If you’re planning a fun-filled vacation in Los Angeles then Universal Studios Hollywood should be at the top of your tourist list of things to do. A must-see destination in the City of Angels, this world-renown studio tour and theme park sets the gold standard for wildly entertaining diversions. From action-packed, immersive experiences to inhabiting the world’s of some of your favorite movie characters, there’s so much to see and do it can be paralyzing trying to decide what to indulge in first. So, to help make the most of this once-in-lifetime adventure, we’ve assembled a guide to Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles.
Things to do / Highlights
Jurassic World - The Ride
Receiving a splendid overhaul has only increased the popularity of Jurassic Park. This latest adventure - Jurassic World - The Ride - opened in 2019 and offers thrill-a-minute action. This newest version showcases an awesome collection of unruly and out-of-control dinosaurs. Incredible state-of-the-art technology adds to the excitement by producing a simulated aquarium containing a humongous Jurassic sea creature!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Since its opening in 2016, the park has been abuzz with everything Harry Potter. This dazzling attraction featuring thrilling rides, entertaining performances, eye-popping shops, and delightful eateries based on Harry Potter’s magical universe. Strolling through Hogsmeade village for Potter-obsessed fans is a dream come true and even Muggles are captivated by the spellbinding atmosphere.
World-Famous Studio Tour
Sure the themed rides and extravagant shows are attention-grabbing but the world-renown Studio Tour is also a big draw for many tourists. This hour-long behind-the-scenes look at a working Hollywood studio and the movie magic it produced is a real gem. See the classic movie set of Psycho, experience a powerful earthquake, survive a close encounter with King Kong, and so much more.
Special Effects Show
If the Studio Tour whet your appetite for more behind-the-scenes action then check out the Special Effects Show. This exciting multimedia attraction leads audiences through a swiftly paced and hilarious look at a variety of interesting special effects such as Foley work - the recreating of everyday sound effects - gruesome horror make-up, and professional stunt-person action. The highlight involves a stuntman lit on fire!
What to eat
Three Broomsticks & Hog’s Head
Stop by Three Broomsticks to have a Harry Potter-style dining experience. Enjoy a dish of bangers and mash or fish and chips. The dining hall gets high marks for its attention to detail and the menu resembles The Daily Prophet - the wizarding newspaper.
If you’re going to explore Harry Potter’s world full force then stop by Hog’s Head next door for a mug of Butterbeer. This amber-hued beverage is must-drink providing unique flavoring with a distinctive butterscotch flair. While Butterbeer is fine, it’s been kicked it up a few notches with mouthwatering Butterbeer ice cream. So don’t miss getting a cone!
Krusty Burger & Moe’s Tavern
Diehard fans of The Simpsons will thrill to the park’s Springfield-themed section and will only want to eat at Krusty Burger. With a lighthearted ambiance, guests can dine on a juicy Krusty Burger, a Sideshow Bob foot-long chili-cheese dog, or a classic Ribwich. Remember to quench your thirst with a refreshing Buzz Cola. If you need something slightly stronger there’s Duff beer available. If Duff beer doesn’t satisfy then head to the adjoining Moe’s Tavern. Of course, there’s a Flaming Moe to sip.
Lard Lad Donuts
Only the biggest donut ever! Springfield’s Lard Lad Donuts offers fresh, sweet cake-like treats you’ll probably munch on all day long. There are several versions like gooey s'mores, spicy chocolate-jalapeno, and Springfield’s colorful and iconic sprinkle-covered for the donut-loving Homer in all of us.
Chicken Waffle Sandwich at Cletus’ Chicken Shack
Don’t leave Springfield before sampling the sweet and savory blend of the chicken waffle sandwich at Cletus’ Chicken Shack. A double-battered, extra-crispy fried chicken breast jammed between two warm waffles with sweet maple-syrup mayo. This mouthwatering sandwich is off-the-charts delicious!
Despicable Delights
If your little ones love the Despicable Me movie then indulge them with Despicable Me-inspired treats at the snack shop Despicable Delights. Sample a famous Freeze Ray Smoothie, Minion Cotton Candy, or chocolate-dipped banana.
Things to buy
Interactive wands at Wizarding World of Harry Potter
You’ll get maximum delight from your child if you buy an interactive wand for your aspiring mini wizard. Don’t forget while roaming Hogsmeade village to be on the lookout for gold medallion plates on the cobblestoned walkways. They are typically found in front of storefront windows or fountains. Follow the symbols on how to wave your wand and anticipate some wondrous magical effects.
Jurassic Park-themed t-shirt
Can’t get enough Jurassic Park paraphernalia? Consider adding a fabulous dinosaur T-shirt to your collection. You can find some with lots of razzle-dazzle or a few that are more subdued.
Hello Kitty movie-themed souvenirs
If you’re a fan of Hello Kitty browse the Animation Studio Store. You’ll uncover a fanciful array of movie-themed mementos depicting this popular feline in lots of fun film scenarios like Jaws, ET, and Back To The Future.
Honeydukes
Can’t live without Pumpkin Juice, Chocolate Frogs, or Pepper Imps? The place to shop is the candy store Honeydukes for every Harry Potter-inspired candy fix. They’re a great and tasty souvenir of your Hogsmeade escapade.
Travelers tips
Handicap accessible
From hearing and visually impaired individuals to guests who are wheelchair-bound or accompanied by a service animal, this park is fully equipped to handle persons with disabilities.
Arrive early
This is a no-brainer: plan to get there early. The earlier in the day equals fewer crowds.
Child Switch program
All attractions at the park provide a child-switch ride located at the boarding area of the ride. Every member of your party - including kids not riding - wait in line. When you arrive at the boarding area those not riding step into the child-switch area. When the initial group returns, others who want to ride hop on board. Notify a park attendant and they’ll lead your party to both child switch and back into the main queue when the time comes. This allows each adult not to miss out on the fun.
Express Pass
You pay extra but Express Pass is a true time-saver. It is also a lifesaver to be able to jump to the head of the queue on a hot summer day.
Universal Studios Hollywood app
If you can’t afford an Express Pass then Universal Studios Hollywood has a mobile app available that will list updated wait times for rides, and start times for attractions.
Frankenstein parking
The Frankenstein Parking garage is the best parking situation. It offers Front Gate parking: next to the park entrance and is only a five-minute walk.
How to get there
Rent a car
For tourists planning to rent a car and drive, Universal Studios Hollywood is located along Universal City Plaza off the 101 Freeway.
LA Metro Rail
Tourists to Universal Studios Hollywood can hop on the Red Line and exit at the Universal City station. A complimentary shuttle picks up at the metro station and delivers guests to the entrance gate.
Bus
Bus lines 222, 224, 237, and 656 pass near this attraction.
Xpress Shuttles
Xpress Shuttles offer amusement and theme park shuttle rides throughout Los Angeles including Universal Studios Hollywood. This fleet of shuttles pick up at various airports and hotels. For ultimate convenience, it’s worth checking out.
Taxi
Schedule for a taxi pick-up. Los Angeles offers a multitude of taxi services.
Uber/Lyft
App-savvy travelers can choose to use Uber or Lyft to book a ride.
Parking information
Parking can be pricey but you can limit what you pay if you’re willing to do a bit of walking to reach the park. On-site parking garages open one hour before this attraction unlocks the entry gate so get there early to get as close as possible no matter what amount you pay.
How to get tickets (from USD 109.0)
You can obtain tickets from a third-party website or the official website, and there are a few available packages. If your aim is to cover as much territory as possible in one day then opt for the Express Pass - also known as the Express Ticket - so you can enjoy skip-the-line entry to rides and shows.
Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 day
Where to stay (from USD 271)
Pricey, especially food and parking. Some additional charges for amenities.
Walking distance to Universal Studios, shuttle service, clean rooms, comfortable beds.
Excellent location for visiting Universal Studios, within walking distance. Close to CityWalk.
Mixed reviews about food quality and pricing. Some guests found the breakfast expensive.
You couldn’t ask for a more convenient or comfortable place to lodge than Hilton Los Angeles-Universal City. Only a breezy five-minute walk to Universal Studios grand entrance, this plush accommodation showcases ultra-modern rooms with handsome furnishings including cushy beds. Large windows afford guests nice views of either the city or the expansive theme park. Rooms stream with lots of natural light and top amenities are available. Hilton Los Angeles - Universal City is in Xpress Shuttle’s coverage area so you can book a handy airport pickup.
Hilton Los Angeles-Universal City
Address: 555 Universal Hollywood Drive
509 meters (0.4 ft) from Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood information
Universal Studios Hollywood
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Opening hours: Sun: 9am - 6pm; Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 9am - 7pm
Price: 99 - 129 USD
Official website: Universal Studios Hollywood
Department of tourism: Visit Los Angeles
News & updates for Universal Studios Hollywood: The new ride at Universal Studios Hollywood will make a dog out of you
Universal Studios Hollywood with Transport
Duration: 8 hours
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
10 Best Yurts In Los AngelesChia Han Keong -
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Create an account to