Universal Orlando Resort theme parks each day: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
4-Day Park-to-Park Ticket good at all 3 parks- Adult & Child
The 3-Park 4-Day Park-to-Park Military Promotional Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to the following Universal Orlando Resort theme parks each day: Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, AND Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park.
Volcano Bay Blockout Dates: June 14- August 18 2019
Ticket Prices (with increase):
- 4 Day 2 Park ticket – $200.00 Adult / $195.00 Child (3-9 yrs.) *
- 4 Day 3 Park ticket – $200.00 Adult / $195.00 Child (3-9 yrs.) *
- SHades of Green PricesThese tickets are only available at Base Ticket Offices (Including Shades of Green).
Note! These are a specially priced offer and are much cheaper per day than the regular Military Universal tickets. Compare prices! These may be cheaper than shorter options.
Shades of Green Regular Universal Military Prices (Base Ticket Offices very similar if not the same)
Both of these tickets are priced extremely low therefore they are a fantastic opportunity for Military personnel to visit both Universal Orlando’s original theme parks (Universal Studios Florida & Universal’s Islands of Adventure) as well as take advantage of experiencing the 3-Park ticket that also gives them access to our all-new Volcano Bay Water Theme Park!
Ticket Details
Guest must present a valid Military ID at time of voucher purchase, when exchanging the voucher at the Universal sales window, and upon each redemption at the turnstiles.
Reader reports indicate that you may also activate tickets in the lobbies of the Universal hotels.
Unused days will be forfeited.
Eligibility: Active or Retired U.S. Military, the National Guard or Reservists and the U.S. Coast Guard who possess a valid military photo ID. Spouses of Eligible Service Members also qualify if they are able to present valid and active U.S. Military ID. Department of Defense employees with valid U.S. Military ID’s also qualify
- Limit 6 tickets during program period
- The offer is valid for multiple purchases throughout the duration of the promotion period
- Tickets must be used by the same person on any and all days (Non-Transferable)
- Tickets will arrive UNACTIVATED
- Tickets will be ACTIVATED at any Universal Pass Sales window with a valid ID presented by the military member or military spouse; military member or spouse MUST accompany the party to the Pass Sales window for first activation of the tickets, and use one of the tickets; Dependent children CANNOT activate tickets on their own
- Tickets must be completely use by 31 March 2020
- This offer is not valid at Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Orlando Room and Ticket Packages
Universal also offers packages for military families, see our Universal Military Package Page
Use a Military Expert for your Universal Studios Vacation at No Extra Cost!
Jen Novak is Military Disney Tips’ Recommended Universal Studios Travel Agent! Just click this link to get your Quote
Thanks to Universal Orlando!
Military Disney Tips thanks Universal Orlando for again extending it through December 2019!
Note this offer was originally offered for sale through 31 March 2019. It was thought that after the initial 31 March purchase deadline that these tickets would then have a price increase for continued sales. However they extended the purchase timeframe for one month at the same price. Then on 1 May they increased the price and added blockout dates for Volcano Bay. In June the purchase deadline was removed.
This special military offer is available with valid identification on participating bases at your ITT or Leisure Travel Service Offices.
The 3-Park 4-Day Park-to-Park Military Promotional Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to Universal Studios Florida™, Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay™ theme parks on the same day. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days between date of purchase in 2019 and January 31, 2020. Volcano Bay Blockout Dates: June 14- August 18 2019. This ticket also includes four (4) days of admission to select live entertainment venues of Universal CityWalk™ which commences and includes the first day any portion of the ticket is used. Guest must present a valid Military ID at time of purchase and at the time of exchange at any Universal Orlando™ Resort theme park ticket sales window and upon redemption at each of the Universal Orlando™ Resort theme parks. To receive full benefit of the ticket entitlements, first use of this ticket must be on or before January 28, 2020. All ticket usage must be completed on or before December 31, 2019 when the ticket will expire in full. Unused days will be forfeited. This ticket will be sold only within the U.S.
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We’re going in January. Per the above rules we’d be fine to use two days, take a break for a day, then go back a day later and use our tickets again right? They don’t have to be used consecutive days correct? Thanks!
Yes that’s correct Diane.
Why are they only available to purchase until March 31st?
Hi Jamie,
It is expected they will be continuing, but the price will go up then.
Would this be valid for Department of Defense Civilians? Thanks.
Hi April,
Yes, if you look under Eligibility you will see: Department of Defense employees with valid U.S. Military ID’s also qualify
Is a valid U.S. Military ID referring to a CAC ID even if the status on it is civilian?
Hi Cole,
Yes that’s right, your CAC is your DoD Civilian ID.
According to Jen the preferred travel agent, DOD Civilians do not qualify
Hi P,
I’ve conferred with Jen. She said that her Universal Reservations contacts are saying the tickets are not for DoD Civilians.
What I’ve seen is that Shades of Green the primary seller of these has DoD Civs are eligible on their current price list as they have since these offers started.
Are military discounts for the resorts available yet?
They are Nicholas
Are these available to use with others? If I bring my sister because my spouse can not go with me.?
Yes absolutely, anyone you want to bring with you is fine.
Can tickets be upgraded to Express tickets?
Hi Amanda,
I believe you can use the Express Pass with the military tickets.
So if I buy tickets it would have to be for me and my 3 cousins? And is it just one ticket for everyone or just I have to buy all 4 tickets and it will be like $736 and that doesn’t include the resort
It’s a ticket per person Malia.
It states only at base ticket sales. So, if I book a package directly with universal, I should purchase the tickets separately from base?
Hi Jennifer,
Yes if you book a room only reservation you’ll want to get these from a Base Ticket office (including Shades of Green and the Orlando ITT).
If you book a package it will include tickets…
Thanks Steve, I’ve used your page for years now on all our Florida and California Disney vacations.
My question for Universal is if you know if there is a military discount on purchasing the Express Pass? Either through ITT or day-of at the park.
Thank you!
Hi there Tracy,
Thanks so much!!!
I am not aware of any discount on it. Other than any overall savings obtained through a package.
Just out of curiosity, I’m planning a trip with my friend who is a civilian, if I purchase the tickets would she still be able to use them with the discount as long as we have my ID?
Yes absolutely Katrina.
Thank you so much!
Does each ticket holder have to enter and stay at the same park with the military id holder every day? Or can we break up and visit other parks separately?
Hi Kim,
You can break up. Once active they act like any other ticket.
Thank you!!
Helo,
I’m brazilian military , can I shop the ticket whit discount?
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Military-Discounts/Discount-Finder/Foreign-Military-Member-No-Discounts.html
I was looking at the ticket list for the MWR mid-Atlantic and it does have these tickets listed, but it says they can be used any 4 days between date purchased and 31 Mar 19. Will other dates open up later? I would like to use the tickets in November.
Hi Kat,
If you look back again you’ll see that the Tickets must be completely use by 31 December 2019. They have to be purchased at these prices by 31 Mar 2019.
It’s anticipated that after that the price might go up…
Shades of Green sells tickets long distance as do several other locations (Orlando ITT, Patrick AFB ITT, etc).
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/buy-military-discounted-disney-tickets-by-phone/
I apologize this is off the subject, but are express passes discounted, and does anyone know about any military discounts for the on-site hotels?
Hey there Patrick,
Sorry no discounts on the express pass.
Universal offers Room and ticket packages for the military. Here is their site, or you could contact my recommended travel agent for assistance at no extra cost by clicking the image or text link in this post.
Thanks Steve
I like the convenience of the 4 day military park hopper, when purchased at Shade of Green, coming preactivated. Is it different for the universal offer?
Hi Anita,
Yes it is different. Universal does it like the Disney Salute tickets used to be at Shades. You will still have to get in line at a ticket window to activate the voucher. All Shades gives you is an 8.5″ x 11″ paper with the ticket transaction info on it.
Thanks Steve!
We were able to activate our tickets (from Shades) at the ticket counter in the Royal Pacific lobby last week. It was super easy and no wait!
Hey that’s pretty cool Diane.
Thanks!
Steve,
Is there discount for veterans with honorable discharge. My state recognizes my status and is clearly marked on license.
Hi John, no sorry, not that I’ve ever heard of.
Can I split the days (use two days in June and two days in Sept)?
Yes you sure can Scott.
Just trying to clarify, does the one with the military id need to go into park with their children or can they just go to activate them (the 4 day promotional for Universal Orlando)? I’ve gotten conflicting information where one says they just need to be present to activate and one says they need to go into park the first day. Can anyone who has recently been there tell me?
HI Alicia,
It’s been over a year for me, but I do not recall a second ID check. Either way, you wouldn’t have to go in, just show your ID and say you are going to the other park.
If I purchase the 3 park, 4 day military ticket can I visit between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure within the same day?Or are the tickets a one park per day type of ticket? Thank you
Hi Cristy,
They are Park-to-Park Tickets, which in Universal speak is a Hopper in Disney speak. Yes you can visit all 3 parks the same day with the 3 Park Ticket or both the theme arks with the 2 Park Ticket.
Thank you
Does the military ID person need to show their ID each time you visit the park? Just wondering if military member can bring his parents but not enter the park every day together?
Hi Kelly, these tickets once activated seem to work like any other ticket, so I don’t believe you would need to stay with them.
I’m an active duty soldier but I’m out of the states.Is it okay to ask my friend to buy it for me so I can use it?
Hey H,
You can purchase yourself long distance from Shades of Green and have the voucher delivered to a friend of family member. They can then send it to you or you can pick it up when you are back.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/pre-order-disney-theme-park-tickets-at-shades-of-green/
Curious about 100% Service Connection Disabled Individuals? Would you just show your yearly confirmation/award letter and military disabled ID? Where would you go to purchase in this special situation?
Morrighan only Base Ticket Offices sell these, which includes Shades of Green. A military ID with DAVPRM on it is required for 100%ers.
I’m a spouse Can I purchase these tickets at any military base? And does my husband have to be present at the time of purchase.
Hi Khadija,
If you Base carries them you can purchase on your own.
Can the military member activate the tickets for everyone without the others being present? Or does everyone need to be present at activation?
Hi Kelly,
They do not come right out and state that as Disney does, but I’d think so.
The only thing they say about activation is:”The military sponsor or current spouse must be present to activate the ticket.”
DO 100% DISABLED VETS WITH DAVPRM DOD ID QUALIFY FOR THE UNIVERSAL 3 PARK 4 DAY MILITARY PROMO TICKETS?
Hi Anthony,
100% DAVPRM have the same benefits as retirees at military ticket offices.
I bought the tickets at ITT and am staying at Royal Pacific to benefit from Express passes. I scanned the tickets into my app—does anyone know if I still have to get them activated when I am there or will scanning them in activate them?
Hi Wendi,
I’ll preface with I’m not familiar with Universal’s Express Pass. But An Id check is required for activation just like Disney. So I assume it is the same and linking does not activate for use.
I have my tickets through itt,can .we go in at early park admission like the universal resort guests or do we have to wait for regular admission
Are you staying in a Universal Hotel? If so I believe you should get early entry.
Hi, do you know how much a one day ticket costs per person?
Hi Jack,
Here are Shades of Green’s prices. Base Ticket Offices are very similar: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Universal-Tickets.html
If I buy these special offer 4 day tickets can they be upgraded to annual passes? Planning a trip but not sure yet if we want to get an annual pass. Thanks!
Hi Geneva,
I am not aware of any upgrade ability. You’d have to ask Universal.
What if there are more than six people in my party?
Hi Brittany,
For the extra people you’ll use the regularly military discounted Universal Tickets. Preferably kids would use these as they are cheaper than the adult versions.
See Shades of Green’s prices (Base Ticket Offices are very close if not the same): https://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Universal-Tickets.html
My husband was in Airforce for 4 years. Would his military qualify for this discount?
No I’m sorry Angie that would not qualify.
Are 100% permanently disabled veterans included in this deal? We all have valid military ID cards. Thanks!
Hi Carie,
100% DAVPRM (I assume DAVPRM is on the member’s ID since you have them) are eligible for discounts that retirees are.
This is very helpful! I’m helping someone plan their trip and this info is definitely assisting with that. Thanks for sharing!
You bet!
I’m sorry, just a quick clarification question, do DoD Contractors (Green CAC / ID Holders) qualify for this particular promotion? I wasn’t sure if for the purposes of this promotion contractors were considered acceptable under the ‘Department of Defense employees’ criteria. I know sometimes we get the privilege of being lumped in with the Civilians, but sometimes we do not. I know most MWR Ticket Programs allow us to participate so I was just wondering if we’d be allowed to participate in this program as well. Thank you for any information you may have, have a good one!
Hi Rich,
I just checked SHades of Green’s page and theirs says DoD Civilians. I’d check with your Base Travel Office and see what they say.
Does this apply to the U.S. Public Health Service, active duty members as well? Also, can I buy these discounted tickets for my son’s friend who’s coming with us? Thanks!!
Hi Melaine,
Not that I am aware of. I know there was a lot of work done by your Commissioned Officers Association with Disney to be allowed to use the Disney discount. With lots of pressure exerted due to the PHS being the agency inspecting Disney’s cruise ships.
I’d contact the association to see if they are working on Universal. https://www.facebook.com/coausphs/
Hello! I would like to purchase the tickets and send my daughter and friends to Disney without me. Can my dependent daughter activate the tickets at Disney for her and her friends? It looks like at Disney she can but not at universal?
Hi Joni,
Non-spouse dependents are not eligible for these special Universal tickets or the Disney Armed Forces Salute. If she is going without you you’ll need to buy here the regular, slightly discounted tickets for WDW and Universal.
Will a VA id work? Tia
Hi Nicole,
No sorry, as mentioned in the post, a valid military photo ID is required.
Hello! Thanks for putting this information together! I applaud the organizations that honor our country’s military with discounted ticket prices. I am not active duty, or retired, but I am a combat related disabled veteran (Viet Nam), and it doesn’t seem that there are many offerings I can use. I did find that SeaWorld Orlando offers a nice ticket discount (half price for up to 4 tickets, available once per year), but haven’t seen any other deals at major parks.Am I correct to assume that? I do have a valid photo ID from the VA. Thanks again for everything you do!
Hi there Bruce,
Thanks for your service and for checking out the site!
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for your situation.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
The slightly discounted Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets go along with this offer when staying there.
Hope this helps,
Steve
Hi Steve, I just wanted to check and see if all this sounds right to you. We’ve been to Disney (WDW) twice using military salute tix and room discount, but it will be our first time at Universal. I was planning to be at our Disney hotel the whole time and go over to Universal for one day, but then I found out the express pass can be had for free at select hotels. With my size of family it saves a lot of $ to stay at a Universal hotel for 2 nights, have the pass, and then switch to Disney–otherwise the passes alone will be $800. My plan is to 1) purchase the $184 tickets for 4 days even though we’ll only use 2 days, b/c that price beats the $190 / day I’m seeing on the Universal website for one day (Thanksgiving week), and 2) get a room only reservation at the Portofino Bay hotel, where they are offering me the military discount off the room. Am I missing anything? The goal is to see all of Harry Potter and generally check out the two main theme parks; we won’t try the water park b/c weather is iffy in November. Thank you for any advice!
Hi Jane,
First, were you planning to buy them tomorrow (April 30th)? I do not yet know if the purchase timeframe for the special tickets has been extended past that date.
Here is the prices for the regular military discount Universal tickets at Shades of Green (base ticket offices are very close or the same): https://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Universal-Tickets.html
Thanksgiving week would be the Anytime rate $133 1-day, $184 2-day.
So, yes on the hotel room only and the 1-day, unless you need 2, then get the special 4-day if you can make the purchase cutoff (it’s good all year).
Thank you! Yes, I am planning to go to the base and buy the tix tomorrow. That’s why I had to figure all this out today. We were really not ready by March 19, but yesterday I saw that the new cutoff was Apr 30 and figured that we just needed to get it all nailed down.
Hey there! So I bought two of the 2 park, 2 day park to park plus 2 additional days (4 total days) universal tickets this year for my husband and I. But we lost both of our tickets after only using one day each. Is there any way we can get these replaced? I really don’t want to just accept that I really lost out on this deal. I’ve already had plans to go back for another vacation. If anyone can help It would be of great appreciation. Thank you.
Oh wow Talaya,
Did you happen to take a pic of the back of the tickets? That’s what you usually need (or the ticket numbers).
Do you have the original receipt from when you bought them? You might be able to use that as proof and they might be able to look you up by name…
Sorry, that’s all I’ve got.
No I didn’t take a picture unfortunately. If I would have known this before hand I certainly would have. But I bought my ticket through shades of green. I’ll try asking them if they still have the original receipt and try it that way. Thanks Steve.
Quick question. We are planning on a Universal trip this summer and was wondering how the 2 park 4 day ticket works. Will we be able to go to universal and island of adventure one day and volcano bay a different day or is it just the 2 theme parks and we can’t we use it for the waterpark at all. I want to make sure I get the right info before buying the tickets.
I meant 2 park 4 day park to park tickets.
Hi Tiffany,
The 2-Park is just the Theme Parks, the 3-Park also includes the Water Park
I just needed that clarification. Thank you!
Does anyone know how I can unsubscribe to this thread? The links in the email notifications don’t work, and I can’t see any other way to do it. Thanks
Hi Bruce,
Did you try a different browser as I suggested in the email? I guess that didn’t work. I’m still trying. I haven’t found where I can see those subscribed to individual posts, just the blog as a whole.
It’s in outlook that the link doesn’t work (from the email). I tried to copy/paste the link in different browsers and it appears that the link won’t copy. The “Subscription Options” link doesn’t work either.
Test
HI Bruce,
I just successfully subscribed and unsubscribed to test the behind the scenes function.
Do you have another way to receive email than outlook. I’ve never cared for microsoft products.
Do the military discout tickets icludes the Express pass?
No they don’t Jose. THat is an extra charge like on regular tickets.
Super helpful site! Do you know if we can buy the 4-Day Park-to-park ticket onsite at Shades of Green and activate it at Universal?
Hi Chris, thanks.
That is the only way to do it. Buy at Shades or another military ITT office and activate on arrival.
Hi Steve, ok thanks. Follow-up question: do you know if one eligible military member can purchase the tickets and another eligible member activate the tickets upon arrival? My husband is out of the country and we don’t have enough time to order tickets in advance from Shades of Green. My dad is retired military. Can my dad buy the tickets from an ITT local office and then my husband activate them at Universal?
Hey Chris,
What you get from Shades is an 8.5 x 11 paper voucher that they print out. I don’t recall if they put your name on it.
But spouses are eligible, so you could buy and activate them.
The 3-Park 4-Day Park-to-Park Military Promotional Ticket , I seen something about (Blackout Dates for Universal Volcano Bay 14 June – 18 August 2019). I wanted clarification on this, the Fort Hood LTS has this mentioned on the pricing list, but Shades of Green shows no blackout dates. We are planning to go to Orlando June 25 through June 30th, Thanks for your help.
Hi Sharhonda,
Those blackout dates are listed on Shades’ price list.
shadesofgreen.org/application/files/3715/5691/2461/Universal_Orlando_Ticket_Price_List_4.pdf – Top left, first para after the prices in bold.
Oh ok, wow. Shades sent me a price list in March and those blackout dates were not listed, I guess those were added sometime after March. At least now I know so I can make adjustments, thank you.
They were added when the purchase deadline was extended the second time.
I purchased the tickets in April where there was no mention of black-out dates. As of May 1, they added blackout dates for Volcano Bay June 14-August 18 2019. If I purchased in April, am I still subject to these new blackout dates at Volcano Bay ?
Hi Ross, you’ll have to check with Universal on that.
Hi, I purchased a different ticket than you b/c I only got 2 park and not Volcano Bay, but wanted to say that on my tix (purchased at my local ITT office) there is fine print that specifies no blackout dates. These are printed out pieces of paper with our names on them and there is a long block of fine print. I wonder if your tix might have the same type of info on them re: your Volcano Bay access. It was close to the top of the fine print, maybe an inch down.
Do they have any military discounts for annual passes? I will be there longer for the 4 days and think I will get more bang for my buck with a pass vs. just day tickets
Not that I’m aware of Becca.
Shades of Green has a 5-day for $367.00 A/$357.00 C
We are going to Universal on Dec 29 and will activate the 4 day pass that day. Will we be able to use it on Jan 1st? That will be the 4th day but it does say must be used by Dec 31 so I wasn’t sure, especially if it’s already activated. Thanks so much!
Hi Christie,
The 2019 tickets need to be used by the 31st. Activated or not they won’t be valid on the 1st of January if they stick to what they have always done.
This ticket still beats the price of the regular military 3-day base or park-to-park. Can you go a day earlier to use all 4 days?
Thanks so much for the reply! We actually arrive the afternoon of Dec 28th and are staying on property so perhaps we can activate it late in the day and maybe enjoy a few rides or attractions before they close. I’ll check the hours for that day and go from there. Anything you’d recommend that would be fun/easy to do that first night? We have 9 year old boys.
I am a spouse of a veteran, would I present his ID as proof or does he have to be present to activiate?
Also I do not have the same last name as him because we are common law spouses, what would I have to show as proof?
If you’re legally married, you’d have a spouse ID as well and this is what you’d need to buy these tickets on base or from a ticket office long distance and activate them.
Hi Maria,
Are you the spouse of a military retiree or a veteran?
There is a big difference. And I ask because you used the term veteran.
A military Retiree served for 20 years or more (less if medically retired) and earned military benefits in retirement (like a Military Retiree ID, pay, and base access with all the perks that come with that, like ticket sales).
A veteran served for a time and then stopped. This would not have earned the benefits mentioned above.
Is his ID you mentioned a military ID? VA cards and State driver’s licenses don’t count. See this page for examples: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-World-Military-Discount-ID-Guide.html
Someone with a military ID needs to be present to activate these tickets.
Hi, I’ve read these posts and reviewed photos of the acceptable IDs, however, I’m still confused. My husband is a regular, full time employee of the department of veterans affairs. His CAC says employee, not contractor. We are wanting to use discount at universal studies and we don’t live near a military base, we’re in Cleveland. Thanks for any clarification you can provide.
Hi Anita,
I’m sorry, unfortunately VA civilian employees are not eligible, the only civilians that may use it are DoD civilians.
Hi, was hoping to get a little clarification on something. If I buy two of the tickets as a DoD Civilian, can my girlfriend use one of the tickets if she is with me? Or do we have to be married? Thanks so much!
Hi Charles,
You may use the tickets that you buy for anyone you’d like.
My active duty brother just bought tickets for his family and our family from MWR for next week June 13th – 16th and after he purchased the lady told him the only day we can use the Volcano Bay ticket is Thursday (we don’t even fly in until late afternoon) as this deal is blocked for Volcano Bay feom June 14th – mid August. Super frustrating. We would have just purchased the 2 park passes had we known. I see it above but didn’t notice because in several other places it says no blackout dates. 🙁
My son who is stationed at Malmstrom AFB and my wife and I are going to Universal Orlando during the Thanksgiving week. We are very much interested in getting the four day -two park deal for that time before the deal expires. Unfortunately he does not have the ITT at his base to purchase the tickets. How else could he order them? Thanks.
Hi Mike,
Shades of Green sells long distance, see: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/pre-order-disney-theme-park-tickets-at-shades-of-green/
Am I correct in reading that the ticket price has already increased from $184 to $200.50, and the last day to purchase at this increased price is August 31?
Or is it still currently $184 as originally announced and will increase to $200.50 after August 31?
Thank you in advance for clarification!
Hi Melissa,
The 200.50 is the current price. I edited the post some to make it more clear. Thanks.
I did some research before responding about the deadline.
And the purchase deadline seems to have been lifted.
Thank you, Steve!
hi i been trying purchase tickets for universal for the 3park 4 day park to park at military discount and i dont know where to go i tried calling shades of green but the woman told i can only purchase anything in september and january i dont think shes rite but thats why i am asking
Hi Karen,
Well it sounds like from the reply that Shades of Green gave you, that you left the military without retiring. If that is the case they are correct. And you would need to be staying there to use the ticket office in Sept/Jan.
See http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
If youe are currently in the military or retired that would not be correct.
Are there discounted prices for veterans?
Sorry Michelle , not that I’m aware of.
Historically when does Universal typically announce if this special military ticket is being renewed the following year? We are planning a trip in Spring 2020.
Thank you!
Hi Lisa,
Last year it was 22 December. In prior years it wasn’t until after the start of the year, sometimes well after.
My son had his leave approved and purchased our tickets on base. The very next day he received orders to deploy with less than 1 week notice, thus his approval for leave was withdrawn. He was told it would be a very short deployment (1-3 months) so we put off our vacation thinking we could go in fall. Now he’s being told his deployment will not end until next year sometime. This will void our tickets. I read on the MWR website that no refunds will be given. My question is-does Universal make considerations or exceptions for circumstances such as these? We still want to go, so not necessarily a refund, but maybe an extension of dates?
Hi Kimberly,
To be honest, I don’t have any personal knowledge or feedback about this situation for Universal.
My suggestion would be to contact them directly. In writing would be best in case you get a positive response, then you’ll have it in writing. Someone could tell you yes over the phone, but they could be wrong and then what they said not honored in person.
I have lots of questions. We are working on planning our Florida vacation with our kids. I am currently looking for theme parks that have discounted tickets for veterans. Our main park we want to focus on is universal. We want to do a day at Disney for Star Wars. Lego land and sea world. Those are our definite ones. But I do not know where to find the locations to purchase them or even know how much they are. If anyone has any tips that would be awesome.
Hi Jessie,
Discounts for veterans are very few. To be clear you mean veteran (someone who served for a while and got out) not retired military with benefits (20+ years or medically retired, or 100% DAVPRM) right?
See our veteran page on the discount finder: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/Military-Discounts/Discount-Finder/Veterans-Discounts.html
You may have already addressed this, but… we bought 2-park, 4-day tickets in February for Universal, but only used two days. We are returning in September to use the other two days, but we were wondering if we could upgrade to include Volcano Bay on the military discount, and if so, how we’d go about doing that.
Hi Kim,
I’m sorry, I’m up to speed on Universal’s policies, but I feel that they would. After all they’ll make more.
I’d try to contact them by email to ask or call and request an email to have written proof of a yes answer.
We bought the promo tickets in March 2019. I don’t remember if we used 2 or 3 days on that visit. Is there a way to check? Our Disney tickets show how many days are left (none lol).
Hi Theresa,
I’m not sure.
You could reach out to them via their contact page: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/hours-information/contact-us
Hi there!
We are planning 2 trips to Florida for next year. Assuming the ticket prices stay the same and the rules stay the same, could we use 2 days of the ticket in February and the remaining 2 days in August?
Thanks!
Hi Mandy,
Yes, as the offer stands now and has for a while you would be able to use the ticket on more than one trip. I’d expect a slight increase in price.
Thanks so much! Is it the same for the Disney tickets?
Yes it sure is.
is this available for disabled veterans as well
Hi Ron,
I’m sorry not that I am aware of. Check the eligibility and ID requirements in the post above.
My husband was able to get them and he’s a disabled vet, but idk if the rating matters or not cause he’s rated at 100%.
What is the going rate for 4 day 2 Park tickets to Universal? Shades of Green prices are higher than the prices you have listed on this website (almost double!)
Thanks.
Hi Cory,
You are comparing apples and oranges my friend.
The tickets in this post are the special military offer, only for these special 4-day tickets. When you look at Shades’ price list they are the very first ones you see at the top.
Below these on Shades’ price list are the regular 1-5 day military discount tickets which is what you were looking at.The 4-day regular ones are indeed about twice the 4-day special ones.
Hi Steve, we will arrive around 11 or noon on a Sat at the start of Thanksgiving week (so, a busy time). We bought the 4 day, 2 park military tix and have to exchange them. I’ve been warned that it will be a nightmare trying to get through guest services to do that. But, we are staying at the Portofino Bay hotel. Will I be able to exchange the tix at the hotel? It would be so much easier. Thank you for any information.
Hi Jane,
Sorry, this is one which I do not know the answer to. I’ve always been an off property guest (WDW) and used the park guest services/ticket windows.
I’d call Portofino directly to ask.
Someone above said they were able to do the exchange at their hotel ticket desk (Royal Pacific) I would assume you could also probably do so at PBR ticket desk as well
I’d think so. Let us know!
I heard that they had extended the use deadline to January 31, 2020. Is this correct?
Hi Oliver,
I just checked and yes they have!
Hi Steve, I tried to post this a few days ago but it seems that it didn’t work, so I apologize if I’ve duplicated. When will Universal put out their military offer for 2020? I’m interested in going back either April or August. I’m assuming I can’t book a military hotel discount until that is announced? Also, do you know if they offer the great hotel discount for the premiere hotels during that busy week after Easter? Thank you for any information. BTW we were able to exchange our military ticket vouchers (for the most discounted special 2019 offer) at the guest services desk at the Portofino a week ago. Very easy!
Hi there Jane,
Sorry, I was waiting to hear back from some feelers I put out. Here’s the full scoop for all to see.
Jen, mentioned in the post above, says the room only military rates are out for 2020. Packages are a different story, No 2020 mil tickets to link to packages yet. For tickets: “I expect them by next week. If that doesn’t happen, I would not be at all surprised if they waited until 1st of the year.”
is there any front of the line discounts for military purchases??
Not that I’m aware of Donald, other than the things that come with staying on property when buying a room package with a military discount.
I already went three times (4-day pass) this year. Do you happen to know if the January deadline also applies to tickets that were already activated?
I believe that is the case Anna.
Hello! I’m just curious where you found out they were extending? Was it on univesals webpage or at the military base?
Hi Brittany,
Shades of Green’s ticket office.
We are planning for the first four days of February. Unfortunately that’s just past the expiration date of the military tickets.. Is there a likelihood that they will extend the program’s use deadline?
Hi Aubrey,
They will most likely offer a new 2020 ticket moving forward.
Hi Steve,
I am planning a trip for Feb 20-22. Where can we find the best deals for military discounts packages for a family of 5? Need hotel and park pass packages and possibly car rental. Please advise. Thanks so much!
Hi Alma,
I recommend contacting my travel agent Jen, whom I mention in the post above. All the service at no extra price.
Just use the links above!
Hi!
Any word on a 2020 universal renewal? Getting close to the end of the 2019 offer!
Thanks!!
Nothing yet Lisa,
I hope very soon!
Do you have any idea when universal will be releasing the next military special? We will be going in February 2020. Thank you for any info
Hi Christy,
I’d hope by mid January. THey have been known to wait till the very last minute (or after) in the past.
Hi Steve, Thanks for such a great blog! Love your newsletter and find you’re the go website for many questions I’ve had over the years.
I saw these recent comments and wanted to mention, we were at Universal over the holidays. About a week before we left for Fla., my husband went to buy tickets at our local MWR (DC area), they had him wait a day because the tickets were in the process of being extended from January until March and would be available for print the next day.
Sure enough, when he got the tickets, they are dated as being good until 3/31/20.
Hi Leigh,
Thank you so much!!!
Also thanks for the intel. I just heard the March date yesterday and have been trying to confirm. I can’t find anything past 31 Jan online and Universal Media Relations has not answered me yet.
Welcome! I saw all those posts indicating February dates and hoped it might help someone. (If not for our MWR office, we definitely wouldn’t have known, it’s nowhere to be found far as I can tell either).
Have a great weekend!!
Hello, we have been planning to go in March 2020 for almost a year and have been told to wait until after Jan 1, 2020 to purchase the tickets. In light of the the extension of usage until March 31, 2020, have they also extended the purchase by date? We have never been before and will be devastated if we can no longer use the military discount.
Hi there Sarah,
I would expect that the last day to purchase would be 28 March, but I have nothing to back that up.
The 31 March extension date has not been published by Universal that I’ve found, rather it comes from my trusted travel agent and a reader who has already purchased tickets with that date printed on them.
I’ll do a little more investigating and post back here if I find something positive.
Our local Army Travel and Leisure office stated tickets purchased would be good until the end of March 2020.
Thanks Tamela,
Shades of Green just confirmed this to me as well.
Hi Sarah,
Shades of Green confirms you may purchase through 28 January 2020.
Do these tickets have a specific expiration condition based on first use? I’d like to use one day next month and then go back in May and use the other 3 days. Is this allowed?
Hi Whitney,
Yes they can be used for the length of the offer. No x days after 1st use expiration.
If we bought a 2019 3-park 4-day PTP military pass that expires 3/31 but were unable to use the additional days because of COVID-19, is the pass extended farther into 2020?
Hi Harvey,
Shades of Green has told me that the 2019 Special Tickets are extended through 18 December 2020.
Wow, great news!. I just looked in my app and those still show valid (as opposed to being in the used/expired section). I wonder if they honored that last day of operation before Covid since they shut down early? I shouldn’t have as many tickets still showing days left. Just don’t want to make a trip there to be turned away.
Good morning; are there any black out dates associated with using Universal tickets bought on military installations? Thanks.
Hi Angela,
No there are not.
Thank you.