In a surprising move, Universal Orlando Resort has quietly added two of Epic Universe’s most popular attractions, Mine-Cart Madness and Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, to the Universal Express Pass lineup. This marks a significant update from the park’s May 2025 opening, when both rides were excluded despite being two of the most in-demand experiences at the park.
Originally unavailable via Express, these headline attractions draw massive standby crowds daily, with wait times often exceeding 90 minutes. Their sudden inclusion in the Express Pass system without a major announcement has been quietly confirmed through updates within the official Universal Orlando app and website. The only Epic Universe attraction now excluded from the Express Pass lineup is Dragon Racer’s Rally:
Mine‑Cart Madness
Located within Super Nintendo World, Mine‑Cart Madness brings the world of Donkey Kong to life through a revolutionary coaster experience. What sets this ride apart is its unique “boom coaster” design, where ride vehicles appear to leap across broken tracks, just like in the classic Donkey Kong Country video games!
Utilizing a dual-track system, the coaster simulates jumping, dodging obstacles, and navigating a wild jungle mine course. It’s also one of the few family-friendly thrill coasters that blends physical sets, immersive effects, and game-inspired motion. Don’t miss it, and catch it at night if you can!
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
Set in the all-new Wizarding World area, the Ministry of Magic, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry is an action-packed dark ride featuring high-stakes magical conflict within the iconic British wizarding institution. Blending physical sets with cutting-edge screen technology and motion-based ride vehicles, the attraction puts you right in the middle of a battle between Death Eaters and members of the Order of the Phoenix.
Unlike previous Harry Potter rides, this one leans more into the adult wizarding world and offers a more intense narrative, complete with powerful spell duels, wand battles, and chase sequences through the underground corridors of the Ministry. The attraction’s cinematic scale, visual effects, and seamless transitions between practical and digital environments are something you have to see for yourself.
A Win for Express Pass Holders
With demand for these rides showing no signs of slowing down, the ability to skip the line adds considerable value to Universal’s already popular skip-the-line system, but this also means increased standby waits. The addition of both rides to the Express Pass lineup is a major win for those hoping to experience the best of Epic Universe without marathon queue times.
