Universal Orlando Resort has announced an Annual Pass under $250 per year per guest. But it’s much more than that for thousands of heroes throughout this country.Credit: Universal Orlando ResortA Quiet Tribute Hidden in the Heart of Universal OrlandoEvery year, millions of families flock to Universal Orlando Resort chasing thrills, laughter, and unforgettable memories. But for some guests, these trips mean far more than a vacation — they represent precious moments of connection after long deployments, a sense of normalcy between assignments, or even a celebration of homecoming.And now, Universal Orlando is giving back to those who have given so much to the nation. In a subtle yet deeply meaningful announcement, Universal is preparing to roll out a program for 2026 that will change how military families experience the magic of the parks. So what exactly has Universal done to honor our service members in such a major way?Credit: Inside The MagicA “Freedom Pass” With Real MeaningRecently, Universal Orlando revealed its 2026 Military Freedom Pass, a special annual offer crafted exclusively for active and retired U.S. military members and their families. Designed to make year-long park access more affordable, the Freedom Pass invites America’s heroes to enjoy Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure for just $220 — a significant gesture of appreciation.For just $35 more, eligible service members can upgrade to the 3-Park Freedom Pass, which adds Universal Volcano Bay to their adventure lineup. However, one key park — Epic Universe — is not included in this base offer.Universal Orlando announces details for its 2026 Military annual pass. Eligible service members and families can get a 2-Park pass for $220. Epic Universe is not included. For $35 more, the 3-Park option adds Universal Volcano Bay. – @ScottGustin on XUniversal Orlando announces details for its 2026 Military annual pass. Eligible service members and families can get a 2-Park pass for $220. Epic Universe is not included. For $35 more, the 3-Park option adds Universal Volcano Bay. pic.twitter.com/NWykJdahDP— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) November 13, 2025Still, Universal isn’t leaving military guests out of the excitement. A special Epic Universe add-on option allows Freedom Pass holders to experience the brand-new park for a discounted rate, offering service members an epic look at already one of the most groundbreaking theme park expansions in modern history.Credit: Universal Orlando ResortImportant Dates and DetailsWhile the 2026 Military Freedom Pass provides nearly unlimited access throughout the year, some blockout dates apply to manage peak crowd levels:2-Park Freedom Pass Blockout Dates:December 25, 2025 – January 4, 2026March 30, 2026 – April 6, 20263-Park Freedom Pass Blockout Dates:December 25, 2025 – January 4, 2026March 30, 2026 – April 6, 2026October 26, 2026 – December 18, 2026 (Volcano Bay only)Tickets are valid for use through December 18, 2026, and must be purchased exclusively through Authorized Military Ticket & Travel Offices.Eligible service members can purchase and activate up to six tickets, provided at least one of the tickets is for the service member themselves (with certain exceptions). To activate, a valid military or DOD ID must be presented at any Universal Orlando front gate ticket window.Credit: Inside The MagicA Special Add-On for Epic UniversePerhaps the most intriguing part of this offer is the new Epic Universe 1-Day Add-On Ticket. This ticket, available only to active Freedom Pass holders, provides single-day access to Universal’s next-generation park — Universal Epic Universe — for a special price.While pricing varies by date, the add-on allows military families a chance to experience the park’s cutting-edge attractions and immersive lands without paying full gate prices. Each eligible passholder can purchase one 1-Day Epic Universe ticket per day, with a limit of six tickets per transaction.This thoughtful inclusion ensures that America’s heroes and their families won’t miss out on Universal’s biggest expansion since Islands of Adventure opened in 1999.Credit: LunchboxLarry, FlickrWhy It MattersBeyond the fine print, Universal’s 2026 Military Freedom Pass carries a deeper message — one of gratitude and recognition. The resort’s initiative ensures that military families, who often sacrifice valuable time together, can enjoy shared moments of joy and discovery throughout the year.In an era where theme park vacations can easily climb into the thousands, this program not only helps make Universal Orlando more accessible but also sends a clear message: honor doesn’t stop at the gate.With Epic Universe now open and millions already booking tickets, Universal’s quiet but powerful salute to the military community shows that appreciation can take many forms — sometimes even in the form of a ticket to adventure.The post Universal Orlando Announces Full Year Access for Less Than $250: Will Rival Disney appeared first on Inside the Magic.