Exclusive Benefits for Universal Orlando Passholders This May
It is that time again, Universal Orlando fans! If you carry an Annual Pass, May is looking a whole lot better. Universal has officially released the full lineup for the May 2026 Passholder Bonus Benefits, and there are some serious treats waiting for you. These special perks are available for a limited window, running from May 1 through May 21, 2026. Whether you are looking for new collectibles or a unique meal, this three-week window is packed with value.
The New $5 Merchandise Credit
One of the most interesting additions this time around is a brand-new merchandise benefit. Passholders can snag a $5 single-use merchandise credit when they spend $10 or more at Universal Orlando Resort retail locations. While $5 might seem small, it is a great way to save on those smaller items like pins, keychains, or stationery. Just keep in mind that the $10 minimum must be met after any of your standard passholder discounts are applied and before tax.
There are some logical exclusions to keep in mind for this credit. It cannot be used for things like Game Plays, My Universal Photos, Universal Express Passes, or gift cards. It is also not valid at third-party locations or for non-discountable merchandise. If you have been eyeing a specific souvenir at the Universal Studios Store, this is the perfect excuse to finally grab it.
Autobots Roll Out: The Exclusive Magnet
It would not be a bonus season without a new magnet for the collection. This month, the theme is Transformers. Universal actually let the fans decide the design, putting the Autobots against the Decepticons in a vote, and the Autobots came out on top. You can pick up your free magnet at either The Tonight Shop in Universal Studios Florida or the UOAP Lounge in Universal Islands of Adventure. These are always popular, so make sure you stop by early in your trip to ensure they haven’t run out.
Limited-Time Dining Options
Foodies have a lot to look forward to in May. Several locations across the resort are rolling out exclusive dishes just for the Passholder Bonus period. Here is what you can find:
- Viking Bee Sting Doughnut ($5.25): Found at Voodoo Doughnut, this is a vanilla cake doughnut with a boysenberry velvet top, candy bees, and honeycomb cereal.
- Chimi Cheese Sandwich ($17.95): Available at NBC Sports Grill & Brew, featuring smoked bacon, pepperjack and cheddar cheese, fried queso, and house red chimichurri on a brioche bun.
- Chopped Italian Mac & Cheese: Head to Blondie’s in Toon Lagoon for this cavatappi pasta dish loaded with pepperoni, salami, soppressata, and capicola.
- Salmon and Saffron Risotto ($38): For a more upscale meal, Lombard’s Seafood Grille is offering this seared salmon dish set on a bed of golden risotto.
- Salmon Rasta Roll ($23.95): The Cowfish is serving up a roll with tempura shrimp, cucumber, avocado, and a mango-jerk dressing.
Planning Pro-Tips for Your May Visit
Beyond the food and merch, there are some logistical perks that make a May visit very appealing. Passholders will have access to Early Park Admission at both Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay during this period. Getting into the parks before the general public is the best way to knock out the high-demand attractions like Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure without the massive midday waits.
If you are staying on property, the perks continue. Select hotels including Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal Aventura Hotel, and Universal Endless Summer Resort will offer unique refillable souvenir cups. Plus, if you dine at select hotel restaurants for lunch or dinner, you can get a complimentary dessert with your meal purchase. Don’t forget that you also get 20% off a round at Hollywood Drive-In Golf at CityWalk, which is a great way to spend an evening outside of the parks.
The May Bonus Benefits are a great reminder of the extra value that comes with being a part of the Universal Orlando community. Make sure to have your digital or physical pass ready to show at every location to ensure you don’t miss out on these limited-time offers.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.
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