universal studios hollywood tour hours

• Calendar and Hours

Today: June 18, 2024

Universal studios hollywood, super nintendo world™ early access (separate ticket required).

• None at this time

Universal Studios Hollywood Park hours vary throughout the year and are subject to change. For most up-to-date park hours, see the Theme Park Hours calendar below.

Early Access Hours

Save time by skipping lines.

Maximize Your Fun with a Universal Express™ Ticket

BE PAMPERED LIKE A STAR

Book Your VIP Experience Online and Save $10

Download the Official Universal Studios Hollywood App Today! Everything you need in the palm of your hand. Maps, wait times, show times, plus free WiFi.

The World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood – The Ultimate Guide

The World Famous Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s best attraction. This one-hour tram tour takes you around the backlot of one of the oldest active movie studios in the world .

This is a real, working movie studio. As such, you’ll see some of Hollywood’s most famous filming locations and sets from your favourite shows and movies. This also means you could see celebrities while on the Studio Tour .

However, to temper expectations, I’ve been on the Studio Tour several times and never seen a celebrity. However, I did see Mario Lopez at the theme park entrance once.

The Universal Studio Tour is suitable for the whole family . There are no height restrictions. In fact, I recently went on the tour with my 14-month-old son.

The tour is hosted by Jimmy Fallon and a live guide who provides commentary throughout. Y ou will remain on the tram for the duration of the tour , during which time you will see and experience:

• Fast & The Furious: Supercharged
• King Kong 3D
• Bates Motel
• War of the Worlds Plane
• Jupiter’s Claim
• Flash Flood Simulator
• Earthquake: The Big One!

Some of these experiences can be scary for young children. However, you can not opt out of any experience. Instead, you will remain on the tram throughout.

If you are travelling with small children or those with sensitivities, I recommend sitting on the left of the tram at the very front or the very back . Jaws and Norman Bates are the scariest experiences and they aim for the middle of the tram on the right.

Studio Tours at Universal Studios Hollywood are also available in Spanish . However, these tours are only at pre-set times.

On my most recent visit to Universal Studios Hollywood these times were: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm, and 6:15pm. Meanwhile, Studio Tours in English are available non-stop throughout the day.

You are permitted to take photos and videos throughout the Studio Tour . However, flash photography is prohibited during 3-D experiences (King Kong and Fast & Furious).

Where Is the Studio Tour?

The Studio Tour is located in a dedicated lower lot area of Universal Studios Hollywood . To get to this part of the theme park, head straight from the entrance towards Springfield.

Once inside Springfield, continue heading straight until you get to The Simpsons Ride. You then want to turn right. At this point, you should see a sign overhead with ‘Studio Tour’ plus the wait time.

Be sure to turn right and not left at The Simpsons Ride. The dedicated Studio Tour, lower lot area, is separate from the general Lower Lot.

To get to the Studio Tour entrance, you’ll need to take an escalator. However, a lift is also available off to the right-hand side.

Wait times for the Studio Tour vary significantly depending on the time of year. In the off-season, I walked straight onto a tram. However, in peak season, I’ve waited for up to one hour.

Top Tips for the Universal Studio Tour

There are no toilet breaks during the Studio Tour . If you need the toilet, you’ll find them off to the right as you come down the escalators.

You can not take strollers on the Studio Tour , but there is a large stroller parking area located next to the attraction’s entrance.

You can use a Universal Express Pass on the Studio Tour . The line for Universal Express Pass ticket holders is at the ride entrance. I used a Universal Express Pass on a recent visit. Using the pass, I walked straight onto a tram while the standby line was at 20 minutes.

The Studio Tour is free with admission to Universal Studios Hollywood . However, you can purchase a Universal VIP Experience ticket for a more in-depth Studio Tour and other benefits.

You do not have to book a slot on the Studio Tour . Instead, each tour is done on a first-come, first-served basis. Each tram roughly holds 100 – 150 people, split across six carriages.

Generally speaking, the best time to go on the Studio Tour is in the morning when the theme park first opens . The lines are smaller during this time, so you should be able to go straight out onto the tour.

However, the Studio Tour is not the most popular ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, and it has a really large capacity. So, I suggest going to popular rides such as Mario Kart first.

That being said, I recommend avoiding the Studio Tour around lunchtime . This is when it’s most popular, and the wait time is often the longest.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Today's Park Hours 09:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Visit CityWalk 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Universal Studios Hollywood

Get Ready for the Ultimate Hollywood Movie Experience!

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

Parking and Directions to Universal Studios Hollywood

Review our most updated information before your visit.

The World-Famous Studio Tour

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

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

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

Jurassic World – The Ride

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

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

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

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

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

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

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™

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

King Kong 360 3-D

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

Fast & Furious - Supercharged!

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

Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride

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

TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride-3D

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

Springfield, U.S.A.

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

Foreign Language Studio Tours

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

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

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

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Attractions
• Amusement Parks

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

• Sign Up / Log In

Create a free profile to get unlimited access to exclusive show news, updates, and more!

What's New on Universal Studios Hollywood's 60th Anniversary Studio Tour in 2024?

NBC Insider took the summer glow-up Studio Tour for its Diamond Anniversary and we've got tips to share!

It's a big year for the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour . In operation since 1964, the tours have evolved massively across six decades, originating with their iconic red and white Glamor Trams to today's multi-car shuttles which wind around the sprawling Universal backlot. 

To celebrate their Diamond Anniversary of the Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood is giving guests lots of new experiences from now through August 11 to get a taste of what the tour was like back in the day mixed with all of its innovations today. 

NBC Insider recently jumped on a tram car to get a first hand perspective on the tour and we've got some tips on how to plan your day at the theme park with the Studio Tour for efficiency.

When should you plan to take the Studio Tour?

The entrance to the Studio Tour is on the Upper Lot of Universal Studios Hollywood. Make a right at The Simpsons  cross section and the dedicated escalators take guests down to the queue for the trams. If you want shorter lines, go earlier in the day. That's the best time to get on trams with less crowds. However, if you're looking for an escape from the sun, the Studio Tour queue is completed shaded and the tour itself keeps you covered even during the hottest times of summer days. 

Know that the Studio Tour is about one-hour long, but the special summer tour will add some extras that may extend your experience beyond an hour. Keep that in mind too if you have other places to be, are hungry or have timed shows to see.

What's different about the anniversary Universal Studio Tour in 2024?

Plenty! Going on a decade now, we're well-versed on all of the minute changes to the Studio Tour which are usually pretty subtle. But this special iteration has whole new routes, a lot of new video material with Master of Ceremonies Jimmy Fallon and Universal Pictures luminaries like Steven Spielberg, John Carpenter, Jordan Peele and Jack Black, along with plenty of fresh movie history shared from the mouths of the tour guides.

Since the back lot is a working studio, not every attraction on the Studio Tour route will be available during the week. However, weekends give Studio Tour riders a better shot at seeing all stops because film and television shows are rarely in production on Saturdays and Sundays. That being said, the new route will oftentimes take riders through the city facades, past many of the massive sound stages and standing sets like Little Europe and the Western streets and the flooding street area used in many films and TV shows.

RELATED:  Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift Ride at Universal Studios Hollywood Finally Revealed

The Courthouse Square is another area of note which features the clocktower from Back to the Future. This tour will feature a DeLorean and Doc Brown to greet you as you pass through. There's a temporary return of the 1976 Runaway Train which used to be part of the Studio Tour and featured warning bells and sirens to scare riders. There's also an amped up Jurassic World section which features a dimensional Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur and pens holding some cranky Dilophosaurus that screech and roar as you pass by in the tram.

As for attractions that are part of the Studio Tour, riders will still experience Peter Jackson's 3D Kong Island; a newly renovated Earthquake—The Big One attraction that reproduces the effects of a major quake; the Jaws lagoon attack; a ride through Jupiter's Claim from Nope and the 3D enhanced Fast & Furious - Supercharged finale. 

What's at the new step-off point in the middle of the Studio Tour?

Outside of the Halloween Horror Nights Terror Tram experience, this summer's updated Studio Tour is the rare time when riders can get out of the tram to walk amongst the Psycho motel and experience some unique photo opportunities. 

Midway through the tour, the tram will stop at a drop off point at the Bates Motel. There, you can walk amongst movie props, or take a picture next to Marion Crane's car, or an original, fully restored 1964 vintage Glamor Tram. There's also the best place to frame a photo op with the perfectly scaled replica of the Hollywood Sign setup just for this anniversary tour. 

Once you've had your fun in this area, around the corner is an even bigger area of photo ops where you can get yourself sitting pretty between two Fast and the Furious picture cars; cuddle up inside King Kong's fist or proudly reveal your humongous catch of the day, which is a more than life-sized reproduction of the shark in Jaws . 

Things to know as you plan your visit: on less crowded days, you can make the rounds of these photo ops quickly and then hitch a ride back on revolving trams that are ready to pick you up and continue the rest of the tour. On busier days, you will need extra time to queue for each photo op as there will be lines. Regardless, there will be a tram waiting for you to get back on when you are ready. And don't worry, there is cold bottled water available at this stop to purchase if you're feeling hot or thirsty. 

Are there collectibles to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Universal Studios Tour?

Absolutely! Throughout the theme park and in the Universal Studios Store at the entrance, you'll find an array of fun shirts, mugs, magnets, and more emblazoned with vintage art that features the Glamour Tram. There's also a collectible popcorn bucket with Woody Woodpecker at the wheel of the Glam Tram that holds a lot of popcorn you can refill through the day, then take home to remember your trip. 

RELATED:  Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates 1-Year with New Power Up Cafe

If you're more of a foodie, there's a Dining Pass celebrating the 60 th  anniversary with special food offerings just for the summer event. Or you can individually purchase themed items at Hollywood & Dine or Mel’s Diner. And for snacks, check out Studio Scoops and City Snack Shop standalone outdoor food car on the Upper Lot.

Regardless of how you tackle the Studio Tour, remember that it's part of your Universal Studios Hollywood admission ticket so make space for it when you visit. You won't be disappointed. 

More information is available at  www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com

Related Stories

Universal Orlando's CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular

What to Expect from Dreamworks Land

A Quiet Place Will Haunt Halloween Horror Nights 2024

Newlyweds Millie Bobby Brown & Jake Bongiovi Visit Universal Orlando

Kid-Friendly Things to Do at Universal Orlando Resort

Minion's Café at Universal Orlando is Delicious for All Ages

The Best Way to Experience Halloween Horror Nights 2024

Universal Orlando Resort’s Best Deal on Tickets Yet

How To Get The Most From Your Villain-Con Minion Blast Blaster at Universal Parks

The Haunted Houses at Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights 2024

JoJo Siwa Explains the Meaning of Her May 17 Tattoo

Minions-Themed Hotel at Universal Studios Orlando Resort

Recommended for you.

2-Year-Old Mariska Hargitay Appears on the Merv Griffin Show

Ryan Gosling and Jimmy Fallon Deserve Oscars for Playing Identical-Looking Tough Cops

Scarlett Johansson Matches Katie Britt's SOTU Energy in SNL Parody: Watch

• All Articles
• Itineraries
• Guides and Tips
• Attractions
• Behind-the-Scenes
• Guest Stories
• Guides & Tips
• Universal Orlando Resort Deals
• Universal Studios Hollywood Deals

Guide to The Best Seats on the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood

No trip to  Universal Studios Hollywood  is complete without experiencing our signature attraction,  The World-Famous Studio Tour . This legit journey through the actual sets of some of your favorite movies and television shows is mixed with exhilarating attractions and entertaining insights, making it an educational thrill ride unlike anything you can experience anywhere else. And while it’s safe to say there are no bad seats on the Studio Tour, there are definitely some  preferred  seats, depending on what you’re most excited to see. Let me break it down for you.

Flash Flood

The flash flood on our Old Mexico set was added to our backlot tour back in 1968. You may recognize it from films like “Big Fat Liar”   and  “ Fletch Lives”, but seeing it in person is truly something else. A rainstorm starts out of nowhere and before you know it, 10,000 gallons of water are rushing toward you, blasting through windows, knocking over signs, when suddenly… *WHOOSH* It stops just short of washing away the entire tram. How? Movie magic, of course.

Best Seats: Car 2, Left Side

King Kong 360 3-D

The first of its kind on the Studio Tour, this attraction was created under the direction of “King Kong”   director Peter Jackson. As you make your way through Skull Island, the tram is suddenly surrounded by hungry dinosaurs and giant insects.

Luckily, Kong is on your side. Actually, he’s on all sides, throwing punches (watch out for dinosaur saliva) and catching tram cars. Good thing the tram roof is built to support that kind of weight.

…it is, right?

 Best Seats: Car 2, Right Side — if you want to see Kong’s epic entrance Car 4, Left Side — if you want to see what happens to Car 5

War of the Worlds

One of the most well-known sets from the Studio Tour is the plane crash from Steven Spielberg’s, “War of the Worlds”. Now I won’t tell you all the fun facts about this set (that’s what the tour is for), but it is a real 747 airplane that was torn apart for the movie and it is truly something to behold up close. As the neighborhood appeared in the film, you can still see the smoking wreckage of the crash and the scattered debris. Don’t worry — the tram will stop for a moment so you can snap plenty of pictures.

Best Seats: Car 3, Left Side

Some may recognize the peaceful village around the water as Cabot Cove, from the classic show, “Murder, She Wrote”. However, this section is most commonly known as Jaws Lake, home of the unstoppable great white shark from the movie “Jaws”. After greeting one of the divers in the water, the tram will pause on the dock (for safety, I guess?), allowing the shark to cause some destruction by the gas pumps before attacking the tram. This is why they tell you to keep your arms inside the vehicle, folks.

Best Seats: Car 2, Right Side — to get a good look at the shark just as he emerges Car 3, Right Side — to get a good look at the shark and enjoy those fire effects (if it’s chilly outside)

Earthquake — The Big One

This part of the tour has been featured in movies like “Beverly Hills Cop III”   and the TV show “Bones”. Much like King Kong 360 3-D, this attraction delivers thrills and action on all sides, so there are no bad seats. The difference here is that all the effects are practical (no 3D glasses needed). Plus, if you missed the fire effects from Jaws Lake or the flood from Old Mexico, Earthquake features both — and they’re on opposite sides!

Best Seats: Car 3, Left Side — for those fire effects (just watch out for the gas truck) Car 3, Right Side — for that impressive flood

Courthouse Square

Your tour guide can rattle off dozens of different movies and TV shows that have been filmed on this beautiful block of the backlot (and likely a few current productions!), but none more well-known than “Back to the Future”. While some of the facades have changed, you’ll still be taken back to 1955 (or 1985, or 2015). There’s plenty of fun stuff to see on all sides, but the tram tends to pass by the iconic courthouse and clocktower just once.

Best Seats: Car 2 or 3, Left Side – for the best view of the courthouse

New York Street & Colonial Street & Six Points Texas

A good portion of the tour is spent traveling down streets designed to look like any city  but  Hollywood. This is where the history of filmmaking on the Universal backlot comes alive with facades everywhere. Because this is a working studio, the route can vary day-to-day!

Best Seats: Anywhere!

Fast & Furious — Supercharged

There’s a government spy on board the tram and the villainous Owen Shaw is on his way to take them out (and I don’t mean to dinner). Fortunately, the “Fast & Furious” crew is aware of the situation and are here to protect you and everyone else on board. After a failed attempt to hide out at Sullivan’s Garage, the tram finds itself in a high-speed chase through the streets of LA, with intense action happening all around it. This attraction uses similar technology to King Kong 360 3-D, meaning that once again there aren’t any bad seats. To take it a step further, the action throughout is pretty similar on either side, and one character is even carried along both sides of the tram by helicopter (before jumping back into their moving vehicle, of course).

Best Seats: Any Car, Left Side – for a good look at the souped-up vehicles right when you enter Sullivan’s Garage Any Car, Right Side – for a good look at the pre-show dance party and Shaw’s arrival

As you can see, no matter where you sit on the World-Famous Studio Tour, you’re bound to get an unforgettable experience. Just remember to stay seated while the tram is in motion, and don’t put those 3D glasses on just yet. Action!

Let us know in the comments below your favorite part of the Studio Tour and we’ll see you soon!

Universal Destinations & Experiences

Never miss a thrill. Subscribe now to get email updates from Universal Parks & Resorts.

Josh Levesque

HHN fanatic and honorary Springfield, USA resident. Firm believer that milkshakes go with every meal. Very excited to meet your dog.

You Might Also Like

Here’s What’s Coming to Halloween Horror Nights 2024 at Universal Studios Hollywood

Food and Drink Guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood

Guide to the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary Celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood

Guide to Universal CityWalk at Universal Studios Hollywood

21 comments.

For Norman Bates: Car 4, right side, second to last row. The actors who play him are usually really cute and they’ll get right on your face.

Lol. It’s sad that I know this.

I’m at Universal Studios tour guide. The Normans will be happy to hear this. Starting today through Halloween horror nights Norman is up at the psycho house so your best view will be on the left side in car four. 👍🏻

Hi. Universal Studios tour guide here. For the earthquake section you have your sides flipped. Truck comes down on the left. Flood comes from the right. 👍🏻

MVP Tour Guide! Thanks for catching that, Luke. All fixed for future readers. 🙂

Does it still pass the Psycho house ? I am taking my daughter there for the first time next week. She is obsessed with that movie and it’s all she wants to see.

Hi Vanessa! Guests will see the legendary Bates Motel from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho during the Studio Tour.

hi,i wear glasses,so i wondering there have so many 3d thing,how about bad eyesignt people could enjoy this?

Hi there! If an attraction has 3-D glasses available, they can go over normal glasses just fine!

A partir de que estatura puede hacerse este ride?

Hola Nash! Esta atracción no tiene restricción de altura y todos los Visitantes pueden experimentarla.

[…] store to choose materials for their house renovation. This store sequence was filmed entirely on the Universal Studios lot in Hollywood. This lot is made up of many stages and backlots and provides the production team with a completely […]

Hola quisiera saber que dias hay tours en español?

Hola Fernanda,

Le recomendamos comunicarse con nuestro equipo de experiencia VIP al 1-866-346-9350 para recibir asistencia con reservar un guía que hable Español para su recorrido. Se puede contactar con ellos los 7 días de la semana de 9 am a 7 pm. Para obtener más información, recomendamos consultar nuestra página de VIP Tour Experience en nuestro sitio web: https://bit.ly/3syPMhz Visitas guiadas. ¡Esperamos su bienvenida!

Can I purchase this tour without the general admission? I’ll be visiting with senior crew from abroad and they only care about the “movies tour”

Hi Cat! Guests wishing to experience The World-Famous Studio Tour will be required to purchase park tickets. We recommend viewing the Special Offers page on our website for the most up-to-date deals currently available: https://bit.ly/3wh6Hqn . We hope to see you soon!

Hola! dónde puedo ver los horarios del tour (idealmente en español)? Gracias!

¡Hola Carolina! Para informaciones actualizadas sobre los horarios del Studio Tour, recomendamos que utilice nuestra aplicación móvil de Universal Studios Hollywood. ¡Esperamos verte muy pronto!

Loved this guide! Just got back from the studio tour and the tips for getting the best seats were super helpful.

We’re so glad that you found them helpful! 😊

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Most Popular Theme Park Tour!

Universal Studios Hollywood Tour

Quick Details

• Tag Tour Type: Theme park
• Clock Duration: 12 hours
• Map Marker Location: Hollywood

Explore Universal Studios

Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place: Universal Studios Hollywood.

With thrilling park rides and shows, a real working movie studio, and LA’s best shops, restaurants, and cinemas at CityWalk, Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique experience that’s fun for the whole family. There’s a reason it’s known as the Entertainment Capital of LA.

PLEASE NOTE: This tour is not to be confused with the offer made by Universal Studios for Early Park Admission — that offer is good only through the Universal Studios website directly. Our tour offers to get you up there before most tour companies do, which is GREAT for seeing and doing everything you want to do at the studio. However, our tour will not get you up to the studios for their Early Park Admission entry time.

Only Universal Studios lets you ride the movies and go behind the scenes of a real working movie studio. Explore all Universal Studios Hollywood rides, shows, and attraction below.

Peak Pricing Season

Universal Studios changes their pricing based on the day of the week & the season of the year.

Once you choose a date on our website, you’ll see the pricing for that day. If you have flexibility of your schedule, you might want to check other days & you may find a lower price.

Transportation only includes round trip transportation from your Anaheim Area hotel. Tick & transportation includes admission or Express Pass Admission & Transportation.

We’re looking forward to serving you!

Park Attractions

• Chevron down The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Bring your wand and cast some spells in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™! Wander the halls of your favorite magical school, the Hogwarts™ castle, and get your potion ingredients and spell books at the shops of Hogsmeade™, learn to fly on the thrill rides, and dine on the amazing food you’ve read about.

• Chevron down Fast & Furious: Supercharged

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the world-famous Studio Tour, and hold on tight for the all-new grand finale, Fast & Furious – Supercharged!

• Chevron down Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem

Join Gru, his daughters, and the mischievous minions on a heartwarming and hilarious 3D ride.

• Chevron down Super Silly Fun Land

Super Silly Fun Land is an all-new elaborate play zone adjacent to Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.

• Chevron down Transformers: The Ride 3D

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

• Chevron down Studio Tour

Go behind the scenes on the legendary Studio Tour to explore Hollywood’s most famous backlot in the world’s largest working movie studio.

• Chevron down King Kong 360: 3D

Don’t miss the award-winning King Kong 360 3D created by Peter Jackson, the world’s largest 3D experience, only on the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour.

• Chevron down The Simpsons Ride

The Simpsons™ are visiting Krustyland, and you are there right alongside Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and the rest of your favorite characters.

• Chevron down Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride

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

• Chevron down Shrek 4D

Take adventure to the next dimension in Shrek 4D™, the attraction that puts you in the action.

• Chevron down Jurassic Park: The Ride

Jurassic Park® – The Ride is closed for refurbishment until March 14. Come face-to-face with “living” dinosaurs, a 50-foot T-Rex, and a treacherous drop straight down an 84-foot death-defying raft plunge.

• Chevron down Water World

A Tidal Wave of Explosive Action

• Chevron down Special Effects Stage

Don’t miss the Special Effects Stage, where you learn the secrets behind the making of your favorite blockbuster movies.

• Chevron down Universal's Animal Actors

Witness Tinseltown-trained critters putting pet tricks to shame with their animal antics!

• Chevron down The NBC Universal Experience

Go behind the scenes of Universal’s film legacy in this interactive exhibit featuring authentic props, wardrobe, and artifacts!

• Chevron down Characters in the Park

Kids of all ages love meeting our characters.

Covid-19 Legal

• Chevron down Covid-19 Legal

In connection with your purchase of Universal Hollywood products and your visit to Universal Hollywood including Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk Hollywood, please be advised that you must follow Universal Hollywood’s policies, CDC guidelines, and the recommendations of health officials.

Please note that any public location where people are present provides an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 and Universal Hollywood cannot guarantee that you will not be exposed during your visit. By visiting Universal Hollywood, you acknowledge and agree that you assume these inherent risks associated with attendance.

When you enter Universal Hollywood, you understand that you are subject to the Universal Hollywood terms of service(including arbitration, class action waiver, assumption of risk, and infectious disease release of liability) located at https://www. universalstudioshollywood.com/ web/en/us/terms-of-service

Related Tours

• Map Marker Los Angeles
• Clock 12 hours
• Tag Theme park

Six Flags Magic Mountain Tour

Visit the best roller coaster park in Southern California! Get ready for an amazing, fast, scary, tall, upside down, spinning experience! *Transportation only option available!

• Featured Tour
• Map Marker Los Angeles plus Universal Studios , Hollywood
• Clock 13.5 hours
• Tag Theme park , Sightseeing

Universal Studios Combo Tour with Hollywood at Night

This combo tour includes admission to Universal Studios plus our Hollywood/LA at Night Tour!

Save money, experience more.

Universal Studios Hollywood Hours 2024 FAQ, Tips, & Expected Hours

Universal Studios Hollywood hours can fluctuate throughout the year but typically follow a similar pattern depending on the season. Universal Hollywood only releases their hours about a month in advance which can leave guests wondering when Universal will open and close for the day on their visit.

Keep reading for our full Universal Studios Hollywood hours analysis along with common frequently asked questions surrounding when Universal Studios Hollywood opens and closes. Plus, our full list of when Universal Studios Hollywood will likely open and close based on historical park hours. And how to access Super Nintendo World before park opening!

Get exclusive access to prices on hotel & tickets just for Mickey Visit subscribers. Don't miss our travel hacks newsletter!

How to Check Universal Studios Hollywood Park Hours

Universal Studios Hollywood only releases their hours about a month in advance on the Universal website . Because of this short time frame we have projections on hours based on historical data from previous years.

But usually, only the opening and closing times will be posted and the entertainment schedule will only be available on the Universal Studios Hollywood app.

Universal Studios Hollywood hours will change throughout the year depending on the season, anticipated crowd levels, and this also impacts what type of entertainment is offered and how often.

What Time Does Universal Studios Hollywood Open?

Universal Studios Hollywood opening schedule fluctuates throughout the year. During less crowded times of the year the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park will open later in the morning with busier times of the year offering earlier opening times.

Here is a breakdown of the typical Universal Studios Hollywood opening hours you can expect:

• 8AM – peak travel days, weekends
• 9AM – most times of the year, weekends
• 10AM – slow times of the year, weekdays

During the majority of the year, you can expect to see Universal Studios Hollywood open at 9AM. Although some peak travel times will also see longer hours, more on this below!

This has been the pattern since Super Nintendo World has opened which is now offered for Early Entry.

Super Nintendo World Early Access

Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood is the number one draw in the entire park at the moment. This land has been increasingly popular since it opened and the demand is high for the experiences in the land. It's not uncommon to see Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge (the main e-ticket attraction in the land) to reach wait times of over two hours, even three hours during peak times of the year.

Not only is the attraction a huge draw, the restaurant inside the land is also popular along with all the Super Nintendo immersive game experiences. This is all what makes early access for Super Nintendo World so appealing.

Universal Studios Hollywood is currently offering tickets (purchased separately before regular park admission) to enter Super Nintendo World an hour before the park officially opens.

This might be one of the best ways to access Super Nintendo World right now. Super Nintendo World Early Access Ticket is an add-on option to your existing Universal Hollywood ticket. The ticket includes early access to Super Nintendo for one hour prior to the scheduled park opening time. So if Universal Studios Hollywood opens at 8AM, your early access ticket for Super Nintendo World will be from 7AM-8AM.

The ticket also includes one-time express line access to the Studio Tour until 11AM. The price for a ticket is around $20-30 per person.

See more on Universal Studios Hollywood ticket prices here.

• Discount Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets

Our favorite Disney-approved re-seller,  Get Away Today, offers the best Universal Studios Hollywood discount tickets around. In addition to great discount prices, their customer service and easy support is absolutely fantastic. They have an entire department dedicated to making sure every order has a wonderful experience and they are on-call to help you during your vacation if you need them.

Buying tickets from Get Away Today is easy and convenient since all their tickets are sent electronically. You can take their vouchers and head straight to the gate without needing to wait in any ticket booth lines. They also offer layaway plans so you can pay off your vacation over time.

Can You Enter Universal Studios Hollywood Before it Opens?

Technically, all guests will get the opportunity to enter Universal Studios Hollywood before the park opens. Universal will typically start scanning tickets and allowing guests to enter the gates about 30 minutes prior to park opening.

You won't be able to access the attractions until the park officially opens but this does give you a head start at positioning yourself near the areas you want to explore first. You can see our full guide to Universal Hollywood parking to look ahead at the options that are available if you are driving there.

The only other method to entering Universal Studios Hollywood before park opening is to purchase a Super Nintendo World early access ticket.

There is no early entry associated with hotels since Universal Studios Hollywood is much smaller in size than Universal Orlando and does not have its own official hotels on site.

When Does Universal Studios Hollywood Close?

Universal Studios Hollywood follows a similar pattern with closing hours like it does for opening hours. The busier the park day, the later the parks will remain open. The earliest that Universal Studios Hollywood will close is 6PM and the latest it will stay open is 10PM with the exception of Halloween Horror Nights which are a late night ticketed event.

Here is a breakdown of the typical Universal Studios Hollywood closing hours you can expect:

• 6PM, 7PM – slow times of the year, weekdays
• 8PM, 9PM – most times of the year, weekends
• 10PM – busiest times of the year, weekends

This pattern of longer Universal Studios Hollywood hours happens most often during these times of the year:

• the first week of January
• Martin Luther King Jr holiday weekend, January
• Presidents Day weekend, February
• June through mid-August

These times of the year reflect some of the busiest times at Universal Studios Hollywood including the Halloween and Christmas season, summer, and spring break. You will also see holidays extended during three-day weekends (think Presidents Day, Memorial Day, etc.) as Universal Studios Hollywood will anticipate more crowds during those times of the year.

Can You Stay at Universal Studios Hollywood After Park Closing?

When Universal Studios Hollywood officially closes for the night, the stores will remain open for an additional hour for guests to do their shopping. So you technically can stay inside the park for up to an hour after the official closing time. This is pretty typical of most theme parks as they want guests to spend their time in the stores before leaving the parks for the night.

As for attractions, as long as you are in line for a ride before the park closes then you will be able to experience the attraction. For example, if Harry Potter Forbidden Journey has a wait of 60 minutes and the park closes at 10PM you will need to get in line before that time. Even if you hop in line at 9:59PM you will be able to ride! This is why it's a good strategy to save those longer lines right before the park closes so that time spent in line is when the park is closed for the day anyways.

When Does Universal Studios Hollywood Close During the Off-Season?

Universal Studios Hollywood can close as early as 6PM for the off-season which is often considered weekdays in less busier months like January and February.

Even during peak times of the year, Universal Studios Hollywood will always close earlier on weekdays than on weekends. So if you want to enjoy the parks late into the night, visiting on a weekend is your best bet.

When Does Universal Studios Hollywood Close for Special Events?

Universal Studios Hollywood may close early on nights that Halloween Horror Nights are being held. This is easily one of the most popular events in the area for Halloween and draws large crowds.

Halloween Horror Nights often officially starts at 7PM and on those nights Universal Studios will usually close at 5PM as the park begins to transform into Halloween Horror Nights. If you do not have a ticket to Halloween Horror Nights you will have to leave the parks as it closes for the event.

Does Universal Studios Hollywood Close for Rain?

Universal Studios Hollywood does not close for the rain except for in extreme circumstances. Theme parks often continue to run in all weather conditions with the rare exceptions of extreme weather.

Some outdoor rides may close during periods of rain and will often reopen once the rain passes. Luckily, the majority of the rides at Universal Studios Hollywood are indoor so this won't impact too many attractions.

When is Universal Studios Hollywood Early Entry?

The only Universal Studios Hollywood early entry offered is the ticket access for Super Nintendo World. This usually takes place one hour before the park officially opens and allows access to only Super Nintendo World.

Is Universal Studios Hollywood Closed on Thanksgiving?

No, Universal Studios Hollywood is open year round including Thanksgiving. You can expect large crowds for Universal on holidays even ones like Thanksgiving. This is an ideal time to plan on purchasing Express Pass .

Is Universal Studios Hollywood Closed on Christmas? 

No, Universal Studios Hollywood is always open for Christmas and Christmas Eve! This is one of the busiest days of the entire year to be at Universal Studios Hollywood! This is a must to purchase Express Pass to avoid all the long lines.

Is Universal Studios Hollywood Open on New Year's Eve?

Yes! This is often known as being the busiest day of the year at Universal Studios Hollywood. Universal Studios Hollywood will usually stay open late with a large celebration taking place until midnight with DJs, food, and drinks. This is a popular event among locals and you can expect large crowds to come out to celebrate.

Universal Studios Hollywood Hours FAQ 2024

Universal Studios Hollywood is also a working tv studio along with a theme park so this may have something to do with it. Universal also knows what the demand is for the parks. On the days that Universal Studios Hollywood closes early, these days also often coordinate with the least busy days of the year. On peak travel days, Universal Studios Hollywood is often open later to best serve more crowds.

No, Universal doesn't always close at 6. During the summer and holiday months Universal Studios Hollywood will stay open as late as 9PM.

Sometimes Universal Studios Hollywood would include early entry passes as part of vacation packages but now they mainly offer early entry as part of the special Super Nintendo World ticket.

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
• Universal Orlando Guide
• Universal Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights
• Universal Hollywood Christmas Guide

Related Posts

Universal Studios Hollywood 2024 Halloween Horror Nights Guide

Universal Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights Strategy & Tips 2024

New Universal Studios Hollywood 2 Days For Price of 1 Ticket Special Announced

Our Top 5 Best Fanny Packs For Disney & Universal Theme Park Days

Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Pass Blockout Dates 2024-2025

2024 Universal Studios Hollywood Map California (Printable PDF)– Plus, Upper and Lower Lot Map

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

About Lindsay Brookshier

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

Planning a Disney Vacation? Get Exclusive Discounts + Free Bonuses

In addition to exclusive discounts for Mickey Visit subscribers, get our free planning printable and guide to make your life SO much easier.

Previous Post: How Much Does Disney Genie Plus Cost?

Next Post: Disney World Annual Pass Blockout Dates 2024-2025

Exclusive Discounts + BREAKING NEWS

Join our newsletter of 100,000+ readers for discounts, planning tips, and breaking news about Walt Disney World and Disneyland. "Essential for planning your trip!" -Helen from Portland, Oregon

Universal Studios Hollywood Opening Hours

The Universal Studios Hollywood theme park typically opens from 9 am until 7 pm. 

Seasonal changes in Hollywood Universal Studios opening hours sometimes lead to longer hours during the summer and some winter holidays.

During peak times or weekends, it may open earlier at 8 am and slow seasons may see later openings around 10 am. 

Universal Studios Hollywood’s closing hours mirror its opening hours, with busier days leading to later closures. 

Closing times typically range from 6 pm to 10 pm. 

Expect earlier closures during slower times, extending to 10 pm during peak periods like holidays, summer, and spring break.

Special events like Halloween Horror Nights may run even later. 

Likewise, major holidays and three-day weekends offer extended hours to hold higher attendance.

After Universal Studios Hollywood closes, stores stay open for an extra hour for shopping. 

You can stay inside the park for shopping and if you’re in line for a ride before closing, you can still experience it, even if the park closes.

For a Hollywood-themed summer vacation, buy Universal Studios Hollywood tickets .

Universal Studios Hollywood Summer Hours

Universal Studios Hollywood hours during the summer are usually from 9 am until 10 pm on weekdays.

Since summer is the busiest tourist season, Universal Studios Hollywood extends its hours to accommodate as many visitors as possible.

Universal Studios Hollywood Back-to-school Season

Around the back-to-school season of August, Universal Studios Hollywood reduces its weekday hours. 

Many children return to school, and there aren’t as many tourists or residents in the area on weekdays.

On weeknights, Universal Studios Hollywood’s opening hours are 10 am to 7 pm; on weekends, they are 9 am to 10 pm.

Universal Studios Hollywood Fall Hours

The park is usually open from 10 am to 6 pm on fall weekdays, though there are some exceptions for school vacations. 

The typical weekend Universal Studios California hours extend from 9 am to 7 pm.

Additionally, these extra hours often apply to weekdays during Thanksgiving week.

Halloween Horror Nights, which require a separate ticket, are often held on Thursdays through Sundays in the fall. They typically start at 7 pm and continue until 2 am.

Universal Studios Hollywood Winter Holidays

Universal Studios Hollywood hosts several events that are well-liked by visitors and residents every Christmas season.

Watch for Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, as the park is often open until quite late.

The park hosts a unique New Year’s Eve event that is open past midnight.

Universal Studios Hollywood Spring hours

The daylight hours increase with spring; therefore, the park is open from 10 am to 6 pm or 7 pm. 

The park may open on weekends at 9 am and close at 7 pm or 8 pm.

Even on weekdays, the park’s hours typically extend from 9 am to 9 pm during local spring break weeks.

A High flood risk may entirely cause Universal Studios Hollywood to shut down during the rainy season.

How to Visit Before Opening Hours?

You can enter Universal Studios Hollywood about 30 minutes before the official opening for procedures like scanning tickets. 

Although attractions remain closed, it allows you to choose your preferred areas.

There is no early entry for hotel guests at Universal Studios Hollywood, but Super Nintendo World’s attractions attract significant crowds with immersive gaming experiences.

An option to get entry to the park before opening hours is purchasing an early access ticket to Super Nintendo World. 

Early access tickets, available separately, grant entry one hour before the park opens, along with one-time express line access to the Studio Tour until 11 am, priced at $20-30 per person.

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood is Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays in September, May, August, and February.

Additionally, we’d suggest you get here on weekdays, school days, and the off-season (mostly winter), especially if you want to avoid crowds.

If you want to beat the waiting queues and grab a prime spot on the busiest rides, arrive at the park 15 minutes before Universal Studios Hollywood opens. 

Do you plan to drive to the park? 

Then, arrive at least 30 minutes early to find a parking space and reach its entrance in time.

Although Universal Studios Hollywood has no reservation system, tickets are sold based on a specific date, limiting the number of visitors each day.

So, buying your tickets in advance is more crucial than ever to avoid settling for a date already sold out.

Arriving at Universal Studios Hollywood 15 minutes before the park opens is essential to beat the wait and secure a prime spot on the busiest rides.

How locals influence the best time to visit

Some Los Angeles locals also hold the Universal Studios Hollywood tickets annual pass and frequently visit Universal Studios Hollywood, making it one of the busiest tourist locations.

However, visitors who hold an annual pass aren’t allowed during the peak seasons – mainly Summer, Spring breaks, and the Holidays.

It’s better to plan your day around the show times because the rides are open all day, but the shows are not.

You can also find signs around the park with the official show timings and waiting periods.

Download the Universal Mobile App (Android) and the iOS app for convenience.

How long does it take to tour Universal Studios Hollywood?

Are you planning to cover everything on your Universal Studios Hollywood tour? 

Then, it’s best to arrive early and stay all day to have a fun-filled tour of Universal Studios Hollywood.

It would help if you timed yourself effectively, and you can even spend up to eight hours there when visiting Universal Studios.

Get the Universal Express ticket if you have little time on your hands so you can avoid the line on all the rides and finish early.

There are two parts to Universal Studios. 

The Lower Lot has adventure rides, while the larger Upper Lot is home to popular attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter , Springfield Hollywood, and more. 

Avoid switching between these two lots. 

Here’s how you should plan your tour—Finish one lot, then move on to the second one. 

Touring this way will help you save time and also cover everything.

The Lower Lot has smaller queues early on; therefore, it is preferable to reach there first. 

By late afternoon, the Lower Lot is at its busiest.

Tip: The 60-minute Studio Tour Universal Studios Hollywood takes you through real production movies and TV show sites.  Because the wait time for the journey varies depending on the day and season, board the tram during off-peak hours (late morning, afternoon, or early evening).

Featured Image: Uber.com

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Plan Your Visit

Opening Hours How to Reach Car Parking Dining & Shopping Height Attractions Park Map Itinerary Universal Studios LA  to Orlando Tips While Visiting Travel FAQs FAQs

What To See

Rides Attractions Dining Shows Entertainment Events Shopping Meet-&-Greet Kids Play Area World Famous Studio Tour

Buy Tickets

General Admission Ticket Skip-the-line Express Ticket VIP Ticket Guided Tour Ticket Combo Ticket Sightseeing Tour Ticket Transfer Ticket Theme Park Ticket Discount Tickets

Got questions about Universal Studios Hollywood? Click/tap on the number below to message us on Whatsapp.

+38651715555

Everything about Universal Studios Hollywood

This is NOT the official website of Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles. Vacatis operates the website to provide the most accurate and up-to-day information for tourists and locals.

Affiliate Disclaimer Content Information Policy Sitemap Privacy Policy Terms of Service

© 2024 Vacatis

site categories

Wme & ‘la la land’ composer justin hurwitz settle fraud suit over alleged agency self-dealing, breaking news.

Universal Studios Hollywood Offers Buy One Day, Get A 2nd Day Free Ticket Package

By Tom Tapp

Deputy Managing Editor

More Stories By Tom

• Jonathan Axelrod Dies: ABC & Columbia TV Exec, Producer Of ‘Dave’s World’ Was 74
• ‘A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms’: Everything We Know About The ‘Game Of Thrones’ Prequel, Including Plot, Premiere Date & Whether George R.R. Martin Is Involved
• 2024-25 Awards Season Calendar – Dates For Oscars, Tonys, Emmys, Grammys, Guilds & More

Two for one.

To inflation strapped thrill seekers or parents desperate to get the kids off of screens this summer, those words are like a long, cold drink after being trapped on the 405.

Related Stories

360-Degree Spinning “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” Roller Coaster Set For Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights Conjures ‘A Quiet Place’-Themed Haunted Houses In Hollywood And Orlando

In addition to its recently added (and wildly popular) Super Nintendo World, Universal Studios Hollywood has brought back its original red and white candy-striped Glamor Trams to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of its iconic Hollywood Studio Tour.

Other throwback photo opps being added to the tour include the theme park’s original hanging  Jaws  shark, a giant King Kong backdrop and the first-ever approved replica of the Hollywood Sign to be situated along the backlot in celebration of the Hollywood Sign’s centennial.

Among the biggest changes is that the Earthquake—The Big One attraction, inaugurated in 1989, has undergone a top-to-bottom renovation leveraging contemporary technology and aesthetics.

Additionally, at Courthouse Square, where scenes from the  Back to the Future  movies were filmed, guests will see an original time machine picture car on display plus the Doc Brown character roaming the area.

Must Read Stories

Posts record tuesday for animated pic with $29m+; ww cume at $380m.

Disney Goes Big With ‘Deadpool’, ‘Moana 2′; Par Shows Off ‘Gladiator II’

Disney employee file class-action suit over ditched $1b florida relocation plan, what’s on tv & streaming today to commemorate juneteenth holiday.

Subscribe to Deadline Breaking News Alerts and keep your inbox happy.

Read More About:

Deadline is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Deadline Hollywood, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Universal Studios Hollywood launches 2-for-1 ticket deal

by: Iman Palm

Posted: Jun 13, 2024 / 10:54 AM PDT

Updated: Jun 13, 2024 / 12:17 PM PDT

Universal Studios Hollywood has introduced a ticket deal that allows guests to spend one day at the theme park for free.

Beginning Thursday, parkgoers can purchase the “Buy A Day, Get A 2nd Day Free” general admission ticket. The ticket deal will be available until Oct. 9.

Universal Express and Universal Express Unlimited, the theme park’s paid line-skipping passes, aren’t included in the limited-time deal.

There are no blocked-out dates or restrictions for the first visit, but there will be some for the second visit. All visits must be completed by Dec. 18. Universal said in a news release.

Guests who purchase the ticket deal can’t utilize their second visit on the following days:

Guests who visit Universal during this time can experience the 60 th anniversary of the Studio Tour , along with signature attractions and experiences based on Transformers, Harry Potter , Super Mario Bros and more.

The limited-time ticket offer can be purchased on the Universal Studios Hollywood website , with prices starting at $109.

Suggest a Correction

Most popular, if you find one of these outside your home, call …, malibu mansion sets new record for most expensive …, bag lost on flight found in hollywood homeless encampment, public advised to stay out of these l.a. county beaches, homeless man killed outside usc frat house identified, gofundme set up for disneyland employee killed in …, dtla homeless housing tower cost $600k per unit to …, bestreviews.com - top picks to make everyone happy, best prime day home deals 2024, our diy expert weighs in on the best father’s day …, best prime day electronics deals 2024, best prime day kitchen and cookware deals 2024, last-minute father’s day gifts, tested and reviewed, cool gifts for dad he’ll love this father’s day.

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.

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

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.

Top 5 BEST Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood (For ALL Budgets)

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.

Recommended: REVIEW and Guide to the Sheraton Universal Hotel: Where to Stay Near Universal Studios Hollywood?

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 🙂

Save up to 45% on Things to Do in Los Angeles – Museums, Universal Studios, LEGOLAND, LA Zoo, Knott’s Berry Farm, Hollywood Sign with Go City TODAY!

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.

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

10. Get the App, Use the App

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

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

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

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

Get your Discounted Universal Studios Hollywood tickets TODAY!

11. If You Are Taking the Kids

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

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

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

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

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

12. Complete Sections at a Time

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

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

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

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

5 Best Restaurants in Downtown Disney You MUST Try (Anaheim)

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

7 BEST Food at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Food (Universal Orlando)

14. More People, More Fun, Less Money

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

It can actually save you money.

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

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

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

15. Go on the World-Famous Studio Tour

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

Especially, on your first trip to Universal Studios Hollywood.

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

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

What to expect on the Studio Tour?

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

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

5 BEST Things to Do in Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure (2023)

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!

2024 First-Timer’s Guide to Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood: Houses, Tickets and more!

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.

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

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.

Ultimate 3-Day Disneyland Itinerary (2023 Travel Guide)

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

REVIEW: Is the Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures Worth It? (2023)

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!

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

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

Share this article!

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

Disneyland vs universal studios hollywood: which is better in 2024, leave a comment cancel reply.

Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights Conjures ‘A Quiet Place'-Themed Haunted Houses In Hollywood And Orlando

Guests will be able to enter the post-apocalyptic world of Paramount Pictures’ A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II , in an all-new chilling haunted house debuting this year at Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights. The terror is set to begin Friday, August 30 at Universal Orlando Resort, and Thursday, September 5 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Mirroring the silence in the films, the haunted houses will embrace unique sound design, special effects and scareactors to convey the ominous sense of dread depicted in the films. Consequential to the films’ storyline, Halloween Horror Nights will incorporate the use of American Sign Language (ASL) for the first time ever within the A Quiet Place haunted houses.

Fans will relive iconic scenes from the first two films, including traveling through the farmhouse that serves as the Abbott family's shelter and stepping into the root cellar where Evelyn Abbott escapes to give birth as one of the creatures closes in. Guests must remember: if they hear you, they will hunt you.

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood will run select nights through Sunday, November 3. Guests will encounter eight all-new haunted houses, an onslaught of sinister scare zones and the iconic Terror Tram.

A variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options are available for purchase to the Universal Studios Hollywood event, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the Early Access Ticket, which provides access to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change), in advance of the scheduled 7 p.m. event opening time, the premium R.I.P. Tour and popular passes, Frequent Fear and Ultimate Fear, which enable guests to experience the scares again and again.

There are also Halloween Horror Nights Vacation Packages available for Universal Studios Hollywood.

Universal Orlando will unveil 10 all-new movie-quality haunted houses, five scare zones filled with hundreds of menacing creatures, plus a live show. Select tickets for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando are now available for purchase, including single-night tickets, Express Passes, the R.I.P Tour, which provides front of the line access to the haunted houses, and the Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour that offers a glimpse into how the scares are brought to life via a daytime, lights-on journey through select haunted house.

Guests can also stay, scream and save up to $200 (based on a seven-night stay) with a special vacation package that includes one-night admission to the event, admission to all three Universal Orlando theme parks and accommodations at a Universal hotel with exclusive benefits, including access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights gate for faster entry into the event, Early Park Admission to the theme parks during the day, and more.

Tickets for Universal Orlando's Premium Scream Night on Thursday, August 29, are also now available. This unprecedented, one-night event will give a limited number of fans the opportunity to experience this year's haunts before the event officially opens on Friday, August 30, including access to all 10 haunted houses, five scare zones and live entertainment. Premium Scream Night guests will also enjoy shorter wait times and staggered entry by group to the haunted houses, select all-you-care-to-enjoy food and non-alcoholic beverages, a souvenir credential, access to select attractions at Universal Studios Florida and free self-parking after 5 p.m. Only a limited number of tickets are available.

More from Deadline

• Universal Studios Orlando Reveals New Rides, Donkey Kong Country Planned For Super Nintendo World At Epic Universe – See Images & Video
• Disney & Florida Planning New Development Agreement Worth Up To $17B, Would Add 5th Park At Walt Disney World

The Definitive Voice of Entertainment News

Subscribe for full access to The Hollywood Reporter

site categories

Sony pictures acquires alamo drafthouse cinema in landmark deal that puts studios back in theater game.

For more than seven decades, studios weren't allowed under certain conditions to own an exhibition company under the Paramount Consent Decrees, which were rescinded in 2020.

By Pamela McClintock , Alex Weprin , James Hibberd June 12, 2024 11:00am

• Share on Facebook
• Share to Flipboard
• Send an Email
• Show additional share options
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on Reddit
• Share on Tumblr
• Share on Whats App
• Print the Article
• Post a Comment

In a groundbreaking moment, Sony Pictures Entertainment has acquired Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in a deal that puts a major Hollywood studio back in the business of owning a movie theater for the first time in more than 75 years with certain exceptions.

Related Stories

Will smith books next movie with sony's 'resistor', columbia pictures settles copyright lawsuit over rights to 'bad boys' story.

At that time, the majors essentially controlled all aspects of filmmaking, from the talent to the productions to the theaters. The decrees forced exhibitors to stop practices like “block booking” (bundling multiple films into one theater license) and “circuit dealing” (entering into one license that covered all theaters in a theater circuit). The landscape was radically different then, however. There were no multiplexes, but rather one-screen theaters that could play one movie for months; a scenario that played into favoritism.

Sony is the first major Hollywood studio to step forward and test the waters since the Paramount Decrees were officially rescinded in 2020. The rules had been relaxed for some in the 1980s and studios including Sony and Universal bought various stakes in certain chains, but the economics ultimately didn’t make sense.

The only major film producers to acquire theaters since 2000 were Netflix and Amazon. Netflix purchased Los Angeles’ Egyptian Theatre and New York’s Paris Theater in order to appease filmmakers who want their films to play on the big screen, as well as to qualify their titles for awards consideration. Amazon had the same aim when buying the old ArcLight location in downtown Culver City in Los Angeles, although that cinema is a first-run theater, meaning Amazon has to book new movies in addition to its offerings. (In a reverse twist, the world’s largest cinema owner, AMC Theatres, got into the distribution business last year when acquiring rights to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour doc.)

Wednesday’s announcement stressed that Alamo Drafthouse — an independent chain with 35 locations that has been at the forefront of in-theater dining and other consumer-friendly initiatives — will continue to be run by Alamo CEO Michael Kustermann, under a new division that he’ll also be in charge of, Sony Pictures Experiences. Sony said the deal reinforces its long-held commitment to theatrical exhibition and continued initiatives in experiential entertainment.

Kustermann will report to Ravi Ahuja, president and COO of Sony Pictures Entertainment.

“We are excited to make history with Sony Pictures Entertainment and have found the right home and partner for Alamo Drafthouse Cinema,” said Kustermann said in a statement. “We were created by film lovers for film lovers. We know how important this is to Sony, and it serves as further evidence of their commitment to the theatrical experience. Together we will continue to innovate and bring exciting new opportunities for our teammates and moviegoers alike.”

Added Tom Rothman, chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, “Alamo Drafthouse has always held the craft of filmmaking and the theatrical experience in high esteem, which are fundamental shared values between our companies. I’m jazzed that our company is doing this.”

“We believe strongly in engaging entertainment fans outside the home in fun and distinctive ways as seen most recently with our Wheel of Fortune LIVE! traveling tour, and the opening of Wonderverse in Chicago,” Ahuja said in a statement. “Alamo Drafthouse’s differentiated moviegoing experience, admired brand and devoted community fit well with this vision. Our Crunchyroll business also aligns well with their audience’s interests. We look forward to building upon the innovations that have made Alamo Drafthouse successful and will, of course, continue to welcome content from all studios and distributors.”

Alamo Drafthouse was founded in 1997 by Tim and Karrie League as a single-screen mom and pop repertory theater in Austin, Texas, and has grown into a thriving and dynamic dine-in cinema chain that is beloved by its fans and the industry alike.

As North America’s seventh-largest theater chain, it releases more movies per year than any other theater chain, welcomes over 10 million guests annually, and has built a highly engaged core audience of 4 million loyalty members. Last year, the theater chain saw a 30 percent jump in box office revenue from the previous year, which came in ahead of the industry at large.

SPE acquired Alamo Drafthouse from owners Altamont Capital Partners, Fortress Investment Group and founder Tim League. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC acted as exclusive financial adviser to Alamo Drafthouse in the transaction.

The news is sure to be met with a mixture of relief and worry by the chain’s famously devoted fans. 

On one hand, Alamo has been battling serious financial problems since it declared bankruptcy during the pandemic in 2021 and was rescued by a private equity firm. Last week, five North Texas locations closed amid a franchisee likewise filing for bankruptcy. Sony coming on board gives the theater chain some assuredly solid financial backing moving forward, and hopefully investment for further expansion. 

Yet Alamo — which currently operates theaters in 14 states — is arguably the only theater chain in the country with a very specific and well-honed personality, one you can trace back the company’s roots as a single-room theater founded in downtown Austin. 

One question moving forward will be: Will Alamo be able to keep its independent spirit now that it’s under major studio ownership? (Although generally speaking, studios aren’t involved with such things as preshow ads or cinema policies. That’s up to the exhibitors.)

June 12, 4:25 p.m. : Updated with additional history regarding the Paramount Decrees, and various exemptions.

THR Newsletters

Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day

More from The Hollywood Reporter

‘train to busan’ director yeon sang-ho teams with alfonso cuarón for netflix thriller ‘revelations’ (exclusive), jude law on why he’s “proud” of how he handled fame and scrutiny in hollywood, austin butler on ‘the bikeriders’ prep during ‘dune’ and the “wild adventure” of ari aster’s next film, ‘the imaginary’ review: studio ponoc’s animated adventure for netflix is an ode to childhood fancy, ‘the hunger games’ movies ranked from worst to best, ‘winter spring summer or fall’ director on helming her first movie with jenna ortega, percy hynes white amid ‘wednesday’ frenzy.