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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.

Related Articles

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

I’m taking a trip to Disney with my now 21 year old son! We are going to spend two nights at the Sheraton Universal Hotel & do the late afternoon/evening on arrival day & then rope drop the next, as there is a 2 days for the price of one deal on right now. I haven’t been to USH since 1994 (?!) and my son has never been (though we did UO for a few days once about 10 years ago?). I’m really actually looking forward to it, despite having done USJ in November & deciding that was a one and done for me. But I’m happy to take my kid for his first time to USH. I was surprised that it is such an expensive Uber/Lyft ride from Universal to Disneyland; your comments caused me to look it up and it said $97 for a midday ride today (though I’m writing this on a Saturday). But I think since we are only going one way after our USH days and staying at DLR for the rest of our time, it might be worth it to avoid a car/driving. Anyway, thanks for this article, Tom. It doesn’t seem daunting at all, and I’m looking forward to it!

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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13 Tips & Tricks for Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood in LA (First-timer’s Guide)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 2, 2024

Thinking of visiting Universal Studios Hollywood in LA and wondering what to expect? In this guide, you can find some of our top tips to help you make the most out of your day. Find out!

Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most popular attractions in Los Angeles, California, and one of the top 10 most visited theme parks in the USA. Millions of people visit Universal Studios every year. During peak times, the park receives up to 30-40,000 visitors in a day.

While planning your first visit to Universal Studios in LA can feel overwhelming, it’s actually a lot simpler than it might look at first sight. And with some advance preparation, you can be sure to make the most out of your visit.

Recently, we visited Universal Studios Hollywood during one of the busiest seasons of the year (Christmas – New Year). In this guide, we share all the things that we wish we had known before our visit.

While it will not always be as busy, these tips will give you a better idea of what to expect and will help you make the most out of your time and money no matter when you go. Find out!

Here are some of our top tips for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood in LA:

1. Avoid Weekends and Public Holidays

Of course, it’s not always easy to adjust your travel plans, but if you can take this into account when planning your visit to LA, try to avoid visiting Universal Studios on weekends and during school holidays .

Even if you are traveling in the high season as we were, some days will be busier than others. For example, we had three full days in LA , so we chose the beginning of the week for our visit to Universal Studios. It was still busy, but visiting on a Tuesday was relaxed compared to coming on Friday or Saturday…

Big crowds are not the only reason to visit Universal Studios Hollywood on a weekday. They work with flexible ticket prices, which usually means that entrance tickets are cheaper on weekdays than on weekends or school holidays.

The prices also depend on the season in general. During the busy weeks around Easter break or Christmas, the ticket prices are at their highest – no matter if you come on Saturday or on Monday. Whereas if you visit on a regular weekday in late January or February, you’ll pay much less.

2. Arrive Early & Stay Late

Our next tip will help you to make the most out of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood.

If you want to visit as much as possible in a day, be sure to arrive as soon as the park opens and stay until it closes . The actual opening times depend on the season. But no matter the season, the quietest time at the park is the first hour or two after it opens.

TIP: If you arrive at the park early in the morning, head to the most popular rides first. These are usually ‘wilder’ attractions and rollercoaster rides.

Another trick is to leave some of the most popular rides for last and do them a few hours before the park closes. On those days when the closing time is at 6 pm, you can’t really expect it to be quiet an hour before the closing time. But on some days, the park remains open until 9 pm or even later, and by that time, it definitely gets quieter.

In addition, if you stay later, you might be able to see a beautiful light show!

Our experience: We started our day at Universal Studios with the ‘Harry Potter and The Forbidden Journey’ ride. The wait time was just 20 minutes. When we left, there was already a 50-minute wait and a few hours later, people were queueing for over an hour.

We also decided to go to the Lower Lot (where some of the most popular rides are located) in the evening. Most of the attractions here had wait times of 50-70 minutes during the day. In the evening, we didn’t have to wait anywhere longer than half an hour.

3. Skip the Lines with Express Tickets

If you hate the idea of having to spend hours and hours queuing at each and every single ride, show, and attraction, upgrade to an Express ticket . It’s quite a lot more expensive than a regular ticket, but it gives you fast-track access everywhere (once per attraction and per day).

If you want to have unlimited express access everywhere and as many times as you like, then you’ll need a VIP tour/ticket . It costs quite a lot more than a regular ticket, but it also includes so much more (parking, snacks and refreshment, gourmet lunch, guided behind-the-scenes studio tour, etc.)

You can find more information on different ticket options further below.

TIP: Some attractions at Universal Studios sometimes offer fast-track access to single riders . So if you don’t mind sitting separately from your group, this might save you some time. However, this is not always available and we saw it open and close again at a few rides without any explanation why.

4. Book in Advance

Normally, you can just get your tickets at the entrance of Universal Studios LA. However, the lines are usually so long that you can easily waste half an hour or even more just to get a ticket. This doesn’t include the security check or the lines to actually get inside the park.

So we highly recommend that you book your tickets in advance . You receive an electronic ticket with a QR code and can just go straight to the entrance skipping the lines at the ticket desk.

TIP: We booked our tickets through GetYourGuide and it was a great experience. The price you see is the price you pay (so no additional sale taxes are added at checkout or similar). In addition, they normally offer free cancelation/rescheduling of your ticket up to 24-48 hours before your visit, which is a big bonus if your plans would change unexpectedly. Plus, the whole booking process is so simple; not comparable with the official site where you get overloaded with all the unnecessary options and way too much information.

Talking about tickets, there are basically three options to consider:

1. Standard entry tickets give you access to the park and all the attractions. More details and info here .

2. Express tickets can be booked as an upgrade to the regular ticket . Universal Express™ includes fast-track access to all rides, shows, and attractions (once per attraction).

3. VIP tour has lots of additional perks including unlimited fast-track access, behind-the-scenes film studio tour, free Valet Parking, and even some meals. More details and info here .

In addition, you can opt for 2-day tickets. This will give you much more time inside the park, and if you want to try every single ride and attraction without getting express tickets, then you will indeed need two days. However, we found that one day was more than plenty to see and do everything we wanted.

5. Don’t Bring Big Bags

If you want to enjoy your day at Universal Studios Hollywood to the fullest, bring as little stuff with you as possible . As you will see below, we do recommend packing some items, but for the rest – don’t take anything you don’t absolutely need.

First, they have an airport-style security check at the entrance. They check your bags and even make you take off your belt. But that’s not a big deal compared to the rides and attractions.

For most ‘wilder’ rides, you’ll have to leave your backpacks in a locker, which means lots of wasted time (every single time).

TIP: If you need to take a bag, pack something small that you can easily keep with you without using your hands. I had a (not-so-small) crossbody purse and could take it on all the rides without any problems.

6. Bring Water & Some Snacks

Now that I told you not to take a big bag, I have to add that it’s helpful to have some water and snacks with you. Ideally, you take a refillable water bottle and some snacks for a quick lunch (small snacks that can fit in a small bag ;)).

Of course, you won’t survive the whole day on just a few snacks. But if you can avoid having to eat during the peak lunchtime hours, you will – again – save a lot of time.

Plus, it will be a bit quieter at the attractions when most people are having lunch. So ideally, you go and eat a few hours later than the majority of people. It’s never really quiet at any restaurant at Universal Studios in the afternoon, but it sure helps if you can avoid the busiest peak dining times.

TIP: If you are traveling on a lower budget, you should know that food and drinks are very expensive at Universal Studios (just like everywhere at theme parks). So if you want to save some money, you may want to bring a picnic with you. You could store your bag in a locker when not in use.

7. Research Which Shows & Attractions You Want to Do

There are lots of things to do at Universal Studios. Unless you are visiting on an extremely quiet day or pay extra for the fast-track tickets, it’s quite unlikely that you will be able to see everything in a day. On the other hand, you may not really be interested in everything either…

So be sure to do some research on which shows, rides, and attractions you absolutely don’t want to miss, and concentrate on those first.

If you are wondering what to choose, it all really depends on your interests and the ages of your kids (if visiting with children).

With young kids , you may want to spend most of the time at the Upper Lot, and mainly the ‘Super Silly Fun Land’. There, you will also find family-friendly rides such as ‘The Secret Life of Pets’ or ‘Despicable Me Minion Mayhem’, etc.

With somewhat bigger children , head to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and check out the nearby Simpsons Ride.

If you are looking for thrill rides , head to the Lower Lot where you will find ‘Revenge of the Mummy’, ‘Jurassic World’, and ‘Transformers’.

In addition to the rides, there are also some shows that you may want to see at Universal Studios Hollywood. This can depend on the season and on the day, so be sure to double-check what’s available on the day of your visit. This brings us to the next point…

8. Don’t Miss the Studio Tour

If there is one thing that distinguishes Universal Studios Hollywood from all other theme parks, it’s the World Famous Studio Tour (aka The Backlot Tour).

You would almost forget it these days, but Universal Studios Hollywood is a working film studio where movies are made. So no visit here would be complete without getting a bit behind the scenes and seeing where the magic happens.

Universal Studios Hollywood has been running their iconic Studio Tours since the 1960s. And while some parts of the tour haven’t changed for years, there is always something new to experience as well. It’s now much less about actual film sets and more about entertainment, 3D experiences, etc. But one thing remains constant – it’s always super fun!

I won’t tell you much more about the things you get to see and experience because I strongly believe that you enjoy it more if you just go there without any expectations and with an open mind. But no matter when you visit, how much time you have, and whatever your interests are, do not miss the studio tour!

TIP: If you want to explore the film studios deeper beyond the standard tour that everyone does, you can only do this with the VIP tour . I wouldn’t pay that much more just for this, but if you are already considering it for other reasons (like the unlimited skip-the-line entry everywhere), then their behind-the-scenes studio tour is definitely a nice extra perk.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: Universal Studios Hollywood vs. Warner Bros Studio Tour

9. Prepare to Get Wet

One of the must-sees at Universal Studios Hollywood is their most popular show – WaterWorld . It’s a really cool show with lots of action and special effects and is always fun to see. However, there is always a big chance that you will get wet.

They have seats in two colors indicating the area where you are guaranteed to get wet. But it doesn’t work the other way around – there is no guarantee that you won’t get wet if sitting outside the splash zone.

If the weather is nice, it’s warm, and you don’t mind getting wet, then it’s not a big deal at all. But if you want to be sure that you remain dry, try to sit as far from the stage as possible.

On our most recent visit to Universal Studios Hollywood in the winter, it was rather cold and we were all wearing jeans and warm jackets. The last thing you want on a cold grey winter day is getting wet. So we made sure to sit well outside the splash zone. But that wasn’t enough.

One of our kids and I got soaking wet (not just a little, but as if someone would throw a bucket of water on you). It took us 4 hours to get dry… The rest of the family found it very amusing and it sure made our visit more unforgettable, but it’s not something we would have willingly chosen on a cold day…

‘Jurassic World: The Ride’ is another attraction where you are almost guaranteed to get wet.

TIP: We saw lots of people bring disposable rain ponchos to these shows and attractions. It might be a good idea, indeed. Another option is to wear quick-drying clothes when visiting Universal Studios. That way, if you do get wet, at least it doesn’t take you hours to get dry again.

10. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Universal Studios Hollywood is a very big theme park. So prepare to walk a lot. At the end of the day, you will have done well over 10,000 steps…

So be sure to wear comfortable shoes! Also, they should sit tight on your feet so that you don’t have to worry about losing them on one of the rides.

It’s definitely not a good idea to wear flip-flops when visiting a theme park.

11. Install the Universal Hollywood™ App

One of the best ways to make the most of your time in the park is to install their mobile app. You can do it in advance or simply by scanning a qr code upon arrival in the park.

You can use the app to check the show times or to see live data about the waiting times at all the rides and attractions. Sometimes, you can also reserve a virtual line ticket for some rides via the app.

You will find all this information at different places throughout the park as well, but we found the app really handy.

Good to know: Universal Studios Hollywood offers free Wi-Fi throughout the park.

12. Don’t Come by Car

Just to make things clear, you can drive to Universal Studios Hollywood by car. They do have huge parking garages, so you can easily come in your own car.

However, parking is really expensive and it can also get very busy. So depending on where you are coming from, it might be simpler to just leave the car at your hotel and take a taxi or a metro here.

If you come by metro, you can walk to the park entrance in about 10-15 minutes. There is also a shuttle between the metro station and the park entrance, but it’s so slow that – unless it’s standing there as you arrive – it’s quicker to just walk.

13. Stay Nearby

If you want to make the most of your visit to Universal Studios, you may want to stay at one of the hotels just near the park entrance.

That way, you can start your day as soon as the park opens and stay until it closes. Plus, you won’t have to pay for a taxi or parking. You’ll likely have to pay for parking at your hotel, but that is the case everywhere in LA.

Good to know: The two best hotels just near the entrance of the park are Hilton LA Universal City and Sheraton Universal .

So, these are some of our tips and things we wish we had known before visiting Universal Studios Hollywood.

I hope that this gives you a better idea of what to expect. Enjoy your visit!

READ ALSO: 3-day Itinerary for Los Angeles (including a day at Universal Studios) & San Diego Itinerary

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Janet Villegas

Monday 25th of September 2023

Don’t bring bags and the next tip is bring snacks and water…ok.

Ha ha, that's exactly what I said in the article, Janet :). And I also explained that you could store your bag in a locker. Alternatively, you could do as we did and just take a crossbody bag. Mine easily fits a bottle of water and quite a lot of snacks, and the advantage of a crossbody bag is that you can hold it on you pretty much everywhere. I didn't have to leave my bag behind at any of the rides. Hope this helps. Enjoy!

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How To Spend One Day at Universal Studios Hollywood

As a bona fide Universal Studios Hollywood expert, I’m often asked: OK, I have one day at Universal. What should I do? Whether it’s native Angelenos or folks visiting SoCal, a trip to Universal is an incredible way to get the best of L.A. in one jam-packed day. So, instead of individually sending everyone I know a chaotic Notes App itinerary, I’m making my dream Universal Studios Hollywood itinerary an Official Article.

Heads-up: Check the theme park hours as you plan — they vary by season. Sometimes the theme park closes at 6 pm, others at 10 pm, and it’s open even later during Halloween Horror Nights . Obviously, we recommend going on a day where it’s open late, to maximize your time at Universal.

MORNING | AFTERNOON | EVENING

After you snap an obligatory photo at the Universal Globe (and on the red carpet), beeline for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter . Yes, tears may well as you enter Hogsmeade — it really doesn’t get old for me.

But don’t fill up on Butterbeer just yet. Head all the way back to Hogwarts Castle where you enter to ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey . Wind through the dark-yet-cozy hallways of Hogwarts, then hop on an enchanted bench to soar above the castle grounds and come face-to-face with Dementors, have a run-in with the Whomping Willow, and fly right into the middle of a Quidditch match.

Now that you’ve had a daring adventure with Harry, Ron, and Hermione, head to the Three Broomsticks . The Traditional English Breakfast here is my favorite first meal of the day at Universal. It comes complete with eggs, sausage, baked beans, baked tomato, bacon, ham, potatoes, a butter croissant and black pudding, plus coffee or juice, you’ll feel geared up to meet a Hippogriff on Flight of the Hippogriff . Afterwards, bop around Hogsmeade for a bit. Get a wand at Ollivanders , shop for your Hogwarts house robe at Gladrags Wizardwear , and snag a Chocolate Frog at Honeydukes .

Oh, and duh: don’t forget to get a Butterbeer! I typically go for the standard, cold version of the beverage, but it also comes frozen and hot. 

Up next: the world-famous Studio Tour . You can take the direct path from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or you can wind through Springfield, U.S.A to the tour entrance. We’ll be back to experience The Simpsons Ride later. But while you’re here, stop at Lard Lad Donuts and grab one of Homer’s favorites: The Big Pink. These jumbo donuts are topped with classic frosting and sprinkles.

PRO TIP: While approaching the Studio Tour entrance, you’ll see a chalkboard listing all the TV shows currently shooting on the Universal lot. Take a peek and see if any of your faves are on set that day.

Next on your Universal Studios Hollywood one-day itinerary: The World-Famous Studio Tour ! To be totally honest, this one-of-a-kind tram excursion is what makes Universal Studios Hollywood so special. I mean, what other theme park lets you tour legit, working sound stages and actual movie sets? Check out the sets of “Psycho,” “War of the Worlds” and “Nope;” take in mind-blowing effects inspired by the “Fast & Furious” franchise and “King Kong;” and so much more on this tour. You’ll really feel like you’re living in a piece of Hollywood history.

PRO TIP: PSST — sit on the right side of the tram in a middle car. You’ll get the best view of the infamous great white shark from “Jaws” when he makes an appearance.

All right, it’s Lower Lot time. Cruise down the escalators near Springfield, U.S.A. (and stop to get your next holiday card photo with the sweeping city views on the way) and you’ll find a whole new area of the park awaiting you. First up: Lunch. Head to the Jurassic Café for Costa Rican-inspired fare. Personally, I’m a fan of the Mojo Pork, and the Beef Empanadas really hit the spot, too. Or, if you’re looking for an on-the-go meal, grab a Turkey Leg.  

But we’re just getting started with the dino fun. Hop in line for Jurassic World – The Ride . This might be my favorite ride in the park (but don’t tell the others.) You’ll wind down a lush, tropical river and into Predator Cove, where you’ll come face-to-face with Indominus rex, Tyrannosaurus rex, Stegosaurus, Velociraptor and so many more dinos, before plunging down the massive drop at the ride’s finale.

PRO TIP: Download the official Universal Studios Hollywood app to keep up with your jam-packed itinerary. With it, you can check out up-to-date wait times for each ride. And, if you’re OK not riding with your group, I highly recommend hitting the Single Rider Line for a shorter wait time.

After all that excitement, you’ve gotta keep your nerves in check. That’s where Isla Nu-Bar comes in handy. If you’re the type who’s inclined toward a midday alcoholic bevy, this is a necessary stop. The island-theme bar serves up rum drinks, many in tiki-inspired mugs, that will have you feeling like you’re floating in the tropics.

Next up, head over to the Raptor Encounter to meet Blue the Velociraptor. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see a baby Raptor, too.

And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD . The newest addition to Universal Studios Hollywood is an absolute must. Once you enter through Peach’s Castle, you’ll immediately feel like you’re inside the world of Super Mario with Koopa Troopas, spinning shells, Goombas, and Piranha Plants all around. Plus, your favorite characters — Princess Peach, Toad, Luigi, and Mario himself — are available for photo ops. (You’ll want to take a lot of photos here. Make your followers jealous.)

First things first: purchase a Power-Up Band to make your experience even more interactive. Inside the land, you can buy them at the 1-UP Factory or at the kiosk next to the Piranha Plant Nap Mishapkey challenge. Link this gadget up to your Universal app. With it, you can punch ? Blocks for digital coins, have a showdown with Bowser Jr., and so much more.

Next, hop in line for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge . I think we can all agree that stepping into the world of Mario Kart is a dream come true. Throw on a pair of special goggles, tap your Power-Up Band to the steering wheel (if you bought one), and let the games begin! This attraction is especially fun because there are several different outcomes you can experience – it’s a totally different ride each time. So go ahead and get in line again once it’s over, we won’t judge.

I know you just ate lunch, but I’m never too full for the Toadstool Cafe . Here, Chef Toad whips up delicious Mushroom Kingdom-inspired eats, like Super Mushroom Soup, Piranha Plant Caprese, the Mario and Luigi Burgers, ? Block Tiramisu, and a Princess Peach Cupcake. If you’re really up for it, try the Bowser’s Fireball Challenge: a 1 lb spicy meatball, topped with mozzarella and mushroom sauce.

Oh, and definitely check out the SUPER NINTENDO WORLD merch at the 1-UP Factory before you go. From Yoshi plushes to big red Mario hats to Mario Kart T-shirts, this land’s swag is seriously on point.

PRO TIP:   Since SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is new, it’s also quite popular. You might have to make a Virtual Line reservation to get in — do so on the official Universal Studios Hollywood app first thing.

WHEW, that was a blast. Now head back up to the Upper Lot and over to Super Silly Fun Land . If you’re anything like me, you have grown to be utterly endeared to the Minions. This park zone is Minion central. First, pop in line for Despicable Me Minion Mayhem , a ride that takes you through Minion training headed by none other than Gru himself. From there, take a spin through Super Silly Stuff — you’ll be truly impressed by the sheer magnitude of Minion merch available for purchase. Don’t forget to strike a pose with a real-life Minion on the way out!

And don’t miss Minion Cafe for a dessert inspired by everybody’s favorite banana-colored mischief makers. Mid-afternoon dessert? Sure. You’re at Universal, meaning you’re on vacation (even if you’re an L.A. local), meaning multiple desserts multiple times a day.

Depending on the timing, you should be able to squeeze in a viewing of WaterWorld . This Universal Studios Hollywood itinerary item is totally unlike anything else at the theme park (and honestly, anywhere else). This truly ridiculous, live spectacle spans across land, sea and air, and includes jet ski stunts, gigantic fireballs, explosions, and more mind-blowing special effects. This is where the magic of the movies collides with real life in the most jaw-dropping way possible. It’s no wonder it’s Universal’s top rated show.

PRO TIP: Check out the WaterWorld schedule on the official Universal Studios Hollywood app , and try to get there 15 minutes before showtime to secure the best seats. Oh, and the first few rows (painted green) are the “splash zone” — whether that’s a warning or an incentive is up to you.

I promised you’d make it back to Springfield, U.S.A. , the home of The Simpsons . Now’s the time! The best thing about eating in Springfield is that there’s something for whatever you’re in the mood for. Want a burger? Krusty Burger has you covered. Craving Mexican food? Try Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck , just adjacent to the Duff Brewery Beer Garden . There’s also Suds McDuff’s Hot Dogs , Luigi’s Pizza ,or Cletus’ Chicken Shack .If you’re looking to cool off, head to Moe’s Tavern for a classic Duff Beer, or a delightful, non-alcoholic Flaming Moe. Everything is tasty, so grab your meal of choice.   

Today might be winding down, but it’s not over yet! On my perfect itinerary, you end up right where you started: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter . Tuck into a booth for a quick beverage at Hog’s Head  before you wander back up to the castle for the ultimate grand finale: The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle . (Or, depending on the season, the show might be Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle .) Catch the school lit up in the dazzling colors of the four Hogwarts houses, set to epic music that’ll give you all the feels.  

EDITOR’S NOTE: The lights shows are seasonal. Check the here and here to see if they will be running during your next visit.

But wait — WAIT, I say! The day ain’t over yet. Because the second you step out of Universal Studios Hollywood, you find yourself at CityWalk , which is teeming with the best things to eat, drink and do in L.A. If you’re totally exhausted from the jam-packed day at the park, might I introduce you to the cushy, reclining chairs at Universal Cinema ? Catch the latest blockbuster at this 18-theater venue, which even includes IMAX.

And that’s my perfect itinerary for a day at Universal Studios Hollywood. Obviously, everyone’s perfect day looks a bit different — what does yours look like? Let us know in the comments.

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Grace Perry

Senior Editor, Universal Studios Hollywood. Lisa sun, Smithers rising, Disco Stu moon.

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good and Beautiful

We’re so happy to hear you enjoyed your visit, Ivan! Hopefully you had the chance to check out the World-Famous Studio Tour, as it’s an absolute must-do!

This was a great itinerary!! Appreciated all your recommendations and pro tips. Thank you.

Amazing to hear you’ve enjoyed this article, Alison! We can’t wait to welcome you very soon!

thank you for this helped me a bunch!!!

We’re so glad to hear that this helped, Pat! We hope to see you soon!!

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Attractions

Universal studios hollywood planning guide: tips for a perfect visit.

Known as the “Entertainment Capital of Los Angeles,” Universal Studios Hollywood offers a diverse array of attractions, from the immersive worlds of Super Nintendo World to the magic-infused streets of Hogsmeade, appealing to guests of all ages.

This Universal Studios Hollywood planning guide can not only help you save money and time but can also enhance your experience by avoiding common pitfalls such as long lines and crowded attractions.

Visitors can benefit greatly from insider knowledge on the best times to visit, ticket options, and the wide range of rides and attractions. Strategies for planning your day, coupled with useful tips, can be the difference between an average visit and an extraordinary adventure.

» You might be interested in reading about the other theme parks in the area.

Table of Contents

Best Times to Visit

When planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood, timing is crucial both for experiencing seasonal events and managing crowd levels.

Seasonal Events

Universal Studios Hollywood hosts several seasonal events throughout the year. January is generally quiet, making it an ideal time for guests who prefer a more relaxed visit. In September , the park celebrates Halloween with its popular Halloween Horror Nights, providing a unique experience. Conversely, December is festive with Christmas celebrations, offering holiday-specific entertainment and decorations.

Crowd Levels

The crowd levels at Universal Studios Hollywood vary significantly throughout the year. Low crowd periods tend to be in January and February , right after the holiday season, and in the weeks following Labor Day in September . For guests aiming to avoid longer wait times, these periods are optimal. On the other hand, summer months , weekends, and holidays typically observe high crowd levels , so guests seeking a less crowded experience should plan accordingly.

Tickets and Passes

Choosing the right ticket or pass for Universal Studios Hollywood is essential. Prices may vary by season and demand, and guests should consider the benefits of each option to best meet their needs.

Ticket Types

Universal Studios Hollywood offers several ticket types to cater to different preferences:

• One-Day General Admission : The price begins at $109, but varies based on the date of the visit. Weekends and holidays typically have higher pricing due to increased demand.
• Two-Day General Admission : Starts at $159 and allows visitors to explore the park over two days within a seven-day period. It offers a greater value for guests who wish to take their time experiencing the park.

» Buy your Universal Studios Hollywood general admission tickets here through Viator.

Express Passes

• Universal Express Passes grant guests one-time (per day) express access to each ride, attraction, and seated show. The cost varies starting at $209 depending on the day. They cannot be used for the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge attraction. Investing in an Express Pass can be beneficial on crowded days or for visitors with limited time who wish to experience as many attractions as possible.
• VIP Experience Ticket includes 1-Day Park admission and unlimited (per day) express access to each ride, attraction, and seated show. This ticket also includes a guided tour including the backlot, light snacks, refreshments, complimentary valet parking, and special VIP dining experience. These tickets start at $379 per day.
• Super Nintendo World Early Access Ticket starts at $20 and gives you a chance to enter the park one hour before the theme park opens. A theme park admission ticket is required and availability is limited.

Rides and Attractions

Universal Studios Hollywood offers a diverse range of rides and attractions, catering to thrill-seekers and families alike. Visitors can expect cutting-edge technology and immersive themed experiences within each attraction.

Thrill Rides

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ : This ride places guests in the middle of thrilling scenes from the Harry Potter series. (Upper Lot)
• Jurassic World – The Ride : Featuring realistic animatronics and a thrilling drop, this ride puts visitors in the land of dinosaurs. (Lower Lot)
• Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride : A high-speed roller coaster that sends guests racing through a world of ancient curses and mummies. (Lower Lot)
• Transformers: The Ride-3D : Combines 3D media and flight-simulator technology for an action-packed experience. (Lower Lot)

Family-Friendly

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem : This motion-simulator ride is a family-friendly adventure with Gru and his Minions. (Upper Lot)
• The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash : A ride that brings to life the characters from the movie Pets, suitable for younger guests. (Upper Lot)
• Silly Swirly Fun Ride : An aerial carousel that offers a gentle flight over Super Silly Fun Land.(Upper Lot)
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ : Although it features a thrill ride, it also includes child-friendly areas like Ollivanders™, where one can witness a wand pairing ceremony. (Upper Lot)
• World-Famous Studio Tour: A behind the scenes tour of the back lot where many of your favorite films and tv shows were filmed. (Upper Lot)
• DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda: Enter a theatre and watch Po, Mr. Ping, and Master Shifu embark on a perilous mission. (Upper Lot)
• WaterWorld : A live-action performance that includes stunts and special effects, showcasing an epic battle on water. (Upper Lot)

Each attraction has specific operating hours and show times. It’s advisable for guests to check the Universal Studios Hollywood official app for the most accurate scheduling.

Planning Your Day

Efficiently planning your day at Universal Studios Hollywood is a good way to make the most out of every moment. Visitors should consider the park’s layout and attraction wait times, and whether the additional cost of an Express Pass is a worthwhile investment for their needs.

Universal Studios Hollywood App

One of the first things you should do is download the theme park app on your phone. This will be one of the best tools to help you navigate the park. You can buy and store your tickets, but it will also show you ride wait times, dining options, and give you an easy to use map of the park.

The Upper Lot & The Lower Lot

The park is broken into 2 parts, the upper lot where you will enter the park and the lower lot. The 2 lots are accessed by escalators like the one below. It can take 10 to 15 minutes to make the trek between the 2 lots.

When planning your day you may want to take into account which attractions are in each area. I have noted above on the attraction list which lot you can find them in.

Itinerary Suggestions

To help navigate to park its important to have an idea of the popular attractions. It’s best to take advantage of those areas first while park attendance is still low. In this case you might want to start with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the upper lot or make your way to the lower lot to Super Nintendo World .

In between major attractions, consider scheduling time for shows and smaller rides to ensure a well-rounded day.

Make Time for a Show

WaterWorld is an action packed stunt show that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a great chance to rest your feet and relax, or in our case, get out of the rain. I remember watching a Miami Vice show here when I was a kid.

Beware, you might get wet! The bleachers are marked to show where the splash zone is.

Super Mario World

For anyone who has grown up playing Nintendo, this land is for you! Walk through the tunnel and emerge into the world of Super Mario where you can meet your favorite characters, play games, and more.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

Experience Mario Kart as the driver! As you walk through the queue you will see different stages and props from the games. As you near the front of the line you will be handed special goggles that will pair with a 3-D visor in the car.

Drive alongside your favorite characters while collecting coins and throwing shells.

Toadstool Café

When you are hungry and ready for a break check out the Toadstool Café where Chef Toad is cooking up tasty food.

Because of limited capacity you may need to join the wait list. Just scan the QR code at the entrance and schedule a time to return.

Interactive Experience

Get more out of your visit to Super Nintendo World with a Power-up Band. It will keep your score as you complete challenges, defeat Bowser Jr, collect digital coins, and more.

Find the blocks and stations throughout the land like the yellow question mark block above and wave your power-up band under it to collect coins and more.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of Harry Potter as you enter Hogsmeade village and journey past the iconic Hogwarts Express.

For aficionados of the series, this is the ultimate fantasy fulfilled. Don’t miss the chance to explore every corner of this magical domain, where even a trip to the restroom might conjure the ghostly presence of Moaning Myrtle. And before bidding farewell, be sure to savor a taste of butterbeer, the quintessential beverage of the wizarding world.

Visit Ollivander’s Wand Shop for a fun interactive show and then choose a want, or should we say let the want choose you!

For a magical interactive experience while in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, use your wand to cast spells around Hogsmeade. Watch for markers like the one above to cast spells.

It’s essential to check the times for interactive shows within the park to make the most of these engaging experiences.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Enter Hogwarts Castle and see familiar corridors and classrooms from the Harry Potter movies. Then strap into this ride that takes you through the Forbidden Forest, high above Hogwarts, and has you fly with Harry.

Flight of the Hippogriff – As you wind your way through the line for this ride Hagrid will teach you the proper way to approach a Hippogriff. This family-friendly rollercoaster lets you ride this magical creature.

The Three Broomsticks

This is our favorite place to eat. Enjoy the details that are straight out of the movie. There are plenty of tables, butterbeer, and English fare. We had the fish and chips and weren’t disappointed.

This legendary sweet shop is a must-stop. You can find wizarding favorites such as chocolate frogs, every flavor beans, and fizzing wizzbees.

The World-Famous Studio Tour

This tour takes you behind the scenes of a real working movie studio. The tour runs about for approximately an hour so make sure to plan that into your day.

Board a tour tram, sit back, and relax as your tour guide takes you through past and present movie sets. You will experience some intense 3-D movie rides within the tour. Visit Jupiter’s Claim from the movie Nope, as well as the sets of Fast and the Furious, Kong, and Jaws.

Check out the daily filming schedule board at the entrance the the studio tour to see what shows are filming that day.

Pro Tip: Sit in the middle tram on the right side for a great view of Jaws.

Dining Options

Universal Studios Hollywood offers an array of dining options to cater to various tastes and preferences, from themed restaurants to quick bites and accommodating dietary restrictions.

Restaurants

Universal Studios Hollywood features several sit-down restaurants where guests can enjoy a themed dining experience. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has the Three Broomsticks, offering British pub food. For a touch of Hollywood glam, guests can dine at NBC Sports Grill & Brew . A notable favorite for its immersive atmosphere is Toadstool Café , themed after the world of Super Mario.

Snacks and Quick Bites

Those looking for a quick snack can head to various restaurants throughout the park that are designed for a fast stop. Springfield , the area themed after The Simpsons, includes places like Krusty Burger for fast-food options, Duff Brewery Beer Garden for beverages, and Suds McDuff’s Hot Dog Stand . Visitors can also find Voodoo Doughnut for unique sweet treats.

We saw so many people with donuts from Lard Lad Donuts. Their most popular donut is The Big Pink. It is a giant donut with pink frosting and it is served in a 12 inch box.

Accommodations

When planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, selecting the right accommodations can change the overall experience. Visitors can choose between staying on-site for convenience and immersive themes or opting for nearby hotels that offer a range of pricing and amenities.

Nearby Hotels

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Holiday Inn Express North Hollywood: Affordable rates with essential amenities, including free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
• Comfort Inn & Suites Near Universal: Offers free shuttle to Universal Studios and a complimentary hot breakfast.

Mid-Range Options:

• Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City: Directly adjacent to the park with spacious rooms and excellent facilities.
• Sheraton Universal Hotel: A short shuttle ride from the park, known for its good service and comfortable accommodations.

Premium Selections:

• The Garland: A boutique option that provides a free shuttle to the park and has a stylish, retro-Hollywood feel.
• Loews Hollywood Hotel: Features upscale rooms and is located within close proximity to Universal Studios Hollywood, with luxury amenities and service.

Transportation and Parking

Planning your trip to Universal Studios Hollywood requires understanding the transportation options available and knowing the best parking tips.

Getting to Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood is accessible by various modes of public transportation. Metro trains and buses frequently service the area, with a Metro pedestrian bridge facilitating easy access from the station. For personalized travel routes, potential visitors can utilize the Metro Trip Planner or call Metro directly to find the most suitable transportation option.

Parking Tips

When driving to Universal Studios Hollywood, choosing a parking option that best suits your needs is a good idea. General Parking can vary cost-wise throughout the day, and Preferred Parking offers closer proximity to the park entrance. For an even more convenient option, Front Gate Parking is located right at the entrance.

• Before 5pm: $32
• After 5pm: $10
• Cost: $70 per day
• Before 5 pm: $50
• After 5 pm: $20

Drivers should remember that parking rates and policies are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the most current information before the visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best strategies for maximizing a single day visit to universal studios hollywood.

To make the most of a single day, visitors should arrive early before the park opens. It is advisable to prioritize the attractions with the longest wait times first, such as those in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or Super Mario World. It is also helpful to download the Universal Studios app, check ride waiting time boards throughout the park, and be familiar with the park layout before you go.

Which attractions should I prioritize if I have limited time at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Prioritize unique and popular attractions such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Jurassic World – The Ride, and the Studio Tour. These experiences offer a quintessential Universal Studios Hollywood experience.

Are there any restrictions on bringing food or drinks into Universal Studios Hollywood?

Guests are allowed to bring small snacks and bottled water into the park. However, full meals, glass containers, and alcohol are not permitted. Universal Studios also offers various dining options on-site.

What are the typical hours of operation for Universal Studios Hollywood throughout the year?

The park’s hours vary throughout the year, typically opening at 9 or 10 AM and closing between 6 PM and 10 PM. Extended hours are common during peak seasons and holiday periods. Make sure to check the website for park hours during your visit.

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Angie is a long-time California fan, having lived in the Monterey area for many years. She loves reading, cooking, and hanging out with her two kids.

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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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Universal Studios Hollywood Tips and Suggested 1 and 2 Day Itinerary

last Updated: May 24, 2024 california Los Angeles

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Planning a trip to Southern California and love theme parks and movies? Same here! Lots of Universal Studios tips and tricks, coming right up! Plus, a suggested one and two day Universal Studios Hollywood itinerary, my favorite hotel just minutes from the park, and of course all the things I ate, haha!

Welcome to the magical world of Universal Studios Hollywood , where blockbuster movies come to life and adventures await around every corner! 

I just returned home from a super fun two days in the park, and of course now have all the Universal Studios tips to share! To be honest, I kinda forgot how much fun theme parks are (yes, even as an adult), and wanna start incorporating them more into my California adventures. I mean, SoCal is only a drive away from us anyways…  

We totally felt like kids again – wandering Hogsmeade while sipping on frozen butterbeers (my new favorite), screaming on thrill rides in the Lower Lot (don’t miss The Mummy ride!), seeing the backlot of The Good Place on the iconic Studio Tour, and of course taking photos with all our favorite characters (hi Shrek!). Oh – and collecting coins, eating themed foods at Toadstool Cafe, and riding Mario Kart at Super Mario World! Such a fun weekend down in Hollywood!

Here’s everything you need to know to have the best possible weekend at Universal Studios Hollywood!

Important Info and Universal Studio Tips

Where is universal studios hollywood and how to get there .

Hollywood, baby! Yes, for real! Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Universal City in Southern California. It’s situated in the San Fernando Valley, just north of the city of Los Angeles (so thankfully you’ll miss most of that horrid LA traffic if you’re coming from up north, haha). 

The park is nestled in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, meaning tons of scenic views! You’ll see the surrounding mountains from plenty of places within the park, but we loved the views on the escalators between the Upper and Lower Lots the most (and of course took some cute pics). 

Flying : Since the park is oh so close to downtown Los Angeles, there’s plenty of nearby airports (LA is one of the most populous cities in the US after all!).

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Since LAX is a major international airport, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding non-stop flights from other large airports. It’s about 25 miles southeast of the park, so not terribly far (although LAX is definitely not my preferred airport of choice in SoCal – it’s HUGE and the traffic nearby is just awful!). But it has the most nonstop flights by far… so sometimes the most convenient depending where you’re coming from. 
• Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) : The closest airport to the park, at only 6 miles away! BUR is a smaller airport primarily only serving domestic flights, so if you’re coming from further away, you’ll most likely need to connect.
• Long Beach Airport (LGB) : Another of the smaller airports in SoCal, and about 35 miles south of Universal Studios Hollywood. 
• John Wayne Airport (SNA) : Yes, another option, although a bit further south around 45 miles away (but perfect if you wanna visit Disneyland and Orange County as well).

Driving to Universal: If you’re coming from elsewhere in California (like us!), you can totally drive! 

Coming from the San Francisco Bay Area, we tend to prefer driving to SoCal instead of flying. Although flights are relatively cheap (usually under $200 roundtrip), we find total travel time is roughly the same driving vs. flying (considering the time getting to the airport, waiting at the gate, actual flying time, getting out of LAX, etc).

• Local Tip : If you’re driving from Northern California and aren’t planning on making any stops, take the I-5; it’s way faster than the 101! Unless you’re doing a PCH road trip – that’s a different story!

Here’s some example driving distances from the other popular spots in California (and nearby) to give you a sense of the time required:

• From Los Angeles : 20 minutes, 10 miles
• From Orange County : 1 hour, 50 miles
• From Santa Barbara : 1 ½ hours, 90 miles
• From Palm Springs : 2 hours, 120 miles
• From San Diego : 2 hours, 130 miles
• From Las Vegas (Nevada): 4 ½ hours, 275 miles
• From Yosemite National Park : 4 ½ hours, 270 miles
• From Big Sur : 5 ½ hours, 340 miles
• From San Francisco : 6 hours, 375 miles
• From Sacramento: 6 hours, 375 miles
• From Phoenix (Arizona): 6 hours, 385 miles
• From Lake Tahoe : 7 ½ hours, 435 miles

If you’re not from around here, I HIGHLY recommend combining a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood with other spots in SoCal. My favorites are Palm Springs (perfect for a winter visit), San Clemente , and Santa Barbara – plus a weekend in San Diego never hurt anyone, haha. 

→ Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on a much longer Pacific Coast Highway road trip?! Check out all my favorite PCH stops right here!

Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood: Just remember if you’re driving you’ll need to deal with (and pay for overpriced) parking. General parking is over $30 per day, and front gate parking is upwards of $70 – kinda wild (and that’s on top of ticket prices). Because of that, we left the car at our hotel ( The Garland ), and took the free hotel shuttle to the park. 

BUT there’s lots of parking at Universal if that works out better for you (maybe you’ve got lots of stuff and some wiggly kids). Note that there’s no free parking at Universal Studios Hollywood with a standard ticket. Only annual Gold pass ticket holders get free parking. 

If you wanna park for $3 (yes, THREE DOLLARS for all day parking), you can park at Universal City’s Park and Ride Lot and simply take the shuttle over.

Public Transportation to Universal

• Metro : The Metro Red Line has a stop right at Universal City Station, which is within walking distance to Universal Studios Hollywood. You’ll find the Red Line from a bunch of spots throughout LA, including downtown LA and Hollywood. An easy and cost effective option if you’re staying near a metro stop!
• Bus : There’s also a few bus routes operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) that service Universal City. 

Shuttle Services: Before booking any transportation, always check to see if your hotel offers shuttle services to Universal Studios (one of the best Universal Studios tips). Sometimes they’re even free… yes, all the way from downtown LA. 

And if not, if you aren’t interested in relying on public transit (I get it, especially after a long, tiring day in the park), there’s plenty of tourist shuttles (i.e. tour companies) that offer shuttle transportation to Universal Studios Hollywood. Some of these are part of package tours, but there’s also standalone transport services. We saw tons of these huge coach buses in the lot!

Rideshares : Of course there’s always Uber/Lyft to get you to/from the park! Universal has a dedicated rideshare pick up/drop off, inside the Frankenstein parking area, just FYI, which is a 2 minute walk to the park, so super, super easy and convenient! Don’t Uber from downtown LA though – it’s gonna be hella expensive! Our hotel was less than a 10 minute drive and only an $8 Uber in the early AM.

And if you’re staying at the Sheraton Universal or Hilton Universal City , you can easily walk to the park in less than 10 minutes!

When to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood 

In terms of weather, there isn’t a horrible time to visit Universal. Winters are mild (and sometimes a bit wet), while summers are typically hot and dry. It’s the crowds you gotta worry about. 

For the least crowds, you’ll wanna avoid the weeks around Spring Break (typically mid-April), all of summer vacation, and Christmas holiday season at all costs. Of course the park will be way busier on weekends vs. weekdays, but I get weekends work best for most people (including us). 

For reference, we visited the first weekend of May and didn’t find the crowds to be horrible, although we don’t have much to compare it to, haha. I will say we had Early Access one morning and were able to ride every single ride in the park with wait times less than 30 minutes. We did spend 2 days at Universal Studios Hollywood so that definitely made a difference as well (since we didn’t feel stressed to pack everything in and could wait out long lines by getting a snack or taking pics with characters).

Where to Stay Near Universal Studios Hollywood 

There’s TONS of hotels in Los Angeles – honestly so, so, so many. If you wanna get to the park for rope drop or have Early Access to Super Nintendo World, I recommend staying nearby in Universal City. 

My top pick? The Garland : Only an 8-minute drive to Universal, you really can’t beat the location. This is where we stayed and I cannot say enough good things about it! From the quirky retro touches, poolside sunset movies, a street taco cart (which I can totally vouch for), and delicious brunch at The Front Yard, we absolutely loved it. 

Plus, there’s a FREE shuttle to Universal (and back) every single day on the hour starting at 8am (we did have to Uber one morning to get to the park earlier for Early Access, just FYI).

El Royale Hotel and The Tangerine are great options as well (and less than 10 minutes away), and there’s always the Sheraton Universal and Hilton Universal City which are both located within walking distance to the park.

Universal Studios Hollywood Tips and Tricks

Even after only a few days in the park, I came away with tons of Universal Studios tips and tricks. And sometimes just a few tweaks to your Universal itinerary can really make the trip just that much better. 

My biggest piece of advice – if you wanna see and do and eat everything, DON’T WING IT. Have a plan and *follow that plan*! 

Other (just as important) Universal tips here:

Download the app : The Universal Studios Hollywood App is honestly a HUGE help. There’s an interactive map right in the app that shows your exact location in the park, estimated wait times for all rides, park hours (they change all the time), restaurant menus, and even virtual line ques. 

I was super overwhelmed at first (the park seems huge if you’ve never been), but the app was invaluable. And it’s free, so there’s no reason not to download it! 

Get early access to Super Mario World : On that note, if Super Nintendo World is super important to you (and you don’t wanna wait on crazy long lines for Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge), early access is more than worth it. Early access gives you entry to Super Nintendo World a whole hour before the park even opens, meaning way fewer crowds and way less wait time. 

Do note that once they allow early access guests in, park staff walk all visitors straight to Super Nintendo World. You’re not allowed in other areas of the park (understandably so, and plus everything else is still closed). 

Also – don’t bother taking the stairs thinking you’ll bypass all the escalator people (you’ll see what I mean…) — park staff lead everyone and stay in front. Meaning you may as well take the escalators… it’s gonna be a long day — don’t wanna tire yourself out straight from the get go!

Arrive at the park for rope drop: If you’re not planning on getting early access, I highly recommend getting to the park early and even before actual opening hours. They’ll scan your ticket before park hours, then put everyone in a waiting hold, and then drop the rope and you’re free to go as you please! 

Make sure you prioritize heading to the popular rides first so you can get on before the huge lines start to form.

Make reservations for Toadstool Cafe: If you wanna eat at Toadstool Cafe (the themed restaurant inside Super Nintendo World), you’ll need to make a reservation. These often sell out early in the day (and can only be made the day of), so in order to get your desired time, make your reservation as soon as you visit Super Nintendo World in the AM upon park opening. 

The only way is to scan the QR code outside the restaurant – not even in the app. If you miss reservations, they sometimes do walk-ups, and make sure to check the QR code link throughout the day – sometimes reservations become available later on.

Don’t miss the studio tour: This is the bread and butter of Universal Studios Hollywood, and what really sets it apart from Universal Orlando! I mean, Universal Studios Hollywood remains a working studio (!!!) where movies, television shows, commercials, and music videos are still filmed. 

You can even catch glimpses of active production sets if you’re lucky. Plus, there’s some really cool “rides” on it too – like the King Kong 360 3-D, Fast & Furious – Supercharged, and of course you’ll get to see the Jaws replica!

Figure out your breakfast situation ahead of time: If you’re planning to rush to the rides (which you should if you don’t wanna wait on horrendous lines), you either need to eat breakfast before entering the park (or a quick one while waiting for rope drop), or wait it out until you’re satisfied with your morning. Looking back I’d bring some snacks for the AM since we didn’t end up eating until almost 1pm on our first day, whoops (not the smartest idea).

Take advantage of mobile food ordering: Perfect if the food lines are long and you’re getting hangry, haha. If you know what you want you can simply order on the app and essentially skip the line! 

Some rides offer free lockers for two hours : While most rides allow you to carry on backpacks and such, two rides (Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Revenge of the Mummy) provide free lockers to keep your stuff in. 

These lockers are good for up to two hours, so if the line’s short and you don’t feel like carrying around your stuff for a bit, well, you’ve got up to two hours for free (take advantage – nothing’s free at theme parks… ever)! One of my best Universal Studios tips by far.

Buy your tickets in advance: Not only will you save time (who wants to wait on yet another unnecessary line when you’ll be on lines all day, haha), but you actually save a few bucks buying on the website.

Stay hydrated: You’re in SoCal – it’ll probably be hot and sunny. There’s plenty of bathrooms located around the park, so no excuse not to drink lots of water and stay hydrated (and no, a Duff’s Beer doesn’t count, haha). 

While we’re on that note, don’t forget about the sunscreen!

Check showtimes: Since shows are only scheduled a few times each day, if you really wanna see a show (I highly recommend WaterWorld), plan it into your day. Rides run continuously during park opening hours, so you can hop on those anytime.

Take pics with characters when you see them: I was surprised that lines close to take pictures with the characters, but it makes sense since they need breaks from the costumes! Get on line early so you don’t miss out on the popular characters (namely Mario and Luigi and Shrek and Fiona). You’ll see some characters roaming around (we loved seeing Frankenstein out and about), but most are there to pose for photos. 

My favorites were the minions, Bart and Lisa, the train conductor in Hogsmeade Village (such a character), and the Jurassic Park dinosaurs – so, so epic! And OMG, you need to see Donkey – so interactive and fun! 

Other FAQs about Universal Studios Hollywood 

What is the closest airport to Universal Studios? Nope, it’s not LAX! The closest airport to Universal Studios Hollywood is actually Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), also known as Bob Hope Airport. Being only ~6 miles northeast of the park, it’s easily the most convenient airport for visitors in terms of proximity to Universal.

Are Universal Studios Hollywood and Hollywood Studios the same thing? I was super confused about this at first too, and I’m here to report they are very much NOT the same thing! 

Universal Studios is a film studio and theme park located in Universal City, California (what this entire blog post is about!), while Hollywood Studios (officially known as Disney’s Hollywood Studios) is a theme park located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Hollywood Studios is operated by The Walt Disney Company and is inspired by Disney films and the entertainment industry.

Universal Studios Hollywood vs Universal Studios Orlando: Which one should you visit?! It’s hard to say – although they’re on opposite sides of the country so that may very well be the deciding factor, haha. 

Here’s a few key differences about them –

• Located in Universal City, California
• Features Super Nintendo World, the Studio Tour, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and plenty of movie-themed attractions
• Divided into two main areas: the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot
• The park is smaller in size compared to Universal Studios Orlando but offers unique experiences such as the Studio Tour and is very much doable in only one day
• Located in Orlando, Florida
• Comprises two theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (with way more action and thrill rides)
• Offers a wider range of attractions, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in both parks, The Simpsons Ride, and more.
• Universal Studios Orlando is larger and is hard to see in only one day 

So basically, if you’re in California, visit Universal Studios Hollywood, and if you’re on the East Coast, visit Universal Studios Orlando, haha. BUT remember, Super Nintendo World is ONLY at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Should I get the Universal Express Pass? That depends on a few different factors. It’s more expensive (obviously), but you get to skip the regular lines at most attractions within the park. Perfect if you’re visiting on a very crowded day and really wanna maximize your time. 

You definitely don’t need the Express Pass if you’re spending two days at Universal Studios as long as you have a well-planned out few days of course (my suggested Universal Studios itinerary below!). We got Early Access to Super Nintendo World and skipped on the Express Pass.

What’s the VIP Experience? An even more exclusive and personalized visit to Universal Studios Hollywood! It’s essentially a VIP guided tour of the park that provides behind-the-scenes access, priority access to attractions, and special perks like gourmet dining. 

Not necessary for the regular visitor, but perfect if you’re a huge movie buff and really wanna learn about and gain insider info about the studio’s history, famous productions, and the movie-making process.

Can I bring food and water into the park? Yes, you’re allowed snacks, sandwiches, fruits/veggies, and other non-perishable items (no glass containers understandably). Even small coolers and picnic baskets are allowed, although they must fit within the park’s size restrictions. 

Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at water fountains throughout the park (although it seems kinda annoying to hold all day if I’m being honest if you’re just carrying a belt bag like I did…). Note that outside alcohol (including drinks purchased in CityWalk) is not allowed in the park. 

What else to do near Universal Studios Hollywood? There’s TONS of things to do near the park – I mean LA is right there! Some popular spots are Hollywood Boulevard, the Griffith Observatory, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, the Santa Monica Pier, CityWalk (literally a walk away), and so much more. 

Most visitors combine their one or two days in Universal with other things in SoCal! Might as well hang around SoCal for a bit if you’re not from around there!

Should I spend 1 or 2 days in Universal Studios?

That’s entirely up to you of course! I will say that most people only spend one day at Universal, but we really enjoyed having two days at the park! 

We had tons of time to explore the park at a leisurely pace, got to ride popular rides multiple times (often with very little wait time – I see you Mario Kart, The Mummy, and Transformers), and were able to take lots of snack breaks without fear of missing attractions/shows/characters.

If you buy early access to Super Nintendo World, you can most likely see and do everything in one day. Just make sure to prioritize your must-do activities and plan your day strategically. The park isn’t huge by any means – it’s way smaller than Disneyland/California Adventure nearby and Universal Studios Florida/Islands of Adventure in Orlando. So very doable with just one day.

It really depends on how long you’ve got, and if you’re trying to hit up other Southern California hotspots on your trip. Coming from the SF Bay Area, we’ve been to SoCal dozens of times, so this trip was primarily about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood since we’d never been. 

Rides at Universal Studios Hollywood 

And now onto the good part – all the rides at Universal! I was kinda surprised that there weren’t more rides at the park (there’s only about a dozen or so), but that just meant we re-rode our favorites a bunch!

Universal Studios Hollywood is divided into two main areas: the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot. There’s a series of escalators between the two, although they take quite a while to get between (there’s four long escalators!), so I’d recommend checking off everything in one before heading to the other so you’re not bouncing between the two all day.

I’ll go over the rides in more detail, but here’s a general overview of the lots.

• The Upper Lot is where you’ll find the main entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood and where many of the family-friendly attractions are located (think Kung Fu Panda, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, The Simpsons Ride, and Secret Life of Pets). There’s also The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (my favorite!), the Studio Tour, and The Simpsons Springfield (don’t miss the giant pink donut) over here.
• The Lower Lot is where the more adventurous and thrilling rides are, including Revenge of the Mummy, Jurassic World, and Transformers. Plus Super Nintendo World (!!!) with the crazy-popular Mario Kart ride, themed dining at Toadstool Cafe, and shopping at 1-UP Factory.

Upper Lot 

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter 

Welcome to the magical Wizarding World of Harry Potter, full of frozen butterbeers, wand and owl shops in Hogsmeade Village, cobblestoned streets leading to Hogwarts Castle, and Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavor Beans. 

I think we wandered through half a dozen times, and I never got over just how detailed and authentic everything was! A must visit for witches, wizards, and Muggles alike. There’s two rides here, and a third attraction which is more like a mini-show:

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: We LOVED this ride and went on it 5 times during our 2 days at Universal Studios, haha. Get ready to soar through iconic Harry Potter scenes, including the Forbidden Forest, the Quidditch pitch, and the Chamber of Secrets. Definitely one of the most popular rides in the park.
• Flight of the Hippogryph : This is the park’s only outdoor rollercoaster, and you fly around Hagrid’s hut and past Hagrid’s magical creatures. Honestly, it’s not worth waiting if the lines over 20 minutes long – the ride is literally a 20 second mini roller coaster and is over in a flash (womp, womp). It definitely has great potential but was very (very) meh to us and kinda a dud.
• Ollivanders Wand Shop : A magical experience where guests can watch a wand-choosing ceremony conducted by a wandkeeper. It’s more of a mini show than an actual ride, and was cute but not a must-do in my opinion unless you’re a huge fan of HP. The lines are never very long for this, so may as well check it out. Then you can purchase your very own wand afterwards to cast spells and make magical things happen in the park (yes, really!).

Springfield

So, so colorful, and so, so fun! Especially with a giant pink donut in hand! I was floored by how meticulously themed Springfield was. The whole area really recreates the look and feel of the fictional town from The Simpsons. From the colorful buildings to the humorous signage and themed props, it really captures the charm and humor from the long-lasting TV show (with over 30 seasons, wow!).

Don’t miss classic American burgers, fries, and milkshakes at Krusty Burger, a Flaming Moe from Moe’s Tavern, oversized, pink-frosted donuts from Lard Lad Donuts (just like Homer!), and some Duff Beer from the brewery!

• The Simpsons Ride: Get read for a hilarious adventure through Krustyland, an amusement park created by Krusty the Clown. Riders board a simulator vehicle shaped like a roller coaster car and experience 3D animation, motion simulation, and special effects along the way. We thought it was super fun!
• Studio Tour

One of the main attractions of Universal Studios Hollywood is the Studio Tour! So, naturally, one of my biggest tips for Universal Studios is to not miss it (especially since it’s not offered at the location in Orlando).

What is it exactly? A tram ride that takes guests behind the scenes of real working movie studios and offers a glimpse into the magic of filmmaking. One of the defining features of the park, actually!  

There’s movie sets, soundstages, and other things in the working backlot to see, where famous blockbuster movies and TV shows have been filmed over the years. Think Desperate Housewives, Jaws, Back to the Future, The Good Place (with the exact yogurt spot), Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho”, and so many more.

Besides all the filmmaking fun, there’s also two main “rides”/special effect demonstrations on the Studio Tour – Fast & Furious – Supercharged and King Kong 360 3-D, both of which were utterly fascinating and really cool. The Studio Tour does get busy at times (staff told us wait times can be two hours!), so if you see a short wait time, go for it!

Other rides and attractions in the Upper Lot

• The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash! : Pretend you’re a pet navigating the wild streets of NYC – the ride was cute and all but once was enough, haha.
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem : We loved this 3D motion-simulator ride featuring Gru, his daughters, and the Minions. Real talk – I almost teared up at the end! Don’t miss the minion dance party afterwards. Safe to say we went on this multiple times.

• Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest: A 4D theater experience with 3D glasses and special effects! Clearly it wasn’t too memorable for me because I don’t remember riding it, although I know for a fact we did!
• Super Silly Fun Land : A cute play area for kids inspired by the Despicable Me movies. There’s the Silly Swirly Fun Ride (a spinning ride), Super Silly Space Killer (a water play area), and more. 
• WaterWorld: Also in the Upper Lot you’ll find the park’s only live-action stunt show. It’s based on the 1995 film “Waterworld”, and we loved the thrilling stunts, pyrotechnics (so much fire!), and even a seaplane crash. Crazy what special effects can be performed on the water – kinda wind! 

Lower Lot 

Super Nintendo World

Walk through the life-sized green pipe (with rainbow sparkly lights of course) and you’ll find Bowser’s Castle, Princess Peach’s Castle, angry thwomps, and Mt. Beanpole. Even biting Piranha Plants, rotating coins, and ? blocks to punch. A truly immersive world and complete deja vu (that is, if you played the video games as a kid like I did!).

I could not believe just how much thought went into designing the space – we really felt like we were in Super Nintendo World! It was designed to resemble the vibrant and colorful world of Nintendo games after all – particularly the Mushroom Kingdom from the Super Mario series!

Besides the ridiculously popular ride (which sees wait times of an hour+ after 9:30am), there’s the themed Toadstool Cafe with fun desserts and lunch items, shopping at the 1 Up Shop, and of course the Power Up Band Key Challenges to collect virtual coins (you’ll wanna buy a Power-Up Band to compete in these). 

• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: This ride was SO fun – and even better that we had early access and didn’t have to wait on a two hour line, haha (it was more like 5 minutes for us). As soon as we got off we quickly got back on line to ride again (definitely only possible with early access!). I won’t spoil it for ya, but just know you’ll be putting on a Mario visor and special VR goggles and will be steering through different levels and versions of the Mario Kart game! Technology is wild y’all! 

Other rides and attractions in the Lower Lot

• Jurassic World : Ohhh another one we loved! It kinda felt like going on a river adventure through prehistoric landscapes complete with MASSIVE state-of-the-art animatronic dinosaurs (and super realistic). It’s the only water ride in Universal… so you may very well get a bit wet! Some people wore ponchos, but that seemed like overkill to me, haha (especially on a hot day).

• The Mummy: Easily our favorite ride in the entire park – and probably the most thrilling (which is definitely why we loved it oh so much). At first it’s very deceiving, but then BAM – you’re off! It’s actually an indoor roller coaster totally inspired by The Mummy film franchise – expect mummies, scarab beetles, and other dangers.
• Transformers: The Ride 3D: Get ready to battle between the Autobots and Decepticons (think Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Megatron, and more)! This was another of our favorite rides in the park, and we went on multiple times during our two days at Universal! 

Food/snacks at Universal Studios Hollywood 

We were more-than pleasantly surprised with the snack situation at Universal Studios. After visiting Disneyland last year , I didn’t think Universal would be on par, but boy was I wrong. We ate SO good and there were SO many fun themed foods and drinks. That was another benefit of spending two days at Universal – we got to try almost everything we wanted (hence this very long list of foods, haha)!

• Frozen butterbeer : 10/10 (super iconic, super refreshing, and super delicious – and no, it’s not beer and is actually nonalcoholic)
• Minion cookie : 7/10 (not terrible, but not the best cookie I’ve had either)
• Minion Nutella banana pudding : 8/10 (that nutella at the bottom really kicks it up a notch)
• Classic salted pretzel : 8/10 (perfectly fluffy and salted and always theme park favorite of mine)
• ? Up box tiramisu : 7/10 (super cute decorations and tasted pretty good)
• Flaming Moe : 5/10 (get solely for the presentation – it’s just orange soda with dry ice)
• Giant pink donut : 10/10 (I’d go back to Universal just for this – thought it’d be just for show and a fun pic, but wow oh wow was that donut orgasmic)

• Cheesy mushroom garlic knots : 9/10 (SO CHEESY and yummy and great dipped in the marinara sauce, don’t miss these at Toadstool Cafe)
• Butterbeer soft ice cream : 5/10 (didn’t taste the butterbeer flavor too much, but the vanilla was yummy and the texture was perfect, haha)
• Mushroom calzone : 4/10 (photo op in my opinion)
• Krusty burger : 6/10 (fun and nostalgic space, but regular American food)
• Toadstool cafe : 🍄 6/10 – The food was more like a 8/10, but the entire place kinda lacks organization and we didn’t start eating until after 1:15pm when our reservation was at noon. Definitely dedicate at least an hour and a half for this regardless if you have a reservation.

Suggested 1 and 2 Day Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary 

1 day universal studios hollywood itinerary.

You can totally do Universal Studios Hollywood in just one day – the park isn’t all that big honestly! BUT it will be a very rushed and hectic day if you wanna go on all the rides, and definitely expect to wait in a few lines!

• Ride Mario Kart
• Make reservation for Toadstool Cafe for early lunch
• Games and challenges
• Character photos
• Transformers 
• Jurassic World 
• 11:15-12:45ish: Toadstool Cafe 
• 1-2:30pm: Studio Tour 
• 3pm onwards: Upper Lot rides (including Wizarding World of Harry Potter) and WaterWorld show

2 Days in Universal Studios Hollywood 

As noted earlier, we spent 2 days in Universal Studios. And because of that, we didn’t wait longer than 25 minutes for any ride since we had two mornings and were able to knock out all the busy rides in the AM. We had a super relaxing two days in the park, and loved being able to stop for photos with characters and indulge in all the themed snacks without feeling like we’d be missing out on rides.

AND were able to go on the super popular rides multiple times (including twice on Mario Kart, 5x on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – no, it didn’t get old, a whole bunch of times on both The Mummy and Transformers, and whatever other rides we wanted to do again).

Day 1 in Universal

• Early access to Mario World
• Other rides in Lower lot 
• Lunch at Toadstool Cafe

Afternoon 

• Spend the afternoon enjoying more attractions and shows, including The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!, Kung Fu Panda Adventure, and hanging out in Springfield with a few Duff beers!

Day 2 Universal Itinerary

• Arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood for park opening.
• Start your day with popular attractions in The Upper Lot with typically long wait times, such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (we went twice back to back on Day 2), Flight of the Hippograph, and The Simpsons Ride.

Afternoon and Night

• Wander around the park, taking pics with characters, going on your favorite rides AGAIN, sipping more frozen butterbeers, eating that gigantic pink donut, etc!

Hope all these Universal Studios tips and tricks help you plan the most perfect trip! Have a butterbeer (or two!) for me!

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June 1, 2024 at 9:00 am

Hi, enjoyed your post, planning an october trip with my neurodivergent son and this was very helpful. I wonder if you have or would make another post on your evaluation of citywalk, and of the other restaurants in the park. Also: great pix!

June 6, 2024 at 9:04 am

So glad the post was helpful — Universal is so fun! We honestly didn’t spend much time at CityWalk — we just walked around for an hour or so at night. There are lots of shops and some more restaurants over there. And I can’t touch upon the other restaurants because I didn’t eat at them — there are some very in depth Instagram accounts that are solely disney/theme parks that would probably be very helpful! Have fun!

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Tips for Being a Smart Universal Studios Hollywood Visitor

Universal Studios Hollywood is a lot of fun to visit, but with a little knowledge and planning, you can enjoy it even more.

The tips below are based on more there a dozen visits. Someone else made all the rookie mistakes, so you don't have to. This guide will help you have more fun with less hassle.

Whether this is your first visit or your ninety-first, you may also want to know what's new at Universal Studios Hollywood this year .

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

What You Need to Know Before You Visit

TripSavvy / Ashley Nicole DeLeon 

Buy your tickets online before you go. To find out why buying online might save you money, and where to buy your tickets, check the Universal Studios Ticket Guide .

If you want to enjoy Universal without the crowds, go in the fall, winter, or spring (except during Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays). Avoid weekends and any public holidays. Summers are not only crowded but hot and best avoided if you can.

You can also get an idea about what days will be most crowded by consulting isitpacked.com .

Special Needs

Visually impaired visitors can be accommodated, and signers can be provided with notice. Call at least two weeks ahead of time to arrange for signers or to discuss any special needs you have.  Check the Universal website for more information .

Taking the Kids to Universal Studios Hollywood

Betsy Malloy Photography

Is Anyone Under 48 Inches Tall?

That's 122 cm if you think metric. Many rides have height limits for safety's sake, so smaller folks don't slide out of the restraints. It applies to everyone, no matter what their age.

If you have children, you may not be able to avoid a temper tantrum when they find out they can't go on the ride they've been dreaming about — but you can keep the uproar at home. Measure their height before you go, check the height restrictions and let them get over it before they arrive.

For some rides, kids shorter than 48 inches can ride if they bring along a Supervising Companion (who must be 14 years or older). The requirements for each ride are listed in the Universal Studios Ride Guide .

Child Switch

If more than one adult is visiting the park with kids who can’t (or don’t want to) go on a ride, you might think that the adults will have to stand in line separately, so someone is always with the kids, taking twice as long for every ride.

At Universal, you don't have to do that. At any ride with a Child Switch option, get in line together. When you reach the ride entrance, one adult rides while the other waits with the kids. When the first adult returns, they swap off. You'll find Child Switch noted outside the ride and on the park maps.

Single Rider

If you are willing to split up from your companions while you're on a ride, you can save time by getting into the Single Rider line. Staffers use single riders to fill empty seats, getting you on faster.

Family restrooms are located on both the upper and lower lots, near the first aid stations.

Things to Do for the Littlest Visitors

The little ones will enjoy the Silly Swirly Ride and the water play area next to the Despicable Me ride.

Kids of any size and age can go to the shows and on the tram tour, too.

Plan Your Day at Universal Studios Hollywood

Time your visit.

Some guides say to arrive 30 minutes before the park's official opening time, which might get you in a few minutes earlier than everyone else. To do that, you need to be driving into the parking garage or getting off the Metro about an hour before opening.

If you plan to arrive mid-day instead, you can sleep late and fuel up before you tackle the park. You'll avoid the crowd that gathers when the gates open and the rush to the rides that happens then. And you'll be there later when wait times start to get shorter. For an attraction that has a 90-minute wait at noon, you may be able to walk straight in by 8:00 p.m. And in summer, it's much cooler (temperature-wise) after sunset.

Plan Your Day

The perfect way to plan your day depends on your preferences, endurance, and a bunch of other things that only you can predict. Use these tips to help figure out how to best spend your day at Universal.

The upper and lower lots are connected by a long series of escalators that take about seven minutes to travel one way. Because of that, you’re better off to do everything on the lower lot in one trip. 

In the summer, the lower lot is hotter than the upper one. If you can, plan to go down there as early in the morning as possible - or after the sun goes down.

Look at the show schedule when you arrive and plan everything else around any of them you want to see.

Ride Jurassic World between morning and mid-afternoon. That will give you a chance to dry out before temperatures drop.

The studio tour closes before the park does. During winter, the last tours of the day can be cold and chilly. The best time to go is mid-day. Even if it's hot, the trams are shaded, and your feet can get a rest.

Take It: What to Take to Universal Studios Hollywood

You already know most of this, but don't be offended by the reminders — and don't be surprised when you find something on the list that you hadn't thought of. Take these things with you:

Patience: Waits can be more than an hour at peak times. If you're short on that, get a VIP Pass to get to the front of the line faster.

Motion-Sickness Remedies:  Many of the rides could turn a sensitive person into a puke-a- saurus. Bring the remedy that works best for you.

Comfortable Shoes : You'd be surprised how many people walk around with blisters on their feet because they just had to wear that stylish pair of shoes.

Quick Drying Clothing: You'll be glad you wore it after Jurassic World - The Ride. Heavy cotton fabrics and jeans get soggy and stay that way for an uncomfortably long time.

For Water Play: If your kids are going to play in the splashy part of Super Silly Funland, bring swimsuits and a towel so you can get them dry afterward. There's a changing area nearby.

Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially in summer.

Glasses Case: You'll need it to put them in, so you don't lose them on the rides.

3-D Glasses: If 3-D glasses give you headaches and you use them often enough at movies and theme parks to justify a $20 to $30 investment, you may want to go shopping before going to Universal. Hank Green’s 2D Glasses turn the 3-D back into 2-D, or you can get circular polarized clip-ons for your everyday glasses. You can also buy and bring your own 3-D glasses, which may have better optical quality than the ones at the park.

More (and Less) Clothing Than You Might Think: Even on a hot summer day, it can get chilly fast after sunset. During the day, it may be hotter than you expect. Check the weather forecast for Studio City, which can be as much as 20°F hotter than the coast during the summer.

Rainy Days: Umbrellas are a hassle in a theme park. Bring a hooded rain jacket or poncho instead. In summer, know that overcast mornings seldom mean rain later.

Leave It: Things Not to Take When You Go to Universal Studios Hollywood

Leave these items behind.

Anything You Don't Need: That includes that pile of store discount cards, the office keys, and anything else you don't need while you're in the park. They take up space and weigh you down. A small waist pack or sling bag works well to carry the rest.

Anything Embarrassing: Your bags will be inspected at the park entrance.

Food and Drinks: They aren't allowed inside the park except for water, fruit, and baby food.

Leave the GoPro at home . Most rides have strict no video/photo policies inside.

Pets: Animals aren't allowed inside the theme park (except for trained service animals). Leave your furry friends somewhere else if you can. If you bring them on your trip and need a kennel, see the information at the end of this guide.

Your Car: If you're staying at a nearby hotel , ask if they have a shuttle. It may save you the cost of parking. If you're too far away for a hotel shuttle, you can ask if there's an MTA station nearby and take that to the Universal Studios stop.

How to Tackle the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Wizarding World is the busiest attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood, but with a few tips, you can get the most of it.

• Think about splitting up your Harry Potter day. Go in the morning for a look around, then go back for a late lunch or dinner at the Three Broomsticks.
• The magic wands are cute and make a nice souvenir, but you may have to wait in line to use them. By the time you see all those other people in front of you and know what's going to happen, some of the magic is gone.
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey has tight size restrictions because of the way the seat restraint is designed. It can disqualify even somewhat large people, depending on their shape. There's a test seat near the entrance to the queue where you can see if you fit or not.
• Unless you're a hardcore Harry Potter fan, skip the sorting hat experience at the wand shop. Only a couple of people in each group get to participate, and the wait can be annoyingly long. If you must go, avoid the morning rush and do it later in the day.
• The nighttime light show takes place in the summer and during the year-end holidays. If you want to see it, get there early to find an excellent place to watch or wait for a second show, and you can slip into place as others are leaving.

While You're at Universal Studios

Get a good start by choosing the most convenient parking garage. The E.T. garage is the default if you follow the signs. From there, you have to walk the length of CityWalk to get to the park entrance.

You can avoid that long walk and leave the crowds behind if you choose the Frankenstein garage instead. To reach it, exit U.S. Highway 101 at Lankershim Blvd. Go north, then turn right onto Universal Hollywood Drive and look for the lot entrance on the left just past the first curve. From the lot, you will take a series of escalators up to the entry plaza.

Getting Into the Park

• When you leave your car, write down the name of the parking garage and level you're on — or take a pic.
• If you brought a lot of stuff but don't want to tote it all around, you could leave the extras in the car and go back for it, but doing that is a time-waster. Instead, rent a locker. They're inside the gate near the entrance.
• If you need to buy tickets, are using a credit card and don't have coupons to redeem, bypass the lines and go to the self-serve machines instead. They're to the right of the main ticket booths.
• If you bought your tickets online but didn't print them, you might think the Will Call window is the place to go, but it isn’t. Instead, get into the Guest Services line for assistance.
• On the way in, it’s easy to mistake the ticket line for the entrance line. Be sure you're in the right one - unless, of course, you like to wait in lines.

Inside the Park

• First stop: Guest Relations. They have free buttons for you.
• Don't lug your purchases around all day. Go shopping at the end of the day, or ask to have your purchases held for pickup when you leave. The pickup location is near the exit at the Universal Studios store.
• The escalators between the upper and lower areas could almost qualify as a ride. They are some of the longest and steepest you may ever encounter. To avoid making the long journey more than once, plan your visit so you can do everything in the Lower Lot before you go back up.
• Occasionally, guests already feeling the effects of Transformers or Revenge of the Mummy may start to feel so nauseous on the escalators that they decide to get off and use the stairs. If you have mobility issues, baby strollers, or don't like to ride on escalators, ask any staff member where to find the elevator.
• If you’re a larger person and find that you can’t fit into the rides, you can still enjoy the shows and studio tour. If you feel like you didn't get enough for your money, ask for a refund at Guest Services.
• If your mobile device needs charging and you have your charger with you, try the Starbucks in the upper lot, which has plenty of electrical outlets. If you forgot your charger, Guest Relations might be able to loan you one.

Food and Drink

• Food is expensive, and all-you-can-eat dining passes are too unless you're a huge eater. Take a break, but avoid noon when restaurants are busier, and go out to eat at  CityWalk .
• If you need an adult beverage inside the park, try Hogs Head inside the Three Broomsticks at Wizarding World and Moe's Tavern in the "Springfield" area.

Universal Studios Apps

You can get wait times in several ways: Use the Universal Studios app or check the wait times posted in the park. The Universal Studios Hollywood Mobile App  is the most convenient way to keep track of wait times while you're planning your day in the park.

You'll find the free Universal app on iTunes. For Android, the app is available on Google Play. No matter where you get your app, it's best to download it before you go. Before you use it for the first time, it needs to download data, which can take a few minutes.

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17 Must-Read Tips for Universal Studios Hollywood with Kids

Posted on Last updated: November 28, 2023

Home » Destinations » California » Universal Studios » 17 Must-Read Tips for Universal Studios Hollywood with Kids

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Are you thinking about visiting Universal Studios on your next family vacation? Don’t miss these must-know tips for Universal Studios Hollywood with kids from a family who has visited multiple times.

This list of tips for universal studios hollywood with kids was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

We’ve visited Universal Studios Hollywood several times throughout the years. Most recently, we did a day trip there for Spring Break.

Our main reason for planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood during Spring Break was to ride Mario Kart at the new Super Nintendo World.

But, our kids also love hanging out in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and you never have to twist our arms to do that!

Since we’ve been to this Southern California theme park a few times, I figured it was about time that I wrote up some of our personal Universal Studios tips and tricks!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Universal Studios Hollywood blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Universal Studios with kids.

Where to Stay at Universal Studios Hollywood

• Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City (we’ve stayed here twice, and it’s the closest hotel to the park)
• Sheraton Universal Hotel (it’s right behind the Hilton and still within walking distance of the park)
• The Garland (this is a 5-minute drive from the park and has a boutique vibe)

How to Get Discount Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets

• 1-Day Admission
• 2-Day Admission
• Universal Express
• VIP Tickets

Where is Universal Studios California?

Universal Studios Hollywood is located in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles County, California. It is about 10 miles north of downtown Los Angeles and about 5 miles west of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Hotels by Universal Studios Hollywood

Hilton los angeles/universal city.

This hotel is located just a short walk from the park entrance and offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the Hollywood Hills. We’ve stayed here twice and it’s super convenient, especially with the free shuttle service.

Guests can enjoy amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options. Check the latest rates and availability .

Sheraton Universal Hotel

Another great option for guests looking to stay close to Universal Studios Hollywood is the Sheraton Universal Hotel. This hotel features modern guest rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.

Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service to the park. Check the latest rates and availability .

The Garland

The Garland is a stylish and retro-inspired hotel located just a mile from Universal Studios Hollywood. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.

The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the park. Check the latest rates and availability .

BLVD Hotel & Spa

The BLVD Hotel & Spa is a trendy and modern hotel located just a short drive from Universal Studios Hollywood. This hotel offers spacious and stylish guest rooms, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa.

Guests can also enjoy complimentary shuttle service to and from the park. Check the latest rates and availability .

Tilt Hotel Universal/Hollywood

The Tilt Hotel Universal/Hollywood offers budget-friendly accommodations just a mile from Universal Studios Hollywood. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.

The hotel also offers a free shuttle service to the park. Check the latest rates and availability .

Deals for Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets

We’re all looking for cheap Universal Studios Hollywood tickets, right? I can’t promise you cheap, but I will say that Get Away Today offers discounts on all types of Universal Studios Hollywood tickets.

My husband and I did the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour on our first trip to the theme park and it was pretty spectacular.

We went to the front of the line for all the attractions, got a nice sit-down lunch, and got to walk around TV show sets. Check the latest rates for discounted VIP tours .

Universal Express Pass

We’ve done the Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass for our last two trips to the theme park with kids and it’s been a lifesaver.

Basically, you get to skip the long line. It’s perfect if you are only spending one day at Universal Studios Hollywood and want to maximize your time. Check the latest rates for discounted Universal Express passes .

1-Day and 2-Day Admission Tickets

If you want the standard Universal Studios Hollywood tickets, you can choose either a 1-day or 2-day pass .

There aren’t any perks but you’ll still be able to do a ton of stuff. Check the latest rates for discounted Universal Studios Hollywood tickets .

Guide to Universal Studios Hollywood

In my opinion, there are two main areas that people like to hang out in at Universal Studios Hollywood. These are the new Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Super Nintendo World

The newest area of Universal Studios Hollywood is Super Nintendo World in the lower lot. We visited it a few weeks after it opened and it’s seriously cool. I wrote a whole guide to Super Nintendo World Universal Studios Hollywood .

There’s just one ride here: Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge . You’ll walk through Bowsers Castle before going on an Augmented Reality race. It’s super fun for kids and adults!

If you have standard park tickets, you’ll need to make a reservation for the virtual line pass for a one-time entry. If you have Universal Express passes or are part of a VIP tour, you can just walk right in.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

This is the other major attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood. While it’s not as massive as the one in Florida, it’s still completely immersive.

There are two rides that are pretty fun. The Flight of the Hippogriff is a super fast but quick rollercoaster. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is an immersive dark ride where you’ll feel like a part of the story.

There’s also a photo op with the Hogwarts Express (no the train doesn’t go anywhere) and performances throughout the day.

It’s also one of the best places to shop at Universal Studios Hollywood. You can get a monogrammed Hogwarts robe, a wand from Olivander’s, and stock up on treats!

Besides the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there are tons of attractions in the Upper Lot.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

The simpsons ride, the secret life of pets: off the leash, the dreamworks theatre featuring kung fu panda, silly swirly fun ride.

Besides Super Nintendo World, there are several attractions in the Lower Lot.

Jurassic World: The Ride

Revenge of the mummy, transformers the ride: 3-d, how long does it take to get between the upper lot and the lower lot.

The Upper and Lower Lots at Universal Studios Hollywood are connected by a series of escalators, stairs, and elevators. The total walking distance between the two lots is about 0.3 miles.

The average time it takes to walk between the two lots is about 10 minutes, but this can vary depending on the time of day and the number of people in the park.

One of my top tips for Universal Studios Hollywood is to do all the rides in the Lower Lot you’d like to do in one go. That way, you’ll avoid going up and down the escalators too many times.

Best Rides at Universal Studios Los Angeles for Kids

Most of the best rides for kids are located in the Upper Lot.

If you’re visiting Universal Studios Hollywood with toddlers, this ride should be high on your list. It’s located in the Super Silly Fun Land and it’s basically like riding Dumbo at Disneyland.

The line is usually short and kids can play in the play area while someone waits in line. There is no height requirement but kids under 48″ will need to ride with an adult.

If you have a Minions fan, they will definitely want to do this ride! It’s sort of like a virtual rollercoaster. So, if anyone feels a little woozy, they can just close their eyes. Kids need to be at least 40″ to ride.

This is my kids’ favorite ride, hands-down. Even the line has plenty of things to look at as you meander through the apartments. They even have little videos playing in one part.

The ride itself is really adorable and reminds me of the Monsters Inc. ride at Disneyland. Kids need to be at least 38″ to ride.

My kids haven’t seen the TV show, but my 9-year-old LOVES this ride! It’s sort of similar to Despicable Me Minion Mayhem but with a different storyline. Kids need to be at least 40″ to ride.

Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge

The newest ride at Universal Studios Hollywood is Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge in Super Nintendo World.

My kids thought it was super fun to try to defeat Team Bowser (especially after watching the movie). But, since it’s a new ride, it usually has super long wait times. Kids need to be at least 40″ to ride Mario Kart.

I would almost say this is more of a show than a ride. It’s a 4D movie experience where the seats move as you go on a short adventure with the gang from Kung Fu Panda.

It’s really cute and a great way to get out of the sun for a bit. There is no height requirement.

Best Universal Studios Hollywood Rides for Thrill Seekers

If you’re looking for a water ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, this is it! You’ll hop in a boat and explore Jurassic World before splashing down into a pool of water. Kids need to be at least 42″ to ride.

My 9-year-old loves rollercoasters so he thought he’d also like this ride. It turns out it was pretty creepy for him. But it definitely has all the thrill factors. Kids need to be at least 48″ to ride.

This is another dark ride on a track where you’re immersed in a Transformers storyline. The ride itself isn’t super intense but the action on the screen amplifies everything. Kids need to be at least 40″ to ride.

The Flight of the Hippogriff

This is the only actual rollercoaster at Universal Hollywood. It’s really short and kids just need to be at least 39″ to ride.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

This is a really immersive ride through Hogwarts and the surrounding area. You even get to be part of a quidditch match!

Kids need to be at least 48″ to ride, so double-check their height. You can also just walk through Hogwarts and skip the line (or rider swap) if they are too short.

What to do at Universal Studios Hollywood Besides Rides

Another one of my tips for Universal Studios Hollywood is to add is some activities that AREN’T rides. There are plenty of other Universal Studios Hollywood attractions.

Character Meet and Greets

You really never know who you might meet at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Typically, we see minions, Gru, and even the girls near the Despicable Me area. It’s all set up for photo ops.

There’s also Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, and Megatron in the Transformers area. They usually interact a lot with guests so it’s always fun to take videos here.

In the new Super Nintendo World area, you’ll be able to meet Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach at designated times.

On our last trip to Universal Hollywood, we also saw the gang from Scooby Doo, Trolls, Shrek, and Simpsons characters.

Located in the Jurassic World area in the Lower Lot, DinoPlay is an interactive play area for little kids. There’s a place to dig for dinosaur fossils, check out a full-size T-Rex skull, and run across a rope plank bridge.

Super Silly Fun Land is an elaborate play zone near the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. There’s a play structure, seating, and lots of shade.

Wand Magic in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you decide to splurge on a wand at Olivander’s or the wand stand, you’ll get a map that shows you where you can perform magic spells in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

There are usually staff members around who will help kids do the spells correctly so they can make sounds happen or watch things move. It’s really quite entertaining!

Universal Studios Hollywood Shows

There are also several shows if your family needs a break from the rides (or waiting in line).

The most popular show at Universal Studios Hollywood is WaterWorld . It features jumping jet skiers, perilous plunges, firefights, massive explosions, and a crazy plane crash you need to see to believe.

There’s also the Frog Choir and Triwizard Spirit Rally shows in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Carnival Games

If you’re visiting Universal Studios Hollywood with kids, they will probably beg to do the carnival games. These are located in the Despicable Me area and the Simpsons area .

The games cost money and are not included in your theme park ticket.

World Famous Studio Tour

I don’t really classify the World Famous Studio Tour as a ride, even though there are some ride elements to it.

Basically, it’s a nice break from the theme park where you can rest your legs and see some cool movie magic.

If you have young kids who need a nap or some quiet time, try to do this in the afternoon.

Shopping at Universal Studios Hollywood

If you are a movie buff, you’ll probably have just as much fun perusing the gift shops as you will going on the rides!

While we had fun checking out all the new Super Mario Bros merchandise on this last trip, we also love popping into Honeydukes in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to pick up treats.

Best Food at Universal Studios Hollywood

I want to start off by saying that if you are a “foodie”, you probably won’t be wowed by much in the theme park. It’s all pretty standard theme park food.

However, there are a few things that stand out to me that I figured I’d share with you.

I’m a total carb addict and love getting hot pretzels at theme parks. I have to say, the ones at Universal Studios Hollywood are by far the best ones!

We like to stop at the stand in between the escalators. They are drizzled with hot butter and you can get a cheesy dip that has a kick.

Pasties at Hog’s Head

These are small, savory pastries that are filled with meat, vegetables, and cheese. They are the perfect snack or light meal. And they are easy to eat on the go.

I realize this isn’t technically food, but it’s so good that I needed to mention it at some point. Butterbeer tastes like cream soda mixed with a bit of butterscotch. You’ll find it in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

They have traditional Butterbeer, a Butterbeer float, and frozen Butterbeer (which is my favorite).

At Christmas , they have a hot version that is incredible!

Shepherd’s Pie at Finnegan’s Bar & Grill

This is a classic Irish dish that is perfect for a cold day. The ground beef is cooked with vegetables and topped with a creamy mashed potato topping. You can find it near the Simpsons ride.

Planning a Trip to Universal Studios Hollywood Tips and Tricks

If you’re planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood, we’ve got you covered with some helpful tips and tricks to make your visit a success!

Buy Tickets in Advance

Purchasing your tickets online in advance will save you time and money. You’ll also avoid waiting in long lines at the ticket booth. Get discount tickets here .

Arrive Early

The park tends to be less crowded in the morning, so arriving early will give you a chance to experience more attractions before the crowds arrive.

And if you’re planning on visiting Super Nintendo World, you might want to splurge for early access tickets to enter the land a full hour before the park opens.

Check the Schedule

Make sure to check the schedule of shows and attractions before your visit so you can plan your day accordingly.

Download the Universal Studios Hollywood App

Universal Studios Hollywood has a free app that will provide you with real-time information about wait times, show schedules, and more.

Bring Sunscreen and Comfortable Shoes

Southern California can get hot, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to bring sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes.

We’re from Seattle and my husband’s neck got toasty because he forgot to re-apply his sunscreen.

Use the Single Rider Line

If you don’t mind riding alone or splitting up your group, the Single Rider Line can save you a lot of time and get you on popular attractions faster.

Take Advantage of the Child Swap Program

If you have young children who are too small to ride certain attractions, you can take advantage of the Child Swap program.

One adult can wait with the child while the other rides, and then they can switch without having to wait in line again.

Get the Express Pass

If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, the Express Pass will allow you to skip the regular lines at most attractions.

Universal Studios Hollywood Parking Tips

The earlier you arrive, the better chance you have of getting a spot in the general parking lot.

Consider parking in one of the preferred parking lots. These lots are closer to the entrance of the park and cost more, but they can save you time in the long run.

Take advantage of the Universal CityWalk parking structure. This structure is connected to the park and offers a variety of payment options.

How to do Universal Studios Hollywood in One Day

Doing Universal Studios Hollywood in one day can be a bit of a challenge, but with some careful planning and strategy, it’s definitely doable!

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your one day at the park:

As mentioned before, arriving early is key to avoiding crowds and experiencing more attractions. Aim to get to the theme park at least 30 minutes before it opens.

They usually start letting people in through the main gates about 15-20 minutes before the park opens. Then, you can move closer to the area you want to rope drop.

You can also purchase an early access ticket for Super Nintendo World.

Prioritize Your Must-See Attractions

Before your visit, make a list of the attractions you absolutely must see, and plan to hit those first. This might include popular rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey or the Transformers ride.

It also helps to show your kids YouTube videos of what some of the rides are like so they know whether or not they’d like to do them.

And I suggest measuring your kids before you go and check to see which rides they can and can’t do base on their height. This will minimize tears at the ride entrance.

As mentioned in the previous answer, the Single Rider Line can save you a lot of time, so take advantage of it when possible.

This works out great if only one adult/teen wants to do a ride. Then everyone else can do a different ride at the same time.

Take Advantage of Show Times

Shows like WaterWorld and the Special Effects Show have set times throughout the day, so make sure to check the schedule and plan your day around these performances.

Eat on the Go

To save time, consider eating snacks or quick meals on the go. There are plenty of food carts and quick-service restaurants throughout the park.

Honestly, the food at Universal Studios Hollywood isn’t amazing, so if you want to maximize your time, just do grab-and-go stuff.

However, if you all need a break from running around, sitting down to eat might re-energize you enough to stay out later.

Consider the Express Pass

If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, the Express Pass can help you skip the regular lines and experience more attractions in less time.

It’s really like cramming everything you’d do with a 2-day pass into one day. Check Express Pass rates and availability .

Use the Child Swap Program

If you have young children who are too small to ride certain attractions, take advantage of the Child Swap program to maximize your time.

It’s a great way to let older kids get to do a ride twice!

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

While it’s important to have a strategy in place, don’t forget to have fun! Universal Studios Hollywood is an incredibly fun and immersive experience, so make sure to enjoy yourself and take in all the sights and sounds of the park.

By following these tips, you can experience the best of Universal Studios Hollywood in just one day!

Seasonal Events at Universal Studios Hollywood

4th of july celebration.

There’s a cool fireworks display on the 4th of July as well as some other events.

Halloween Horror Nights

Commonly considered Southern California’s scariest Halloween event, Halloween Horror Nights is not for the faint of heart. In fact, they recommend it only for people ages 13 and older.

It features terrifying haunted houses, the Terror Tram, sinister scare zones, outrageous entertainment, and exhilarating attractions.

If you visit Universal Studios Hollywood during the holiday season, you’ll get to experience Grinchmas! We did this one year and it’s a blast!

Don’t miss Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It really is magical, especially when the snow falls in the evening!

EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood

If you’re visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on December 31, be prepared for multiple dance parties and a midnight countdown celebration with fireworks.

Universal Studios Hollywood FAQs

How do you get the most at universal studios hollywood.

To get the most out of your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, it’s important to plan ahead and prioritize the attractions and shows you want to see.

You can also consider purchasing a Universal Express Pass to skip the lines and maximize your time in the park. Additionally, be sure to check the park’s website for special events and promotions to take advantage of during your visit.

How much are Universal Studios Hollywood tickets?

The price of Universal Studios Hollywood tickets varies depending on the day of your visit and whether you purchase them online or at the gate. As of February 2023, the cost of a 1-day ticket is $109 if purchased online or $129 if purchased at the gate.

You can save money by purchasing a multi-day ticket or an annual pass. The cost of a 2-day ticket is $199 online and $229 at the gate. The cost of an annual pass starts at $99 per month.

How big is Universal Studios Hollywood?

Universal Studios Hollywood is a 415-acre entertainment complex located in Los Angeles, California. The theme park itself covers 67 acres and includes a variety of attractions, rides, and shows.

Can you bring baby food to Universal Studios Hollywood?

Yes, you can bring baby food to Universal Studios Hollywood. The park allows guests to bring in food and drinks, as long as they are not in glass containers or large quantities.

This includes baby food, formula, and other dietary needs. You can also bring in a soft-sided cooler, but it must be no larger than 8.5 inches by 6 inches by 6 inches.

How does the virtual line for Super Nintendo World work?

First, download the Universal Studios Hollywood app on your smartphone. Open the app and sign in to your account. Tap the “Virtual Line” icon at the bottom of the screen.

Select “Super Nintendo World” from the list of attractions. Enter the number of people in your party and pick a time slot. Finally, tap “Join Virtual Line”.

Is the animal encounters show still running at Universal Studios Hollywood?

No, the Animal Actors show closed on January 1, 2023. The show featured a variety of animals, including dogs, birds, and pigs, performing tricks and stunts.

It was one of the longest-running shows at Universal Studios Hollywood, having been in operation since 1963.

What’s the best day to go to Universal Studios Hollywood?

The best day to go to Universal Studios Hollywood may vary depending on factors such as crowd levels, weather, and special events.

Generally, weekdays and non-peak seasons are less crowded than weekends and peak seasons. I also suggest arriving early in the day and considering purchasing a Universal Express Pass to skip the lines.

How long do you need at Universal Studios Hollywood?

The amount of time needed at Universal Studios Hollywood varies depending on factors such as crowd levels and the number of attractions you want to see. Generally, a full day (8-10 hours) is recommended to see all the attractions and shows in the park.

What’s the airport near Universal Studios Hollywood?

The nearest airport to Universal Studios Hollywood CA is the Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), which is located approximately 7 miles away. Other nearby airports include Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Long Beach Airport (LGB), which are both approximately 25 miles away.

Los Angeles Universal Studios Hollywood Wrap Up

Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood with kids can be an unforgettable experience. With the right tips and tricks, you can ensure that your family has a fantastic time at this theme park.

Remember to plan ahead and arrive early, take advantage of the Universal Express Pass, and use child swap services for the more intense thrill rides.

One of the highlights of any visit to Universal Studios Hollywood CA is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Be sure to check out Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade, and the Forbidden Journey ride.

And for all the gamers in the family, don’t miss out on Super Nintendo World, which offers a uniquely immersive experience. Get your discount Universal Studios Hollywood tickets here .

Looking for more tips for Universal Studios Hollywood? Check out our review of the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Pass , guide to Super Nintendo World , Universal Studios Hollywood vs Disneyland , and guide to Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood !

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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!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

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.

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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).

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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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2024 Ultimate Guide to Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood: Tips, Rides, and more!

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Universal Studios Hollywood Ride List

Before you visit Universal Studios Hollywood, I highly recommend researching each ride at the theme park. That way, you can get a better understanding of to:

• Height Requirements
• Themes & Concepts

This will help you decide which rides you want to go on during your visit and which you’re happy to skip. Then, using this knowledge, you can then decide which ride you should go on when the park first opens.

Pro Tip: If you want to go on Mario Kart: Bowsers Challenge, that should be the ride you go to the first. Unfortunately, it’s also the ride furthest from the theme park entrance.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

📏 Height Requirement: 40″ (102cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 120 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : Yes

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge is the newest ride at Universal Studios Hollywood. Located in the park’s Super Nintendo World, it uses incredible AR technology.

Since that this is the newest ride at Universal Studios Hollywood it currently doesn’t accept the Universal Express Pass . Instead the only way to skip the line on this ride is either on the VIP Experience or via the Single Rider line.

However, the line for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge is an experience in itself. Walking through Bowser’s Castle, the detailed theming captures the spirit of the Mario Kart.

While there are no interactive elements, the attention to detail is incredible. Some notable areas include:

• Bowser’s Throne Room: Get up close with Bowser’s massive throne, surrounded by trophies and battle gear.
• The Armoury: Marvel at the collection of weaponry, including Koopa shells and Bob-ombs, all ready for the race.
• The Grand Hall: Gaze at the imposing architecture and statues of Bowser, showcasing his dominance.

The AR technology of this ride is conducted through a visor. You’ll pick this visor up from a staff member as you reach the ride’s boarding area.

There are then multiple screens showing you how to adjust and fit the visor as well as how to play.

From experience, I’ve found that it takes a couple of attempts to get to grips with playing the game using the AR visor. So don’t be disheartened by your score on your first visit.

Pro Tip : If you have a Power-Up Band, tap it on the steering wheel before the ride begins.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge uses a lap bar for safety and security. The lap bar must securely fit around your waist to go on this ride. A test seat is located at the entrance, on the right before the stairs.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

📏 Height Requirement: 40″ (102cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 25 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : No

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is a motion simulator ride located inside Gru’s House.

This ride is the same as that of the same name at Universal Orlando. The concept is that you’re turned into a Minion, racing through Gru’s laboratory. Fan favourites Margo, Edith, and Agnes also come along for the ride.

The seating format of this ride is similar to that of The Simpsons. It’s a theatre-style motion simulator platform facing a large curved screen. Each seat has a lap bar that securely fastens you in place.

While Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is a motion simulation ride, the simulation isn’t that bad. However, if you suffer from motion sickness, you may want to opt for one of the stationary seats.

Pro Tip: Outside the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem entrance, you’ll often find characters from the show available for photos.

Flight Of The Hippogriff

📏 Height Requirement: 39″ (100cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 19 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : Yes

Flight of the Hippogriff is one of the few outdoor rides at Universal Hollywood. This roller coaster is located in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and is perfect for small kids.

The line for this ride is immersive, winding around Hagrid’s Hut and past his giant pumpkin patch. Meanwhile, the ride vehicle itself is designed to resemble a Hippogriff—a magical creature with the body of a horse and the wings and head of an eagle.

Each Hippogriff has several open-air carriages, each seating two riders side by side. The ride itself is short and mild. There’s a hill providing a great view of Hogwarts Castle and some gentle twists, turns, and small drops.

The ride is smooth and relatively tame, with no loops or intense speeds. As such, I recommend it as an introduction to roller coasters for younger children.

Harry Potter And The Forbidden Journey

📏 Height Requirement: 48″ (122cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 32 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : Yes

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a motion simulation ride inside Hogwarts. This ride has an immersive line featuring some of the most iconic rooms at Hogwarts. These include:

• Dumbledore’s office
• The Gryffindor common room
• A Hogwarts classroom

If the line is short, I’d recommend going inside to see the theming – even if you don’t plan to go on the ride.

The concept of this ride sees you ride a broomstick across Hogwarts with Harry, Ron & Hermione. However, as you might expect, it’s not free from surprising events.

This ride isn’t as bad as other simulation rides at Universal Studios Hollywood. You don’t need 3D glasses, and the synchronisation between the screen and the motion is good.

However, one restriction of this ride is the lap bar. The bar comes over your head and clips into place at the front, making it difficult for those with larger chests. A test seat is available at the ride’s entrance.

Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride

📏 Height Requirement: 48″ (121cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 30 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : Yes

In my opinion, the scariest ride at Universal Studios Hollywood is Revenge of the Mummy. However as far as rollercoasters go, it’s still pretty tame.

This is an indoor rollercoaster set in the dark. The ride doesn’t go upside down, but it does reach top speeds of up to 45 mph (72 km/h) and goes backwards for a short time.

The seating format of Revenge of the Mummy is four across, with each rider having their own lap bar. This ride has a test seat at the entrance, where you can try the lap bar if required.

Jurassic World: The Ride

📏 Height Requirement: 42″ (107cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 47 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : Yes

Jurassic World: The Ride recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation. The special effects, sets, and landscapes have all been updated and look fantastic.

This water ride involves climbing into a boat in multiple rows of five, with the lap bar sitting across the group.

The concept of this ride is that you will explore Jurassic World. However, it’s not long before you discover a dinosaur has escaped. The ride climaxes with a 26m drop to the outside, where onlookers can see you get drenched.

Silly Swirly Fun Ride

📏 Height Requirement: None ⏰ Average Wait Time: 10 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : No

The Silly Swirly Fun Ride is in Super Silly Fun Land, just behind Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem. This is the only ‘real ride’ at Universal Studios Hollywood with no height requirement. However, children must be able to sit independently.

I took my 14-month-old on this ride on one of my most recent trips to Universal, and he loved it.

Each ride vehicle is a colourful bug that takes you around a central point from a height from which you can see all of Super Silly Fun Land.

Children can control the height of their ride vehicle using a handle. However, my little one wasn’t tall enough to reach. So, if you’re riding with a child scared of heights, you can adjust the vehicle accordingly.

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

📏 Height Requirement: 34″ (87cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 25 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : Yes

The Secret Life of Pets: Off The Leash is one of the best rides at Universal Studios Hollywood for little kids. However, it does have a surprisingly tall height requirement.

I say, surprising, as this ride goes at about 5mph. The concept of this ride is that you’re going through the streets of New York in search of a new forever home.

Each ride vehicle seats up to four people in two rows of two with a lap bar for safety. As one of the newest rides at the park, this ride features some of the latest technology, including fun special effects and 64 animatronics.

The World Famous Studio Tour

📏 Height Requirement: None ⏰ Average Wait Time: 23 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : No

The World-Famous Studio Tour is the highlight of Universal Studios Hollywood. This tram ride takes you through 100 years of film history, covering 400 acres of working studios. Popular films and TV shows shot here include:

• Back to the Future
• Jurassic Park
• Desperate Housewives
• The Good Place

Each tram features four to five carts, which are made up of five rows, each holding up to six people. All trams feature a dedicated guide and driver to take you around, giving you up-to-date information.

Unless you’re on the VIP Experience, you will not get off the tram during the tour. Each tour lasts 45 minutes to an hour, so use the bathroom in advance.

The World-Famous Studio Tour has no height requirement. However, some scenes may be scary for younger guests. Some of the scenes you’ll see include:

• Bates Motel and the Psycho House: Step into the eerie world of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller.
• War of the Worlds Crash Site: Witness the aftermath of an alien invasion with a crashed aeroplane and a chaotic scene.
• Jaws: Keep an eye out for the famous shark that terrified audiences.

The World-Famous Studio Tour also includes two 4D experiences:

• Fast & Furious – Supercharged: Get ready for high-speed action with the Fast & Furious crew.
• King Kong 360 3-D: Experience an epic battle between King Kong and dinosaurs in an immersive 3D environment.

Unfortunately, these are not optional. However, they only last a couple of minutes each.

Since this is a real working studio, films, TV shows, and commercials are shot here daily. As such, you may be asked to remain quiet at certain points of the tour so as not to interfere with the recordings. This also means you may spot a celebrity or two.

The Simpsons Ride

📏 Height Requirement: 40″ (102cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 40 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : Yes

Let me preface by saying that I love The Simpsons. However, this ride is, in my opinion, the worst ride at Universal Studios Hollywood. Primarily due to the horrible motion sickness that it causes.

Launched in 2008, The Simpsons Ride has the same concept as the ride of the same name at Universal Orlando.

Krusty the Clown has just launched his very own low-budget theme park. So, together with The Simpson family, you’ll take on some high-speed twists and turns, smashing and blasting through the theme park.

Transformers: The Ride 3-D

📏 Height Requirement: 40″ (102cm) ⏰ Average Wait Time: 30 minutes 🧍 Single Rider : Yes

Transformers: The Ride 3-D is an indoor 3D simulator dark ride. On this ride, you’ll join the Autobots on a mission to save Earth from the Decepticons.

You’ll race through the city while riding in EVAC, dodging explosions, falling debris, and fierce attacks from enemy robots. The format of each EVAC is three rows of four, with each row sharing a lap bar.

This immersive ride combines motion simulation, 3D HD video, and special effects. The EVAC can tilt in all directions, slide on its base and rotate 360° while moving along a track. Unsurprisingly, this can cause severe motion sickness in some people.

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Discount Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets: 7 Ways to Save Up to 31% Off

Who among us can resist the timeless allure of old-time movie magic and state-of-the-art exhilarating rides? For a sun-drenched, action-packed adventure that will leave you wanting more, you can’t beat Universal Studios Hollywood™.

Follow along for the skinny on scoring Universal Studios Hollywood Discount tickets!

From the moment you spot the Universal Studio entrance, you are ready to be whisked away for a theme park vacation that promises to take you behind the scenes of your favorite movies and TV shows. Attractions include the adrenaline-pumping thrill of facing Indominus Rex to witnessing the largest street movie set in Hollywood history; Universal California is a park where everyone from movie lovers to roller coaster junkies can find their fun. 

Are you ready to answer the siren’s call of La la land? To make the most of your Universal Studios Hollywood journey, keep reading our Ultimate Guide to learn all about the juicy coupons for Universal Studios Hollywood.

Universal Studios Hollywood Special Offers

Lights, camera, action! Who says you need to be an A-lister to score some VIP-worthy excitement? Dial up the action and make your accent to Hollywood, when you snatch up some sizzling Universal Studios Special Offers today.

Strike a pose with the Simpsons crew, or put the pedal to the metal with the Fast and Furious gang. Potterheads won’t want to miss a moment of Harry’s journey to the Forbidden Forest, while little ones will relish wreaking mayhem with everyone’s favorite Minions.

Got a need for speed? Dial up the adrenaline with a watery confrontation with Indominus rex, or embrace 3D HD media and flight simulation technology with the futuristic Transformers.

How to Get Discounted Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets

Never fear if your travel budget isn’t quite as massive as the latest blockbuster movie. Rather than purchasing your tickets at the front gate, save both time and money by pre-purchasing your Universal Studios Hollywood tickets online.

No matter when you choose to visit Harry Potter and The Forbidden Journey, we offer various Universal tickets discount options from general admission tickets to peak to mid-peak and value. With extra dough in your pocket, you’ll be ready for every ride, show, and attraction!

Related Post: Insider’s Guide to Universal Studios Hollywood™

Pro Tip: Looking to add a little more Universal to your life? If you think you’ll be back again, you can easily upgrade your one-day Universal Studios Admission California to an annual pass in person on the day of your visit. Pass members can reap the rewards of amazing benefits like exclusive performances, Universal Express tickets discount, and free general parking.

Universal Studios Hollywood Packages

There is so much to see and do in the City of Angels that it would be a shame not to take advantage of the nearby world-class theme parks, attractions, and incredible entertainment. 

Related Post: 101 Absolutely Free Things to Do in Los Angeles

Double your pleasure, and catch some serious savings when you bundle your Universal Studios Hollywood tickets with such popular attractions as:

• Disneyland & Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket Combo 
• Disneyland & Universal Studios Hollywood Vacation Package – SAVE as much as 5%**
• Universal Studios Hollywood Vacation Packages – SAVE as much as 11%
• Knott’s Berry Farm & Universal Studios Hollywood Combo Tickets – SAVE as much as 17%
• Universal Studios Hollywood & Warner Bros. Studio Tour Combo 

** travelers have saved up to this and more depending upon their travel dates.

Hotels and Universal Studios Hollywood Hotel Packages

Been ‘California dreaming’ for a long time? Extend your Universal Studios Hollywood trip into a true vacation by spending the night!

Tripster’s Universal Studios Hollywood hotel packages give you the most bang for your buck! However, if you’re keen to see more of downtown LA, lounge in luxury in Beverly Hills, or keep it casual by Santa Monica beach? You can book any of our Los Angeles hotels with 100% assurance knowing you are receiving our best rates. 

Whether you are looking to maximize your access to each ride or just skip the heavy LA traffic jams, we have many different options for hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood . 

Universal Studios Hollywood Promotions & Specials

While we might not be able to wave our magic wands from Ollivander’s and make everything come up ‘savings,’ we can do the next best thing! 

Related Post: A Parent’s Guide on Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids

Check out our all-inclusive breakdown of every promo, special, or U niversal Studios Hollywood tickets discount you can receive:

Everything’s better with a friend! A day (or three) at Universal Studios is a great way to reunite and reconnect with old friends, youth groups, or large families. Right now, Universal is offering groups of 10 or larger discounts on tickets . 

Military Discount Universal Studios Hollywood

Those who serve our country and defend our freedoms deserve the very best. Therefore, Universal Studios Hollywood is beyond honored to provide incredible discounts to both active and retired U.S. Military personnel year-round. 

Related Post: Your First Trip to Los Angeles: Everything You Need to Know

Universal Studios Hollywood military tickets for our esteemed armed forces members must be purchased in advance and can only be bought from participating Military Ticket offices. To see full qualifications for specially priced military rates, click here .

College Students

Take a break cramming for those midterms and release some pent-up academic tension with a thrill-filled day at Universal! Universal Studios Hollywood has partnered with many prestigious institutions to offer discount tickets to college students . 

As per the Universal Website: “If your school doesn’t have a link, contact your ticket office for the student/faculty discounts.”

Searching for Universal Studios Hollywood discount tickets for teachers? Unfortunately, at this time, Universal Studios Hollywood isn’t offering this discount.

AAA Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets

Looking to score Universal tickets through AAA? Members of AAA should keep their membership cards handy as they will receive special discounts on one-day AAA Universal Studios Hollywood tickets , in addition to receiving 10% off on the select park gate price and Universal CityWalk locations.

Budget & Avis Special Offers

Are you looking for even more U niversal Studios Deals? Will you require some reliable transportation while you soak in Southern California? No need for a Universal Studios Hollywood tickets discount code!

Related Post: When is the Best Time to Visit Los Angeles?

You can enjoy complimentary upgraded Preferred Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood from Los Angeles International Airport by renting a car with Budget or Avis.

Pro Tip: Live in California? California residents can score special savings on ticket prices at Universal Studios Hollywood!

Universal Studios Hollywood Discount Tickets: American Express

Swipe that plastic! By using your Amex card within the park, you can enjoy special in-park privileges and discounts like:

• 10% off food and non-alcoholic beverages that cost $10 or more.
• 10% off merchandise purchases of $75 or more
• 10% off photo packages of $25 or more

Ways to Save In Park

Once you gain admission to the park, there are plenty of ways to pinch a pretty penny while optimizing your time with Minions, Harry, and the crew from Springfield, U.S.A. 

Keep reading to discover even more Universal Studios discounts!

Related Post: Current Events and Festivals in Los Angeles

A custom travel planner in the palm of your hand? Sign us up! The Universal Studios Hollywood Mobile App is a simple and stress-free way to plan your perfect park day. This nifty interactive guide to the park allows you access to:

• Virtual Line return times 
• Interactive maps
• Wait times in real time – you can even set alerts to receive notifications when ride times drop below 5 minutes! 
• Park notifications – get all the news on events, shows, and schedule changes (including The World Famous Studio Tour)
• Custom itinerary building 
• Locate all restrooms in both the Park and CityWalk
• Set a parking reminder, so you never forget where your car is

Pro Tip: Can’t wait in line? Purchase the one-time express access to skip the lines at participating attractions and rides.

Universal Studios Hollywood Parking

Driving in Los Angeles may be synonymous with gridlock and long commutes, but that doesn’t mean you should waste a second of your Universal Studios trip worrying about parking.

To spend less time in traffic and more time enjoying the rides, we advise staying on-site (or close by) and opting to take the complimentary hotel shuttle to the park.

If you do happen to be car-bound, you can save some cash by opting for general parking over preferred or valet parking and by parking after 5 pm, when the rates come down considerably.

Related Post: The Ultimate 5-Day Los Angeles Family Vacation Itinerary

Lastly, if you plan to make a movie night of it and enjoy a screening at CityWalk, you could be eligible for $5 parking . 

Universal Studios Hollywood is a hefty 415 acres, which translates into a lot of walking, especially for the little ones. To prevent any tired toddler meltdowns (and stay thrifty), you can bring your own stroller into the park and forgo the stroller rental fees.

Nothing brings a smile to a child’s face faster than telling them they get to pick out their own souvenir. But, all of those vacation presents can burn a hole in your budget. 

Maintain the peace, and fulfill your kid’s Harry Potter fantasy by pre-purchasing their favorite Wizarding accouterment ahead of time. Popular items such as Gryffindor robes, Harry Potter t-shirts, legos, and even wands can easily be found at Target or second-hand stores.

Universal Studios Hollywood Food & Drink

Food is fuel, and after a long day of roller coasters and fighting off King Kong, you will no doubt be famished.

Luckily, at Universal Studios Hollywood, you are more than welcome to bring in your own small snacks and bottled water. This can save hundreds of dollars for a large family!

Related Post: 13 of the Most Famous Places to Eat in LA

Our other top-tier tips to reduce hunger-inspired spending include:

• Opt for a big breakfast pre-park entry
• Make your meal count! Spring for hearty fare that will hold you off, like the delicious pub eats at Three Broomsticks .
• Stick to more wallet-friendly noshes like a classic chili dog from Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs
• Dessert for one for two – split a sweet treat like a massively giant donut from Lard Lad Donuts .

Looking for restaurants near Universal Studios Hollywood?

From Universal City to Hollywood Hills, you are presented with seemingly endless options for food near Universal Studios Hollywood. Check out this great resource and reserve your table ahead of time!

Pro Tip: If you’re searching for the best Indian restaurants near Universal Studios Hollywood, give Bollywood Cafe a try! Locals and tourists highly rate them. 

Plan Like a Pro with Our Tips and Tricks to Universal Studios Discount Tickets!

The glamour and excitement of Tinseltown are hard to beat. Everyone from film fanatics to families will feel the wonder and joy behind a day at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Still searching for ways to save in the land of glam and illusion? Then, check out our 11 Unbelievably Cheap Things to do in Los Angeles and our 101 Absolutely Free Things to Do in Los Angeles .

With pulse racing rides like Revenge of the Mummy or spellbinding live-action shows like Fast & Furious Supercharged, it truly is the ultimate theme park vacation experience.

Related Post: 5 of the Best Day Trips from Los Angeles

Ready to start calling ‘action’ on your own Universal Studios Hollywood vacation ? Purchase your discount tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood and plan your escape today! Your tickets include access to 415 acres of “let yourself wow!”

Lastly, remember that Tripster offers everything you need for a fun-filled holiday, from show  and  attraction tickets to your pick of accommodations. Our ultra-low prices on Los Angeles Hotels  and  vacation packages , along with our convenient e-tickets, mean you can book with ease and head straight to the box office or front desk with no hassles.

Do You Have a Go-To Way of Scoring Discounted Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets?

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Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

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2024 Ultimate Guide to Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass: AVOID the Wait Times!

Looking for a way to get the most out of your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood? Look no further than the Universal Express Pass! 

This incredible service offers you a chance to enjoy the park’s most popular attractions with minimal wait times and maximum convenience. 

With Universal Express Pass, you can skip the regular lines, avoid the Universal Studios Hollywood wait times and experience the excitement and thrills of the park’s most thrilling rides and attractions without the frustration of long queues. 

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Harry Potter, a thrill-seeker looking for a rush , or just looking to make the most of your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, the Universal Express Pass is the perfect way to upgrade your experience. 

So why wait in line when you can skip ahead and start enjoying the magic right away? 

With Universal’s Express Pass, the adventure starts now!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass at a Glance:

• It’s an add-on to your regular  Universal Studios Hollywood admission ticket  that gives you access to a separate, shorter line
• With the Universal Express Pass , you can only use the  Express Line once per day per attraction (except for Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge)
• You can also use the Express Pass once per day to skip each attraction, and seated show, and one-time (per day) reservation-free entry into SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ when reservations are required
• Cost  starts at $209 per person  and  DOES include park admission

Keep reading to see if the Universal Express Pass is worth the money!

What is the Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood?

The Express Pass is a premium service offered at Universal Studios Hollywood that provides guests with priority access to some of the park’s most popular attractions. 

With this pass, you can skip the line at Universal Studios Hollywood and enjoy reduced wait times, allowing you to experience more rides and attractions in less time. 

The Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass offers a one time skip-the-line pass for select attractions and includes the cost of admission.

Who should get an Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood?

The Express Pass is ideal for you if you want to make the most of your time at the park and if you want to enjoy the ultimate Universal Studios Hollywood experience without the hassle of long lines.

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

How does the Express Pass Work at Universal Studios Hollywood?

As previously mentioned, the Express Pass works by providing you with priority access to select rides and attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Guests who purchase an Express Pass can bypass the regular lines and enter the attraction through a separate, shorter queue to avoid the Universal Studios Hollywood wait times. 

This allows you to experience the ride or attraction with reduced wait times, providing a more seamless and enjoyable experience. 

The Express Pass is scanned at the entrance of each participating attraction.

There is a limited number of Express Passes available each day, so it’s recommended to purchase in advance. 

With the Express Pass, you can maximize your time at the park and enjoy a hassle-free experience with minimal wait times.

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

Which rides at Universal Studios Hollywood use Express Pass?

Currently, the Express Pass includes one express access to each ride, attraction and seated show per day (excluding Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge) AND one-time (per day) reservation-free entry into SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ when reservations are required to enter the land.

At Universal Studios Hollywood, you can use Express Pass on the following attractions (subject to opening):

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Jurassic World: The Ride
• Transformers: The Ride-3D
• The Simpsons Ride
• The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride
• Flight of the Hippogriff
• Backlot Studio Tour
• Entrance to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD (when reservations are required)

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Something to Remember About the Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass

The exact list of participating rides and attractions may vary depending on the day and time of year.

So, I recommend checking the Universal Studios Hollywood website or ask a Team Member for the most up-to-date information. 

With the Express Pass, visitors can enjoy priority access to some of the park’s most thrilling and exciting experiences.

2024 Sheraton Universal Hotel Guide: Where to Stay Near Universal Studios Hollywood?

How do you get an Express Pass for Universal Studios Hollywood?

There are several ways to get an Express Pass for Universal Studios Hollywood. 

The easiest and most convenient method is to purchase it online . 

Simply select to purchase a Universal Express ticket rather than general admission. This guarantees Express Pass for the day of your visit AND your park ticket.

You can also purchase the Express Pass at the park on the day of your visit, but availability is not guaranteed. 

There are only a limited number of Express Passes available per day.

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How much is Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Universal Studios Hollywood has a variable pricing scale that varies throughout the year. 

You will find admission, including Express Pass, is more expensive on expected busy dates and cheaper on dates the park is typically quieter.

When purchasing Universal Express online, prices start from $209 and can be as much as $309 on peak park dates.

If you purchase Express Pass separately from your admission ticket, a limited number of Express Pass upgrades are available at the park gate. 

Prices vary from $70-150 with the highest price tag on the busiest dates.

How to Plan the BEST California Road Trip Itinerary for 7 Days

Can you add Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood? 

If you purchase general admission for Universal Studios Hollywood and later decide you would like Express Pass, a limited number of Express Pass upgrades are available to purchase on the day at the park gate. 

Prices are from $70 and vary by date. Express Passes available on the day are subject to availability and will sell out fast on busy park days.

However, it’s a better deal if you get you Express Pass/Ticket in advance.

Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide

Other ways to purchase an Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood

Although it is advised to purchase your Express Pass directly from Universal Studios Hollywood, there are also a number of third party retailers you could purchase from. 

You can also purchase Express Pass from trusted sources such as Viator. 

Please ensure you are purchasing from a reputable third party retailer. 

2024 Universal Studios Hollywood Crowd Calendar: Your Best Days to Visit This Year

Should I get a Universal Express Pass during Christmas?

Getting a Universal Express Pass during Christmas is highly recommended if you want to make the most of your time at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year at the park with long wait times for popular rides and attractions. 

By purchasing an Express Pass, you can skip the line at Universal Studios Hollywood and enjoy reduced wait times, allowing you to experience more of the park’s offerings during your visit. 

Plus, the Express Pass also provides an opportunity to take in the park’s festive holiday decorations and shows without worrying about long lines. 

If you’re planning on visiting Universal Studios Hollywood during Christmas, an Express Pass is an investment in a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the  latest podcast episode on Apple  or on your  non-Apple  device now!

Should I get an Express Pass for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood?

If you’re planning on attending Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood, the Express Pass is a must-have for a truly unforgettable and terror-filled experience. 

The event draws large crowds , which can result in long lines and extended wait times. 

With the Express Pass, you can bypass those lines and enjoy priority access to all the spine-chilling mazes and haunted attractions that the event has to offer. 

From the terror of the scary Backlot Tour to the madness of the haunted houses, you’ll have more time to scream your lungs out and less time standing in line. 

So if you’re ready to face your fears and have an unforgettable Halloween experience, don’t hesitate to purchase an Express Pass for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood!

Save up to $50 on select dates to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood on Groupon TODAY!

Can I do Universal Studios Hollywood without an Express Pass?

While Express Pass can be hugely beneficial to your Universal Studios Hollywood experience, there is no huge need to purchase it.

You can still enjoy all the same attractions without it. 

While an Express Pass can provide priority access and reduced wait times for popular rides and attractions, it’s not a requirement for having a fun and memorable visit to the park. 

Additionally, there are plenty of shows, performances and interactive experiences to enjoy that don’t require any wait time at all. 

Although an Express Pass can enhance your experience, it’s not necessary to have a great time at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

The major benefit of Express Pass currently is the inclusion of reservation-free access to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD if reservations are required on your day of visit.

Top 10 BEST Movies to Watch for Your Universal Studios Trip

VIP Experience vs. Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass

The VIP Experience and Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass are both premium add-ons that can enhance your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Plus, the VIP Experience provides a personalized guided tour of Universal Studios Hollywood, which includes:

• Front-of-line access to ALL rides and attractions (including the Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge )
• A gourmet lunch (the highlight of the tour)
• Access to exclusive areas of the park not shown to the general public

On the other hand, the Universal Orlando Express Pass offers priority access to select rides and attractions at Universal Orlando, reducing wait times and allowing you to experience more of the park’s offerings at a lower cost. 

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your preferences and budget.

If you’re looking for a more personalized and exclusive experience, the VIP Experience is the way to go (a great deal if it’s in your budget). 

But if you want to enjoy reduced wait times and access to select attractions without breaking the bank, the Universal Orlando Express Pass is a great option.

Is the Express Pass worth it at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Whether or not the Express Pass is worth it at Universal Studios Hollywood depends on your priorities and preferences. 

If you value maximizing your time at the park and want to experience as many popular rides and attractions as possible, the Express Pass can be a worthwhile investment. 

With reduced Universal Studios Hollywood wait times, you can fit more into your visit and avoid spending significant amounts of time waiting in line. 

However, if you don’t mind waiting in lines or prefer to take your time exploring the park, the Express Pass may not be necessary for your visit. 

Additionally, the cost of the pass may not be justifiable for those on a tight budget. 

On busy days, it is incredibly beneficial but quieter days can be just as easy-going without it.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Express Pass depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. 

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

Steph is a UK-based freelance travel writer and theme park enthusiast.

She currently lives in England with her partner and son but is passionate about exploring the world.

(Original Article Date: May 19, 2023/Updated by Editor on March 3, 2024)

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2024 ULTIMATE Guide to the Universal Studios Hollywood Backlot Studio Tour: Secrets, Photos and Tips!

2024 ultimate guide to parking at universal studios hollywood: free options, prices, hotels, and more, leave a comment cancel reply.

Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass Ultimate Guide

Universal Studios Hollywood is a popular theme park destination in LA that has only received more attention since opening the United State's first Super Nintendo World. Super Nintendo World joins a lineup of other popular attractions like those that are set in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Secret Life of Pets. Universal Hollywood Express Pass is a paid service that allows you to skip the line at Universal. This is Universal's version of FastPass/Genie+ as it's often referred to at Disneyland.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about Universal Express Pass including average prices, whether is it worth the cost, what attractions are included, and how to get access to Super Nintendo World.

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In this planning guide:

Does Universal Studios Hollywood have an Express Pass?

Yes, Universal Studios Hollywood does have Express Pass! Sometimes guests think this is only exclusive to Universal Orlando but is also available at Universal Hollywood. There are two types of Universal Express Pass.

Universal Express

Universal Express includes one-time access per day to each ride, attraction, seated show, and one reservation-free entry into Super Nintendo World when reservations are required.

Universal Express Pass for Universal Hollywood is an additional purchase with your 1-day ticket.

Universal Express Unlimited

Universal Express Unlimited includes unlimited per-day express access to each ride, attraction, seated show, and unlimited reservation-free entry into Super Nintendo World when reservations are required.

Universal Studios Hollywood 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 .

How Much is Universal Express Pass Hollywood?

Express Pass for Universal Studios Hollywood starts at $90 per person and will go up in price depending on the time of year. You can see Universal Studios Express Pass go up to $200 per person depending on how busy Universal expects the park to be. If you want to add Universal Express Unlimited and have unlimited access to the Express line for attractions, the upgrade is an additional $50 per person. You can see all the Universal Studios Hollywood ticket prices here .

In the chart below, the cost of Express Pass is bundled with a 1-day ticket which typically starts at about $109:

If we look at the month of December, you'll see the price fluctuates depending on the day of the week and goes up the week of Christmas at Universal . You notice that the cheapest we see in the month is $100 per person (after we subtract the 1-day ticket price) in the first week of the month. The most you can pay is $189 in the month of December. If you want to make that upgrade to Universal Express Unlimited then the cost would increase by $50.

If there are still remaining Express Pass tickets left at the end of the day, you also have the option of purchasing Express Pass for a discounted cost. Usually, you can get Express Pass for half off what the cost was for the day but the catch is you won't be able to use this option until around 2PM each day.

So overall, you have a range of $99-200 per person for Express Pass depending on the day. Of course, the more expensive days will coordinate when Universal is anticipating seeing bigger crowds which will make that need for Express Pass (more below!) more justified.

Is it Cheaper to Buy Express Pass at Universal Hollywood?

Universal Studios Hollywood offers cheaper Express Pass than we often see at Universal Orlando. But over at Universal Orlando, you have the option of staying at Universal Orlando resort hotels which include access to Express Pass in your stay so that does balance things out a bit!

The nice thing about Universal Studios Hollywood Express pass is the price is typically set in advance and won't change. This is different than what we see for Universal Orlando which will slowly start raising prices for Universal Express as the date gets closer.If we compare Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood to Disneyland's version of a similar service, Genie+ , then we will see a larger price difference. At Disneyland, Genie+ costs $25 per person for access to the shorter line option for popular attractions in their theme parks. The price can go up depending on peak travel days of the year but we have not seen it go higher than $35 per person so far. There is also just once per day access to the shorter lines with Genie+ while Universal's Express Pass offers two different versions of once per day and unlimited.

This is a considerable difference in price as the lowest price for Universal Express Pass begins at $99 per person. However, Universal's pricing method keeps the number of people purchasing Express Pass much lower than what you see at Disneyland. This means that the Express Pass line is literally, no wait. You typically walk right on to the attraction when using Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood.

In comparison at Disneyland, access to their shorter line (called the Lightning Lane ) does not mean you walk right on the attraction. Most of the time the wait is usually not longer than 15-20 minutes but we have seen lines for the Lighting Lane get extremely long during busy points of the year as more people buy it. Universal's higher price point naturally keeps the number of people buying it lower and so the Express Line remains much more efficient.

This is just one of those never-ending circle debates folks like to have: do we price something higher to make things less crowded or keep them affordable? This is a pretty highly contentious debate amongst theme park visitors and there are certainly pros/cons on both sides.

What Attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood Offer Express Pass?

You can use Express Pass for all the rides at Universal Studios Hollywood with one exception: Mario Kart Bowser's Challenge.

These are the attractions included in Universal Express Pass:

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda
• Flight of the Hippogriff
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Jurassic World- The Ride
• Revenge of the Mummy- The Ride
• Silly Swirly
• Studio Tour
• The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash
• The Simpsons Ride
• TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D

Universal Hollywood Express Pass also includes priority seating to:

• Water World

And access to the Studio Tour, one of the most well-known attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood. The Studio Tour is unique to Universal Studios Hollywood and is a must-see experience.

You can also use Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass to get access to the newly opened Super Nintendo World with no reservation required. This is one of the biggest perks of using Express Pass right now as the virtual queue access to this land fills up right away each day.

What About the New Mario Kart Ride?

Unfortunately, Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge is not included with Express Pass and there is only one standby queue for it. Eventually, we might see this attraction get added to the Express Pass list but it's a bit hard to predict when.

Over at Universal Orlando, the most popular ride in the park (Hagrid's Motorbike Adventure) still has not been added to Express Pass. Remember: Universal wants to keep their lines for Express Pass low and adding big hits like these newer rides to the lineup might interfere with the perfectly honed system they've worked out.

How Do I Get Into Super Nintendo World?

Currently, there are three ways to get into Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood :

• Virtual Line- all guests with a ticket can access the virtual queue and enter Super Nintendo World for no additional cost but this queue has been filling up every day so there's a chance you might not get a reservation.
• Universal Express Pass- purchase of Express Pass includes entry into Super Nintendo World. You either get one-time access or unlimited access, depending on the Express Pass option you pick.
• Early Access Ticket- you have the option of purchasing access to Super Nintendo World that begins one hour before the park opens.

Since we've covered how Express Pass for Super Nintendo World, let's talk about the Early Access Ticket and Virtual Line,

Super Nintendo World Early Access Ticket

The number of tickets is limited so don't hesitate to buy! They will not be available to purchase on the day of your visit as currently, they have been selling out 2-3 weeks in advance.

Right now, this is the BEST way to access Super Nintendo World. The land will be at a lower capacity and you will also have the chance of entering it first.

Virtual Line Universal Studios Hollywood

Virtual Line is an option that Universal Studios Hollywood has utilized for new attractions to help manage crowds. We have also seen a similar system over at Universal Orlando for their popular new rides. Keep in mind that Universal is not using this constantly, just as needed. You can check the app to see if the land is using a Virtual Queue or not.

You can only make a reservation using the Virtual Line with the Universal Studios Hollywood app and you need to be on the property to select a time.

Reservations are limited and based on space availability. They typically run out quickly.

To select a reservation using Virtual Line:

• In the app, select “Virtual Line reservation”
• Tap on the “Virtual Line Venues” tab and see the list of attractions/lands
• Click on the attraction you want and tap “Virtual Line Pass- Reserve”
• Select how many are in your travel party and the return time
• Tap “Reserve Virtual Line Pass” to complete the reservation

The app will send you a notification when it's time to experience your attraction/land.

Currently, Virtual Line is being used for Super Nintendo World as needed. But it does not include automatic access/Express Access to Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge.

Is Express Pass Worth It?

As with any costly theme park experience, this question is pretty subjective. It's no secret that Express Pass is extremely costly. Even at its lowest rate of $90 per person that would still be $360 for a family of four.

If you're purchasing Express Pass during a peak time of year when the cost can skyrocket to $200 per person then you will be looking at a cost of $800 for a family of four. And peak times of the year are when you will see the wait times the longest for attractions making the concept of Express Pass much more appealing.

If money is no object then the answer is always, yes Express Pass is worth it! But if you hesitating on spending the money on Express Pass then you may want to consider if it is worth it. Here are a few reasons why Express Pass is worth it for many groups.

No Wait Times

Express Pass will allow you to walk on to nearly all the attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood and you often never wait more than 10 minutes. You can easily ride every single ride in the theme park and still have time to enjoy experiences, dining, and meeting characters.

Easy to Use

Express Pass is also incredibly easy to use at Universal Studios Hollywood. You do not need to book return times or plan your rides into your day. You simply just scan your Express Pass when you want to ride and go right in the line. The only thing to keep track of is if you purchase the one-time per attraction pass then you will need to remember which rides you have done and which ones you can still do. It's so easy which is a huge plus when we compare it to more complicated systems like Genie+ at Disneyland.

See Everything at Universal

Express Pass is also ideal if you plan on only spending one day at Universal Studios Hollywood (which most guests do) and you want to see everything! If you have Express Pass, it is incredibly easy to ride all the attractions in the park in one day and still have time to enjoy the other experience. If you do not think you will be returning soon to Universal this is a good choice to make sure you get the most out of your day. Time is money and you will save a considerable amount of time using Express Pass.

So for many guests at Universal Studios Hollywood, purchasing Express Pass is a worthy investment and allows you to get the most out of your day.

Universal Hollywood Strategy without Express Pass

If you do not want to purchase Express Pass, you can still have a great day at Universal Studios Hollywood. Many guests visit the theme park often without ever purchasing Express Pass and it can absolutely be done with a good strategy in mind.

Here are some of my best tips to avoid using Express Pass at Univeral Studios Hollywood and still enjoy your day.

Arrive Early

You need to arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood before the park opens so you can get a good spot in line. You want to have as much time as possible to enjoy your day.

Purchase Super Nintendo Land Early Access Ticket

The most efficient way to experience Super Nintendo Land is to purchase the Early Access Ticket for $20-30 per person. This will allow you to experience Super Nintendo World an hour before the park opens and it also gives you Express Pass line access for the Studio Tour until 11AM. You can spend this hour enjoying the land before the park officially opens with lower crowd levels and ride Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. Since it also includes that Express Pass access to the Studio Tour, this also increases the value of this ticket.

Single Rider Universal Studios Hollywood

It's also worth mentioning that three of the most popular attractions also offer Single Rider. The attractions that offer Single Rider at Universal Studios Hollywood are:

• Revenge of the Mummy — The Ride
• Transformers: The Ride 3D

So if you only purchased Express Pass (once per day) and want to enjoy any of these other attractions a second time then using Single Rider is a great way to get quick access to the attraction. Single Rider exists to fill in empty ride seats after full parties are seated so you will be split up from your group. But if this is okay with you, then you can ride much quicker- sometimes with just half the wait time or less.

But if you are avoiding purchasing Express Pass, using Single Rider for these three attractions (which often have large wait times!) is a great way to enjoy your day. Our last experience using Single Rider for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, the wait time for the regular queue was around 90 minutes and we were able to ride in less than 10 minutes.

And then your next option is to follow a Universal Studios Hollywood touring plan to arrive with a set itinerary in place.

Universal Studios Hollywood Touring Plan

The best way to experience Universal Studios Hollywood is with a set touring plan so here are a few example itineraries to help you plan your day.

Universal Hollywood Without Express Pass OR Super Nintendo Early Access

This itinerary follows the assumption that you will arrive before park opening but are NOT purchasing a Super Nintendo Land Early Access Ticket. See a map of Universal Studios Hollywood here .

• If you purchased a Super Nintendo Land Early Access Ticket then use this time to enjoy the land the hour before opening. Go straight to ride Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and then book a reservation for Toadstool Cafe.
• If you do not have Early Access to Super Nintendo World, line up to head straight to  The Secret Life of Pets.  Zig while others zag! The park will be EMPTY in the first two hours as everyone is running to Super Nintendo World, keep an eye on the Universal app to see if they implement a Virtual Queue.
• Next head to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• This ride offers Single Rider- use it to cut your way time to less than half the posted time, come back later to ride it twice!
• You can choose to ride Flight of the Hippogriff  which is a must for Harry Potter fans to see a cool animatronic Buckbeak and Hagrid's Hut. Otherwise, you can skip this one to save time.
• Head to the Lower Lot where Super Nintendo World is located.
• This ride offers Single Rider- use it to cut your way time to less than half the posted time.
• Ride  Jurassic World- The Ride. 
• Head over to Super Nintendo Land!
• Go straight to Toadstool Cafe and scan the QR code located at the entrance of the restaurant to book your reservation if you're interested in dining there.
• Get in line for Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge, 
• Ride  The Simpsons Ride  which is located right near the entrance/exit to the Lower Lot.
• Ride the  Studio Tour next as this ride is a priority for a true Universal Studios Hollywood experience. This ride is located not far from The Simpsons Ride.
• At this point, the main rides you have left are all the ones at the park that focus on the Dreamworks franchise. Before heading over to do those, you should prioritize getting a spot for the  Waterworld  show which is one of the most amazing experiences at Universal!
• Ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and  Kung Fu Panda Adventure.
• If you have small kids, you will enjoy taking them to  Super Silly Fun Land  which is an interactive kid's focused area based on the Despicable Me franchise and includes the Minion-themed Silly Swirly Ride.

Head back to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at dusk to enjoy the nighttime projections on Hogwarts Castle. This show changes themes throughout the year from a show based on traditional Harry Potter elements to a Dark Arts one that's a bit more spooky. During the holiday season, the show will be holiday focused.

Universal Hollywood with Super Nintendo Early Access but NO Express Pass

This itinerary follows the assumption that you will arrive before park opening and are purchasing a Super Nintendo Land Early Access Ticket but you do NOT have Express Pass.

• Arrive at the parks one hour before opening.
• Enter Super Nintendo Land using your Early Access Ticket and go straight to ride Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge.
• After riding  Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge,  go straight to Toadstool Cafe and scan the QR code located at the entrance of the restaurant to book your reservation. Toadstool Cafe won't open until the park officially opens so keep that in mind- do you want to grab the first reservation available at 8AM (the time the park usually opens) or reserve it for later in the day and come back? If you come back, you will need to make sure you can get into the land! I would recommend just getting breakfast there and booking the earliest time slot possible- just to see the interior of this cool restaurant!
• Enjoy  Super Nintendo Land  and if dining at Toadstool Cafe is a priority for you then hang out in the land until your dining time. If not and you are not called back to the cafe right away, proceed to the next step.

Note:  this is why we recommend purchasing a Super Nintendo Land Early Access Ticket! As you can see, enjoying this area can eat up a lot of your park time and the crowds will only begin to build throughout the day. To re-enter the land, you will likely need to access Virtual Line and may not be guaranteed a second entry which is why staying in the land is essential.

• After you're done in Super Nintendo Land, enjoy the rest of the rides in Universal's Lower Lot.
• Head to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter next which is located right near the Studio Tour.
• Ride  The Secret Life of Pets, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,  and  Kung Fu Panda Adventure.

Universal Hollywood Touring Plan with Express Pass

This itinerary follows the assumption that will have Express Pass for the day but not Early Access to Super Nintendo Land.

So the beauty of Express Pass is you really do NOT need a set plan because you can utilize these shorter lines all day! If you want the ultimate convenience of a Universal Studios Hollywood trip, then having Express Pass is the way to do it. The main two considerations include the two most popular lands in the park: Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Super Nintendo World

Your purchase of Express Pass includes two ways to access Super Nintendo World depending on the pass. If you purchased the regular Express Pass you get  one  entry into Super Nintendo World. If you purchased the unlimited Express Pass then you get  unlimited  access to Super Nintendo World throughout the day.

When is the best time to enter Super Nintendo World? 

Personally, if I have Express Pass I would NOT go there at rope drop since that is what the majority of the crowds are doing right now. I would wait and enter the land around 10AM when the first wave of crowds starts to disperse to other areas of the parks. Once inside, you should go straight to Toadstool Cafe and scan the QR code located at the entrance of the restaurant to book your reservation. You cannot eat at Toadstool Cafe without a reservation so keep that in mind. If eating here is a priority for you then you might want to head over to Super Nintendo World as early as you can. After that is done, ride  Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge!

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

One of the biggest advantages of having Express Pass is that you can easily choose to save Super Nintendo World for later in the day and then prioritize enjoying the Wizarding World of Harry Potter before the crowds build in this land. This is a great time to play around with the interactive wands and enjoy the atmosphere before it gets too crowded to easily navigate.

And of course, take the time to use Express Pass for both H arry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff.

How Does Universal Express Pass Work in Hollywood Studios?

Using Universal Express Pass is quite easy to figure out at Universal Studios Hollywood. There are no reservations to make or return times to keep track of. You will simply just experience attractions in whatever order you please. It's really that easy!

You can either register your Express Pass in the Universal Studios Hollywood app and then you will be provided with a QR code on the app that you can scan in the park. If you don't want to use the app, you will also be provided with a paper version of the Universal Express Pass which can be physically scanned at each ride.

The entry to the Express Pass line is clearly marked at most of the entrances to the rides at Universal Studios Hollywood. Simply scan your pass and enter the Express Pass line!

Do I Skip the Line with Express Pass?

The easy answer to this question is YES. The Express Pass line removes nearly all other wait for attractions and because Express Pass is priced higher we don't see as many people with it so the lines move quickly. On average with my experience with Express Pass, I usually did not wait longer than 15 minutes, and most of the time the line was a walk on.

For some rides, there might still be a bit of a wait just because the line merges with the regular queue before the pre-shows so that way those in the Express Pass line can still enjoy the pre-show. This is true for the Simpsons and Minions ride as you will merge with the regular queue for the pre-show. But even then, you are still skipping the majority of the wait time.

Unfortunately, the one attraction that isn't included in Express Pass is Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. This is a common practice for new attractions as Universal wants to keep the number of guests purchasing Express Pass even with their usual trends. We might see Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge added eventually but even over at Universal Orlando, their two newest rides (Velocicoaster and Hagrids) are still not included in Express Pass.

The best way to get on Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge is to rope drop it right after the park opens when the line will be the shortest. Throughout the day the wait time for this attraction averages around 90 minutes.

VIP Experience Universal Studios Hollywood

If you want to really splurge on your day at Univeral Studios Hollywood then you can consider purchasing the VIP Experience. The VIP Experience includes escorted express access to rides, shows, and attractions.

The VIP itinerary includes:

• Begin the day in an exclusive VIP lounge with light snacks and refreshments.
• A gourmet meal in the private VIP dining room, prepared by Universal’s very own executive chef (alcoholic beverages excluded).
• Unlimited Universal Express access to all participating rides and priority seating for select shows.
• Complimentary valet parking and VIP entry to the Park.

An expert VIP guide will escort guess through the express line at rides and attractions and find you the best seats at seated shows.

The VIP Experience also includes exclusive access to Universal's Backlot. Guests can tour the movie industry’s busiest sets in a special trolley where you can disembark to explore some of the famous outdoor sets.

To book the VIP Experience, you can book online at Universal Studios Hollywood's website or (818) 622-8477  for price and availability.

Overall, Express Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood is a great asset to your day and if you can justify the cost in your travel budget then it may be a worthy investment 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
• Best Hotels Near Univeral Studios Hollywood
• Discount Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets
• Universal Orlando Guide
• Universal Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights
• Universal Hollywood Christmas Guide

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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.

Is it worth it to get the express pass and Early access to nintendo world? We are coming on October 12 ( thursday) and its a halloween horror night. Our kids are 10 I think the halloween night is too scary for them so Im not sure we will buy the night so will they kick us out at 5pm? There is some literature saying we might be able to go to one land until 7 on halloween night? Is that true or will they start rounding us up at 4:30 to kick us out at 5? If we are kicked out I think doing express is needed early in the day. And possibly nintendo too? There is so much more info on orlando than hollywood. its challenging to figure it all out.

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Warner Bros.? Paramount? Universal? How to choose the best Hollywood studio tour for you

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When it comes to L.A. outings, the movie studio tour can be easy for locals to overlook. After all, surrounded by Hollywood productions, the entire city can feel like a stage. And if you’ve been on backlots or know people who work in the film and television industries, the magic of the moving picture may already be demystified.

And yet there’s still much to adore about an afternoon jaunt through a filmmaking campus.

In a city that’s too often unjustly stereotyped as favoring the new, the Hollywood studio reminds us of how much history — and, specifically, pop-culture myth-making — is rooted in and around Los Angeles. There in these spaces, you might see a spot where James Dean once stood, roll past the “Psycho” house, step into a partly dressed soundstage or walk through a sound-making Foley factory. Our studios remain working palaces dedicated to crafting dreams.

That all may sound romanticized — the reality of “ making it ” in Hollywood is increasingly challenging, and the studio itself is threatened by a global, digital and consolidating production industry — but it’s only meant to note what’s at risk.

For me, the studio tour was once a go-to destination when out-of-towners came to visit. These days, I like to revisit one every few years, just as a reminder to remain uncynical and to marvel at the talent and cinematic art that this region has invented. And each tour has a slightly different flavor. Whether it’s animation history you crave or museum-like installations, there’s a tour for every kind of film buff.

Universal Studios

Best for: Seekers of thrills and cinematic magic

It’s not an exaggeration to say that if there was no tram tour on the Universal Studios lot, there would be no Universal Studios theme park. Sixty years ago, the backlot tram tour began as a way, in part, to increase commissary sales as tourists liked the opportunity to dine on the lot. Quickly, however, those running the tour had a realization that every studio trek has to confront: looking at giant soundstages or deserted sets is fun for only so long.

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Thus, Universal Studios pioneered the concept of melding the tour with various attractions — cinematic illusions such as a flash flood, a runaway train or, in the late ’80s, an earthquake simulator. Today, the tram tour — now officially designated as the World-Famous Studio Tour — is but one part of a larger theme park, designed to show us mini-attractions such as an encounter with a shark from “Jaws” or a 3-D ride alongside King Kong. Yes, there are backlot sets, including instantly recognizable locations from “Back to the Future,” “Pyscho,” “Desperate Housewives” and, most recently, “Nope.” But this 60-minute journey is more than a behind-the-scenes look. Instead, the focus is on the emotion and excitement of movie-making mirages.

There is even a lesser known VIP option to exploring the park. Expect to spend around $400 per person for it, but the perks include a longer tour with the ability to walk around the sets, venture into a prop house and likely set foot on a soundstage.

Universal Studios, 100 Universal City Plaza. The tram tour is included with theme park admission, which varies per day but ranges from $109 to $149 per person. For more information , visit universalstudioshollywood.com .

Warner Bros.

Best for: Fans of interactive exhibits, Central Perk selfies and everything “Harry Potter”

Warner Bros. has always had a showman’s approach to its studio tour, opening its gates to the public in the mid-’60s to herald the arrival of “The Great Race” with cars, props and a behind-the-scenes featurette to accompany a backlot venture. It’s a mindset that continues today, as the Warner Bros. Studio Tour aims to walk the line between pure history and entertainment, with numerous recent expansions into interactive installations. Come for the tour, stay for a potion-making mini-game to celebrate the “Harry Potter” franchise or the ability to pose with multiple Batmobiles.

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The standard tour offers about a 60-minute tram outing. Expect to stop and walk among its suburban town, where guides will point out filming locations from “Friends,” “The Big Bang Theory,” “Gilmore Girls,” “Cool Hand Luke” and more, as well as to see the wilds of San Fernando Valley, including a forest area that’s been used in the likes of “Jurassic Park,” “True Blood” and “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.” There’s also a Turner Classic Movies-themed tour , if you lean more toward cinematic classics such as “Casablanca” and “Rebel Without a Cause.”

But what truly separates Warner Bros. from its competitors is recent investments in a re-creation of the “Friends” Central Perk Café — yes, you can dine there — and its surrounding museum-like exhibits. Interactive tables will allow you to explore the actors of Warner Bros. past and present, while special effects stations can add or subtract digital accouterments with the movement of a knob. There’s up-sell green screen photo ops, short films and demonstrations of motion-capture technology. A secondary stop pulls from tricks from the theme park industry, with photo ops pegged to DC superhero films and the “Potter” franchise, including the ability to be assigned a personality by the latter’s wizardly Sorting Hat.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour, 3400 Warner Blvd., Burbank. The standard tour starts at $73 ; Southern California residents receive a $12 discount through Dec. 17 , with deluxe and VIP offerings providing additional exploration of the studio’s backlot. For more information , visit wbstudiotour.com.

Walt Disney Studios

Best for: Disney history buffs and animation lovers

If Disneyland idealizes American stories and Western takes on classic fairy tales, then a trip to the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank grounds them in a bit more reality. But it is still Disney, so expect a little bit of folkloric mythologizing, especially when it comes to company founder Walt Disney.

A centerpiece of the 2½-hour tour — open only to members of the Disney fan club D23, including those with a free membership — is the meticulous restoration of Disney’s five-room office suite. It’s a treasure trove of items belonging to Disney — or re-creations of them, such as a reproduction of the special Oscar he won for “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” with a normal-sized statuette and seven smaller ones. Marvel, too, at the Disneyland master plan, with nods to what were then recently completed projects such as It’s a Small World. The office is preserved as it would have looked at the time of Disney’s death in 1966. (Note: At the time of publication, the office was due for renovation in late 2024.)

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Additionally, no other tour is as dedicated to the art of animation as this one. No real surprise, of course, but guests will visit the original animation building — where “Cinderella” and “Lady and the Tramp,” among many others, were created — and learn about Disney’s many advancements to the medium. Discover, too, the unique construction of the lot, and clever efforts to conceal precious hand-drawn animation cels from the sun. The tour also includes a stop at the Walt Disney Archives, the working research lab dedicated to preserving all things Disney.

The Walt Disney Studios Official Tour, 500 S . Buena Vista St., Burbank. D23 members are allowed to purchase two tickets; ticket cost varies by membership level but starts at $79. For more information , visit d23.com/upcoming-events.

Sony Pictures

Best for: Game show devotees and a vision of Oz

The Times first wrote about a tour of the famed MGM Studios lot in the late ’60s. Times, culture and ownership have changed, and the now Sony Pictures Studio Tour no longer, for instance, provides a look at Esther Williams’ private swimming pool. Today, it begins with a re-creation of the “Seinfeld” set and props from the “Men in Black” films. The Culver City lot still offers the occasional nod to its past, via architectural allusions to MGM’s history or artist Tony Tasset’s 94-foot, 2012-constructed rainbow that references “The Wizard of Oz,” which was filmed at the locale.

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A signature of the modern Sony Pictures tour is a stop on the sets of venerable game shows such as “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune,” provided they’re not in the midst of filming. But even if they are, you’ll still have the opportunity to stand before a green screen and take home a “Jeopardy!” picture as a memento.

You’ll also likely get a look at various working aspects of the studio. On the day I visited, we strolled through the sound production offices to see how Foley artists operate. Imagine a darkened, cramped room that looks like someone’s garage filled with old clothes, crusty leaves, an assortment of footwear and broken machinery.

It was a brief chance to play, as guests stepped among different floor types to create various sounds. We also spent a moment in an overdub room, mimicking the creation of white noise from a crowd.

“Breaking Bad” and Ghostbusters” fans will snare a look at vehicles used in productions. For a different perspective, schedule one of Sony’s evening tours.

Sony Pictures, 3990 Overland Ave ., Culver City. Tours start at $55. For more information, visit sonypicturesstudiostours.com.

Paramount Pictures

Best for: Those looking for Hollywood nostalgia

Paramount dispenses with the slickness and some of the how-to’s of other tours, focusing instead on its historic Hollywood locale on Melrose Avenue. A sense of grandeur permeates the lot, thanks in large part to the ornate archway of the Bronson Gate — which was a filming location for “Sunset Boulevard.” On Paramount’s standard tour, you’ll learn how Alfred Hitchcock nearly destroyed a soundstage to film “Rear Window,” and glimpse the lot’s expansive “blue sky tank,” which can create oceanic illusions. On the day I visited, we explored a soundstage dressed for Taylor Tomlinson’s “After Midnight,” and paused to watch crews ready the lot’s New York streets for filming.

At a prop warehouse specifically geared for the tour, one can step on a transporter from “Star Trek Beyond.” Also present: costumes for the “Halo” series, a full-scale Bumblebee from the “Transformers” films and mushrooms and an “egg mobile” from the “Sonic the Hedgehog” movies. This is more of a gallery-like setup than it is a venture into a working prop house.

The two-hour Paramount tour is relatively intimate, featuring a small group and a tour guide armed with an iPad. Higher-priced options offer a look into more operational archival areas of the lot, but as it stands, it’s primarily a chance to see a historic Hollywood lot, one potentially on the verge of significant change .

Paramount Pictures, 5515 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles. Tour start at $65. For more information, visit paramountstudiotour.com.

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Todd Martens is a features columnist at the Los Angeles Times who writes about theme parks and West Coast Experiences, among other topics. Martens joined the Los Angeles Times in 2007 and has covered a mix of interactive entertainment as its game critic and pop music as a reporter and editor. Previously, he reported on the music business for Billboard Magazine. Martens has contributed to numerous books, including “The Big Lebowski: An Illustrated, Annotated History of the Greatest Cult Film of All Time.” He continues to torture himself by rooting for the Chicago Cubs and, while he likes dogs, he is more of a cat person.

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Universal Studios Hollywood debuting new event featuring 'Star Trek,' Dungeons & Dragons and more

For years, Universal Studios Hollywood has immersed theme park fans into the world of their favorite films, TV shows and video games. Visitors can see how movie magic is made on the backlot Studio Tour , fly over Hogwarts Castle on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and race to the finish line on Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge .

Related: Thrills for all ages: The best rides at Universal Studios Hollywood

Now, Universal Studios Hollywood will bring new fandoms to life in a whole new way during the first-ever Universal Fan Fest Nights event taking place next spring. According to the park's press release , this separately ticketed after-hours event will bring "the most compelling worlds of Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Gaming and Anime to life."

Universal has already announced a few of the franchises guests can look forward to. So far, fans can expect experiences inspired by "Star Trek," "Back to the Future" and Dungeons & Dragons. Additional experiences will be announced closer to the event.

Universal has not yet shared exactly what guests will be able to experience during Universal Fan Fest Nights but did reveal the event will include "immersive in-world experiences" and "engaging celebratory activations," including everything from "live entertainment to cosplay," allowing guests to celebrate their favorite movies and games among hundreds of other like-minded fans.

Universal also promised a lineup of themed food, drinks and merchandise designed specifically for this event.

Though Universal is keeping details close to the vest, we do know the event is being put on by the creators of Halloween Horror Nights . This annual event is one of the country's premier horror events, with movie-quality haunted houses based on original concepts and pop culture favorites.

"For decades, Universal Studios Hollywood has been a leader in creating and executing innovative special events that are consistent with our brand," Scott Strobl, executive vice president and general manager of Universal Studios Hollywood, said in the press release. "From our esteemed Halloween Horror Nights event to this all-new Universal Fan Fest Nights experience, we are thrilled about how this breakthrough program will continue to elevate the guest experience in an all-new way."

Official dates have not yet been announced, but guests can sign up to learn more and be notified when tickets go on sale on Universal's website .

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Universal Studios Hollywood Offering NEW After Hours Themed Nights

A fter hours events at theme parks are always popular and this is something that Disneyland has been doing quite some time with their Disneyland After Dark spring events .

Universal Studios Hollywood has participated in similar offerings in the past but the closest “after hours” event has always been the Halloween Horror Nights event which extends into the time the park is traditionally closed.

Universal Studios Hollywood has announced they are now going to begin offering their own version of after hours events with Universal Fan Fest Nights!

Universal Fan Fest Nights

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Universal Studios Hollywood has announced a brand new after hours event for their theme park called Universal Fan Fest Nights. This immersive and interactive after hours experience will feature fan favorite genres like sci-fi, fantasy, gaming and anime.

This is the first event like this to take place at Universal Studios Hollywood and will debut in Spring 2025. This event is being created by the same people who create and work on Halloween Horror Nights! Considering the impressive scale of Halloween Horror Nights and the creativity used to create those events, this is promising news!

Universal Fan Fest Night Themes

So far three themes have been announced with more properties coming soon.

Star Trek is one of the themes with the experience inspired by the Star Trek universe which is known for its “groundbreaking storytelling that addresses social, political and cultural issues” and popularity. Back to the Future will also be featured with the experience inspired by this classic 1985 film.

Another interesting theme is Dungeons & Dragons which will celebrate 50 years of the World's Greatest Roleplaying Game. The announcement specifically called out the film, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, along with the video game Baldur's Gate 3 which means these properties could inspire this event.

Universal Fan Fest Nights Experience

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Universal Fan Fest Nights is a “limited-time” experience that takes place “after-hours” with the theme park offering a immersive in world experiences that match the theme of the event.

There will be live entertainment to cosplay offerings for guests to participate in! There will be a menu of themed foods for the events along with event specific merchandise that will likely correlate to each themed offering. No word yet on which attractions will be available, especially if Super Nintendo World will be an option, but I am sure some attraction offerings will be included with the event.

This is an interesting move for Universal Studios Hollywood to tap into “fandom culture” in a sense by encouraging cosplay, picking themes like Star Trek and Dungeons and Dragons that often have a large presence at conventions. I will be curious to see what other properties will be included, it would be great to see a classic monsters themed event although that may be too similar to Halloween Horror Nights! Even better would be a Nintendo themed night to really tap into the area of Super Nintendo World.

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