I assume this is because of staffing issues and because they won't open with express. But something like Dollywood does with their hotels is the first hour is unlimited express for hotel guests. So you show your hotel band and you get into express. I think this would be something maybe they could do for the other two parks at least as a benefit? Maybe first and last hours? This would help getting Helios guests to go to the other two parks too.
It really sealed the deal for us staying at a Dollywood hotel because the express you get for staying there is extremely limited, but that first hour will help us get the coasters in each morning that we can't get on express. And they can get a couple rides in before that hour ends, especially since we are going Thanksgiving week.
Will the restaurants in the park not start with reservations because I was surprised to not see priority seating as a benefit.