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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Universal Studios Hollywood

Here's everything you need to know about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, from the best rides and restaurants to seasonal events and more.

Did you know that in the heart of Los Angeles you can sip on Butterbeer , come face to face with terrifying dinosaurs, and have an epic journey with adorable Minions? No acting experience required.

Universal Studios Hollywood is a theme park like no other, connected to a working movie and television production lot that's been around since the early 20 th century. The film studio first got into attractions with a tram tour in 1964 but has since evolved and grown into a bonafide theme park with thrilling rides, live entertainment, immersive lands, and thematically pleasing (and delicious) foods.

The theme park may be compact compared to its East Coast sibling, but it makes up for its smaller stature with top-notch attractions. Unlike other parks, it offers a welcomed level of flexibility requiring minimal pre-planning for visitors, appealing to both solo travelers and families alike. The park can be accomplished in one day for those short on time but looking to get a taste of what Tinseltown's only theme park has to offer.

Related : 20 Best Amusement Parks in the World

Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket Types and Prices

The ultimate Hollywood experience is surprisingly more affordable than you may have imagined. One-day general admission begins at $109, with two-day general admission beginning at $149. Using a dynamic ticket pricing system, the cost depends on the date of your visit, with weekends and holidays tiered higher. Front gate purchases will cost significantly more, and advanced online purchases are suggested.

Universal Express offers expedited access to almost every attraction and show with ticket packages beginning at $189. Guided VIP experiences begin at $349 and offer small group expedited access to rides and complimentary refreshments.

Luckily, when you inevitably fall in love with the park, it won't require a mortgage payment to visit again. Universal Studios Hollywood has one of the most affordable annual pass programs in the country, with the value of your park ticket able to be used towards the upgrade. Perks include free parking and discounts on food and merchandise, with the pass program starting at $159 for California residents and $199 for general guests.

Universal Studios Hollywood Layout

Comprised of two different levels, the upper lot and the lower lot, Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the easiest parks to navigate for first-time visitors. Guests enter on the upper lot and a series of escalators, known as the Starway, travel a quarter mile down to the lower lot.

The upper lot is the largest, comprised of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, The Simpsons -inspired Springfield U.S.A., the World-Famous Studio Tour, live shows, and more. The lower lot is home to Revenge of The Mummy — The Ride, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D, Jurassic World —The Ride, and several eateries and shops.

Universal Studios Hollywood Rides

Universal Studios Hollywood has a little something for everyone, from thrill junkies to young children, with attractions featuring your favorite characters, movies, and television series.

The park has experienced a period of growth over the last decade, including the milestone addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. While the land is smaller than its counterpart in Florida, it brings along its greatest hits, including e-ticket attraction, Harry Potter & The Forbidden Journey, and the popular wand-choosing experience, Ollivanders.

The newest attraction, Secret Life of Pets: Off The Leash! (exclusive to the Hollywood park), opened in 2021 and is a marvel of a dark ride seamlessly mixing industry-leading screen-based technology with animatronics. Located on the upper lot's Manhattan-inspired streets, the colorful area immerses guests in the loved movie franchise through playful character interactions.

On the lower lot, Jurassic World — The Ride is a water-based attraction that shines as one of the biggest thrills offered with pioneering feats in audio-animatronics since its refurbishment in 2021.

The World-Famous Studio Tour is a unique 60-minute journey that includes behind-the-scenes access to working sets while intermixing themed attraction experiences , all while sitting aboard a tram. With ever-changing production schedules, no two rides on this iconic attraction are ever the same. Through the theme park's commitment to becoming more environmentally friendly, the trams are being given an upgrade and will soon utilize all electric vehicles.

Other rides include a family-friendly Minions attraction, a Harry Potter -themed coaster for all ages, and interactive playscapes.

The first Super Nintendo World in the United States is slated to open in 2023, bringing new attractions.

Where to Eat at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood's dining options are quick-service, but that doesn't mean you'll sacrifice taste thanks to multitudes of globally inspired bites served in highly themed locations.

The popular eatery, Three Broomsticks, transports guests to the fantastical world of Harry Potter inside a dining hall straight out of the blockbuster franchise. British delicacies are the menu's focus, with traditional dishes like fish and chips and a standout English breakfast. No meal is complete without fan-favorite Butterbeer ice cream.

The whimsically themed Super Silly Fun Land houses a Minions-themed cafe with approachable eats, like a homestyle grilled cheese and tomato soup. In Springfield, beloved eateries from The Simpsons come to life, including Krusty Burger and Lard Lad (serving up giant pink donuts). On the lower lot, Jurassic Café offers unique bites, like slow-roasted mojo pork, and it is steps away from Isla Nu-Bar, a tiki outpost pouring tropical cocktails.

For those looking to imbibe during their park visit, there's no shortage of highly themed bars, including Moe's Tavern, Hog's Head in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Mulligan's Irish Pub.

Those seeking a caffeine fix should avoid Starbucks and head straight to the French Street Bistro, a charming hidden gem with coffee drinks, breakfast, and snacks served throughout the day.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood

The property's dining and entertainment district, CityWalk, is adjacent to the theme park, where you can find the destination's table-service dining options. NBC Sports Bar & Grill is your go-to spot for sporting events and offers surprisingly excellent pub food, while Antojitos Cocina Mexicano has a wonderful patio and sprawling bar with Mexican eats and handcrafted cocktails. For casual options, the recently opened Chick Chick Chicken dishes out authentic Nashville-style hot chicken while the legendary Pink's Hot Dogs has an easy-to-access outpost of their iconic eatery.

No park ticket is required to visit CityWalk.

When to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Given its location in sunny Southern California, visitors can enjoy pleasant weather almost year-round. Weekdays between holiday seasons are the best time to visit for shorter lines at attractions and restaurants.

Visits during the theme park's two annual events, Halloween Horror Nights and Grinchmas, tend to be the most crowded. Halloween Horror Nights, a separately ticketed event, is the country's leading haunt event where Universal's soundstages are transformed into frightening walk-through experiences themed to the biggest horror franchises. Grinchmas, included with general theme park admission, sees gleeful holiday-inspired upgrades. Universal Express proves to be invaluable during these times.

How to Get There and Where To Stay Near Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood is located in the heart of Los Angeles, approximately 20 minutes from nearby Hollywood Burbank Airport and 40 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport.

Daily parking rates for theme park visitors begin at $30 if entering the lot before 5 p.m. For those visiting a full-service restaurant at CityWalk, valet parking is available for up to 2.5 hours for $10.

Unlike Orlando's version, they do not have on-site, Universal-operated hotels, but hotel partners. Hilton Universal City & Sheraton Universal Hotel are located within walking distance of the park, with guests receiving perks like complimentary shuttles and discounted ticket packages.

Entertainment at the Theme Park

It's of no surprise that entertainment is a cornerstone of the theme park, including some of the most impressive displays of free-roaming characters that interact with guests, like Beetlejuice, Dracula, and Lucille Ball.

The theme park's live shows also shine, like "Waterworld: A Live Sea War Spectacular." Inspired by the cult-favorite film, the stunt show is celebrating over 25 years and uses actual pieces from the movie's sets along with large-scale pyrotechnics and captivating live actors. Other shows include the hilarious Universal's Animal Actors featuring real-life, Hollywood-trained pets.

Their nighttime offerings may be more scaled back than other parks, but the Harry Potter -themed evening spectacular is worth staying for. "Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle" combines music, lights, and projections all set to the stunning backdrop of the towering school of wizardry.

Universal Studios Hollywood Planning Tips

Download the official app, where you can quickly access the most up-to-date wait times, showtimes, maps, and more.

Many guests enter and begin their day at the upper lot's attractions. Instead, work backward by beginning at the lower lot to possibly relieve wait times.

The World-Famous Studio Tour typically embarks on its last ride of the day over an hour before park closing, so it is best to plan ahead for this experience.

15 Universal Studios Hollywood Tips You NEED To Read (2023)

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Visiting a theme park like Universal Studios Hollywood is so much fun and exciting but it can be incredibly stressful – and disappointing – if you go in with no plan. After reading this article, you’ll understand where to save and where to splurge and how to maximize your time at Universal!

These are my favorite Universal Hollywood tips that you need for an amazing trip! I’ll cover everything starting with considerations as you book your trip to Universal Studios Hollywood to how to save money and maximize your experience in the park.

Where to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood

Unlike Universal Studios Orlando, there are no “on-property” hotels at Universal Studios Hollywood. Some hotels are closer than others, but you won’t find official perks like early entry, Express Pass, ticket discounts or anything else. While that may seem frustrating at first, it also means that you have complete choice among hotels near Universal Studios without feeling like you have to spend a ton of money. Here are a few great choices for where to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood – including their pros and cons.

Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City

And the award for closest hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood goes to… Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City ! It’s just a ~10 minute walk to the theme park gate, though it requires some stairs that may be challenging for those with limited mobility. The hotel also runs a free scheduled shuttle to Universal Studios Hollywood if that’s a better fit for your needs.

The Hilton is a very nice hotel, with a great pool and on-site dining as well, but it’s also one of the most expensive hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood. Be sure to compare prices at Hilton’s website and Expedia to make sure you’re getting a good deal. You can also consider booking this hotel as a package with theme park tickets and your rental car through Undercover Tourist , which we’ve used before to save tons of money.

You do have the option to pay for an upgraded theme park view, but personally I don’t think it’s worth the money since there aren’t night time fireworks at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Sheraton Universal Hotel

Just a few more minutes away on foot gets you to the Sheraton Universal Hotel . The hotel interior is a little nicer than the Hilton next door and it’s often a little less expensive, but the trade off is a slightly longer walk to the gate and slightly smaller rooms unless you upgrade.

In addition to Expedia , check prices on Marriott’s website and through Undercover Tourist to make sure you get a great deal!

The Garland

For a more boutique hotel near Universal Studios Hollywood, check out The Garland . It’s just a mile away in North Hollywood, though it’s definitely not walkable given the freeway and hills. There’s a trolly that runs hourly if you’re looking for a way to get to Universal for free.

Inside the mission-style building, you’ll find a beautiful blending of SoCal craftsman architecture with Mid-Century Modern design touches. The hotel offers quite a few different room types including standard queen-queen rooms, rooms with junior bunk beds in alcoves for early bed times, and even family suites with bunk beds. It’s even an option if you need a pet-friendly hotel near Universal Studios Hollywood.

There are also on-site activities available to keep you busy when you aren’t out exploring. There’s a lovely pool and a family jacuzzi, plus a rotating calendar of activities that includes lawn games, local food pop ups, guided tours and hikes in the area and more.

It’s easy to book The Garland on its own via Expedia, which shows you the details of all the different room types including suites. If you’re looking for a Universal Studios Hollywood vacation package to save money, check out Get Away Today (use code ‘VOYAGE’ to save $10) and Undercover Tourist for major savings.

Magic Castle Hotel

Are you looking for where to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood on a budget with a big family? Do you like fun? If you answered yes to either of those questions, check out the Magic Castle Hotel . It’s just a 10 minute drive to the park and you can even walk to the Hollywood Bowl along with other area attractions.

Magic Castle Hotel isn’t fancy, but it has a lot going for it. This used to be an apartment building, so the rooms are huge – most are designated as suites but are really one- or two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens so you can save money on meals. Speaking of saving money on meals, breakfast is included daily and even includes a magician on weekends! Plus there’s an unlimited supply of free snacks and popsicles out on the pool deck.

Oh, and they’ll even do your laundry for free.

Even with all of these amazing amenities (including bargain-basement parking fees), Magic Castle Hotel is reasonably priced if you have a large family or need more space than a traditional hotel room offers. It’s easy to see why it’s considered the most kid-friendly hotel near Universal Studios Hollywood! Check prices for your stay .

How to get discounted tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood

Tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood are expensive, ranging from $109 to $149 online and even more if you purchase in person (with the risk of ticket being sold out). I strongly recommend that you buy your tickets in advance online to save money and ensure that you’ll be able to visit the park! There are a few ways to get discounted tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood:

• Undercover Tourist – We’ve used authorized ticket seller before and had a seamless experience. They sell Universal Studios tickets at a discount of several dollars each. But the real savings come when you bundle your rental car: you can get up to 50% off your car rental! We’ve done this before and it saved us $200 on the car. If you have an account set up with the rental car company, you can even reach out before your trip to link it to your reservation to make pick up faster.
• Get Away Today – Similar to Undercover Tourist, GAT is a big player in the authorized ticket market. They offer discounted packages for tickets + hotel, plus you can save an extra $10 with coupon ‘VOYAGE’.
• Get Your Guide – For our most recent visit, we actually booked our tickets through tour marketplace Get Your Guide. You can buy tickets from them just as you would from any other retailer. Why did I buy from a 3rd party seller? I only needed tickets for this visit, and I was able to cash back through TopCashback ! If you aren’t familiar with TopCashback, they provide a percentage of your purchase back at nearly every retailer you can think of. I use them

Universal Studios Hollywood tips for an amazing visit

• Check the calendar for your time visiting in LA. Generally Universal Studios tickets are date-specific and they’re priced based on projected crowds and park hours. But those hours can vary dramatically: during busy season Universal Studios hours can be 8am to 10pm, while on weekdays or when there’s an evening event they can be as short as 10am-6pm.
• Know how much of Universal Studios you want to visit. If you want to hit every single popular ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, a day with limited hours may not be enough time. How much time to spend at Universal Studios Hollywood completely depends on whether or not you want to do all of the rides and attractions and how busy the park is.

• Download the Universal Studios Hollywood app while you’re planning to familiarize yourself with ride options and wait times.
• Decide if the Universal Express Pass is worth it for you. In my experience, if you’re visiting Universal Studios when it isn’t a school break or a weekend you can save your money. As of this writing, Express Pass costs an extra $90+ per person and doesn’t even include the most popular ride in the park! But if you’re visiting during summer or spring break and want to hit every ride it may be worth the cost to avoid spending an hour or two in line for popular rides. This guide is really helpful for deciding whether or not to purchase it.

• Plan to arrive at the Universal Studios Hollywood parking structure about 30-40 minutes before opening time. You’ll need to wait in line to pay, park and then walk through CityWalk. That process took us 25 minutes on an extremely quiet day. Alternatively, if you take Uber you’ll be dropped off righ near the park entrance. Paying up for premium parking (an extra $20-40) also gets you closer to the gate.
• Consider upgrading to Super Nintendo World “early access” at Universal Studios Hollywood. The new Mario Kart ride is absolutely amazing and is not part of Express Pass. But if you pay the (more reasonable) price to get in an hour early, you can enjoy Mario Kart before everyone else with a very short line and then quickly hop to the other popular rides while everyone else dashes down to Super Nintendo World! Several of the other popular rides are also nearby in the lower lot, so you’ll even have an extra 10-15 minutes after the regular opening time before other guests arrive.

• You may need to join the “virtual line” for Super Nintendo World when you enter the park if it’s busy. You can’t do it before you enter the park and it doesn’t get you on Mario Kart any faster, but just helps with crowd control while the World is still at peak popularity. 
• Universal Studios Hollywood has two sections, the Upper Lot and Lower Lot. You’ll enter in the Upper Lot, which has Hogsmeade (Harry Potter), Krustyland (The Simpsons), the Waterworld live stunt show and most of the attractions for younger kids including Dispicable Me Minions Mayhem (one of our family’s favorites), Kung Fu Panda, Secret Life of Pets and Super Silly Fun Land. The Lower Lot is home to the new Super Nintendo World along with Jurassic World (and the Dino play area), The Mummy and Transformers. A series of steep escalators connects the two sections, with an alternative tram option for those with mobility challenges. Expect to spend 5-10 minutes getting between the Upper and Lower Lots.

• Choose your dining wisely. We tried out some of the Universal Studios themed dining options in Orlando and can’t say we were very impressed with the quality for the exorbitant price so we avoided the park food in Hollywood almost entirely. But my sources tell me that Cocina Mexicana and Jurassic Cafe are decent options that won’t cost an arm and a leg. On a busy day you can order your meal through the app and just go pick it up at the counter when it’s ready – that can be a huge time saver. 

• One of the best snacks at Universal Studios Hollywood is (obviously) butter beer! The iced/slushie version is perfect for a hot day. Yes it’s almost $10 per cup, but it’s worth it. Two cups is enough for our family of four to share.
• If you want to eat at Toadstool Cafe (which we’ve heard is cute but terrible), scan the waitlist QR code at the entrance to Super Nintendo World first thing in the morning. We visited on a very light day and the entire day’s waitlist was full 90 minutes after park opening. Insider tip: if Super Nintendo World is on a virtual line, a Toadstool Cafe reservation will get you in. 

• To fully experience Super Nintendo World or the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, prepare to pay up for an accessory – a power up band for Nintendo ($40) or a wand at Ollivanders in Hogsmeade ($40-60). In our experience the wands from Orlando work in Hollywood, but it seemed like many of the interactive elements didn’t function as smoothly as we expected. On the other hand, the power up bands we purchased worked perfectly and unlocked so many cool experiences in Super Nintendo World – plus they continue to be useful as amiibo with compatible games for Nintendo Switch. My kids specifically recommend using them for Super Smash Bros , Super Mario Odyssey , Mario Kart 8 and Captain Toad Treasure Tracker . Winning the “mini games” within Super Nintendo world earns keys that link to your power up band; once you have three keys, you can participate in the final boss showdown in Bowser Jr’s castle! No power up band = no boss battle. 

• The Waterworld live stunt show at Universal Studios Hollywood is pretty darn impressive! It only runs a few times per day so be sure to set an alarm to get there about 5 minutes before showtime on a quiet day or as much as 15-30 minutes early on a busy day. Choose your seats wisely – the lower seats in the green zone get soaked while the higher seats stay dry. There’s no wrong answer though, as sometimes the splash zone a nice way to cool off!
• Consider a change of clothes or a swimsuit for young kids. Super Silly Fun Land has a pretty amazing water play structure full of dump buckets and sprayers, and it’s hard for kids to resist on a hot day.
• Some of the more intense rides require you to put your belongings in a locker. The lockers are free, but you can’t have a backpack on The Mummy or Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

What to bring to Universal Studios Hollywood

Overall a day at Universal Studios Hollywood isn’t nearly as intense as visiting Disneyland or other large theme parks. But there are a few things to bring with you to make your day awesome.

• External battery pack. Between all the photos and videos you’ll take plus checking wait times in the Universal Studios Hollywood app, you’ll probably chew through your phone’s battery faster than yoh think – and at the end of the day you need a little juice for Uber or GPS navigation back to your hotel! I love this battery pack because it plugs straight into my phone without needing any cables or adapters. There’s an Android version as well.
• Versatile daypack. We use this backpack for theme parks and it’s perfect for us! There’s plenty of space for snacks, water, dry shirts, souvenirs and more (it’s just long enough for an Elderwand box, in case you were curious). There’s even a built-in rain cover on the off-chance of a shower. It pairs with this belt bag , which is great for easy access to small items or if you and your travel buddy need to split up for part of the day. 
• Insulated water bottle or Camelbak . Universal Studios Hollywood has tons of places to refill your water bottle – even in the middle of some of the longer lines! I love this insulated water bottle thanks to its ergonomic shape. We’ve also tucked a Camelbak bladder into the daypack I mentioned above, which is a great solution if you don’t want to refill often. You can even fill it most of the way with ice in the morning.
• Comfortable shoes. There’s no faster way to ruin a day at Universal Studios Hollywood than by wearing uncomfortable shoes. I opted for this pair and was able to go go go non-stop!
• Sunscreen stick. Be sure to bring sunscreen with you for Universal Studios Hollywood – there’s plenty of waiting in line out in the sun. I love that I can fly with this sunscreen stick without worrying about liquid restrictions. It’s compact enough to fit anywhere!
• Sunglasses. No matter what you plan to do, be sure to include a great pair of shades on your LA packing list .

Universal Studios Hollywood FAQs

In my experience one day is usually enough for Universal Studios Hollywood unless you’re visiting on a short day and want to ride every single ride. 

Unlike Orlando, there’s really no such thing as “on property” in Hollywood. There are several hotels in walking distance that you can consider but they don’t get any extra theme park benefits.  

Before you go…

If you’re certain you’ll include Universal Studios Hollywood in your Los Angeles itinerary, be sure to read up on whether or not to rent a car in LA and which airport to fly into !

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Planning a Trip to Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood Introduction

It wasn't that long ago that you could find everything you needed know about Universal Studios Hollywood on just one web page. People who visited back then often think they've seen it all and don't need to go back again. They would be wrong.

Over the past few years, Universal has produced some of the most exciting theme park experiences in California. It takes several pages just to cover everything you can see and do there, and if you haven't visited lately, it's time to think about going back.

Is Universal Studios Hollywood Right for You?

Universal wows its visitors with innovative, thrilling rides, but it's not for everyone. If you enjoy (and can tolerate) fast-paced thrill rides and don't mind if they're the motion simulator type, you'll probably love it.

If you have physical issues that prevent you from going on fast rides - or if you prefer your rides slow and steady, you may not find enough to do to justify the cost of a ticket. Small people (less than 40 inches tall) and big people (whose body shape may prevent safety restraints from fastening) may also discover that they can only go on a limited number of rides.

To find out more about what the park is like, and to see it all -without leaving your chair, check out the Universal Studios slideshow .

Universal Studios Hollywood Planner

These resources are everything you need to get started planning your Universal Studios experience. Allow a full day, and you can enjoy everything they have to offer.

• Universal Studios Complete Ride Guide : Detailed descriptions and tips for every ride and attraction, with height and size restrictions.
• How to Get Universal Studios Tickets : The box office is the worst way to go. Find out how to get them ahead of time, how to get a discount - and learn about a ticketing loophole that could save you money.
• What's New - and What's Coming - at Universal Studios Hollywood : Not only what's next, but what's been done in the past few years.
• Tips for a Perfect Day at Universal : You'll have more fun, stress less, and amaze your companions with how much you know if you follow even half of these tips.
• Hotels Near Universal Studios : You can do Universal in a day, but you might be too tired to drive home afterward - or you may want to visit other attractions in the area. This guide highlights some of the nicest places to stay nearby.

When to Go to Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal is crowded during summer and long school holidays like spring and winter break. They get even crazier around Christmas when you may encounter the longest lines of the year.

In the summer, it gets really hot at midday, but the hours are longer. You'll have few worries about getting rained out during California's rainy winter season because most of the fun rides are indoors.

Annual Events at Universal Studios Hollywood

Halloween Horror Nights : Every October, Universal puts on a special event, featuring some of their scariest slasher villains. Even the "chainsaw guys" who go around terrorizing people have to try out for their jobs. You'll have to buy a separate ticket or an all-day package to enjoy the park and this bloody scare-fest on the same day.

Harry Potter Christmas and Grinchmas :  The Grinch stole Christmas, but then he brought it back - and it's a good thing he did because the holiday celebration at Wizarding World is excellent. You don't need a separate ticket for these.

What's Nearby

Universal CityWalk , just outside the park entrance is a lively shopping and dining complex open to the public. It's a good place to eat dinner or to do a little shopping, or even go to a movie after a day at Universal Studios Hollywood.

If the Universal studio tour got you interested in how movies are made, Warner Bros Studios is just up the street, and they have a great public tour.

Getting To Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608 Universal Studios website

The Metro Red Line also stops near the park, and you can catch a shuttle bus from there to the entrance. The Metro system covers much of the LA area. Find out more information about the Metro Red Line here.

Universal offers a shuttle from lots of Los Angeles hotels with a one-day admission ticket. Get details on their website .

Some tour companies offer admission and transportation packages from San Diego. They can cost as much as $40 per person over full ticket price with no chance for discounts, and they limit your time at the park. Consider this option only if you have no others.

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Universal Studios Hollywood - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket (From $109.00)
• Los Angeles: City Sightseeing Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour (From $49.00)
• Private and Small Group Universal Studios LA Tour from San Diego (From $500.00)
• Los Angeles Private Transfer to or from Universal Studios. (From $99.00)
• Hollywood Private Transfer to/from Universal Studios or Burbank. (From $39.00)
• (0.30 mi) Hilton Los Angeles / Universal City
• (0.39 mi) Sheraton Universal Hotel
• (1.04 mi) The Garland
• (0.68 mi) Blvd Hotel & Studios
• (1.16 mi) The Tangerine
• (0.05 mi) Three Broomsticks
• (0.09 mi) Lard Lad Donuts
• (0.15 mi) Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
• (0.08 mi) Krusty Burger
• (0.10 mi) Starbucks
• (0.03 mi) The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• (0.03 mi) Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods
• (0.03 mi) Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• (0.15 mi) iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Hollywood
• (0.08 mi) Moe's Tavern

Combined Shape .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} SMS Main navigation Things to Do Attractions & Tours Arts & Culture Outdoors & Wellness Shopping Budget Family Hidden Gems Luxury Pet-Friendly Eat & Drink Bars Clubs Dine LA Restaurant Week Restaurants Business Spotlight Find Events Itineraries Where to Stay Celebrate LA Heritage AAPI Heritage Black LA Latino Heritage LGBTQ+ Tourist Information Meetings About LA Tourism Travel Trade Membership Business Spotlight Media Research Careers Today's must read Hidden Gems of Los Angeles Log in Search Search Things to Do Attractions & Tours Top 10 Must Sees at Universal Studios Hollywood by Discover Los Angeles   Sep 5, 2023 Share Been There Login Register My Next Trip Login Register Studio Tours Theme Parks Family Friendly Universal Studios Hollywood™ is the only authentic, working movie studio and theme park in the world. It's as much a can’t-miss for visitors as it is a popular weekend attraction for LA locals.

8. Transformers™: The Ride–3D

Transformers™: The Ride-3D is an immersive, next generation thrill ride that blurs the line between fiction and reality. Fusing HD 3D media and flight simulation technology, this epic ride creates an experience that's unlike anything this planet has ever seen. Based on the popular movie franchise, this mind-blowing Transformers adventure puts you in the middle of the ultimate war zone.

9. Entertainment

Besides the incredible attractions and The World-Famous Studio Tour, the whole family will love the numerous entertainment options , including:

• WaterWorld - The park's #1 rated show is an unforgettable adventure that surges to life with jumping jet-skiers, perilous plunges, firefights, massive explosions, and an in-your-face plane crash that must be seen to be believed.
• Universal's Animal Actors - The animals aren’t just in the live show, they’re in control! See your favorite scenes from The Secret Life of Pets re-enacted, watch exclusive film content, and witness Tinseltown-trained critters put pet tricks to shame with their animal antics. Who knows, you might even get to co-star!

10. Seasonal Events

Throughout the year, Universal Studios Hollywood hosts some of LA's most popular seasonal events , including:

• Halloween Horror Nights - From the movie studio that invented the horror film genre, Halloween Horror Nights brings together the stories and visions of the world’s most notorious creators of horror. Enter mind-ripping mazes; face nightmarish creatures in sinister scare zones; get lost in outrageous live entertainment; and escape to some of the park’s most exhilarating attractions.
• Holidays - The whole family can celebrate Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, join in the Who-tacular Grinchmas™ celebration, and end the day at Universal CityWalk with holiday shopping, the 40-foot Christmas tree, and fantastic dining.

BONUS: VIP Experience

Book the VIP Experience for the ultimate behind-the-scenes visit to Universal Studios Hollywood. Tickets to the VIP Experience start at $349 per person (discounts available throughout the year), and include exclusive features such as:

• Tour the backlot in a special trolley that lets you disembark and explore areas not open to the general public.
• VIP guide who immerses you in the Universal Studios story, escorts you through express lines at rides and attractions, and finds the best seats at seated shows.
• Gourmet lunch in the private VIP dining room, valet parking, and VIP entry and exit from the park.

TRANSFORMERS and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2013 Hasbro. © 2013 DreamWorks, LLC and Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. THE SIMPSONS TM & ©2013 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved War of the Worlds ©2012 by Paramount Pictures and DreamWorks LLC. All Rights Reserved...©2013 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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Universal Studios Hollywood

Get Ready for the Ultimate Hollywood Movie Experience!

Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place: thrilling Theme Park rides and shows, a real working movie studio, and Los Angeles’ best shops, restaurants and cinemas at CityWalk. Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique experience that’s fun for the whole family.

Parking and Directions to Universal Studios Hollywood

Review our most updated information before your visit.

The World-Famous Studio Tour

Explore the largest and busiest motion picture and TV studio in the world. More movies and television shows have filmed on this lot than any other lot in the world.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Explore the mysteries of Hogwarts™ castle, and experience pulse-pounding rides and attractions that transport you into a world of magic and excitement.

Jurassic World – The Ride

Climb aboard an unforgettable journey with imposing prehistoric creatures that first roamed the earth more than 65 million years ago in our epic adventure.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Join Gru, his daughters and the mischievous Minions on a heartwarming and thrilling ride.

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

Join Max, Duke, Gidget, Snowball and all your favorite Pets characters for a thrilling ride through the streets of New York City.

Experience a tidal wave of explosive action at WaterWorld – Universal Studios’ #1 rated show.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™

Enter through the towering castle gates and make your way down the familiar passageways and corridors of Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

King Kong 360 3-D

Come face to face with King Kong 360 3-D created by Peter Jackson. It’s the world’s largest, most intense 3-D experience.

Fast & Furious - Supercharged!

Hold on tight for the grand finale of the Studio Tour, Fast & Furious – Supercharged!

Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride

If you dare, face heart-pounding special effects and unexpected twists at every turn as you escape the Mummy’s revenge in life-like horror.

TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride-3D

TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride 3D is an immersive, next generation thrill ride that blurs the line between fiction and reality.

Springfield, U.S.A.

Enter the world of The Simpsons™ like never before and visit downtown Springfield, U.S.A.

Foreign Language Studio Tours

We offer Studio Tours in Spanish on select days. Please check digital boards located throughout the Park for tour times during your visit.

Explore where fun is always unexpected to experience movies like Hollywood directors, dining for every taste, shopping & entertainment that will surprise and delight.

• Black Out Calendars
• Calendar and Hours
• Getting to the Park

2024 Universal Studios Hollywood Planning Guide

Our 2024 Universal Studios Hollywood planning guide offers tips & tricks to help you save money & time, avoid crowds in Super Nintendo World, and what else to do at the “Entertainment Capital of Los Angeles.” USH is one of Southern California’s best theme parks, and a great side trip if you’re visiting Disneyland . ( Updated January 7, 2024 .)

The last year has been a huge one for Universal Studios Hollywood. Last year started with the debut of Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, a new restaurant and confectionery in Universal CityWalk. This is a good spot for crowd-pleasing fare and fun, like Cheesecake Factory but in a highly-themed setting. So long as you have the proper expectations about what it is and isn’t, you’re likely to have a good experience.

In addition to that, Universal Studios Hollywood’s world famous studio tour has a new scene featuring Jupiter’s Claim from Nope. That, plus other little additions and closures are paving the way for USH’s star to shine even brighter. However, all of this is relatively insignificant as compared to the 800 pound plumber in the room…

Super Nintendo World is now open at Universal Studios Hollywood! This marks the official arrival of Mario, Luigi, Bowser, and other iconic Nintendo characters to the United States theme park scene. It’s the second of three versions of the land; with the first already open in Universal Studios Japan.

We’ve had the chance to experience Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood several times, and it’s truly something special. Super Nintendo World features the groundbreaking Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride, as well as many interactive activities designed to engage the entire family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom.

If you’re planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood and Mario and friends are your main motivation, you should consult our comprehensive Strategy Guide for Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood . That offers tips & tricks, how to beat the crowds, and a ton of other advice for making the most of your time in this incredible new land.

The biggest thing to know about Super Nintendo World is that it’s insanely popular and  crazy crowded . This should not come as a surprise given the popularity of Super Mario Bros., but suffice to say, you really need to have a plan of attack. Whether that mean buying Early Access, rope dropping the land, staying late, etc. The above guide has you covered with all of those options–we just want to reiterate their importance.

You absolutely should not arrive late and hit Super Nintendo World midday. That’s what the majority of guests do, and they encounter triple-digit wait times for Mario Kart, get shut out of Toadstool Cafe, and fail to finish all of the minigames as a result. Just a fair warning–don’t make the same mistakes as the majority of guests!

If you’re on the fence about Super Nintendo World, or want more recommendations for whatever reason, check out our thoughts in Super Nintendo World Review: Good, Bad & Ugly . If you’re looking for more Mario Kart info, see our  Ride Review: Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge . (Both of those reviews are based on the USJ version of Super Nintendo World.)

On a more practical note, there’s our  Review of Toadstool Cafe in Super Nintendo World , which is based on the California version of that restaurant.

It should go without saying, but Super Nintendo World has drawn colossal crowds to Universal Studios Hollywood. Attendance exploded last year after the new land opened, and aside from a few pockets of off-season dates, it hasn’t really let up yet–a year later. We expect that to die down to some degree in 2024, but not entirely.

For one thing, Mario is more recognizable than Mickey Mouse, and millions of kids and adults are undoubtedly eager to step into their favorite video games. This is going to turn Universal Studios Hollywood into a vacation destination for visitors from around the country.

For another thing, Universal Studios Hollywood is a popular vacation destination for visitors from around the world. Especially in the summer, the park is popular with international tour groups. Those started to come back last year, but not to the same degree as 2019. With China fully reopening and other countries in Asia being slower to recover, we’d expect those demographics to bounce back in 2024.

Compounding the crowd issue is the  size  of Super Nintendo World. As a result of that compact footprint coupled with high demand, Universal uses a virtual line system for accessing Super Nintendo World on busier days. The good news is that the land does not require advance reservations. Guests are able to enter Super Nintendo World as usual, so long as it is not at capacity. If it is at capacity, make reservation from the USH app while inside park, or kiosk on Lower Lot.

In our experience, so long as you arrive early or late, the virtual line is a non-factor. It’s usually only in use on weekends, holidays, and other peak season days when school is out of session. Even then, so long as you arrive before 10 am or after 4 pm, you typically won’t have to deal with the virtual queue.

Universal Studios Hollywood has improved tremendously in the last several years, so there are a ton of fun things to do beyond Super Nintendo World! The Studio Tour, WaterWorld Stunt Show, and Jurassic World: the Ride (featuring a new Indominus Rex) are all awesome.

On the family-friendly front, there’s the Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash. We reviewed this in Universal’s New Dark Ride Rivals Disney’s Best! As the title suggests, that article is full of effusive praise, as this family-friendly dark ride based on the hit film franchise is absolutely fantastic. It’s a great change of pace from the usual thrill rides at USH!

Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash also uses Virtual Line on busier days, so be sure to score a spot in the virtual queue so you don’t miss this awesome attraction!

Beyond that, Universal Studios Hollywood has changed a lot in the last 5 years–and for the better. The biggest recent addition is the aforementioned Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash. Prior to that, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was added to the upper lot. On the lower lot, there’s the newly-redone Jurassic World area, which includes Raptor Encounter, DinoPlay, Isla Nu-bar, and Jurassic World — The Ride.

Huge areas of USH already have been dramatically transformed from how they were about a decade ago when we first bought our Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Passes. The future is also bright, with replacement stage shows and other entertainment, and rumors that USH is trying to figure out some way to expand Super Nintendo World.

In terms of concrete additions, the next big thing is the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster (name not officially confirmed). In fact, nothing has been confirmed about this coaster except for its existence, but it’s expected to start on the Upper Lot and continue on the hillside above the Lower Lot, even looping around the top escalator to the Lower Lot. It’s expected to open by the first half of 2025, which could mean there’s a possibility it debuts in late 2024. (Based on construction progress, this year seems unlikely.)

In the lead-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics, there are other long-term plans to add more rides to this hybrid of a theme park and working film studio. That ‘hybrid’ nature of the park is critical to Universal Studios Hollywood’s success, and what makes it distinct from both other theme parks in Southern California and other studio tours at Warner Brothers, Paramount, and Sony.

This also makes it significantly different from Universal Orlando Resort , with far fewer attractions (and only one park), but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a pale imitator or inferior substitute. Much like Disneyland is smaller than Walt Disney World but offers an excellent, albeit different experience, so too does Universal Studios Hollywood. And part of this is because of its hybrid nature, not in spite of it.

With that said, here’s what you need to know about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can ride the movies!

When to Visit

Very few people are probably planning a trip to Los Angeles solely for Universal Studios Hollywood. Most of you are probably adding on a day as part of your Disneyland or Southern California vacation, so the answer to this is easy…whenever you’re coming to California.

In this regard, crowd patterns at Disneyland translate pretty similarly to Universal Studios Hollywood. The busy season at one is the busy season at the other, and vice-a-versa with slow seasons. Crowds at both are primarily based upon school schedules–primarily those of Los Angeles and Orange County, California (but to a lesser degree, the western United States). You can basically refer to our When to Visit Disneyland post to determine when to visit.

As for when to visit California, we’re partial to the fall and winter months. Summer doesn’t get humid like Florida and many other states, but it can be hot. More importantly, that’s when everyone else comes to California–meaning crowds.

Park Tickets

Now that Super Nintendo World is open, there are far fewer ways to save on admission to Universal Studios Hollywood. Demand has skyrocketed, which means deals have dried up. Nevertheless, there are still a couple of good options for saving money on Universal Studios Hollywood tickets.

The first is simply buying an Annual Pass. If you live in Southern California, this is pretty much a no-brainer, as the lower tier is cheaper than multi-day tickets to USH. As noted, we are Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Passholders even though we live much closer to Disneyland and don’t visit USH. (We have two different tiers for the sake of perks and free parking–a smart option for families.)

If you’re not local of view the AP as overkill, the other option is buying discounted multi-day tickets via Get Away Today . To be clear, we do not think USH is a 2-day or 3-day park if you strategize well. But if you don’t–or are a huge Harry Potter or Mario fan–spreading your visit over multiple days is really smart. Universal Studios Hollywood sells both 2-day and 3-day tickets with a fairly low incremental cost (versus single-day tickets). We recommend doing 2-day tickets, rather than 3-day ones.

Three full days is overkill, but we love doing an evening one night followed by arriving for rope drop on day two and staying the entire day. If you still haven’t had your fill, get the 3-day ticket and do rope drop again on day 3 and leave early. Or simply do mornings and evenings, skipping the middle of the day, and taking the Metro into Los Angeles to avoid the longest lines during the midday rush at USH.

Spreading things out over a night and the following morning makes things a lot more pleasant, and means far less waiting in line. Plus, it gives you a chance to experience both day and night in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World. (Speaking of which, huge Harry Potter fans who want to spend an entire day in Hogsmeade, and then elect to spend a second day doing the rest of the park. Ditto Mario maniacs and Super Nintendo World.)

If you’re considering doing more than a couple of days, you might consider an Annual Pass. This mostly applies to Californians who might want to revisit later in the year. We have the lowest tier (the “Season Pass”) and it cost us slightly less than a 2-day ticket. There are blockout dates and this pass doesn’t include parking, but it has been a great value for us.

You might also find discount offers on 1-day tickets or Annual Passes at Costco, Ralph’s, Vons, and other California grocers. Sam’s Club and AAA sometimes offer discounts on tickets for their members, so be sure to check that out if you’re eligible.

If you’re driving to Universal Studios Hollywood, add 30 minutes to whatever Google Maps estimates as your drive time so you can arrive before park opening. If you’re trying to make it from your Disneyland-area hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood for rope drop, there’s a reasonable chance you will be driving during at least part of rush hour. When you sit at your computer and plan this all out at 11 p.m., this traffic won’t be accounted for.

The plus side to leaving early and arriving to USH at rope drop is that few other people will do it. Los Angelenos are unfamiliar with the concept of being “on time” since the traffic gods more or less preclude that. Crowds tend to show up about 1-2 hours after park opening, and tend to tour the park in a predictable manner. If you can get ahead of the wave of crowds, you can really come out ahead at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Upon arrival, here should be your priorities, in order:

• Super Nintendo World
• Transformers: The Ride 3D
• Jurassic World – The Ride
• Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride
• Studio Tour
• The Simpsons Ride
• Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
• Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Okay, a bit of explanation for all of that. First, we strongly encourage all but the most hardcore Harry Potter fans to skip Ollivanders. It’s basically a pre-show for buying wands, and takes valuable time early in the morning. Likewise, Flight of the Hippogriff is a waste of time if you’re over the age of 5.

Your main goal should be getting down to the Lower Lot attractions (Super Nintendo World, Transformers, Jurassic World, and Revenge of the Mummy) as early as possible. This area of the park, separated by a series of escalators and stairs, used to start slower in the morning. Super Nintendo World has changed that, but you should still attempt to beat the rush down there.

Secret Life of Pets, Forbidden Journey, Simpsons, and Despicable Me are the 4 attractions that are going to draw long waits early-on. This is because they are the popular rides near the front of the park. If you can ride these before the “crowd wave”, awesome. If not, save them until the end of the day when lines will taper off.

Honestly, the above itinerary works about the same forwards and backwards. You either want to beat the crowds  or outlast them.  Crowds peak at Universal Studios Hollywood in the late morning and early afternoon, and decrease after that. We highly recommend staying until park closing and then doing dinner afterwards in CityWalk.

With that approach, not only will you experience lower crowd levels at the end of the evening, but you’re also less likely to be stuck in traffic in the parking lot that is the Hollywood Freeway during rush hour. Park opening and closing times vary based on season, but it’s always our goal to not leave USH until after 8 pm. Any time before that is a recipe to be stuck in traffic on the 101.

If you’re willing to use it, Single Rider will save a ton of time during busier times. Single Rider is available at the following attractions:

While we like (and recommend) doing all of the shows, the biggest can’t miss at Universal Studios Hollywood is the Studio Tour. Do not confuse its placement on the itinerary above as it being of low importance. It is the must-do at USH. (We only place it later in the day as lines tend to get shorter later in the day.) Do not miss it.

If you’re visiting during a season when the Nighttime Studio Tour is being offered, we highly recommend doing both the regular Studio Tour and the Nighttime version. Every ride on the Studio Tour is different, but night brings a new element to the attraction.

Seriously, we cannot stress it enough: do the Studio Tour . This is the defining attraction of Universal Studios Hollywood, and the only thing we make a point of doing each time we visit. (Just don’t get your hopes up about the Fast and the Furious sequence…it has more cheesiness than the movies, but without the redeeming charm and heart.)

Gate A/Front of Line Pass

“Gate A” is Universal Studios Hollywood’s “Front of Line” pass, which is like FastPass at Disneyland, except that Gate A costs money. In some cases, a lo t of money. Prices for Gate A start at +$100 the cost of single day tickets and increase in cost depending upon the season (the busier it is, the more you pay).

We are not proponents of purchasing Gate A unless you are going during the height of tourist season (think summer, spring break, or any national holidays), and even then, we would advocate taking advantage of Universal Studios Hollywood’s many Single Rider lines or arriving at park opening and utilizing an efficient park touring strategy like the one above.

If you follow our plan above, the Front of Line/Gate A pass is just not necessary the vast majority of the time. Maybe it would be on like the 10 busiest days of the year, but we have never had an issue doing everything in USH during a single day without Gate A.

Where to Stay

There are a number of variables that play into this. First, are you visiting Universal Studios Hollywood as a day-trip from Disneyland? Is the visit part of a Southern California vacation? A California road trip? Let’s address each of these…

Disneyland Day Trip – Stick to your hotel in Anaheim and just drive there and back. Traffic aside, this is pretty simple. Universal doesn’t open at the crack of dawn, so you’ll have a reasonable amount of transit time while still being able to make park opening.

Southern California Vacation – If you’re doing this and don’t mind changing hotels once–which is what we recommend–we’d suggest doing (at least) a split stay, having a hotel in Orange County/Anaheim for the Disneyland, beach, and whatever else in the O.C. portion of your trip, and then a separate hotel in Los Angeles or near Universal Studios Hollywood.

California Road Trip – If you’re doing a road trip down/up the state (let’s say flying into San Diego and flying out of San Francisco with a one-way car rental), we would recommend Universal Studios Hollywood being what you do on your last day in the Los Angeles area before heading north.

The night before, stay in L.A., but the night after, drive up to Santa Barbara. It’s a little over an hour drive, but getting back to your (much closer, distance-wise) hotel in L.A. could take just as long that night. Staying in Santa Barbara gets you away from the city and prepared to enjoy sunrise over the ocean the next morning without having to fight traffic to head north.

When it comes to specific hotels near USH, we like the Garland and Sheraton Universal Hotel. Both are really close to the park, with the Sheraton being a short walk and the Garland being a short (free!) shuttle ride. You’ll also find the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City “on-site” at Universal Studios Hollywood.

There’s also a Metro Red Line station at Universal Studios Hollywood, making anything along the Red Line super convenient to the park, including options in Downtown LA. Rather than going for a bland chain, you might consider something eclectic or with old-Hollywood charm, like the Safari Inn.

When booking in Los Angeles, be mindful of neighborhoods, parking charges, and resort fees. If you find a “too good to be true” price, it probably is. If you are picking a hotel specifically for USH, we recommend looking north of downtown Los Angeles. Burbank and Glendale can be better options than Hollywood/Los Angeles. Neighborhoods like North Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, and Los Feliz are also smart picks.

To save money, check out the Universal Studios Hollywood hotel + ticket packages offered via Get Away Today . They have several hotels from which to choose, but our top pick is definitely the Garland. It’s a great resort-style property with a ton of personality, great rooms, and posh amenities. The Sheraton is also chic and nice, but it’s the kind of hotel you could find anywhere.

Transportation

There are no two ways about this: driving in Los Angeles sucks. And, if you’re visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, there’s a good chance you’ll drive through L.A. to get there. However, that doesn’t have to be the case!

As noted above, there’s a Metro Red Line station located at Universal City, which is a short walk from both the park itself and CityWalk. The Metro Red Line is a subway running between Downtown Los Angeles and North Hollywood, with stops in or near the Civic Center, Financial District, Wilshire Boulevard, Hollywood & Sunset Boulevards, Koreatown, and the San Fernando Valley.

Even if you’re staying in Orange County near Disneyland, you can get to Universal Studios Hollywood without driving. Simply take the Pacific Surfliner from Anaheim to Union Station in Los Angeles, where you can then catch the Metro. We only recommend this for the most traffic-averse, as it is a bit of a hassle.

Most people will want to drive themselves from Disneyland to Universal Studios Hollywood. There aren’t any good shuttles, Uber is too pricey, and public transit can be convoluted and inefficient. Unfortunately, traffic can be bad too, and should not be underestimated. Plan on at least an hour, and potentially closer to 2 depending upon traffic.

For the most part, if you’re visiting California and plan to go anywhere off Disneyland property, you’ll want to rent a car. Traffic can be intimidating, but if you drive between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm or 9 pm and 7 am, you’ll be absolutely fine. We’ve done a lot of one-day rentals from rental car agencies within walking distance of Disneyland, and then have just done after-hours drop-offs.

As for airfare, rental cars, and other basics, here’s my standard info: for finding cheap airfare, we recommend ITA Software by Google . It’s the most robust airfare search engine out there, although you can’t book through it. It offers latitude in choosing multiple airports, flexible travel dates, and more.

Once you ride the movies right into the gift shop and buy the movies with your American Express–official credit card of the Entertainment Capital of L.A.–it’s time to dine (at?) the movies.

If you’re fine with counter service dining, Universal Studios Hollywood has several solid options inside the park. As a whole, I do not think the culinary experience is on par with Disneyland’s, but the highlights are more than serviceable. The best options, in my mind, are the counter service restaurants in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Three Broomsticks) and the Simpsons restaurants in Springfield.

The food at Three Broomsticks is pricey, but it’s near-table service quality. The Simpsons food is mostly guilty pleasure stuff, but the burgers and waffle chicken sandwich are excellent. Don’t knock them until you’ve tried ’em!

Then there are the snacks. Universal Hollywood’s snack game is strong. Holy cow. Obviously, you’re going to want to try Butterbeer–perhaps all three varieties.

At Three Broomsticks, snacks deserving of your attention are the potted cream and sticky toffee cake. Both are incredibly delicious, and although you should share them, you probably won’t want to.

Then there are the donuts the size of your head in Springfield, deserving of another holy cow. There are some interesting varieties, but these should be split. After eating the maple bacon one pretty much by myself, my teeth hurt.

One thing you might want to consider is purchasing a refillable Coke Freestyle mug. Depends upon whether you want a lot of Coke or the souvenir mug. Coke Freestyle machines located throughout the park’s restaurants, and normal drink purchases in restaurants are not entitled to refills. Unlike in Florida, there is no Universal Dining Plan at USH.

Seasonal Events

Universal Studios Hollywood does not do much in the way of seasonal events. The one exception to this is Halloween Horror Nights, which you might make an effort to see or to avoid, depending upon your perspective. This is a hard ticket event in which you step onto the set of some of your favorite horror movies, and walking through those sets as actors attempt to scare you. This event is not for children under the age of 13, and is definitely adult in tone.

Halloween Horror Nights are a huge draw for Universal and they definitely attract an adult crowd. If you have no young kids and like horror movies, you’ll probably enjoy this event and find it worth the cost of the ticket. If you have a younger family, you’ll want to avoid it. If you’re traveling during the months of September and October, be mindful of the Halloween Horror Nights schedule. Christmas is celebrated with decorations and Grinchmas entertainment, but there’s nothing that requires advance-planning or around which you should schedule.

I think this is probably covers just about everything most people will need to know when planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood as an add-on to your Disneyland or Southern California vacation. If you would like to see some of these topics covered in greater depth, please let me know in the comments.

Planning a Southern California vacation? For park admission deals, read Tips for Saving Money on Disneyland Tickets . Learn about on-site and off-site hotels in our Anaheim Hotel Reviews & Rankings . For where to eat, check out our Disneyland Restaurant Reviews . For unique ideas of things that’ll improve your trip, check out What to Pack for Disney . For comprehensive advice, consult our Disneyland Vacation Planning Guide . Finally, for guides  beyond Disney , check out our Southern California Itineraries for day trips to Los Angeles, Laguna Beach, and many other SoCal cities!

Your Thoughts

Are you considering visiting Universal Studios Hollywood? If you are a USH veteran, can you fill in any of the ‘gaps’ here or add tips of your own? If you’re a first-timer, is there anything else you’d like to know? Chances are if you have questions still, so does someone else! Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Written by Tom Bricker

We had a great time at USH. We bought Early Access to Nintendo World, but so did everyone else. Getting there earlier than we did for rope drop would have given us an additional 15 minutes in the land because their crowd control is not great. My son did all the games first and then we waited about an hour for Bowser’s adventure. We went back the second day with no early access and the lines for the games were too long, he thought, so we just waited for Bowser’s adventure again, about an hour. This was a weekday before school let out, first week of June.

Hi Tom. We’re trying to plan our trip westward for Disney/Universal for August ’23 and the park hours aren’t available yet for Universal Studios Hollywood. Do they typically hold off on posting the hours for more than 1 month out?

Thanks for the info as always. Hope all is well. Jo

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Visit Universal Studios Hollywood This Summer

By: Author Sarah Auerswald

Posted on Last updated: April 20, 2024

Universal Studios Hollywood is a terrific theme park experience here in Los Angeles, and it’s always a fun time when you go. This Summer, there are 10 extra reasons to visit – and some are brand new!

If you’ve been to Universal Studios before, you know you’ll have a chance to see things like the Waterworld show, go on some super fun rides, and possibly hang out with some Minions – or tons of other characters from the Universal family. And of course there’s the world- famous Studio Tour Tram Ride.

But this Summer there are 5 brand new reasons to visit, in addition to the 5 more still-awesome reasons to come!

10 Reasons to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood this Summer:

1. the new jurassic world ride is open finally.

Jurassic World – The Ride is now open and as they say, “It just got real!” Inspired by the Jurassic World movies, this totally reimagined and redesigned ride is sure to delight and scare the pants off you and your whole family. More dinosaurs, more magic, more screams – still the same splash at the end! You WILL get wet on this ride – and in the Summer, that’s great!

2. New Raptor Encounter w/ Blue and Baby Raptor

Have you ever met a Velociraptor up close? Well, you’ll get your chance at the park’s brand new “Raptor Encounter.” Blue, one of the most popular velociraptors from the blockbuster Jurassic World franchise (and I’m told a close personal friend of Chris Pratt) comes out to say hello and pose for pictures every 30 minutes, and the dudes assigned to handle her get to ham it up every time. Plus there’s a baby raptor that you can pet.

3. Delicious Food and drinks at the new Jurassic Cafe and Isla Nu-Bar

There’s a new restaurant in town at Universal, and it’s serving Costa Rican-inspired cuisine. Plus the Isla Nu-Bar is serving Tiki Cocktails. The portions at the restaurant are huge, and the food I sampled was amazing. You get your money’s worth for sure.

4. Nighttime Lights Are Back and Darker than Ever – But Not For Long

The famous and delightful Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter are back for a limited time. This Summer’s show is called Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle, and plays nightly through August 11th. So hurry!

Pro Tip: pay the extra fee and get the Express Pass. It lets you cut to the front of the line on practically every ride and experience, and saves you from literally hours of standing in line.

5. guy diamond the troll is here to dance with you.

Dreamworks’ Trolls return to the park as Guy Diamond joins Poppy and Branch for a Summer of glittery fun.

6. DreamWorks Theatre

Visit the DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest,” which opened in 2018. It’s a gorgeous new venue, with an immersive visual and motion experience, showcasing DreamWorks animation films in newly-created stories, designed especially and exclusively for this theater. The screen wraps around half of the room, and the theatre seating moves with the action. Bonus? It’s air-conditioned!

7. Dress up Like Hermione and Snape

Got a Prom anytime soon? Or do you just feel like being the best-dressed people in town? Then check out the newest items for sales at Gladrags Wizardwear. Costume replicas of Professor Severus Snape’s robe and Hermione’s Yule Ball dress, which are conveniently available in adult and kid sizes. Gorgeous and with amazing attention to detail.

Looking for places to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood?

Try one of these VRBO rentals or Hotels via our Stay22 Map and Affiliate links.

8. Say it with me: Butterbeer !

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has been one of the big draws at Universal Studios ever since it opened, and Butterbeer (the beverage) has been a big hit. Whether you’re interested in cold Butterbeer for the Summer, or Hot Butterbeer in the Winter, it’s all good.

9. New Wand Magic Inside Wizarding World of Harry Potter

It must be said that we are Harry Potter fans here at MomsLA, so we love seeing Hogsmeade come to life at the Wizarding World. They’ve made it extra fun with the wand magic spots around the park, and now there are two new ones to try out: the Incendio fire-making spell and the Alohomora unlocking spell.

10. The park is a terrific Family Experience

As if 1-9 weren’t enough reasons, the fact is that Universal Studios is not only a theme park, but is one of the oldest working studio lots in Hollywood. It’s where the magic gets made, and the tram ride takes you through a living history of American cinema.

Plus, there are misting fans placed all over the park so it’s less likely you’ll melt from the heat, and we didn’t even get to mention all the shows – wow! , There are a lot of reasons to take your family to Universal Studios Hollywood this Summer.

Sarah Auerswald is the co-Founder of MomsLA.com. MomsLA was given complimentary admission to the park for this review.

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23 First Timer Tips for Universal Studios Hollywood (2024 Complete Planning Guide)

Going to Universal Studios Hollywood is such a fun thing to do , whether you have one day, three days, or more at this theme park.

However, if you are going, you want to make sure that you have the best time possible and get to do everything you want to do.

If you are new to theme parks, or just new to this park, you don’t want to miss out on some awesome opportunities.

Through this article, you will find all the tips and tricks you need to know to get the most out of your day or days in Universal Studios Hollywood .

Ready? Let’s go!

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What to Expect at Universal Studios Hollywood

Before we get into the tips, let’s go over a few of the most common questions.

What time does Universal Studios Hollywood open?

Universal Studios Florida is  open 365 days a year from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  in the regular season.

Hours may change based on the busyness of the park.

How much does it cost to go to Universal Studios Hollywood?

The  cost of admission starts at $109 , but I like discounts so I use  Groupon.com  to find cheap Universal Studios tickets that sometimes include Express Passes to skip the lines.

Get up to 21% off of your Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets with Groupon TODAY!

What should I do first at Universal Studios Hollywood?

One of the best Universal Studios tips that I can give you is to start in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter first.

This Harry Potter-inspired area will fill up quickly making the line for the three attractions ( Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff and the Ollivanders wand experience ) extremely long.

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How much does it cost to park at Universal Studios Hollywood?

If you’re wondering how much is parking at   Universal Studios Hollywood ,  general parking is the cheapest option at Universal Studios Hollywood but also means that these garages are further from the park entrance.

General Parking Cost at Universal Studios Hollywood:

• Before 5 p.m.:  $32
• After 5 p.m.:  $10

How far is general parking at Universal Studios Hollywood?:

• General Parking is a 5 to 10 minute walk depending on the garage you park at

Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!

New Safety Measures in Place at Universal Studios Hollywood

• Face coverings are strongly recommended for all guests indoors
• Proof of vaccinations is NOT required
• Universal Studios Hollywood will remain focused on maintaining the highest cleanliness and sanitization standards

You can read Universal’s full policy here.

23 Easy Tips to Do Universal Studios Hollywood Like a Pro!

Now that we have the basics out of the way, let’s go through the best tips for you upcoming trip.

1. Buy Tickets in Advance

While it is always an option to show up the theme park day of and buy admissions right there, this is not your best bet for a couple of reasons.

First of all, you will end up spending more money on your actual ticket price.

Purchasing your Universal Studios Hollywood ticket online you will allow you to find the top-notch deals to help you get your tickets at the best price possible.

If you wait to buy your ticket at the park gates , then it is very rare that you will not pay full price.

This is one of the Universal Studios Hollywood tips you’ll want completed before your trip.

Secondly, you will waste time. If you buy your tickets at the park, you are just giving yourself one more line to stand in instead of trying the food, watching shows, and riding rides.

Watch: My Full First Time Visit to Universal Studios Hollywood HERE!

2. Pick the Perfect Day(s) to Go

Just like any other amusement park, there are days when Universal Hollywood Studios is almost guaranteed to be completely packed with people.

There are a few different sites you can use to check out which days are the best.

Of course, it is understandable that there are times when you and your group can only go on certain days.

As a general rule, some of the busiest times are the first week of the year, MLK Jr Day, Spring break, 4th of July, pretty much all of the summer, and the week of Christmas.

Hipster Power Tip: If you want to see special holiday attractions, you can still see them, but maybe avoid going the week of the actual holiday.

3. The Early Bird Gets the Worm

Get to the park early (at least thirty minutes) and make sure you include time to park.

The earlier you get to the park, the closer to the front of the admissions line you will be and the quicker you will get in to start your day, ahead of the crowds.

Take advantage of the first couple hours after the park opens to ride some of the busier attractions.

Like I hinted before, this does not include parking, and you should save yourself additional time to find a parking spot and get to the entrance of the park.

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4. Universal Express Passes

Getting a Universal Express Pass can save you lots of time and allow you to make the most out of your day.

It’s kind of like Disney’s Genie+ system. The regular Universal Express Pass lets you bypass the lines once for every attraction that participates.

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

5. Bring What You Can

You cannot take anything you want into the park (obviously), but you should take advantage of what you can take in.

You are allowed to take in 2 liters or fewer water bottles, baby food (which sometimes can equate to grown people food), small snacks, and fruits and veggies (a staple when most of what you buy in the park is junk food.)

Taking in these items can help you save money and time because you do not have to buy as much food and can snack while you are waiting in line: multitasking!

What can I bring to Universal Studios Hollywood?

Acceptable items:  

• Bottled water (maximum 2 liters) 
• Small snacks 
• Any food required for special dietary needs 
• Food required for medical purposes and medically-indicated nutritional supplements 
• Baby food/baby formula 
• Soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.5″ wide x 6″ high x 6″ deep

Prohibited items: 

• Glass containers
• Open containers
• Large coolers of food
• Hard-sided coolers Soft-sided coolers larger than 8.5″ wide x 6″ high x 6″ deep
• Coolers, suitcases, and bags with wheels

What to Wear to Universal Studios Hollywood? Fun Outfit Ideas for You!

6. Single Riders Can Save Time

Sometimes part of the fun is riding a ride with the people you came with, but if you do not mind splitting up, some of the rides offer a Single Rider Line which is perfect for us solo travelers.

They will take people from this line for the one or two seats leftover that bigger groups do not want to take.

Often, the Single Rider Line goes pretty fast, so it can allow you to get in and out faster.

Single Rider Lines at Universal Studios Hollywood:

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Jurassic World – The Ride
• Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride
• Transformers: The Ride 3D
• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

Please Note: Single Rider Line options change frequently and may not be available during your visit.

7. Eat at Weird Times

If you are eating your meals in the park (whether it is all three or just one), consider eating at weird times. This can save you time in a couple of ways.

When you eat at a weird time, you will not have to stand in as long of lines to get your food.

Sometimes lunch rush lines at the most popular spots can be just as bad as the ride lines.

Additionally, you will get to spend the normal meal times riding rides, and the lines will be shorter.

Think about it, while everyone is getting food, they won’t be in line. You’ll thank me later for this Universal Studios Hollywood tip.

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8. Book The VIP Experience

If you really want to get the most out of your experience and have the money for it, consider buying the VIP experience.

You will get a personal tour guide to take you around the park (including areas that other people do not get to see), and they will take you to the front of lines and front seats at shows.

It’s one of THE best things to do at Universal Studios Hollywood! Trust me, it’s that good 🙂

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9. Take a Break and Get More Done

People who want to do a theme park in a day , or who just want to make the most out of a single day, usually want to get to the park before it opens and stay until it closes.

This is a great strategy, but believe it or not, you may want to consider taking a break in the middle of the day.

If you’re staying at a hotel nearby , return in the middle of the day when it is hottest and most grounded for a nap or just a short break period.

This will allow you to avoid the crowds and become refreshed again to get more done in the evening.

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10. Get the App, Use the App

Universal Hollywood Studios has an app that you can download and use all over their park (with their free Wi-Fi. )

With this app , you can do lots of different things.

A few of the most helpful is the ability to make plan out your own itinerary , stay up-to-date with the latest wait times, access to the park map and so much more.

No more carrying around pesky paper maps that take up space and get lost way too easily.

Get your Discounted Universal Studios Hollywood tickets TODAY!

11. If You Are Taking the Kids

If you are taking the kids, take advantage of the Child Switch Program that the park offers.

This program allows one parent or group of adults to wait with a child that is too short or cannot ride a ride for some other reason.

The other adults can then switch out and not have to wait in line again.

Of course, there are plenty of things you can do with your little ones, but sometimes there are rides you want to ride even if your kids can’t.

Hipster Power Tip: Don’t forget to check out the NEW Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash ride using the Virtual Line™   experience.

12. Complete Sections at a Time

There are two main sections of Universal Studios Hollywood, the Upper and Lower Lots.

It is best to do one lot at a time, in entirety, as the escalator ride from one to the other is about 7 to 10 minutes long.

It is generally recommended that you start with the lower lot before it gets too busy, but the main goal is to complete one before starting the other.

This is one of the TOP Universal Studios Hollywood tips you should do.

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13. Explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Universal Creative has done a spectacular job of bringing the novels of J.K. Rowling to life.

As you approach the “Please Respect the Spells Limits” Hogsmeade sign, you’ll feel like you have officially made it home.

You do not want to miss out on all the amazing fun that is in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but this is one of the busiest parts of the park.

So, it is a good idea to do the rides in this section in the morning before it gets too busy.

Additionally, do not forget some of the other magical attractions like getting a wand or trying some butter bear (yes, your kids can have it too.)

You will be sure to have a mystical time!

What the best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade itinerary?

• Jump on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Stop by Ollivanders for your wand
• Ride Flight of the Hippogriff
• Enjoy breakfast at the Three Broomsticks
• Have a Butterbeer
• Explore the shops inside Hogsmeade Village
• Enjoy the Hogsmeade entertainment
• Come back later to watch the nighttime show over the castle

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14. More People, More Fun, Less Money

A solo trip to Universal Studios Hollywood is what we’re all about here on ThemeParkHipster, but going to Universal Hollywood Studios with all your friends or family can be so much fun.

It can actually save you money.

The park offers discounts for big parties (of ten or more people), and it is worth a call to the park if you are planning to buy that many people.

Take more people, have more fun, and actually spend less money (in comparison).

Save up to 65% off exploring the attractions in Los Angeles with Groupon TODAY!

15. Go on the World-Famous Studio Tour

Sometimes people skip out on the Studio Tour because it is time-consuming and may not sound that exciting, but you must do it!

Especially, on your first trip to Universal Studios Hollywood.

The whole tour is packed with movie magic that will leave quite happy.

Plus, it’s a nice break to rest your feet just in case you don’t have hotel to go back to in the middle of the day to take your break since it lasts for about 60-minutes.

What to expect on the Studio Tour?

On this real Hollywood set, you’ll get to visit 13 city blocks on four acres of historic studio lot.

You’ll also get to come face-to-face with Norman Bates himself, the destruction left behind from War of the Worlds, the shark-inspired film set of Jaws, the monstrous King Kong, and more!

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16. Take a Snapshot of Where You Parked

This next tip is known by most theme park regulars but is very important , especially if you do not have a photographic memory. When you park, take a picture of the section sign.

It will help you can get back to your car after a long day of adventure and fun.

Plus, it’s not fun at all when you are leaving a theme park exhausted from a day of fun only to spend hours wandering around the parking lot looking for your car.

This is one of the best Universal Studios Hollywood tips you must do!

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17. Save Shopping at the End of Your Visit

If you are getting souvenirs, buy them at the end of your trip.

This way, you do not have to carry them around with you and can save time by entering the shops as they empty out at the end of the day.

As you make your way back to the park entrance, stop into your favorite shops and buy all the things you’ve had your eyes on throughout the day.

This is one of the top Universal Studios Hollywood tips to remember.

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18. Share Food to Try More

There is so much food to try at Universal Studios , and you will probably want to try it all.

So, get one or two of each thing (depending on how big your party is) on the menu, and all try it.

This way, you can try all the specialty foods you want.

Even if you could eat that entire donut from Springfield , you may not want to because then you cannot try all the other delicious foods.

Plus, it’s like you’re creating your own foodie tour around the park.

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19. Get Photos not Signatures

At Universal Hollywood Studios, the characters rarely sign autographs; they just take pictures. While this is a bummer, I think that photos are the better souvenirs.

Just remember to print them out from your phone once you get home.

Get Your FREE Universal Studios Hollywood Video Planning Guide TODAY!

20. Know How to Conquer Universal Studios Hollywood in One-Day

You may be asking if it is possible to do it in a day, and yes, it is, to an extent.

While you may not get to try all the foods, see all the shows, and ride all the rides, it is possible to experience the majority of Universal Studios in a day.

If you are trying to accomplish this, though, you want to follow most of the tips above and map out a plan of attack beforehand.

Remember to prioritize and do things by location!

This is one of the best Universal Studios Hollywood tips to remember.

Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary for One-Day

• Arrive Early
• Enjoy the Attractions of the Lower Lot
• Discover the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Go Back Up to the Upper Lot and Do the Attractions
• Have Lunch in Springfield
• Do the Studio Tour
• Watch the Shows
• Meet Characters
• Re-do Your Favorite Rides
• Do Some Shopping
• Have Dinner in CityWalk

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21. Experience the Must-Do Rides

Universal Studios Hollywood has some of the top theme park attractions in the country. So, be sure to put these experiences on your must-do list!

Best Things to Do at Universal Studios Hollywood

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™: Must be 48″ (122 cm) tall. (Upper Level)
• Jurassic World — The Ride: Must be 42″ (107 cm) tall. Children 42-48″ (107-122 cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion (Lower Level)
• Revenge of the Mummy ℠ — The Ride: Must be 48″ (122 cm) tall. (Lower Level)
• The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash: Must be 34″ (102 cm) tall. Children 34-48″ (102-122 cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion (Upper Level)
• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: Must be 40” (102 cm)
• The Simpsons Ride: Must be 40″ (102 cm) tall. Children 40-48″ (102-122 cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion (Upper Level)
• The World-Famous Studio Tour (Upper Lot)
• TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride-3D: Must be 40″ (102 cm) tall. Children 40-48″ (102-122 cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion (Lower Level)
• WaterWorld (Upper Level)

22. Go Solo!

Now you know that I had to drop this tip in just for you.

If you have never thought about going to a theme park alone , then Universal Studios Hollywood should be one of the parks you consider making that solo trek.

Why go solo?

Going solo allows you to do Universal your way! This is the MAIN PERK of going to Universal Studios alone.

Plus, you can take advantage of the Single Rider Line , making it one of my favorite Universal Studios Hollywood tips!

Read: 5 Amazing Benefits of Going to Theme Parks Alone (Solo Travel for Women)

23. Have Fun!

Your Universal Hollywood trip will be what you make it, so please try to enjoy yourself. Sometimes the unexpected or annoying points of your vacation make for the best stories.

Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide

Let’s Wrap this Up!

Now you are armed with all the tips and tricks you need to conquer Universal Hollywood Studios and have an amazing day or days.

Make sure to have fun with all the experiences you can have!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor , and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!

Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

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(Original Article Date: April 16, 2020/Updated on March 4, 2024)

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Universal Studios Hollywood: 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Summer

Posted on July 23, 2021 | Filed Under: Food , Local Events , Pop Culture | Tags: Jurassic World Ride , Minions Cafe , The Secret Life of Pets , Universal CityWalk , Universal Studios Hollywood | 1 Comment

Since my family and I live in the San Fernando Valley, Universal Studios Hollywood has long been our go-to theme park to visit. The close proximity to our house makes it easy to pop over for a visit during the summer and especially at the holidays, when Hogwarts Castle lights up and there is a “Grinchmas” tree in another section of the theme park!

There are several new attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood and my family got to enjoy them on a recent visit. New rides, yummy food and an evergreen attraction make up my list of the top five reasons to visit Universal Studios!

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!

It’s no secret that I’ve been looking forward to this ride since last year. It was supposed to debut last year but then the pandemic got in the way. The ride opened in April and I heard great things about it. So it was no surprise that my family LOVED it! You really feel immersed in Katie’s NYC apartment building.

The ride combines 64 technologically-advanced animated figures with hyper-realistic media and projection mapping. Guests are taken on a journey to meet characters from the “Secret Life of Pets” movies, including Max, Snowball, Gidget, Chloe and Duke. Riders will board vehicles that resemble cardboard boxes and travel along a track towards the Pet Adoption event and the ultimate happy ending: forever homes.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jennifer 🪩 Real Mom of SFV (@realmomofsfv)

One thing you’ll want to pay attention to in the waiting line area are the interactive characters, cute décor and animatronics. Waiting in the “Secret Life of Pets” line is almost like a ride or an attraction unto itself. You’ll feel like you’ve just stepped into the movie!

We used our Express Pass to ride it the second time (more on that later) but I saw that other guests were utilizing Universal’s Virtual Line technology to book a ride. Simply choose the time slot when you want to ride by using the official Universal Studios Hollywood app to make a Virtual Line reservation. Don’t want to hassle with the app? You can also visit the Virtual Line kiosk located in the New York City subway station – it’s right next to the ride. Both the app and the kiosk provide guests with options to experience the ride based on the next available times.

Jurassic World—The Ride

This was my first time going on Jurassic World—The Ride. I had experienced it many years ago, before the remodel, when it was still called Jurassic Park.

In the Jurassic World ride, a fully-articulated lifelike Indominus injects intense new thrills and excitedment. Indominus spans nearly 55 feet horizontally from head to tail and over 22 feet vertically. This is one scary looking beast!

(Image courtesy of NBCUniversal)

The ride is updated with scenes from Jurassic World’s Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard. As you float along, you see the Indominus Rex battle her arch-rival, the Tyrannosaurus rex. The ride ends with a thrilling giant waterfall drop!

This is a very popular ride and it’s not uncommon to see a wait time of 1 hour or longer. Thankfully we had a Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass which allow the ticket holder a ONE-TIME express access to each ride, attraction, and seated show.

Basically it means that you get to bypass the long lines and walk right onto the ride. There are some instances where you might still have to wait a little bit, like when we went on The Simpsons Ride but overall it’s a great ticket to have during the busy summer season when the park is crowded!

Minions Café

My family had a small taste of the food from the Minions Café back in March when we attended the Taste of Universal . The portions from that food festival were along the lines of “small bites” so we were anxious to try the full serving during our summer visit.

We ordered 4 entrees, one for each of us in our party, although we did sample a bit from each other’s plate! We ate the Loaded Nachos with Chicken, Meatball Parmesan Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup, Chicken Bacon Ranch Mac n Cheese and Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese with Banana BBQ Sauce. I ordered the Nutella Banana Pudding, which came with a cute Minion wafer on top (see photo above).

The food was yummy and there was ample seating at the time that we had our lunch. It does look like it gets crowded, so plan accordingly!

The World-Famous Studio Tour

Since I was a young child, I’ve enjoyed this attraction. I remember being scared of the Jaws shark and the rickety bridge that the tram would cross over (which they don’t do that part anymore). Things have been updated and it continues to be a must-see for my family whenever we come to Universal Studios Hollywood.

You get to see cars from various TV shows and movies and also and props on a set from Steven Spielberg’s “War of the Worlds.”

Pro Tip : Go in the late afternoon when your legs are tired from walking and/or standing in line. It’s nice to sit back and relax for about an hour as you take in the sights of a working studio lot.

NBC Sports Grill & Brew

After a day of rides and thrill-seeking, sometimes you just want to unwind with good food and drinks, in front of a TV. Fortunately at CityWalk Hollywood, you can have all that and more at Universal’s new NBC Sports Grill & Brew!

The restaurant is adjacent to Universal Studios Hollywood and boasts state-of-the-art HDTV screens so that you can watch sports coverage on a variety of monitors. They have an extensive menu and a full bar.

As you can see, there are a lot of things to do here at Universal! Thanks to Universal Studios for hosting me and my family for the day!

A quick note on some Tips & Tricks for making your summer visit a fun one:

-If possible, use the Virtual Line on rides that have it.

-The Express Pass, while it is more expensive than a General Admission Ticket, is worth it when you have long lines during the busy season.

-Utilize those fans/spray misters that are sprinkled throughout the park. It cools you off for sure!

-Get there early! Yes, the posted hours on the website says that the park opens at “whatever time” o’clock in the morning. However, that doesn’t mean you should roll into the parking lot at 5 minutes before the gates open.

There are bag check and security clearances to get through, then you need to show your ticket at a different gate. Before you get into the park there is the parking garage – and deciding on what type of parking level that you want to purchase. Do you want General Parking, Preferred Parking (which is much closer than General) or Front Gate Parking (currently at $60)? I’ve seen where the Front Gate Parking is located and it’s like you are just steps away from the security and bag check area.

I should note that there is Valet Parking but honestly I’ve only done that when I’m going to CityWalkLA for a quick visit, like dinner and a movie. According to the website, Valet Parking is available and started up again on April 5, 2021.

For more information about Universal Studios Hollywood, visit their website here . Don’t forget to follow their Facebook page for the latest updates!

Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received for this post. I received complimentary tickets to the theme park which helped facilitate this review. All images are mine unless otherwise noted. As always, my opinions are 100% my own.

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September 5, 2021 at 10:43 am

This sounds like such a fun place to to go and I can’t wait to go one day.

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How to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Last Updated: August 10, 2021 References

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 16,228 times.

Universal Studios Hollywood is a great place to spend your time while visiting Universal City (Los Angeles), California. If you'd like to learn about everything this park has to offer, begin reading Step 1 of this article and follow through to the end.

Preparation

Entering the Park

• 10 Go to Harry Potter Land and ride the Forbidden Journey, a 3D simulator that takes you through the Hogwarts school. Formerly only at Universal Studios Orlando, this opened in 2016 along with all of Harry Potter land. [4] X Research source

• The escalators and stairs are very steep, so ensure that you do not fall down the steep steps.

• When this ride was built, it was the highest, steepest incline water flume in the park at 84 feet tall. [6] X Research source

Community Q&A

• This park opened to the public was July 15, 1964, but was open for nearly 50 years before that as a movie-making area only [7] X Research source . Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Have a look at different ticket websites to see who is offering the best deal for Universal Studios tickets. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Make sure the tickets you are buying are physical tickets and not e-tickets. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Identification is sometimes required when entering the park with your ticket; bring some form of identification for each party member. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Everybody's tastes are different. Some rides you can skip if you don't have time, or if the kids act up. Skip those rides that aren't suited to you or your kids' tastes. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Be prepared in the event that a sudden rainstorm impacts the area. Rain is fairly rare in Los Angeles during the summer, but if it hits, find shelter and hopefully, it'll pass soon. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Always ride the ride with safety in mind. Heed all advice the ride operator instructs you on, which includes wearing your safety harness/seat belt and not eating, taking pictures, etc. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Rides occasionally close and change at this park. Don't fear if your favorite ride has changed or has become defunct. Something will be there to replace it over time. Their replacements might be just as good as the ride you once loved. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Unlike its sister park in Florida, this park is a one-shot deal. It doesn't have another park similar to Islands of Adventure that its sister park has. Be familiar with the area and plan to take in other free alternatives should you get there and the weather forces you to shut down your "plans" earlier in the day. As stated earlier, there is a Universal CityWalk across the walking path that is free to all guests to enter and walk around. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• There are other local options, too. You can also choose to walk through the shopping district owned by Universal Studios that they call CityWalk . If you'd like, you can also visit Disneyland or Disney's California Adventure about an hours drive away in Anaheim, California . Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ http://www.parkopedia.mobi/parking/garage/universal_studios_hollywood/91608/universal_city/
• ↑ http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/park-map/
• ↑ https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/things-to-do/rides-and-attractions/harry-potter-and-the-forbidden-journey/
• ↑ https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/things-to-do/rides-and-attractions/flight-of-the-hippogriff/
• ↑ http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/attractions/jurassic-park-the-ride/?view=1
• ↑ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Studios_Hollywood

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Universal Studios vs Warner Bros (Hollywood, LA): Which Film Studio to Visit & Why

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

No trip to Los Angeles would be complete without visiting some of its famous film studios. But which one to choose – Universal Studios Hollywood or Warner Bros Studio Tour?

We recently visited both of LA’s most famous film studios – Warner Bros and Universal Studios Hollywood. In this guide, we compare the two giving you a good overview of the main things you can see and do at each place and what the main differences are.

That way, you know what to expect and can choose the one that looks the most interesting to you, or the one that best fits your LA itinerary.

Spoiler alert: Visiting Universal Studios or Warner Bros are two totally different experiences. So if you have time, we highly recommend you do both. You can even get a combination ticket for both studios .

But if you have to pick just one, there are quite a few things you may want to know before deciding which one to visit. There are big differences in price, but also in what you get to see, how much time you need, etc. Find out!

Tickets & Prices

Let’s start with one of the biggest deciding factors on which place to visit – the ticket prices of the Warner Bros Studio Tour vs Universal Studios in LA.

Good to know: Visiting Warner Bros Studios is significantly cheaper (further below, you will learn why there is such as big difference in price).

At the moment of the last update, a regular ticket for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood costs $70. Whereas the prices of Universal Studios Hollywood tickets vary per day and per season. Even on the cheapest dates, a regular adult ticket here costs about twice the price compared to Warner Bros.

Also, at Universal Studios, you can upgrade to an ‘Express’ ticket or even opt for a VIP experience , which is obviously, a lot more expensive.

Parking: Parking at Warner Bros Studios costs $15 and it’s located just at the entrance. Parking at Universal Studios costs $30-60 per day depending on how close to the entrance you park. In most cases, you’ll have to walk about 5-10 minutes to the entrance.

For families: Warner Bros has small discounts for children between 5 and 10 years old (children under the age of 5 are not allowed on their studio tours!). At Universal Studios, infants can visit for free, and kids between 3 and 9 get a small discount. In both cases, discounts for children are just a few dollars.

TIP: Both – Warner Bros and Universal Studios Hollywood – are among the most popular things to do in Los Angeles. To save time and money, book your tickets in advance! That way, you just walk straight to the entrance and can skip the lines at the ticket desk (or have to wait for hours for the next available tour). Also, if you can, visit Universal Studios on a weekday and ideally outside of the school holidays.

Good to know: You can book tickets for both studios on various websites and the prices are normally the same everywhere. We booked all our tickets via GetYourGuide and recommend them for several reasons. First, the booking process is simple and takes just a few clicks. Second, you pay the price that you see, so there are no extra sales taxes or other costs added at check out. And finally, they normally offer free cancelation up to 24 hours before your visit, so it’s very simple to cancel or amend your visit times if you have to.

What to Expect & How Much Time Do You Need

Both – Universal Studios Hollywood and Warner Brothers Studios in Los Angeles – are working film studios. In both cases, you can see some film sets and the actual studios where movies are being made. However, that’s also pretty much where the similarity ends.

Universal Studios Hollywood is first and foremost a theme park where a studio tour is just one of the many activities on offer. Whereas Warner Bros Studios are exclusively movie studios, so everything you see and do here is focused around their film sets.

Further below, you can read more about each place and what exactly you can see and do there. But first, some practical information about how much time you need at each place.

Universal Studios Hollywood ticket is valid for the whole day, and indeed, you can easily spend an entire day here. The studio tour itself takes just 1 hour. The rest of the time is spent on various rollercoaster rides and some shows.

Unless you upgrade to an ‘Express’ ticket or opt for a VIP experience , a visit here includes lots of queuing (just like any other theme park, really).

Whereas Warner Bros Studio Tour takes only around 3 hours , and the tickets can be booked for various time slots throughout the day. You start with a guided tour of the studios which takes about 1 hour. You then spend about 1 hour at some of their most famous film/sitcom sets and the rest of the time exploring costumes and vehicles from famous movies, plus various Harry Potter-themed experiences.

If you rush through everything, you could probably visit in about 2 hours. And if you take it easy, you can spend a bit more time. All in all, you should plan 2.5 to 3.5 hours for a visit to Warner Bros Studios.

While both studios are very popular, it feels significantly busier at Universal Studios than at Warner Bros. This has several reasons.

Universal Studios Hollywood is a huge theme park, so there are simply many more people who can visit the park at any given time. Also, most people spend the entire day here and try to do as many of the most popular attractions as possible.

Wait times at the most popular rides during the peak hours of the day can often exceed 1 hour. If you want to avoid this, try to visit on weekdays in the low season, or upgrade your tickets that allow skipping the lines (you can see the prices for both – regular and express tickets when you choose your travel dates).

Whereas at Warner Bros Studios , the visits are timed, and they all start with an introductory film and a 1-hour guided tour of the film studios. This part is where you go with a guide and the number of seats in a vehicle is limited. When you book your ticket , you choose a specific time slot, so there is hardly any wait involved.

Once the guided tour is finished, you do the rest at your own pace. You may have to wait a few minutes to take pictures of yourself sitting on the ‘Friends’ couch or similar, but it’s not comparable to the wait times at Universal Studios.

Our experience: We visited both – Warner Bros Studios and Universal Studios Hollywood during the peak holiday season right after New Year. While it was crazy busy at Universal Studios, it was rather quiet at Warner Bros Studios. The longest wait at Warner Bros was to order lunch at their cafe, and it was literally less than 5 minutes.

Whereas at Universal Studios, we were glad to find an attraction or a restaurant where we ‘only’ had to queue for half an hour. Many popular rides had waiting times of 40-60 minutes, and some even required to make timed reservations for the queue via their app.

Shopping & Dining

Both studios have a few dining options and both have gift shops where you can find all kinds of movie-themed souvenirs.

Universal Studios are much bigger, so you will find countless restaurants, cafes, and food stands. They also have souvenir shops at each attraction and pretty much all around you.

Warner Bros. has a cafe at the entrance and also a small restaurant at the studio where you stop for a self-guided tour of ‘Friends’ and other film sets.

Good to know: Souvenir and food prices at Warner Bros Studios are significantly lower than at Universal Studios. Just to give you an idea. Our kids wanted to buy Harry Potter wands. They were about 30-40% cheaper at Warner Bros than at Universal Studios (and yet quite a lot cheaper on Amazon – often a small fraction of the price we paid at the studios).

What to See & Do at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood  is a theme park/film studio. As a visitor, you spend most of your time at the theme park which seems to get bigger and bigger every year.

In the past, the whole experience was much more focused on film studios and shows, whereas now there are more and more rides and attractions. Just recently, they discontinued a few of their film-themed shows and are planning to build yet another rollercoaster on that location…

Still, the main reason to visit Universal Studios Hollywood is their world-famous  studio tour . It’s something unique to Hollywood and is not available in any other Universal Studios theme parks in the U.S.

This studio tour takes about 1 hour and brings you to the actual film studios. On a standard studio tour, you remain seated inside an open-air bus and drive through various film sets and even studios, but you don’t step out of the vehicle at all.

On this tour, you pass several iconic movie sets from War of the Worlds, Jaws, or Psycho (Bates Motel). In addition, you ‘take part’ in some exhilarating high-speed chases, 3D experiences, etc.

You can find more information about this online, but I recommend that you just go and experience it for yourself. It’s much better and more surprising that way.

Good to know: If you want to explore the studios deeper, you can only do it with a VIP ticket . Among many other perks, it includes a visit to the Universal Backlot which is not open to the general public.

Further, be sure to also see the  WaterWorld show. The movie was a total flop, but the show is really good. It’s been the most popular show at Universal Studios Hollywood for decades. Oh, and prepare to get very wet (even in a so-called no-splash zone).

Other attractions that are probably worth your time the most include The Simpsons Ride and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The best ride here is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey , but also the Flight of the Hippogriff can be fun if you like rollercoasters.

Some of the ‘wildest’ rides are located on the lower lot of the studios. We highly recommend Transformers: The Ride-3D experience, the Jurassic World Ride , and the Revenge of the Mummy Ride . And the most recent addition – Super Nintendo World – is fun too.

With younger kids, concentrate on the upper loft and don’t miss The Secret Life of Pets , Despicable Me Minion Mayhem , and Super Silly Fun Land .

TIP: Check if there are any shows or extra activities on the day when you visit. When we were there, they had a wonderful light show at Hogwarts Castle.

READ ALSO: Tips for Your First Visit to Univeral Studios Hollywood

What to See & Do at Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood

Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood are the actual studios where movies are being made. While at Universal Studios, you mostly drive through the old film sets that are not used anymore, here, you drive through a working studio and might even spot a famous actor.

Plus, you also get out of the vehicle and walk around some movie sets and might even be able to visit an actual studio (an empty one).

They have several tour options available. The Studio Tour is the most popular option that most people do. This is also what we did and what is described below. If you are more interested in the Hollywood classics from the 1900-1970s, you may want to opt for their ‘Golden Age of Hollywood’ tour instead.

As said, the Warner Brothers studio tour is the most popular option and the one we did. So in this article, we focus on that.

This tour is divided into three parts, out of which only the first one is guided. After a short introduction, a guide will take you to the  film studios . This takes about 1 hour.

Our tour involved a short walk through a ‘New York City street’ where we could also enter one of the buildings. We then also visited one of the stages inside. Usually, tours also stop at the famous Friends couch at the fountain in a tiny patch of greenery that serves as NYC’s Central Park… Ours didn’t because of the torrential downpour at that moment (yes, it does rain in LA (like once a year :)).

The second part of the tour is self-guided. You visit the studios with the reconstructions of the  original film sets  from ‘Friends’, ‘The Big Bang Theory’, and others. You can also see costumes from movies, design your own Batmobile, or fly on the Harry Potter broomstick.

This studio is now purely used for tourists and you can take as many pictures as you like. They also have a professional photographer to take pictures of your group (and you can purchase them if you like).

There is also a ‘Friends’-themed gift shop and Central Perk café where you can get some small snacks or have lunch. You can even have your coffee or lunch inside Monica’s kitchen or on the Friends’ couch if you like.

This part of the tour can take as long or as short as you like, but you should probably count about an hour for a relaxed visit. We spent 1.5 hours here including lunch.

The last part of the tour is also self-guided and you’ll probably need about half an hour here. It’s a bit like a museum where you can see various costumes and vehicles from Warner Bros. Studios’ blockbuster movies.

They also have a big section dedicated to Harry Potter films. You can see his tiny bedroom under the stairs, make a magic potion, or sit under the Sorting Hat. You’ll also find attributes from the Fantastic Beasts movies, and so much more.

Just before you leave, you also get to hold a real Oscar statuette and take a picture with it if you like.

At the exit, you’ll find a big gift store where you can buy all kinds of WB movie-themed souvenirs. There is a Starbucks café here as well.

Which Hollywood Studios are Better Suited for Families

Quite frankly, younger kids will not be able to appreciate (or have the patience) for the Warner Brothers Studio tour. In addition, as already mentioned before, children under the age of 5 are not even allowed at Warner Bros.

Universal Studios Hollywood is definitely a better option for families with younger children since there is so much to do for all ages. That being said, there are quite a few rides where small kids are not allowed. Some rides offer a ‘child switch’ room where one adult can wait with the kids until the other one rides and then switch around without having to wait in line again.

We visited Warner Bros and Universal Studios with our teenagers and they really enjoyed both experiences. At Warner Bros Studios, it sure helped that they all had seen Friends and The Big Bang Theory, and – of course – Harry Potter, Batman, etc. Universal Studios theme park is also a paradise for teens since there are so many cool rides for that age group.

Conclusion: Warner Bros. Studios OR Universal Studios Hollywood

So now that you know what to expect, you probably already realize that both places are very different and each is worth a visit for different reasons.

If you are still doubting which film studios to visit in Los Angeles – Universal Studios or Warner Bros – here are a few things to consider:

If you are short on time and can only visit one of the two studios, opt for Warner Bros Studio Tour. It’s cheaper, it only takes a couple of hours, and you get to see real working film studios and film sets. If you want to get behind the scenes and get a better idea of how movies are made, this tour is also a much better option than Universal Studios.

However, if visiting actual film studios is not the main focus and you are just looking for a fun day, then Universal Studios Hollywood is a better option. Yes, it’s more expensive, but you can stay inside the park from early morning to late evening and get to experience not just their iconic studio tour, but also many amazing rides and attractions.

Universal Studios Hollywood is also a better choice for families with young children.

Our recommendation: Visit both! As you can see, both – Warner Bros Studio Tour and Universal Studios Hollywood offer completely different experiences. Even the actual studio tours are very different. So if you have the time, try to visit them both. See below for more details on how you could plan your itinerary if you only have a day.

How to Visit Universal Studios & Warner Bros Studios in 1 Day

Ideally, you visit the two film studios on two different days and make the most out of the expensive Universal Studio tickets. But if you only have a day and don’t mind the budget, it is also possible to visit both – Warner Bros and Universal Studios – in one day.

In that case, get this combination ticket for both studios , and start with Warner Bros as early in the morning as you can. Then spend the rest of the day at Universal Studios. At Universal, do the studio tour first (that’s one thing you really shouldn’t miss), and then choose a few other shows or rides depending on your interests and the time that you have.

The reason to start at Warner Bros is that they have shorter opening hours and work with timed entry slots. Whereas at Universal Studios, your ticket is valid for the whole day and you can stay until late in the evening. Their opening hours vary per season and day of the week, etc, but in any case, Universal Studios stay open much later than Warner Bros Studios.

Good to know: As you can see on the map below, the two studios are located just 3 miles – less than 10 minutes driving distance – from each other.

TIP: If you stay at one of the hotels near Universal Studios , you could just take a taxi/Uber to Warner Bros and back. This would save you parking fees at both places. In the evening, you can simply walk to your hotel.

READ ALSO: Los Angeles in 3 Days: Best Places to See & Itinerary

So, this is our guide for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood and Warner Bros. Studio Tour.

I hope that it gives you a better idea of what to expect and hopefully, inspires you to visit both places. After all, the film industry is what made LA world famous, so no visit to the city would be complete without checking out at least one of the biggest film studios.

Don’t forget to get your tickets for the studios in advance and enjoy your visit!

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This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sunday 12th of February 2023

I want to go to the studios where I can meet Jessica Alba. 😀😀

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Ha ha, good luck, Michael!

Tuesday 7th of February 2023

This is my first time in LA and I was not sure how these studios compare. I think I have a much better idea now. We are not interested in rollercoasters and similar so we decided to just visit Warner bros. Thanks!

Wednesday 8th of February 2023

Glad to help, Erik. Have a great time in LA!

Save money, experience more.

Best Times to Visit Universal Hollywood 2024 – Crowd Calendar

Universal Studios Hollywood follows similar crowd patterns to Disneyland but there are quite a few day to day differences at Universal. There are many factors that impact crowd levels at Universal Studios Hollywood including school breaks, holiday seasons, events at the theme park, and more. All of these factors help determine the best times to visit Universal Hollywood.

If you have the flexibility to pick your dates to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, you can avoid some of the worst crowds of the year. In fact, the most crowded time of the year might surprise you as its not often the answer that many guests expect.

I visit Universal Studios Hollywood frequently and I have been in the parks during some of the most busiest days of the year and some of the slowest. Keep reading for my full breakdown on the best times to visit Universal Hollywood in 2024.

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In this planning guide:

Universal Studios Hollywood Discount Tickets

Purchasing your tickets before you arrive eliminates the time you would’ve spent in line at the ticket booth and gets you into the park quicker. Another benefit to advanced ticket orders is the opportunity to save money. We partner with Universal Studio’s top travel partner to offer discounts on tickets exclusively for our readers.

For the best prices on Universal Studios Hollywood tickets and info on how to avoid scammy tickets, visit our guide to  discount Universal Studios Hollywood tickets .

Why You Can't Compare Disneyland Crowd Calendars to Universal

While there may be some similarities to Disneyland's crowd calendar, there are two big differences and that's the reservation system required at Disneyland and the annual passholder patterns.

Universal Studios Hollywood does not have a park pass reservation system and all you need is a ticket in order to show up. This ensures a lot more flexibility for guests visiting Universal but it also makes the crowd levels a bit harder to predict.

Disneyland has a large population of annual passholders ( Magic Key holders ) which has a huge impact on their crowd levels. Universal Studios Hollywood also has a large amount of passholders but they have far fewer blockout dates than Disneyland's passholders have. This means you will see a large impact from locals at Universal Studios Hollywood and one that is far more predictable since we don't have to keep up with a complicated block out calendar to track.

Most Crowded Day of the Week at Universal Studios Hollywood

The most crowded day of the week at Universal Studios Hollywood is often Saturdays and Sundays due to the large population of local passholders. Many locals will come on for a few hours on the weekend to the parks especially later in the day. If you can, avoid visiting on a weekend and arrive early. Saturdays are often the most crowded with Sunday coming in at second.

Many locals will also head to the parks in the evenings on weekdays which often results in a spike in crowd levels as the day goes on. This is especially common during the holiday season as locals stop by to check out the new Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas decor. 

Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

If you are looking to visit Universal Studios Hollywood based on the least crowded time of the year then I have a couple suggestions for the best time to visit.

The least crowded months of the year are January and February with the lowest crowd levels happening on days that do not align with holidays like New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day or President's Day. If you are looking for the absolute best time to visit the parks, these two months will have the lowest crowd levels all year. Considering the consistent crowding we've seen at Super Nintendo World , visiting during one of these months is the best way to experience that brand new land.

For spring, the best months to visit are first week of March, last two weeks of April and May for the lowest crowd levels. These months will start to see the slow down after spring break and the lowest crowds before the busy summer season begins to kick off. This is also a great time to visit for seasonally warm temperatures but without the heat that comes later in summer.

For guests looking to visit in the summer, crowds are consistently busy throughout most of the summer months. However, if you can visit during June and late – August you will miss most of the biggest crowd level days for Universal Studios Hollywood. Many schools go back around mid-August which leaves the second half of the month much more mellow.

As for the rest of the year, there are two holidays to be aware of that impact crowd levels at Universal Studios Hollywood: Halloween and Christmas. Let's get into the best days to visit during Halloween Horror Nights and Universal Studios Hollywood Christma s.

Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood for Christmas

Christmas usually kicks off for Universal Studios Hollywood the day after Thanksgiving through New Year's Day. Unlike Christmas at Disneyland , the holiday season at Universal focuses mainly on the month of December. This doesn't allow for much wiggle room to get into the park before the highest crowd levels begin.

This is why I recommend visiting the first two weeks of December for the best time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood for Christmas. You will avoid most of the largest crowds that start to turn up around the middle of the month and only steadily increase until the season ends. Spend the morning focusing on attractions and the rest of the day on the holiday decor for Grinchmas and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter .

See my ranking of the best Universal Studios Hollywood attractions so you know what to prioritize. 

Keep in mind that the holidays at Universal are incredibly popular with locals so you will see the largest crowds on weekends and evenings. Plan on visiting on a weekday and arriving early to make the most out of your experience. Universal Studios Hollywood has a large amount of local passholders and the holiday decor and entertainment will be a big draw for locals.

Halloween Horror Nights Crowds

The curveball for Universal Studios Hollywood is the extreme popularity of Halloween Horror Nights. Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood is a popular event amongst locals and tourists alike. Since this is a widely attended event for folks who live in the area, you will see much larger crowds on weekends than on weekdays. Halloween Horror Nights typically kick off around Labor Day and run until Halloween.

We have previously discussed how popular  October has become at Disneyland, even outpacing Christmas on some levels, and that same result has carried over to Universal Studios Hollywood. Combine that with the popularity of Halloween Horror Nights and you have the recipe for extremely high crowd levels in October. Halloween Horror Nights is one Universal's best events and is popular with families with teens, young adults, and adults of all ages. If you can, avoid Halloween Horror Nights in October.

On the plus side, on Halloween Horror Nights evenings the daytime crowds may be lesser so this is also a way to find the best day to visit Universal Studios Hollywood.

The best time to enjoy Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood is during  September  on a weekday. Weekends are the busiest events for Halloween Horror Nights and once we get into October nearly every event will be packed. I recommend enjoying this event on a weekday in September for the lowest crowd levels possible. Just be sure to avoid Labor Day weekend as with any three-day holiday weekend, the parks will see larger than usual crowd levels.

If you are planning on attending Halloween Horror Nights be prepared for long lines for the haunted houses. Even when visiting on a September evening, we noticed how crowded the event was and the lines for houses were quite long. This is one event that is guaranteed to have crowds but it's one I feel is worth it for Halloween fans. This is also an event I think is essential to purchase Express Pass for.

Most Crowded Time to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

The most crowded time to visit Universal Studios is pretty predictable as many crowd patterns follow school breaks, holidays, and events taking place in the parks.

Holiday Weekends

These are the often the dates that catch guests off guard the most! Nearly all of the holidays listed below create three-day weekends which often results in many families spending time on quick vacations! Not only do you have to worry about tourist crowd levels increasing, you will also have to contend with locals choosing to spend their day off from work and school at Universal.

• 3rd Monday in January
• 3rd Monday In February
• Last Monday in May
• First Monday in September
• 2nd Monday in October
• November 11th each year

If possible, avoid all of these days and weekends at Universal Studios Hollywood.

School Breaks

School breaks are a bit trickier to predict aside from the holidays listed above. Summer break is often pretty consistent with crowds more evenly spread out throughout June, July, and August. Since summer break is longer than other breaks, it helps spread out crowds throughout these months. You will see the worst crowd levels for summer in July which is the peak summer at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Spring break will have a much more drastic impact on Universal Studios Hollywood crowds with March seeing the highest crowd levels with things starting to wind down in April. If you have to travel in March, avoid the middle of the month as this time often coordinates with many school spring breaks.

Winter break for many schools typically starts around Christmas and runs through the New Year. While this varies from school to school, this means you will see high crowd levels around these holidays from school breaks which will also combine with the general high crowd levels during the holiday season. Avoid the last week of December through New Years Day as these will see some of the highest crowd levels all year.

For the Halloween and Christmas season at Universal Studios Hollywood, there are months that are considerably more busy than others to consider.

For Halloween, avoid October at all costs as we will see some of the highest crowd levels all year especially as it gets closer to Halloween day. October is a busy month due to the popularity of the Halloween celebrations at Universal and Disneyland but it also coordinates with fall breaks for many nearby schools.

Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood will see the busiest crowds during during Christmas and New Years Eve week. This is the one week all year that you should avoid Universal Studios Hollywood at all costs! The parks will see some of the highest crowd levels all year during this time.

Express Pass During Crowded Times of the Year

Another way to help track the best time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood is to watch the Express Pass calendar on the Universal website. Express Pass uses tier pricing which means it will be most expensive on busier days of the year and more affordable on slower days of the year. Universal's pricing for the days of your visit is a great way to get an indication of how busy they expect the parks to be.

For example, we can look above at the March 2024 prices for Express Pass to get an idea of how Universal is predicting their crowd patterns. Notice how the weekends (like I mentioned previously) are the most expensive days to purchase Express which means Universal is predicting high crowds those days. This also gives an interesting look into the patterns for spring break with the crowds just building as March goes on.

And of course, that's the downside: Express Pass is most expensive when you need it most. However, if you plan on attending a Halloween Horror Nights event, purchasing Express Pass is essential if you want to have a chance at seeing all the haunted houses. For other days of the year, you can follow our Universal Studios Hollywood strategy to make the most out of your morning. But there's no denying it, a trip with Express Pass is a great experience as you do not have to worry about waiting in long lines for attractions.

Express Pass is also simpler to use than Disneyland's counterpart Genie+ since there are no ride reservations required. You simply enter the Express Pass queue when you want to ride and that's it! For many guests, the convenience and ease of use justifies the cost of Express Pass. You could visit on one of the busiest days of the year and if you have Express Pass you can still experience all the attractions you want to.

So if you do not want to worry about tracking crowd levels for Universal Studios Hollywood and just want to show up and ride, purchasing Express Pass might be worth it for your group.

Plan Your Southern Californian Vacation!

Keep reading our blog to keep you updated on everything you need to know to prepare for a Disney Parks vacation! We have a team of writers working hard to keep you updated weekly on events in the parks and tips for navigating the magic. Subscribe to our  free deals newsletter  to receive helpful planning information, exclusive Disney deals, and access to the lowest priced Disney tickets anywhere. You can find more information on planning your vacation here:

• Universal Studios Hollywood Guide
• Discount Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets
• Universal Orlando Guide
• Universal Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights
• Universal Hollywood Christmas Guide

Weekdays are the least crowded at Universal Studios Hollywood with the least crowded days being Monday through Thursday.

Universal is least crowded during the beginning of the year in January and February.

To take advantage of the lowest morning times for rides guests should arrive at least thirty minutes prior to park opening at Universal Studios Hollywood.

The best month to visit Universal Studios Hollywood depends on if you want to prioritize events or low crowds. January is best for lowest crowds, September is perfect for Halloween, and December is the right choice for guests visiting during Christmas.

Disclosure: We have used all the products recommended on Mickey Visit. We may receive compensation when you click on links to some products featured.

About Lindsay Brookshier

Lindsay is a college English instructor and has years of writing experience through various nonprofits, charities, newspapers, and online magazines. As the content director of Mickey Visit, she oversees article content and leads our fantastic team of writers to meet guest vacation needs. You can still find her writing weekly content to help make your Disney Parks trip fantastic here on Mickey Visit and Disney Dose- you can also view her recently featured posts on Disney Parks travel on Visit Anaheim, Nerd Wallet and SFGate. Lindsay comes from a dedicated Disney family and enjoys taking her son to the Disney parks as often as possible.

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Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, all reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, why tomorrow is a huge day for universal orlando fans.

Tomorrow, April 29th , marks a big day for Universal Orlando fanatics, and we’re counting down the hours until the big reveal.

The team at Universal Orlando is no stranger to using mystery and allure to hype up new announcements for their parks. Even Halloween Horror Nights fans can agree that Universal is always at the top of their game when it comes to cryptic teasers, and these are no exceptions.

The first teaser was unveiled on April 18th on their social media pages. It revealed a vintage television box set, showcasing the retro Universal Studios Florida sign in all its neon glory.  As  static gradually consumes the TV screen, it may seem like the end of the video for the average viewer. However, for keen Universal fans, there’s more to discover if you pay close attention.

Now that’s something we haven’t seen in a while! pic.twitter.com/30Zuu97wzq — Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) April 18, 2024

Hidden icons of classic attractions are shown in snippets within the static, playing into the overall nostalgic theme of the video, which has fans speculating what this could mean for the future of the park (especially with the emphasis on their past).

For a more in-depth analysis of the teaser and all the icons shown,  Click Here !

It’s a deal 🤝 4.29.24 pic.twitter.com/sxu75NBWTl — Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) April 23, 2024

The next teaser was posted on April 23rd,  this time parodying the popular show “Shark Tank”, with a cast member pitching their idea to an actual shark: Bruce the Jaws shark (an iconic photo op located in San Francisco section of the park).

The employee, notably wearing a retro Universal Studios fanny pack, presents his pitch of a “Summer filled with awesome nostalgia, new experiences, shows, a parade, and a new land.” And after Bruce takes his time to ‘think in shark’ he approves, and the final announcement reveal is scheduled for April 29th.

All these teasers have fans buzzing with excitement over the final reveal, which many have speculated to be the announcement of the opening date for DreamWorks Land, a nostalgia-themed tribute store, and a parade featuring classic block-(& maybe ghost)-busters.

All this is just speculation, of course. But fortunately, we’ll have all the solid answers we’ve been craving with Universal’s announcement.

UPDATE:  Universal Orlando made several new announcements on April 29th — read all about them below.

• BREAKING: Opening Date Announced for Universal Orlando’s NEW DreamWorks Land!
• NEW Hogwarts Castle Show Announced for Harry Potter Land at Universal Orlando!
• Universal Orlando Is Getting a BRAND NEW Parade…and You Won’t Believe Who’s in It 😱

Make sure to turn back in with us as we unveil all the much-anticipated reveals from Universal Orlando Resort!

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What are you most excited for Universal to reveal? We’d love to read about it in the comments!

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