Annual passholders for Universal Orlando theme parks and Walt Disney World parks have sneak-peek opportunities this weekend, beginning bright and early Friday.
"Premier and preferred" annual passholders for Universal Studios can check out the new Simpsons Ride from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Show your pass to get early admission to the park. The mailer I received included a coupon to be used between 8 and 10 a.m. for a free Squishee coupon and a Simpons souvenir.
It's a little weird to call it a preview since it's been open for more than a week, but at least the line should be more manageable. There will be grand opening events next week.
Universal has designated May as "Passholder Appreciation Month," and there are multiple chances to take advantage, from early admission to discounts for Blue Man Group and CityWalk to resort-based give-aways. Check out the details at www.universalorlando.com/annualpass.
Saturday, Sunday and Monday are the dates for the annual passholder preview of Toy Story Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. You'll need a valid Disney annual pass plus a photo ID to ride because it's not quite open to the public yet.
Last weekend was a cast member preview at DHS, and when I checked in, folks without proper credentials were turned away (politely, natch). Be prepared.
