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Military Disney Tips Blog

By Military for Military

Ears of Experience Military Disney Vacation Experts
You are here: Home / Universal Military Discounts / Universal Orlando 2021 Special Military Discounted Tickets and Packages

Universal Orlando 2021 Special Military Discounted Tickets and Packages

By Steve 139 Comments



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)


The Universal Orlando Resort has released their offers for the US Military Community for 2021.

Universal Orlando 2021 Special Military Discounted Tickets and Packages

Universal Orlando 2021 Special Highly Discounted Military Tickets

Updated 5 April 2021 -DoD Civilian Eligibility Update
Updated 27 Jan 2021 -DoD Civilian Eligibility
Updated 11 Jan 2021 -For clarity
Updated 24 Dec 2020 -Big News on these Tickets!

For more than 11 years Universal Orlando has been offering special highly discounted military tickets in addition to their regular slightly discounted military tickets.

These special military tickets are usually offered for specific dates, for set ticket lengths and options.

Normally their regular military tickets offer the full range of lengths and options at a lower discount.

Universal Orlando 2021 Special Military Discounted Tickets and Packages

Here are the 2021 Universal Orlando Special Military Ticket/Pass offer details:

For 2021 Universal is calling their Special Military Tickets – Freedom Passes.

Did you note they are calling them passes this year and not tickets? That’s because this year they are like a Universal Annual Pass (without the other benefits Universal adds to those, like parking).

These Passes are mind blowing!

Offer Dates: 

The 2-Park Freedom Pass is valid for use every single day between 1 January and 31 December 2021

The 3-Park Freedom Pass is valid for use every single day between 1 March and 31 December 2021

There are no Blackout Dates!

Pass Types: 

2 Park, Park-to-Park Freedom Pass – Both Adult & Child Versions

The 2-Park, Park-to-Park Military Promotional Pass entitles 1 eligible person admission to the following Universal Orlando Resort theme parks each day: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

3 Park, Park-to-Park Freedom Pass – Both Adult & Child Versions

The 3-Park, Park-to-Park Military Promotional Pass entitles 1 eligible person 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.

Pass Prices:

  •  2 Park Freedom Pass – $200 Adult/$195 Child – For the whole year!
  •  3 Park Freedom Pass – $235 Adult/$230 Child – For the whole year!

These are Universal’s initial prices, local base’s prices may vary slightly.

There seems to be a lot of confusion about these passes on Facebook when I’ve shared this post. So in a effort to be absolutely clear:

These Freedom Passes are like an annual pass, without the other benefits that usually go with an AP, like free parking and discounts.

You only pay the price once, not every visit or every so often.

The pass is good for admission every single day after you purchase it. There is no limit.

The 2-Park pass is valid for the two theme parks. The 3-Park is valid for the two theme parks and the water park (once it opens for the season).

These Freedom Pass are only available Through your Travel agent as part of a package and at Base Ticket Offices (Including Shades of Green). They are not at Universal’s gates!

As this has just come out there could be delay in your local Base Ticket Office knowing about the offer or being able to get these tickets!

Note! These are a specially priced offer and are much cheaper per day than the Regular Military Universal Tickets. Compare prices! It might be cheaper to buy these for a shorter stay than shorter Regular Tickets..

Shades of Green Regular Universal Military Prices (Base Ticket Offices prices very similar if not the same)

Those Eligible for This Offer Are:

  • Active or Retired US Military -Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, US Coast Guard (with valid military ID!)
  • Spouses of Eligible Service Members
  • DoD Civilians

Note, both the member and spouse have their own eligibility.

Universal Orlando 2021 Special Military Discounted Tickets and Packages

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 Volcano Bay Water Theme Park!

Not Elegible:

  • Non-Retirees e.g. DD-214 or VA Card

Pass Details

The eligible person must present a valid Military ID at time of voucher purchase and when exchanging the voucher at the Universal sales window or at ticket locations in Universal’s on site hotels.

Unused days will be forfeited.

  • Limit 6 Passes during program period
  • The offer is valid for multiple purchases throughout the duration of the promotion period
  • Passes must be used by the same person on any and all days (Non-Transferable)
  • Passes will arrive UNACTIVATED
  • Passes 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 Passes, and use one of the tickets; Dependent children CANNOT activate Passes on their own. Ticket locations in Universal’s Hotels are not owned by Universal and you can not activate these passes there.
  • Passes must be completely use by 31 December 2021
  • This offer is not valid at Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Orlando Resort celebrated Veterans Day with a special in-park parade featuring its Veteran Network

Universal Orlando 2021 Special Highly Discounted Room and Ticket Packages

Universal Orland has also offered Room and Ticket packages to the US Military Community through the years.

These consist of accommodations in one of Universal’s Resort Hotels or one of their local partners (at a lower price point).

Here is our current information on Universal’s 2021 Military Room Discounts.

Universal Orlando’s 2021 military packages consist of Ticket and Room Packages or Room Only.

  • These Special Freedom Passes can be added to Packages!
  • Room discounts are up to 40% off depending on resort, category, season, week day/weekend
When you purchase tickets/passes as part of a package they are protected because if you change or cancel your reservations, the whole package is refunded.

Universal has not posted package rates online as they have in previous years. You must call for prices or work with a Universal Military Specializing Travel Agent like Military Disney Tips’ recommended agent Jen Novak.

Use a Military Expert for your Universal Studios Vacation at No Extra Cost!

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

Over to You

What do you think about this offer? Let us know in the comments section below!

Related, also see: Military Discounts at Universal City Walk

Need Help Planning your Universal Resort Hotel Stay?

Universal Studios Military Expert Travel Agent

Jen Novak is Military Disney Tips' Recommended Universal Studios Travel Agent! Just click this link to get your Quote

 

Steve Recommends

Here are my recommendations for products and services I've reviewed that can improve your Universal planning. This is a short list since it only includes my top picks.

Jen Novak is Military Disney Tips' Recommended Universal Studios Travel Agent! Just click this link to get your Quote

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Filed Under: Universal Military Discounts Tagged With: Military Discounted Rooms, military discounted tickets, Universal Orlando Military Salute, Universal Studios Florida

Comments

  1. Cat says

    26 December 2020 at 09:16

    How much will the new Freedom pass be? The 5-day ticket price is listed but not the pass. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      26 December 2020 at 09:18

      That is the price for the pass Cat. They just switched the name and I missed that change.

      I’ll fix it.

      Reply
  2. Alex says

    26 December 2020 at 16:41

    Is parking included with these freedom passes?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      27 December 2020 at 07:25

      No, sorry it’s not Alex

      Reply
  3. Meredith says

    26 December 2020 at 17:30

    Is there a way to buy through a travel agent as our local base has not updated it yet and said such offer expired on 12/23.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      27 December 2020 at 09:32

      Yes you definitely can Meredith.

      Just contact Jen, via the link on this page.

      Reply
  4. Michelle says

    26 December 2020 at 19:32

    It says one free guest is one free guest per active duty or one free guest per pass member ? If I have 4 pass can I have 4 guest ?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      27 December 2020 at 07:32

      Hi Michelle,

      I’m sorry, it does not say “one free guest” anywhere in the post.

      It does say “Park-to-Park Military Promotional Pass entitles 1 guest admission to the following…”

      A guest is what Universal (and Disney) call customers, as in the person who buys the ticket or pass.

      Reply
      • Deb says

        1 February 2021 at 19:58

        Hi Steve, I was wondering do you know if it is possible that the promotion could abruptly end or they could say they ran out of tickets at some point. We are concerned that if we wait to purchase them until we know we can go, so maybe September or so. Could we have trouble getting these tickets later in the year? Thanks

        Reply
        • Steve says

          2 February 2021 at 09:48

          Hi Deb,

          There is always a chance that they could modify or end any discount. But doing so would be very odd.

          They did not end their 2020 discount even with all that went on last year.

          Making such a generous offer is a strategic decision for them that I think they weighed carefully beforehand.

          Reply
  5. Sue Guindon says

    26 December 2020 at 22:20

    Just to be clear — the 3-park pass can be used at US and IOA from 1/1 – 12/31, right? Only the Volcano Bay is limited to between 3/1-12/31?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      27 December 2020 at 07:18

      Yes that’s right Sue.

      That is because that is when Volcano Bay is closed for the season and opens 1 March.

      Reply
  6. Laura says

    27 December 2020 at 15:48

    Am I reading this right, you can buy a 2 or 3 park pass and go to those parksas much as you want during the year?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      27 December 2020 at 15:55

      Yes, that’s right Laura.

      Reply
  7. Hollie Dobbs says

    28 December 2020 at 10:43

    How do I find out what resorts offer the 40% off? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      28 December 2020 at 10:58

      Hi Hollie,

      Sorry, I don’t have that info, but I’d say the more expensive ones are at the 40%. Cheaper ones would normally have a smaller discount.

      To know for sure work with Universal or my recommended travel agent Jen through the link in this post.

      Reply
  8. Tony says

    28 December 2020 at 13:31

    Do you know if Shades of Green currently has these tickets? I couldn’t find them on their website and I plan on trying to make the trip this weekend.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      29 December 2020 at 08:27

      Yes they do Tony, though they haven’t updated their online price list yet.

      Reply
  9. Jennifer says

    28 December 2020 at 18:12

    I am staying at a resort (Royal Pacific) in 2021 that usually gives early entry and express ride passes, but am not sure if they do that as part of booking with them directly or if they will honor those perks despite us buying the tickets on our base. Do you have any idea?
    Just a warning to everyone-I booked my resort-just the resort- early summer for a Feb trip and just comparison shopped to make it a full military package. It would be $300 more for the package. So definitely do the shopping and make calls to them!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      29 December 2020 at 06:26

      Hi Jennifer,

      As I understand it the express pass is given based on staying at the deluxe hotels, and it does not matter your ticket type.

      Just curious about your warning. How many people was that for? How many tickets for how many days/parks would you get for the $300?

      Thanks

      Reply
      • Jennifer says

        30 December 2020 at 11:23

        It is for 4 of us-2 parks/day for 3 nights/4 days.
        Their 2 day pass with 3 days free offering right now only really benefits FL residents who don’t need the room-because that’s extra-and as I was quoted, a lot pricier than piece-mealing it. But these are only for the 3 deluxe hotels that I was specifically researching-not really sure about the value resort packages.
        I have found the same to be true with Disney bookings. The packages tend to be pricier. Hope it helps someone!

        Reply
  10. Cyndi says

    28 December 2020 at 19:15

    Can my husband and I each get 6 passes for a total of 12?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      29 December 2020 at 09:01

      Hi there Cyndi,

      I queried my agent and the answer I got was that she can pretty much do whatever you need when doing a package. Going on you own and just showing up with 12 vouchers to activate probably wouldn’t work, as the benefit is really just for the member.

      You can contact Jen via the link on this post.

      Reply
  11. Amy says

    29 December 2020 at 21:12

    I have a quick question. every time you want to go and use the 2 day park to park for Universal you just pay the 212.99$ for each time?

    Reply
    • Amy says

      29 December 2020 at 21:17

      Sorry I think I read it wrong. So you could use the park to park pass that’s 212$ for a whole week if you wanted? Not just 2 days.

      Reply
      • Steve says

        30 December 2020 at 08:15

        Hi Amy,

        Wrong on both guesses. lol

        These are year-long passes good for entry every single day of the year for that one price.

        Reply
        • Amy Cooper says

          4 January 2021 at 19:11

          Oh okay wow, thanks!

          Reply
  12. Oliver says

    30 December 2020 at 17:39

    Do these passes include parking at the parks?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      31 December 2020 at 10:07

      No they do not Oliver.

      Reply
  13. Tim says

    1 January 2021 at 13:49

    So the express passes are only offered if you stay at the resort hotels? Can we buy express passes separately? It’s just so much cheaper not stay at a house using the Armed Forces Vacation Club.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      1 January 2021 at 14:16

      Hi Tim,

      The Express Passes are NOT only with packages.

      You can buy them from your Base Ticket Office or Shades of Green.

      Reply
      • denisa townsend says

        7 January 2021 at 12:32

        I did not realize that express packages can be purchaced through shades of green. Is that correct? Do you know the price of adding it?

        Reply
        • Steve says

          11 January 2021 at 10:47

          Hi Denisa,

          Express passes do not appear to be available at military resellers at this time.

          Reply
  14. Michelle Uitdeflesch says

    2 January 2021 at 14:14

    I love this idea since they are doing this we plan on going twice this year. What an amazing deal. I wish Disney would offer something like this.

    Reply
  15. Krystle says

    3 January 2021 at 15:23

    Does anyone sell the 3 park freedom pass? Shades of Green only has the 2 park freedom pass. We are going in Febuary and will make a second trip later in the year so we want to buy the 3 park freedom pass.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      4 January 2021 at 10:04

      Hi Krystle,

      Shades of Green just informed me that they will have them this week.

      Reply
  16. David says

    5 January 2021 at 21:36

    What about HHN? What will be the cost to add this to the Freedom Pass tickets? Hopefully won’t have to buy a full priced ticket to enjoy HHN. Thanks in advance for the help.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      6 January 2021 at 08:09

      Hi David,

      From what I understand, Halloween Horror Nights are and extra price admission. Not part of any regular admissions like this one.

      Reply
  17. Amie Canterbury says

    7 January 2021 at 08:30

    Can you “park hop” with these tickets

    Reply
    • Steve says

      8 January 2021 at 09:15

      Hi Amie,

      Yes with the 2 park you can hope between the 2 theme parks and with the 3 park the water park also.

      Reply
  18. Desiree says

    7 January 2021 at 14:39

    This is amazing! So glad I came across your blog. Do you have to purchase a vacation package to get this price or can we purchase the passes online from our local base?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      8 January 2021 at 09:14

      Hi Desiree,

      Thanks!

      Yes these are stand alone passes. They can only be purchased at Base ticket offices, including Shades of Green and the Orlando ITT.

      Reply
  19. Krista says

    8 January 2021 at 20:14

    I noticed this offer is available for DOD civilian employees. Is it also available for military contractors?

    Thanks in advance!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      9 January 2021 at 07:44

      No sorry Krista

      Reply
      • Steve says

        6 April 2021 at 11:09

        Krista,

        Universal has reached out to me to clarify, and DoD Civs are eligible!

        Reply
  20. LINDA WOSNAK says

    10 January 2021 at 13:02

    STEVE WILL THERE BE OTHER DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FROM UNIVERSAL AT DIFFERENT DISCOUNTED PRICES LIKE IN PREVIOUS YEARS

    Reply
    • Steve says

      11 January 2021 at 10:22

      Hi Linda,

      These new Passes replace the highly discounted Tickets from pervious years.

      The slightly military discounted regular tickets that have always been available still are.

      Hope this helps.

      Reply
  21. Cole says

    11 January 2021 at 11:42

    Do you get the season pass discount at the on site resort hotels like a regular season pass?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      12 January 2021 at 08:53

      Hi Cole,

      No, this pass comes with no extras.

      Reply
  22. Theo says

    11 January 2021 at 12:26

    So the latest information is now that DOD civilians and veterans who did not retire from the military are no longer eligible. Initially this page indicated that they were eligible I believe.

    Thanks for anyinformation you can provide.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      12 January 2021 at 08:58

      Hi Theo,

      That is the info I have at this time.

      There is a possibility that DoD Civs may be eligible, I’m trying to get this confirmed. Shades of Green said yes, but Universal through the travel agent channel said no, so trying to find out what’s correct. Until I do I’m not comfortable saying Civs can buy the passes and then not being able to activate them when they get there.

      Non-retirees have never been eligible to my knowledge.

      Reply
      • Alyssa says

        15 January 2021 at 20:39

        Hi, I would like to know this information as well! DOD Civs have always been eligible for the military promotional tickets with Universal (unlike Disney) and I have to decide on renewing my Annual Pass in the next couple of days or purchasing the freedom pass (which is an amazing deal)! Thanks!

        Reply
        • Steve says

          16 January 2021 at 14:24

          Hi Alyssa,

          DoD civs have been eligible for the special tickets to date, but the passes this year are of course quite different.

          I have been trying to verify and been unable to do so.

          I can’t in good conscience post that you are eligible when you may not be allowed to activate the vouchers in person even if a base lets you buy them.

          Shades of Green was attempting to verify for me, I can check with them Tuesday (with the holiday)

          Reply
          • Steve says

            6 April 2021 at 11:11

            Alyssa,

            Universal has reached out to me to clarify, and DoD Civs are eligible!

      • Steve says

        6 April 2021 at 11:11

        Theo,

        Universal has reached out to me to clarify, and DoD Civs are eligible!

        Reply
  23. Amy Cooper says

    13 January 2021 at 17:38

    Steve,
    I thought I read somewhere that you can order tickets online and have them mailed to your house and then activated at Universal. Is this true?

    Thanks

    Reply
    • Steve says

      14 January 2021 at 08:39

      Hi Amy,

      Yes you can do that through Shades of Green.

      https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green-resort-at-walt-disney-world/shades-of-green-military-attraction-ticket-sales-office/

      Reply
  24. Austin Rades says

    13 January 2021 at 19:58

    Hi so if I’m reading this correct, you can bring a guest with you for free a anytime of the year?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      14 January 2021 at 08:44

      Hi Austin,

      No!

      Guests are what business in the travel industry including theme parks call customers.

      So”…entitles 1 guest (eligible person) admission…” means you the eligible customer who purchased your ticket. I you want to bring someone else you’ll need to buy them a ticket.

      Thanks for asking, I’m going to change the language as a couple people have asked this in the comments above.

      Reply
  25. sal says

    16 January 2021 at 13:48

    For your info DOD Civilians ARE eligible for the universal Freedom pass tickets both 2 and 3 parks.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      16 January 2021 at 14:20

      Hi Sal,

      Thanks for sharing.

      Can you please share your official source that can be contacted to verify that you won’t be turned away at the gate when you try to activate your vouchers without a military ID.

      I need something official not your word that this is the case in order to publish this for all to read.

      If I can verify it I will change the post. I’ve been trying do so and can’t to date.

      Reply
      • sal says

        17 January 2021 at 11:24

        here is the link

        https://www.facebook.com/JBSAINFOTICKETSANDTRAVEL/photos/a.237265289767830/1796366677191009/

        Reply
        • Steve says

          17 January 2021 at 12:20

          Thanks Sal!

          That’s the same boat I’m in already. I need to hear from Universal that when you as a civilian show up at the gate with a pass purchased on base that they won’t turn you away or make you use the pass towards a full price one because you do not have a Mil ID.

          As soon as I get this confirmation through channels I will update the post.

          Reply
          • Steve says

            17 January 2021 at 12:22

            I have heard from Universal previously that Civs are not eligible!

    • Cassie Buck says

      16 January 2021 at 16:43

      I came here to find out which is true. The price list from shades of green says dod civilians are eligible for these.

      Reply
      • Steve says

        6 April 2021 at 11:12

        Cassie,

        Universal has reached out to me to clarify, and DoD Civs are eligible!

        Reply
  26. Tanyelle Gill says

    21 January 2021 at 16:40

    Hi there.

    As a military spouse I can purchase up to 6 of these for myself and friends, correct. I know I have t be there on the first use to activate them, but after the first day can they come back without me? Also, is it 6 tickets for me and 6 tickets my husband….total 12 or 6 between the two of us like Disney does it.

    Thanks

    Reply
    • Steve says

      21 January 2021 at 22:06

      Hi Tanyelle,

      It is 6 for each of you. And once their tickets activated they can return without you.

      Reply
      • Alison says

        8 February 2021 at 18:40

        So if I purchase 8, I activate on the first day. Do the ppl I purchased the tickets for have to show proof of military affliction any time they use the tickets?

        Reply
        • Steve says

          9 February 2021 at 10:45

          Hi Alison,

          Once activated they are just like any other pass/ticket. No ID required

          Just to check… The limit is 6 per member/spouse, so are you bringing your spouse to buy the other 2?

          Reply
          • Gregory says

            8 April 2021 at 20:05

            Hi Steve,

            My mom is retired military, and she and my sister are visiting next month. She wants to buy one for my sister to go with me. However, she does not want to get one for herself. I know she has to be there for the activation, but does she need to purchase one for herself as well? Or can she just get one for my sister, get it activated, and then my sister and I can go the next day with the activated pass?

          • Steve says

            10 April 2021 at 11:44

            Hi Gregory,

            Yes the military member (the person eligible for this discount) must accompany their party to the ticket booth for activation on arrival and must have a ticket of their own. The purpose of these tickets is not to give them to those who are not eligible, rather for the member to spend time with family and friends in Universal’s parks.

            The slightly discounted Regular Military tickets can be used by those not eligible: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/universal-orlando-resort-military-tickets-and-passes/

  27. Brad says

    23 January 2021 at 15:58

    Steve,

    Am I reading this right? $200 per person for the 2 parks and I could literally visit in March, April, May, June and not pay any money for tickets again?

    Is there a catch? That just seems way tooooooo good of a deal.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      26 January 2021 at 09:13

      Yes Brad,

      No issues with your reading. No catch, just an awesome offer for the military!

      Reply
      • Trish says

        12 March 2021 at 22:01

        It is an excellent deal, however due to Covid the park could reach capacity very quickly and they take no reservations. Even if you purchase a fast pass doesn’t mean you will be able to get in. Very scary.

        Reply
  28. Samantha Sharpe says

    24 January 2021 at 19:57

    Hi. Are surviving spouses eligible for this offer? I was able to take our kids to Disney under the Military Salute but was unclear if we were eligible for Universal discounts. I still have a military ID. Appreciate the guidance!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      26 January 2021 at 09:12

      Hi Samantha,

      While they do not say so, I’m sure your military spouse ID would suffice.

      Your best bet would be to contact and buy them through Shades of Green.

      See: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/buy-military-discounted-disney-tickets-by-phone/

      Reply
  29. Kelli says

    26 January 2021 at 13:29

    Hi Steve, have you received an update on DoD civilian eligibility? Thanks

    Reply
    • Steve says

      27 January 2021 at 09:01

      Hi Kelli,

      Just late yesterday.

      Shades of Green assures me that DoD Civs are eligible!

      Reply
  30. James McGinnis says

    27 January 2021 at 09:34

    Are these passes available to 100% Disabled veterans?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      28 January 2021 at 10:23

      Hi James,

      If you have a retired ID due to the 100%.

      Best thing to do is ask Shades of Green. Call their Attraction Ticket Hotline (407) 824-1403

      Reply
  31. Michael says

    28 January 2021 at 10:10

    It would be nice to offer veterans some kind of discount as well.

    Reply
  32. Sarah says

    4 February 2021 at 22:39

    Does DoD qualify for room discount also or only ticket offer?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      5 February 2021 at 09:47

      Hi Sarah,

      I do not believe so, and I’ve just changed the info in the Freedom Pass for Civs to the following… Sorry.

      Update on DoD Civilian eligibility: We have been back and forth on this for a couple months, moving the DoD Civilian Employee bullet point back and forth between the eligible and not eligible lists a couple times. Universal on their website indicates DoD Civs are eligible and Shades of Green says they are as well. However Universal through their travel agent booking personnel are saying that an actual military ID, not a civilian one is required to activate these passes! AND we have had actual reports of DoD Civs who have purchased these passes being told they cannot activate or use them without a military ID when they arrive at Universal!

      So as of today 5 Feb 2021 I’m going to say that I believe DoD Civilian Employees are not eligible for the Freedom pass. If you purchase one it is at your own risk and be prepared to pay the difference for a full price ticket upon arrival.

      Reply
      • Sarah says

        8 February 2021 at 16:56

        Curious if the DoD at the gate showed Universal on their website they indicated they could use them… or if purchased from Shades of Green would they get a refund?

        Reply
        • Steve says

          9 February 2021 at 10:14

          Hi Sarah,

          Sorry, that is outside the intel that I have.

          Reply
  33. Jess says

    6 February 2021 at 01:01

    Hi! So if I buy 4 annual passes for the different parks using my military dependent ID, and I gave the 4 passes to my husband and 2 kids, would they have to show a military ID also to get in the parks with those passes? Or could I just show mine the day I buy and the day we visit?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      6 February 2021 at 07:06

      Hi Jess YOu need to show yours for purchase and activatein prior to first use. After that they work just like regular tickets or passes and you would not need to be there.

      Reply
  34. cassandra says

    6 February 2021 at 11:40

    I am not retired but have a DODUSID that says 100% disabled American veteran. I was able to buy the armed forces salute tickets. Would I also be eligible for these tickets?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      14 February 2021 at 12:00

      Hi cassandra,

      I believe so, but check with the Shades of Green ticket office:

      Attraction Ticket Hotline (407) 824-1403

      Reply
  35. Adam Minnick says

    7 February 2021 at 13:52

    Do you need to buy a room package to get a Freedom pass or can you buy park passes only?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      7 February 2021 at 15:39

      No you don’t Adam. You can just buy the freedom Pass

      Reply
  36. Dave says

    8 February 2021 at 07:40

    Regarding DoD civilian eligibility, I am wondering if the folks that were denied did not have a military ID? I am a DoD civ. And have a DoD ID that looks identical to an active duty one. I have used it for military discounted tickets before.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      8 February 2021 at 09:08

      Hi Dave,

      Thanks for checking in.

      I’m a DoD civilian (and mil retiree). Your CAC, like mine clearly says Civilian right at the top under Affiliation. Universal and Disney know to look for this. They also know to look for the green Contractor bar and blue non-US bar.

      Many military discounted tickets can be sold to DoD Civs, these being all the slightly discounted tickets that you can buy at the base ticket office (for Universal, Disney, etc.). But typically highly discounted tickets are reserved only for current and retired military (sometimes not even retired (SeaWorld)). That’s why the in person check of the ID to ensure you are actually military by these companies.

      In the past when these were 4-day tickets rather than year-long passes Civs were eligible, but I think they feel the need to keep the target audience targeted.

      Reply
      • Dave says

        8 February 2021 at 10:18

        Ok thanks for the clarification!

        Reply
  37. Colleen Learn says

    8 February 2021 at 15:59

    If I already have a Premier Annual Pass for Universal Studios Orlando, may I purchase 6 tickets for family.? I am retired military.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      9 February 2021 at 10:15

      I believe so Colleen. Though they might limit you to 5 (like Disney does)

      Reply
  38. Kim says

    11 February 2021 at 19:22

    Do these passes allow for early park entry?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      12 February 2021 at 10:00

      Hi Kim,

      As I understand it at Universal early entry is based on staying at a universal hotel (just like at Disney) not on tickets.

      Reply
  39. JENNIFER says

    12 February 2021 at 14:54

    CAN THE FREEDOM PASSES BE PURCHASED AT MILITARY BASES OR DO THEY HAVE TO BE PURCHASED ONLINE AND MAILED?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      13 February 2021 at 14:07

      Hi Jennifer,

      You can purchase them at Bases that carry them.

      Reply
  40. Edi says

    14 February 2021 at 09:13

    I never saw an update about 2020 passes being extended. Any info on that? I have two from last year that I was never able to use. I would appreciate any help!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      14 February 2021 at 11:33

      Hi Edi,

      To my knowledge they were never extended. I’d call Universal or the base ticket office where you bought them to ask if you can use them towards new tickets

      Reply
      • Edi says

        14 February 2021 at 14:11

        Thank you!

        Reply
      • Edi says

        16 March 2021 at 14:20

        Hey Steve! I just found out from Universal that the 2020 5 day park to park pass was extended to Dec. 17, 2021. You might have already known this, but if not, maybe it can help someone else that asks about 2020 passes.

        Reply
        • Steve says

          16 March 2021 at 14:42

          Thanks for the intel Edi!!!

          I really appreciate your sharing.

          Reply
  41. Teri says

    14 February 2021 at 15:51

    I just found this write up, my husband was sold these tickets by base ITT. He is a DOD Contractor and he was sold these tickets and was told he was eligible for them. Are they really not accepting them at the gate? We leave in two weeks for our trip.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      15 February 2021 at 10:29

      Hi Teri,

      Contractors were never eligible, the only question we have is about DoD Civilians.

      Have him Check with his Ticket Office about using towards alternate tickets!

      Reply
  42. Leah says

    18 February 2021 at 15:15

    I am a military spouse but I haven’t updated my id would I be able to use it? I know its a stretch but thought I’d ask. Also the universal preffered passes has express pass after 4pm and early entry is this available with these passes?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      18 February 2021 at 15:42

      Hi Leah,

      I’m not sure what you mean. Do you mean your ID is expired? If so, no you can’t use it.

      Sorry, no extras come with this highly discounted pass. Cause of that great price 😉

      Reply
  43. Ryan says

    19 February 2021 at 10:11

    Can any DoD Civilians who tried to use the pass please report back here afterwards and let us know of your experience? Did they let you in or not? Give you a hard time? Let you put the price you paid towards tickets? Seems like there is conflicting information out there, so would appreciate hearing directly from someone who tried. Thanks!

    Reply
  44. James Radford says

    25 February 2021 at 14:12

    I am traveling in June, was taking my grandchildren to universal and wanting to stay at uniserial resort’s can I get two rooms on military discount for me and my grandkids?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      25 February 2021 at 14:44

      Hi James,

      I recommend that you contact Jen using the link above in the post to find out.

      Reply
  45. James Radford says

    25 February 2021 at 15:03

    Thank you

    Reply
  46. Diann Fernandez says

    4 March 2021 at 21:55

    Hi Steve
    Is there anyway to activate the tickets remotely.
    I plan to visit with a group of 6 and stay on property to get express pass.
    If due to flight schedules part of our group arrives in the morning and the remaining guests arrive in the evening can the early guests access the park if the person with the qualifying ID arrives in the late group?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      5 March 2021 at 06:08

      Hi Diann,

      Not that I am aware of, they need to check the ID in person.

      Reply
  47. Joe says

    11 March 2021 at 12:45

    I’m a military member but not married. Can i get a ticket for myself and my girlfriend using the military discount? Or is it for military spouse only with military spouse ID?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      11 March 2021 at 14:01

      Hi Joe,

      You may buy a ticket for anyone else that you’d like (family or friends).

      Reply
  48. Nicole says

    19 March 2021 at 09:09

    So if I buy 3 now for my myself, spouse, and a friend am I able to buy more later on and activate them for 3 other people without using one of the 3 tickets?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      20 March 2021 at 08:31

      HI Nicole,

      These are passes, not tickets, so yours will be active all year. When you go to do your 3 friend’s you will have a active pass of your own, so good to go.

      If these were tickets that could used up, you’d need to have a active one yourself. But not this year!

      Reply
  49. Tiffany says

    20 March 2021 at 09:14

    Can you use these passes on days when the park is marked as full on the app?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      21 March 2021 at 08:06

      I wouldn’t think so Tiffany, that would defeat the purpose of the attendance limit.

      Reply
  50. Grace says

    22 March 2021 at 17:40

    Two questions:
    1. Can you add an express pass to tickets purchased on base once you get to Universal studios?
    2. How is a date assigned to the ticket – is this done at the base if you purchase for a particular date(s)? Asking to avoid being turned away if US is at capacity.
    Thanks, GP

    Reply
    • Steve says

      23 March 2021 at 06:44

      Hi Grace,

      Express Pass can be added later for a fee.

      The Freedom Passes are not date based, they are valid every day of the year.

      Universal doesn’t have a park reservation system like Disney does. THeir solution is to provide a real time update phone line: 407-817-8317.

      Reply
  51. Amanda says

    24 March 2021 at 12:08

    1) Where can these passes be activated?
    I read a recommendation for Disney’s tickets to be activated ahead of time (like when you get In the area) does it matter for this one or is day of visit fine?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      25 March 2021 at 06:55

      Hi Amanda,

      At the Universal Studios, Island’s of Adventure, or Volcano Bay Ticket/Guest Services Windows.

      Reply
    • Steve says

      25 March 2021 at 06:56

      These can be lines, it would be a good idea to do it ahead, especially if you want to enter as soon as the park opens!

      Reply
      • Jay says

        31 March 2021 at 11:56

        Can these be activated at the Universal ticket counter in the Cabana Bay lobby or do you have to go to the park ticket window?

        Reply
        • Steve says

          31 March 2021 at 14:45

          No they can’t Jay,

          You have to use the ones at the parks. The ones in the hotels aren’t actually owned by Universal.

          Reply
          • Jason Behrens says

            9 April 2021 at 18:54

            We just got back from a week at Universal. The Freedom Pass CAN be activated at the Universal desk in the Universal Resort hotels. Additionally, you can purchase express passes etc. from them. These ARE Universal owned/operated.

          • Steve says

            10 April 2021 at 07:40

            Thanks for the intel Jason,

            Yep, we’ve been in contact officially with Universal and had removed that info. I did miss one spot which I just fixed.

  52. MrsH says

    4 April 2021 at 13:15

    I see the Freedom Passes are $200 per adult and $195 per child ages 3-9. If a child is 9 when the pass is purchased will we have to pay an additional $5 to update the pass once their 10th birthday rounds in the year?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      5 April 2021 at 10:03

      Hi Mrs H,

      This is a new one…

      I’d assume that you’d be good for the whole year.

      Reply
  53. m.harp says

    9 April 2021 at 16:19

    hi, So we can only use the military pass, if the retired military personnel come with us to the park?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      10 April 2021 at 11:43

      Hello M,

      Yes the military member (the person eligible for this discount) must accompany their party to the ticket booth for activation on arrival and must have a ticket of their own. The purpose of these tickets is not to give them to those who are not eligible, rather for the member to spend time with family and friends in Universal’s parks.

      The slightly discounted Regular Military tickets can be used by those not eligible: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/universal-orlando-resort-military-tickets-and-passes/

      Reply
  54. Sarah V says

    9 April 2021 at 21:28

    Is there a military discount or a discounted rate available for Express Passes?

    Also, from what I’m reading is that base ticket offices are not offering express passes for purchase at this time and our only option is to get these at Universal or with a high level hotel reservation? Thanks for clarification!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      10 April 2021 at 07:44

      Hi Sarah,

      Yes that’s exactly how I understand it. Keep in mind that Universal’s Premium hotels are priced more like a Moderate at Disney, and you should subtract out the price of the Unlimited Express Pass to find the actual room cost.

      Reply
  55. Kylie says

    10 April 2021 at 14:00

    Are DoD Civilians eligible for the room discount? I went in January and was able to purchase and use the Freedom pass as well as receive a room discount at Dockside Inn and Suites, however when I called today they said DoD Civilians aren’t eligible. Why could this be?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      11 April 2021 at 11:11

      Hi Kylie ,

      On this I have to say it’s a mess. Universal’s online information and the Military Sales Department all say yes to Freedom Passes and rooms to DoD Civs.

      But the execution seems to be something different. Their online rules and I presume the ones the employees see say a military ID must be presented, and when you show a CAC that says Civilian on it they turn you away.

      I’m going to be there the end of next week with both a brand new Freedom Pass and several room reservations. I’m going to try to use my civilian CAC for check ins and pass activation first to see what happens. If it fails I’ll use my mil retired ID.

      I will update this post with my findings!!! So keep an eye out the week of the 18th.

      Reply

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