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Using a Virtual Line at Universal Orlando Resort

by Mommy Frog on May 16, 2025

Fast Facts

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry most recently used a Virtual Line during Epic Universe previews, but is transitioning into traditional standby line use.
Virtual queues are utilized based on demand, and may vary from day to day.
Virtual queues are free to join through the Universal Orlando Resort app.

When something new and frogciting is in demand, Universal Orlando Resort will sometimes use a Virtual Line system. With Universal Epic Universe opening May 22, 2025, we have seen the Virtual Line system pop up for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry during Team Member previews. Virtual Lines may also be used for seasonal offerings, such as the Mardi Gras parade. We've put together this all-encompassing guide for how to use this system so you can leave the stress at home and make the most out of your epic vacation. Get those thumbs ready!

Hop To

Overview
Virtual Line Experiences
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
How to Reserve
Tips

Universal Orlando Virtual Line - Battle at the Ministry entrance

What Is the Universal Orlando Virtual Line Experience?

The Universal Orlando Virtual Line Experience allows you to reserve a ride time for your frog squad for the most hoppin’ attractions and experiences at Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Epic Universe using the Universal Orlando app (so be sure to download before your visit!). (Universal Volcano Bay continues to use its unique TapuTapu virtual queue system through Oct. 1, 2025.)

You can only make same-day reservations once you've scanned into the respective theme park.

Rides and Experiences With a Virtual Line

It's important to note that Universal generally uses the Virtual Line system when there is high demand. That means the rides and experiences using a Virtual Line may vary from day to day. To find out which rides are using the Virtual Line system during your visit, head to the Universal Orlando website or app.

At the current moment, Universal Orlando is mainly reserving the system for holiday experiences and Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry during Epic Universe previews. In 2022, a Virtual Line was utilized for The Grinch meet and greet at Honk Honkers during Grinchmas. However, in years since, Universal switched to utilizing a traditional standby queue for this experience.

What has consistently utilized a Virtual Line is the Mardi Gras Parade at Universal Studios Florida during Universal Mardi Gras. Getting a spot in this line allows you to ride one of the beautifully decorated floats and throw beads to the crowd.

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry started using a Virtual Line during Epic Universe previews, as of April 13, 2025. However, during the final weekend of previews, it started using the standby line. Just in case it pops up again, here's how you can prepare ahead of time:

Step One: Open the Universal Orlando Resort app and sign into your Universal account.
Step Two: Select the number of Travel Party Members you'd like to include.
Step Three: Choose an available Virtual Line return time, if available.

Virtual Line return times are limited and subject to availability. New return times were dropped at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., but would also pop up at random times throughout the day.

At this time, it was used during Epic Universe previews, and it's unknown if it will be utilized once the park officially opens May 22, 2025. We'll be sure to update this post as we learn more!

How to Reserve a Virtual Line Pass

Each Virtual Line experience can be different, but some of the steps may apply generally, no matter which experience or attraction you're trying to reserve.

Make sure you have a Universal Account, your tickets are linked to your account, your Travel Party is set up and the Universal Orlando app is downloaded to your mobile device.

If you're inside the respective park and the Virtual Line is open, you can join it by clicking the Virtual Line icon. The app then prompts you to select the members in your party. (You can't select frogs who haven't entered the park.) Once you select your party members, you'll choose a return time.

Universal will release spots intermittently throughout the day (exact times depend on the ride), so keep checking back if you don't see anything! Spots are very limited, subject to availability and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

When your return time is approaching, your app will alert you. At that point, you can return to the ride queue or the experience's check-in station.

Other Tips and Tidbits for Using the Universal Orlando Virtual Line Experience

Here are our best tips for using the Universal Orlando Virtual Lines:

If you're having trouble getting a pass for Virtual Line, know that more times may be added later in the day, but aren't guaranteed.
Based on when Hagrid's used a Virtual Line, if the ride shuts down during your return time and doesn't start operating as quickly as anticipated, you will automatically receive a single-use Express pass for any ride that has an Express queue. Just like your Virtual Line passes, it doesn't hurt to snap a pic for easy access (and insurance). We'll update if this changes!
If you have an Attraction Assistance Pass, you can have a Virtual Line pass for one ride and an AAP for a different ride at the same time.
Each party member has to enter the Virtual Line under the account that their tickets are associated with. Speak with a team member when you are in the park if you're looking for the most up-to-date information.
For the Mardi Gras parade, try checking the Virtual Line an hour before the Universal Mardi Gras parade starts if you're trying to get a spot on a float. Many frogs have reported being able to snag a reservation at that time! The only way to assure a spot on a Mardi Gras Float prior to your visit is by purchasing a Mardi Gras Float Ride & Dine Experience. Not only do you get to be a part of the parade, but you also get to enjoy a delicious three-course meal from participating Universal Orlando restaurants.

Do you have any questions about Universal Orlando's Virtual Line Experience system? Let us know in the comments below, and we'll help you out!

Hoppy planning!

Tags: Universal Orlando, Mardi Gras at Universal Studios, Universal Orlando Wait Times, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic

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Sort: Newest to Oldest | Oldest to Newest

May 10, 2023 at 9:45 p.m.

Michelle Says...

Hi! I’ve searched High and Low and can’t seem to find this answer anywhere: Pre-Virtual queue days, Pteranodon Flyers was the only ride that you could visit ahead of time and get a return pass (a physical paper ticket, not virtual), for later in the day since the wait is always so long. Is this still going on?

May 11, 2023 at 9:20 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Michelle!

Currently, Pteranodon Flyers only has a standby line option.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Aug 29, 2022 at 7:51 a.m.

Becky Says...

Hi, does anyone know why my app is not showing virtual line’s part of the app in the menu at all

Aug 29, 2022 at 11:58 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Becky!

As of late, the virtual queue has not been in use. Popular rides such as Hagrid's and VelociCoaster have been regularly using standby lines.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Oct 24, 2021 at 10:57 p.m.

Sergio Says...

By any chance, does someone knows the policy of wearing prescription glasses on high impact rides? If I have those "socks" like straps for the glasses will I be able to enter?

Oct 24, 2021 at 8:21 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Sergio!

Glasses are allowed on rides. We would recommend straps if you fear that you'll lose them on a ride — or put them in a locker. I've lost my prescription glasses on Hagrid's before and wish I had them better secured! I reported it to Lost & Found, but they were never recovered.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Aug 15, 2021 at 4:04 p.m.

Brittany Says...

Thanks for the helpful post! I have a couple questions. In your experience lately, is the virtual line being used every day for Hagrid's? I am going at the end of September during weekdays and am not sure what to expect. Will be staying on site so planned take advantage of the early admission and book it to Hagrid's for standby if possible and try for virtual close to park opening if I am unsuccessful on standby (or want to ride again!) Also, I have the Universal app but I don't see a virtual line option to click on. I see Hagrid's under rides and it has a note for a website to visit to get a virtual time. Am I missing something in the app? Thanks!

Aug 16, 2021 at 10:37 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Brittany!

Hagrid's has still been consistently using the Virtual Line system, though lately the standby line is in use during the entire Early Park Admission hour. So if you're there right off the bat, you should be able to take advantage of that extra hour, especially during weekdays in September (as it's normally a less busy time). The Virtual Line was previously accessible directly through the app, but you're right about the note. They've been testing a new system, which you can access via in-park signage or vltest.universalorlando.com to join. You still must be on property to access it.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

May 18, 2021 at 3:35 p.m.

Diane Says...

How does Ollivander's work? I heard that you have to reserve a spot ahead of time but it sounded like it isn't using the Virtual Line.

May 18, 2021 at 1:59 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Diane,

Ollivanders does not use a Virtual Line within the app. However, right after Universal Orlando initially reopened, there were team members at Ollivanders who took down names for return times, but they stopped doing that after a while. The waitlist came back around the holidays, and at that time, the team members said the waitlist only happens during busy seasons. It's definitely a fluid situation, so we'd just recommend hopping to Ollivanders early if that's something you want to do and see if you'd need to wait in a standby line, hop on a waitlist or come back later.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

May 8, 2021 at 12:08 p.m.

Kirsten Says...

Any updates on whether velocicoaster will be using this? Thanks for the great tips, going 5/30!

May 10, 2021 at 7:53 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kirsten,

We're still not sure if VelociCoaster will be using a Virtual Line upon its grand opening, but it had a soft opening this past week and it did not use one.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Apr 29, 2021 at 3:09 p.m.

DeeAnn Says...

Is it possible to link accounts; for example, my friend bought my ticket with hers so I’d like to see mine, we have another friend who bought her own, then another couple that bought theirs, but we are all one party. With the Disney app we were able to link our trip.

Apr 30, 2021 at 3:45 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi DeeAnn,

In order to link the ticket that your friend bought to your account, she should send a screenshot of the ticket assigned to you, so you can link it to your own account. (If she were to link both tickets to her separate account, then you would not be able to link your ticket to your account.) Accounts cannot be linked together, but if you're simply trying to get a Virtual Line pass, you just need to input the number of guests in your party when creating a Virtual Line pass (linking accounts isn't necessary). Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jul 8, 2021 at 1:48 a.m.

Nelson Says...

So in theory if my wife and I were to have separate tickets with separate accounts we could double book since I can just make a group of 2 and so could she?

Jul 8, 2021 at 9:47 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nelson!

It has been possible in the past, but Universal is now currently testing out a new system with Hagrid's. We'll keep this post updated as we learn more details and find out if this new system is here to stay.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Apr 19, 2021 at 8:46 p.m.

Meg Says...

Hi, Is it possible to use EPA for Hagrid's and then also get a virtual pass while waiting in line (assuming the standby line takes while)?

Apr 20, 2021 at 8:36 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Meg,

Yes, you'd be able to get a pass once the Virtual Line system opens.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Apr 19, 2021 at 3:37 a.m.

Tessa Says...

Hi! If it’s busy and more rides aside from Hagrid’s starts using the virtual line, can express passes still be used?

Apr 19, 2021 at 8:35 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tessa,

Yes, the Express passes can still be used! If it's extremely busy, we've been told by team members that the Express line may reach capacity temporarily and everyone would need a Virtual Line pass in that specific situation, but we personally haven't had that experience or seen it put into action yet.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Apr 16, 2021 at 3:17 p.m.

Charly Says...

As always, such thorough information - thank you!! I know you mentioned access starting at City Walk - I’ve also heard that it may even work from the parking garage. We plan to Uber there (first Saturday in May) and I anticipate a crowd since it’s a weekend. How far is Uber drop off to City Walk and any experience in how accessible it is to secure virtual passes from there? We don’t mind planning an even earlier arrival if need be, just hoping to be prepared. We have 2 extremely excited 9 year olds (ok ok and 2 very excited 40 year olds as well) and we want to make it the best for them!

Thanks in advance

Apr 16, 2021 at 10:46 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Charly!

The drop-off/pick-up location for ride sharing services is on the fifth floor of the north parking garage. From there, you'll take an escalator down to the security hub before entering the CityWalk area. Yes, you should be able to access the Virtual Line system as soon as you're on property, including the parking garages. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Apr 14, 2021 at 6:37 p.m.

Kayla Says...

Visiting May 10th-13th right now it says there is no early entry at islands of adventure for those days, how will that impact virtual lines? Should we not use our Early entry and just rope drop at islands and run for Hagrid or do we want to just use the early entry for Universal studios and try to get in the virtual line while we are there? You said something they use a stand by line at the begging so I’m not sure the best strategy without those early hours.

Apr 15, 2021 at 4:13 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kayla,

It looks like Universal Orlando has not yet updated the details for Early Park Admission (EPA) in May — usually two months are released at a time — so it will likely be updated soon! If it ends up that Islands of Adventure (IOA) does not have early entry during your visit, then we'd just rope drop IOA instead of heading to Universal Studios Florida during its EPA hours and attempting to get a Virtual Line pass over there. We've had mixed results with the Virtual Line system.

Since you'll be going mid-week during the first half of May, historically, that hasn't been a very busy time with crowd levels of 4 and 5. If it's not too busy, there's the chance that Hagrid's might not even use a Virtual Line, but it's best to expect and prepare for one!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Apr 13, 2021 at 4:44 a.m.

Jay Says...

This Info was great! I was Wondering about the multiple smart phones and ticket linked accounts too, so thank you for providing that info!

Apr 13, 2021 at 8:41 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

You're welcome, Jay! Thanks for hopping by, and hope you have a frogtastic trip!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Apr 6, 2021 at 8:50 p.m.

Anna Firestone Says...

So helpful, thanks! Do you have to have bought a park ticket to be able to try to get on the virtual line? You mentioned you can try from City Walk. We might not want to go to Universal at all if we can't get to ride Hagrid's... (Will be in town for a cheer competition first weekend of May.)

Apr 7, 2021 at 9:10 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Anna,

The app doesn't require tickets to be linked to try for a Virtual Line pass. However, keep in mind that busy dates at Universal can sell out in advance, so we'd still highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance for the best chance at getting into the park. On the flip side, if it's not a busy day, Hagrid's may not even use a Virtual Line at all.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Apr 23, 2021 at 7:17 p.m.

Anna Firestone Says...

Thanks! I just bought the tickets for 3 days. Hopefully we'll get on Hagrid's at least once!

Apr 23, 2021 at 2:24 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

We're crossing our froggy fingers for you!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Mar 29, 2021 at 7:47 p.m.

Says...

Can you get a virtual line pass at Royal Pacific hotel and on water taxi?

Mar 31, 2021 at 10:17 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi there,

Yes, you should be able to!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Mar 23, 2021 at 6:30 p.m.

Kevin Says...

I heard the virtual line for Hagrid isn't used during the 1 hour early park admission, is this accurate?

If not true, does that mean you should try for the virtual pass 30 minutes prior to EPA?

Thanks!

Mar 23, 2021 at 8:09 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kevin,

The Virtual Line for Hagrid's does not open at the start of Early Park Admission, but we suggest to start looking for passes about a half hour before the park is scheduled to open. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Mar 22, 2021 at 5:25 p.m.

HL Says...

How does a virtual line work when it’s for a ride that you would do a rider swap on?

Mar 23, 2021 at 9:02 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi HL!

You would need to get the Virtual Line Pass for the ride you wish to hop on. Then, once it’s your return time, you'd hop in line and get in the regular queue. When you get closer to the boarding area, let a team member know that you want to do rider switch. The process from here may vary by ride, so team members will direct you! At some rides, the people waiting first would step aside while the others go on the ride, and once they hop off, you’d make the switch. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Feb 20, 2021 at 5:07 p.m.

Melisa Hux Says...

We are planning to come over spring break and know it will be busy. Should be buy our ticket ahead of time? (planning to buy an express pass). What if we can't get in the park and we bought a ticket for a specific day?? Then what?

Feb 22, 2021 at 8:25 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Melisa!

We'd definitely suggest purchasing in advance! Date-specific tickets are considered priority guests; so if the parks do hit capacity, they will be readmitted first as the parks reopen. If you are staying on-site, we highly suggest taking advantage of Early Park Admission to be some of the first in the parks. If you aren't staying at a Universal hotel, we suggest getting to the gate about an hour early. Have a great time!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Feb 19, 2021 at 12:48 p.m.

Lauri Says...

Do you still think express pass is worth it or just utilize the virtual line system?

Feb 19, 2021 at 9:10 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Lauri!

This depends on when you'll be visiting; if it's during a busy time when the Virtual Line Experience will be in use, we think Express is definitely worth it!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Feb 12, 2021 at 4:08 p.m.

Alicia Says...

Hi! Thanks for all the information. I’m just a bit confused about the virtual lines and hoping you can clarify for me. If the tickets don’t have to be linked, it seems like just anyone in the Citywalk area can make line reservations. So is it possible for people who aren’t even visiting the parks to make virtual ride reservations just as a prank (people do weird stuff sometimes) thereby making it impossible for others with tickets to get reservations?

Jan 24, 2021 at 10:29 p.m.

Veronica Says...

Is it a separate line you have to wait through when it's your reservation line or are you waiting through the normal line everyone else waits in without booking the virtual line time?

Jan 25, 2021 at 9:35 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Veronica,

The Virtual Line is the same queue as the regular standby line. If a ride is using a Virtual Line, then the ride's standby line is deemed at capacity, and nobody without a Virtual Line pass would be able to enter the queue. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jan 21, 2021 at 5:33 a.m.

Monica Says...

Hi,

Do you have to link your park ticket to your universal account to make virtual line reservations? I just saw the tip about using two separate phones/accounts to make multiple virtual line reservations and wasn’t sure if you had to link tickets if you would need to have tickets linked to separate accounts.

Thanks for all your great info!

Jan 25, 2021 at 9:29 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Monica!

No, your park tickets do not have to be linked to your Universal account within the app. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jan 20, 2021 at 12:58 a.m.

Says...

Is there a charge for the virtual pass?

Jan 20, 2021 at 8:07 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi there!

No, the Virtual Line Experience is free :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jan 3, 2021 at 2:38 p.m.

Patches Says...

What happens if a ride is down during someone's return time? Is it still valid later or do we just lose our time slot?

Jan 4, 2021 at 1:58 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Patches!

While it hasn't happened to us personally, we've heard from others that you receive a virtual pass that works on multiple rides except Hagrid's. It should pop up on the app automatically, so check with a team member if this happens and you don't see the pass!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Dec 26, 2020 at 6:06 p.m.

Corey Says...

Will it even be worth going around New Years next week? We’re only able to afford one day and don’t want to miss out on the main rides if it is going to be way too busy.

Dec 15, 2020 at 10:26 p.m.

Susan Says...

Hi! Thanks for the helpful info. We're a family of 4 but only 3 of us like thrill rides. Since the 3 of us can't ride at the same time (since the one that doesn't ride is a child), it sounds like we would need to get 2 virtual passes for one block of time and 2 for a different block of time (so that one of us isn't riding alone). Does that sound right or does universal have some type of ride swap so that we can experience the themed queue lines as a family?

Dec 16, 2020 at 1:58 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Susan!

Child swap is available at select rides right now, but the service varies by ride, so be sure to ask the attendant at each ride! For any rides not offering child swap services, your approach of booking two separate sets of virtual passes is exactly what we would do :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Nov 28, 2020 at 4:45 p.m.

Rob Lacertosa Says...

The virtual wait time line sucks. Cant get them then its a waste of money. The park is not at half capacity its definitely close to full. If yoj cant get them then you lose out on rides. Soon the whoke park will ve virtual and whats the point. Ride times.are worse then ever before and you cant even go on half the rides

Nov 25, 2020 at 9:35 p.m.

ChrisC Says...

I simply asked attendants at Hagrids when they release reservations at 930am.

I rode it 3x on Tuesday Nov 24th:

Early hours at 7am - 10 min walking through queue

Attendant told me at 930 am that at 11am more spots released - got a spot for 1pm - waited 10 min walking through queue

3pm release of more spots - got spot for 330pm - waited 20 min in line/walking through queue

It appears batches of reservations released about 1 min after odd hours. Once I figured this out - easy to snag spots. Was even able to get one at 5pm too - but was done with Hagrid’s.

Again, ask Universal employees at Hagrids the release schedule!!!!! They know it!!!!

Nov 30, 2020 at 8:02 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

This is awesome advice, Chris - thank you for sharing with us!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Nov 25, 2020 at 2:57 p.m.

Kelly Says...

Where do you have to be in city walk to be able to snag a virtual line for Hagrids ride. I don’t recall a formal start point to city walk. And can one person arrive early to grab it for the group.

Nov 30, 2020 at 12:15 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kelly!

Anywhere in CityWalk should be fine. We’d recommend trying once you’re in the parking garage/about a half hour before park open (though spots are released throughout the day, so it's worth it to check around the top of every hour, ex: 10:55-11:10 am). Some have even gotten virtual queue passes at the Universal hotels or while waiting a red light along Universal Blvd/Turkey Lake. And yes, there can be one designated person who can arrive early. If it’s a larger group (8+ people), send multiple people, as you can only make a pass for up to 8 people. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Nov 11, 2020 at 12:08 a.m.

Val M Says...

When you get ride time with Virtual Pass system and arrive for your ride, where exactly in line are you placed? At the front? With Universal Express holders? Team Member decided how close to place you (and scores of others who are trying to do the same thing)? Thanks for your help and valuable info!

Nov 11, 2020 at 9:09 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Val!

When it's your turn, you'll return to the queue and it's treated as a regular standby queue (so there will be others in line with you, as well). There are ground markings to keep parties 6 feet from one another, as well as plexiglass in certain areas. Cast members are also stationed in places where it may be difficult to see where to stand to help out.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Nov 12, 2020 at 1:34 p.m.

Val M Says...

So, when the rides operates both virtual pass and live queue, and you arrive at your reserved time, you still go to the very end of the live queue? So, what exactly is the advantage of having a virtual pass? I get it, where it is virtual pass only system and everyone arrives in batches for any given 30 min interval, but when both are in use, that's where I am not clear. Hope you can explain. Thank you.

Nov 12, 2020 at 8:06 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Val!

Rides will either operate with the Virtual Line Experience system in place, or the standby queue in place, but not both at the same time. It’s either/or depending on how busy things are :) When the ride operates with a virtual queue, there won’t be a live queue – the ride will only be accessible via Virtual Queue, so guests will have to reserve in the app using the virtual system, then return to the queue in batches to wait based on their return times. On slower days, the ride may not utilize the Virtual Queue system, and instead will only have the standby queue available. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Oct 15, 2020 at 5:16 p.m.

Denise Says...

Can we get a virtual line pass starting at 12:01am of the day we want to get it for?

Oct 15, 2020 at 3:04 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Denise!

These generally aren't available until closer to park opening time (for example, we got some at 8:40 during a recent visit when the park opened at 9 a.m.). We'd recommend that you start checking a half an hour before the park opens.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Oct 13, 2020 at 3:07 a.m.

Luanne Goslinga Says...

If you are staying on a Universal resort hotel and can get in early, can you just book it over to Hagrid's first thing and not bother with virtual queue?

Oct 13, 2020 at 2 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Luanne!

Currently, the only way to experience Hagrid's is using the Virtual Line.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Nov 3, 2020 at 3:51 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Luanne!

Back with an update! There have been some select times lately that Hagrid's has used its standby queue again - namely on slower days. So if you don't see it as a Virtual Line option, it's a standby day :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Oct 10, 2020 at 12:15 p.m.

Andrew Says...

I've read that the virtual line for Hagrids is only utilized on the weekends and it is standby for the rest of the week. Anyone know if this is accurate?

Oct 13, 2020 at 2:25 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Andrew!

Currently, on both weekends and weekdays, the Virtual Line is the only way to hop on Hagrid's.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Nov 3, 2020 at 3:51 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Andrew!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Sep 6, 2020 at 8:40 p.m.

Thisisnotworking Says...

So we have been here at Isle of adventure since 8am, an hour before the park opens. I began at that time trying to find a time in virtual lines to ride several rides. No such luck! In fact there are about 4/5 of the main rides my whole family can’t ride. I have checked back all day and still no luck! Ok Universal!!!! This is not cutting it! I read that people can make more than one reservation for the same ride. So, apparently people are getting on this system and booking multiple ride times which in turn is taking up the whole day and not allowing everyone opportunity! NOT FAIR!!! We have paid our tickets just as they have and cannot experience the park as we should! This system is not cutting it Universal!!! Please fix it so that everyone has an opportunity or go back to old fashioned stand in line like normal.......shouldn’t have to fight for a spot in the early AM or spend all day on your phone trying to find an open one!!!!

Aug 30, 2020 at 11:13 p.m.

Samantha Beer Says...

Do all parties making a line reservation need to have a ticket assigned to their account or just need to be on property? I have 3 annual passes linked in my wallet, but am having my two other family members sign up for accounts so we can each book line reservations. I'm wondering if their tickets being in my account and not theirs will cause issues with that plan?

Sep 1, 2020 at 4:05 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Samantha!

For Universal Orlando Resort’s virtual line, accounts don’t need to be linked. The person making the reservation selects the party size, which includes up to 8 or 10 guests, depending on the ride. However, if you want to hold more than 2 reservations (because one account can only make 2 reservations at a time), then someone else who has the app can make two additional reservations (and that can be for the same ride, or different ones).

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Aug 23, 2020 at 4:25 a.m.

Tbird781 Says...

My family of three just visited Universal studios today (8/22/2020) for the first time since they've reopened. Universals virtual pass does NOTHING to help with wait times. As soon as we got there we set up virtual passes for despicable me, 11:10-11:40, and Jimmy fallon, 1:10-1:40. When we went to each line at our reserved time, the wait was well over an hour for both. Since we're locals, we chose not to wait that long. I understand thats it's a saturday and thats always gonna be the busiest day of the week there but Universal has to do better with their virtual system. Its pointless. At Disney for example, when u set up your virtual/reserved time for an attraction, you're gonna wait about 20 mins. Since this systems is new at Universal, I hope this improves in the near future.

Jul 19, 2020 at 1:21 a.m.

Sabrina Says...

What can you use to secure a phone when riding those rides? Do crossbody phone pouches work?

Jul 20, 2020 at 10:18 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Sabrina!

Crossbody pouches are up to the discretion of the team members at the individual attractions. We’ve seen small crossbody bags allowed on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey before, but it likely isn't optimal on Hagrid’s or The Mummy (due to the chances of it flying around or swinging while you're riding - safety first!). Fanny packs with a 3-prong clip are toadally fine though!. We’ve personally worn one to the theme parks, and it was fine on the rides, the exceptions being the Incredible Hulk and Rip Ride Rockit, where everything must be in a locker.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jul 3, 2020 at 9:30 p.m.

Annaliza Meleski Says...

Super helpful, thank you! We haven't been back to Universal in 20yrs (typically a yearly WDW visitor), but we're flying down next week to try it now that I have teenage boys who've never been. We're staying at the Royal Pacific hotel, do we still have to go to Citywalk to get Hagrid's virtual reservation?

Jul 7, 2020 at 10:26 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Annaliza!

We are hoppy to help - thanks for taking the time to say hello! We've actually heard that some guests have been able to make reservations at the hotels. We recommend that you start checking around 8:40 a.m.!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jun 28, 2020 at 3:30 p.m.

ZuZu Says...

Personally, I think it is a shame that the parks are making all of these reservation systems that are required for rides or that require phones and apps -- which are subject to technical problems and also discriminate against visitors who either don't have smart phones or have old ones. Using kiosks in the park is less stressful and limited to specific times while you are at the kiosk. Now, it seems like from the moment you enter the park, the reservation system encourages people to be on their phone making a reservation and then checking it constantly throughout the day to see if they get a reservation, an additional reservation, or get a better one. Whatever happened to enjoying the parks and your family/friends and being in the moment? That's one advantage of Disney's FastPass system -- making the plans ahead of time on the computer and then just enjoying the park. Maybe parks should institute old timey "reservation-free" days for the old school people! Otherwise, in the future, it seems like they'll be able to do away with the "themes" of the parks and just have rides where people walk around staring at their phones looking for the next available time slot ... and not even noticing the world around them! P.S. I do like the FastPass system and the additional rides that we get to enjoy with shorter lines, but this "Virtual Line Experience" seems too restrictive -- not even to mention the advantage it gives to adult groups over those with young children or older family members who don't have smart phones to make those multiple ride reservations. No wonder the reservation system fills up! And then others don't even have the option to stand in a line ...

Jun 23, 2020 at 12:30 p.m.

Molly Bennett Says...

Starting our 2nd day at Universal - still can’t get a reservation for Hagrid. I started trying at 7:30 eastern today. Any advice? Tomorrow is my last chance.

Jun 23, 2020 at 6:29 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Molly,

We suggest checking for time slots frequently throughout the day (try every half hour; ex: 9:30 a.m., 10 a.m., etc.). It took us several tries before we managed to get one, so don't lose out hope! Make sure to download the latest version of the Universal Orlando app. The team members at Hagrid's told us that it may work better if you connect to Universal's Wi-Fi. We hope this helps, and best of luck!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jun 23, 2020 at 1:24 a.m.

Megan Says...

What time does parking open to get into citywalk to be able to start reserving?

Jun 23, 2020 at 6:22 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Megan,

The Universal parking garages open at 7:30 a.m. daily. The Virtual Line Experience system may not open up until the theme parks open (or just a little bit before!). We still recommend getting there with enough time to park and get through the temperature screening & security checkpoint, so you're ready for the moment it opens up.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jun 7, 2021 at 6:14 p.m.

Renee Says...

Thanks for all this great info! How long would it take three healthy, young adults to walk from the Uber drop off area to the Will Call kiosks? We're thinking of getting dropped of at 7:30am because we're staying off site and want to get there early enough (especially since we'll be there this Thursday and Friday when the temperatures are expected to be 96 and 95 degrees. ugh).

Jun 7, 2021 at 1:39 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Renee,

No problem — we're hoppy to help! Without any lines at security, it takes about 15 minutes, give or take a little, to walk to either park entrance. If you use the moving walkways, it may cut a little time. Definitely allow extra time in case you run into any long lines at the drop-off location, security and/or Will Call, especially since VelociCoaster is officially opening Thursday.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jun 22, 2020 at 1:02 a.m.

Brandy C Says...

What time can you try to get the virtual pass? 9am at park open? Very helpful article

thanks

Jun 22, 2020 at 8:21 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Thanks, Brandy! The Virtual Line system tends to open up right around park opening. We recommend getting there with enough time to park and pass through the temperature screening and security check in case the Virtual Line system opens a few minutes before park opening.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jun 19, 2020 at 11 p.m.

Addison Says...

Very detailed thank you!

Do your passes need to be linked in the app in order to reserve a virtual queue? Or is it based on GPS since it works in City Walk?

Jun 23, 2020 at 8:32 a.m.

FrogBlog Says...

You are so welcome, Addison! Thanks for taking the time to hop by! We'd suggest linking or signing into the Universal site beforehand and turning your location access on. But accounts don’t need to be linked (like Disney’s Family/Friends List) if you have a multi-person party. If a group of 3 all have the app downloaded, they can Hagrid’s up to 3 times if each gets a pass that’s good for a party of 3. Have fun!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Jul 31, 2020 at 2:03 p.m.

Jenny Says...

Do you have instructions on how to use the app with a family? Do all my teens sign up for their own accounts or do they sign into my account? Just wondering how that work? I can't find any information anywhere on this.

Jul 31, 2020 at 1:41 p.m.

FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jenny!

Not all members of your party will need an account (if you're a party of 8 or under). When you sign up for a reservation, you can select the number of people in your party (up to 8 guests). If the party is larger, then you'd need to have a second person making a reservation because you cannot hold multiple reservations for the same ride at once. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog