Does Universal Studios Sell Out?

If you are planning on visiting Universal Studios during a holiday or other peak travel time, you may be concerned that Universal Studios will sell out.

In this guide, we will explain whether or not Universal Studios sells out, and how to ensure that you can enter the theme parks.

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Do Universal Studios Tickets Sell Out?

Universal Studios Orlando does not have a set amount of tickets that can be used for each day.

As there are a variety of tickets and admission types available, including annual passes, flexible date tickets and date-based tickets, it would be impossible to have a certain number of tickets that are valid only on a specific day.

holding a universal Orlando annual pass in front of tower sign at Islands of Adventure theme park

Universal Studios Hollywood does sell out for some days, especially on the weekends and holidays, and especially since Super Nintendo World has opened.

On Sold Out days, there will be no online ticket sales or ticket sales at the gate. However, active annual pass holders can still use their passes for admission, unless it is a blackout date as part of their annual pass.

That’s why it is a very smart idea to buy tickets ahead of time! Not only will you be guaranteed admission, but you can usually save money on Universal tickets.

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However, there are capacity limits for the theme parks that are set by the Fire Marshall and other health and safety codes. These capacity limits cannot be exceeded by law, regardless of how many tickets can technically be used that day.

Do Universal Studios Special Event Tickets Sell Out?

Yes, special event tickets at Universal Studios do sell out.

Halloween Horror Nights tickets are one example. There are a limited number of special event tickets that are available for the event which takes place after Universal Studios closes early.

If you do not have a dated ticket for the special event, there is a very good chance you may not be able to buy one on the day of the event.

When Does Universal Studios Reach Full Capacity?

When the theme parks reach full capacity, it is like Universal Studios is sold out. No more people can enter the theme parks until a certain number of people leave.

Max capacity levels are most often reached on holidays and holiday weekends, including:

The only way to guarantee to get into Universal Studios on any holiday or during a holiday weekend is to get to the theme parks very early. Do not arrive at the scheduled opening time.

You must arrive at least 30-45 minutes before official opening opening to get parked, get in line, and potentially be allowed early entry.

This is when staying at an official Universal Orlando Resort hotel can pay off. You will be given early entry as a hotel guest (when available), which helps you beat the crowds and get inside the park.

Be advised that hotel shuttles and shuttle boats from Universal Studios hotels will be very busy as everyone is trying to get in early. Expect longer than normal lines.

You can also expect more traffic driving into parking at Universal Studios.

While there is no guarantee that a theme park will definitely reach maximum capacity, it is a possibility for holidays and Spring Break.

If you leave the theme parks during the day, you may not be able to re-enter Universal Studios if the parks are at capacity.