Universal Studios Hollywood has rolled out its priciest annual pass to date, the Diamond Annual Pass, priced at $999.95, as the park grapples with declining visitor numbers and complaints from nearby residents.
The new pass offers a comprehensive suite of premium experiences, including year-round admission, free general parking (with some restrictions on Friday through Sunday evenings during peak seasons), and Universal Express access for bypassing regular lines. Passholders also receive a VIP Experience ticket, which includes a guided park tour and backstage access. The pass includes one admission each to Halloween Horror Nights and Universal Fan Fest Nights, along with a 20% discount on in-park food, beverages, and merchandise.
This move comes as Universal Studios Hollywood experienced an 8% decrease in attendance in 2025, welcoming 700,000 fewer visitors than the previous year, according to a report by the Themed Entertainment Association. The park's attendance drop was the most significant among major North American theme parks.
Despite the premium offerings, the Diamond Pass has been met with skepticism from loyal parkgoers. Online comments suggest that the price may be too high, with some fans questioning its value compared to existing passes or noting that the park does not offer the same extensive daily benefits as Disneyland. Concerns have also been raised that the introduction of a more expensive pass could lead to the reduction of benefits on lower-tier passes.
Adding to the park's challenges, its newest attraction, “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift,” has drawn complaints from residents living adjacent to the park due to loud noises from the ride. The attraction opened in September, following a summer trial run, in an effort to attract more visitors.
Universal Studios Hollywood also offers other annual passes, including the Platinum Pass ($599.95), Gold Pass ($299.95), Silver Pass ($219.95), and California Neighbor Pass ($179.95).