The 'Front of Line' fast track through Universal Studios

September 20, 7:43 PMGreat Destinations Travel ExaminersWayne and Judy Bayliff

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The “Front of Line” ticket option at Universal Studios works a lot like the car pool lane that speeds you past other vehicles on the Freeway. 

This priority pass allows the buyer to enter all shows and attractions through a special portal.  The “A-Gate” inconspicuously permits VIPs to go to the front of every line, and puts them in reserved seating at all shows.

What is the Front of Line premium?

At the time of our visit a general admission ticket to Universal Studios was $69, and a Front of Line Pass was $129. Check for special on-line discounts here.

Is the Front of the Line Pass worth the extra money?

That depends on a number of things. Are you local or just visiting the area?  If you are a visitor, this may be your only opportunity to see Universal Studios.  How many days do you have available to visit the location?  How many attractions and shows do you want to see?  What is your tolerance for waiting in lines?  How much do you value your discretionary time?

Here’s how we made our decision

This was our first visit to Universal Studios Hollywood.  We were out-of-towners, and could only spend one day at the Studios. 

We arrived at the parking garage at 11:30am on a Friday, and wanted to see and experience everything before the park closed at 5pm.  See all park hours here.
 
Robert at the front gate told us, “The crowd is a modest size today.”  That translated into a busy day, but not “crowded” and most line waits would be less than 20 minutes.

Based on the enormity of the park, and the number of attractions we wanted to see, we opted for the Front of Line tickets.  It was a good decision – and worth every penny.

Follow the Studio recommendations

We read the brochure/map provided at the front gate and took the park’s advice to take the motorized Studio Tour first thing.  There were about 100 people waiting in line to board the trams when we arrived at the gate. Our Front of Line passes allowed us to assemble in a special area, and provided us with preferred seating on the tram.

The tour was fascinating, and covered famous sets used in Classic films like Hunchback of Notre Dame, Jaws, King Kong, and Psycho.  

The set for the Desperate Housewives television series was a big surprise.  The entire “Wisteria Lane” is literally constructed right there on the studio lot.

Zipping through the park

The priority pass worked the same way at each exhibit we visited.  There was a special entrance for VIP ticket holders, and the studio staff was careful to make sure Front of Line guests entered first, and were offered the best seats and views.

We walked quickly, did all the rides, and saw everything – in just over five hours.  We even managed to find time for a tasty cheeseburger lunch.  It would not have been possible without the Front of Line ticket.

On some future visit to Los Angeles, we will know exactly which shows and attractions we want to see at Universal Studios.  At that time, we may opt for the less expensive general admission tickets, – but it was sure nice to go first class this time around.

A trip to Universal Studios is a fun way to spend a day.  Take the entire family - there’s plenty of great entertainment for kids of all ages. See slideshow below.

If you go

Universal Studios Hollywood is just off California Highway 101 in Universal City, California. Exit at Universal Studios Boulevard, make a right and follow the signs. 

Happy travels!

© Travels with Wayne and Judy (syndicated)
 Photos © Wayne and Judy Bayliff