Located in Los Angeles, California, Universal Studios Hollywood is an iconic destination that offers visitors a unique and immersive experience. With thrilling rides, live entertainment, and behind-the-scenes tours, this theme park caters to both movie lovers and adventure seekers. Step into the world of movies and television as you explore the famous backlot and witness the magic of Hollywood up close. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Jurassic World, there is something for everyone at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Plan your visit in advance to make the most of your time at Universal Studios Hollywood. Purchase tickets online to skip the queues and consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the crowds.
Don’t miss the Studio Tour, which takes you on a behind-the-scenes journey through the working movie studio. It’s a great way to see how movies and TV shows are made while also enjoying some thrilling experiences along the way.
Universal Studios Hollywood: A World of Entertainment and Thrills
Universal Studios Hollywood in California is a must-visit destination, epitomizing the glamour and excitement of the movie industry. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, this famed theme park offers guests a unique chance to immerse themselves in the worlds of their favorite movies and TV shows. From thrilling roller coasters like ‘Jurassic World – The Ride’ to magical experiences such as ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,’ visitors can expect a full day of entertainment and adventure. For film enthusiasts, the Studio Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at real movie sets, where iconic films and series were shot, blending both educational and entertainment value. Universal Studios Hollywood also constantly evolves, adding new attractions and features that leverage cutting-edge technology, ensuring that each visit remains exciting. Catering to a wide audience, whether families, couples, or solo travelers, Universal Studios promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Hollywood magic.
Top Attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood thrives with an array of top-notch attractions designed to captivate and thrill.
‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’
allows guests to walk through the iconic locales from the Harry Potter series, complete with the Hogwarts castle and Hogsmeade village. Here, visitors can indulge in the famous Butterbeer and experience rides like ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.’ Another major highlight is the
‘Jurassic World – The Ride’
, combining sophisticated animatronics with immersive digital effects. For an engaging live show, ‘WaterWorld’ showcases an explosive stunt performance that captures the drama and intensity of the Hollywood blockbuster. These are just a few of the immersive experiences awaiting at Universal Studios Hollywood.
The Famous Universal Studio Tour
The Universal Studio Tour is the centerpiece of Universal Studios Hollywood. This signature attraction takes visitors on an extensive ride through the active Universal Studios lot, offering a firsthand look at functioning movie sets where countless Hollywood movies have been filmed. Key features include seeing the Bates Motel from ‘Psycho’ and experiencing thrilling set pieces like the ‘Jaws’ encounter and the ‘Fast & Furious’ supercharged event. The Tour also explores iconic lot locations, such as Wisteria Lane from ‘Desperate Housewives,’ making it a captivating experience for movie buffs and casual enthusiasts alike.
Explore the magic of universal studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is a thrilling destination suitable for families, thrill-seekers, and movie enthusiasts of all ages. From exhilarating rides and shows that bring your favorite films to life to tours of real movie sets, it’s a place where the world of movies and magic merge into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Harry Potter looking to roam the streets of Hogsmeade or an adrenaline junkie eager to face the dinosaurs in Jurassic World, Universal Studios promises a day of fun and adventure for everyone.
Discover the best time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood
Experiencing Universal Studios Hollywood at its best often depends on the time of year. The ideal times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller compared to the busy summer months. Visiting during weekdays can also enhance your experience, as weekends tend to attract larger crowds.
Annual Events Not to Miss
The Halloween Horror Nights are a must-see at Universal Studios for those who enjoy spine-chilling fun. Running through September and October, this event transforms the park into a monstrous, movie-quality haunted house with numerous scare zones and mazes.
Safety and accessibility at Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is dedicated to providing a safe and accessible environment for all guests. It offers a variety of services to assist guests with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy their visit without worry.
Accessibility
Limitations
- Age restrictions may apply on certain rides.
- Specific shows may require advance reservations due to limited seating.
- Height restrictions are enforced for safety on various rides.
Notes to visitors
- Expectant mothers are advised to avoid certain high-speed rides.
- It’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes as the park covers a large area.
- Language services are available on request.
General information
Everything you need to know for planning your adventure to Universal Studios Hollywood
Location
Located near several Los Angeles landmarks, Universal Studios Hollywood is accessible via various transport routes, enhancing its convenience for visitors.
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, USA
Opening Hours
Open year-round, hours vary by season. Typically, the park is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM off-peak, extending hours until 10:00 PM during peak season. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Getting to Universal Studios Hollywood
Car
Driving to Universal Studios is convenient, with available parking in nearby lots.
Route | Distance | Travel Time |
---|---|---|
From LA Airport | 25 miles | 30-50 minutes depending on traffic |
From Hollywood | 11 miles | 20-30 minutes |
From Santa Monica | 16 miles | 30-45 minutes |
Public Transport
Accessible by Metro Red Line with a stop directly at Universal City/Studio City station, which connects to downtown LA and beyond.
Nearby Attractions
- Hollywood Walk of Fame – 5 miles
- The Getty Center – 12 miles
- Santa Monica Pier – 15 miles
- Griffith Observatory – 6 miles
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art – 9 miles
- The Grove – 8 miles
- Dodger Stadium – 10 miles
- El Capitan Theatre – 4 miles
- Beverly Hills – 7 miles
- Sunset Strip – 5 miles
- The Hollywood Sign – 8 miles
- Disneyland – 35 miles
Common Questions
What are the must-see attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood?
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Don’t miss a chance to explore Hogwarts Castle, ride on “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey,” and enjoy a butterbeer at Hogsmeade.
- Studio Tour: This signature attraction provides a behind-the-scenes look at real movie sets and features encounters with the famous mechanical Shark from “Jaws” and a realistic simulation of an earthquake.
- Jurassic World – The Ride: Experience thrilling encounters with dinosaurs and a spectacular water ride finale that’s both exhilarating and refreshing.
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Join Gru, his daughters and the mischievous Minions on a heartwarming and hilarious 3D ride.
- The Simpsons Ride: Immerse yourself in the world of Springfield alongside America’s favorite animated family on this virtual roller coaster.
- Transformers: The Ride-3D: Engage in an ultra-immersive, next-generation thrill ride that blurs the line between fiction and reality.
Each attraction provides unique experiences, making them top picks for first-time or returning visitors.
What dining options are available at Universal Studios Hollywood?
- The Three Broomsticks: Offering a magical dining experience with traditional British fare such as fish and chips and shepherd’s pie that you can enjoy in the heart of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- Springfield, USA: Dive into the world of The Simpsons with themed eateries like Krusty Burger, Luigi’s Pizza, and Lard Lad Donuts.
- Sprinkles Cupcakes: Located at CityWalk, this bakery is famous for gourmet cupcakes, an ideal treat after a long day of attractions.
- CityWalk Restaurants: Choose from a wide range of dining options in CityWalk just outside the park, including Voodoo Doughnut, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and more.
Additionally, there are various quick-service locations throughout the park where you can quickly grab a bite, ranging from sushi to tacos, ensuring that everyone can find something to suit their palette.
Are there any locker facilities available at Universal Studios Hollywood?
- Location: Lockers are available at various locations throughout the park, including near the park entrance and adjacent to some of the more popular rides like “Revenge of the Mummy” and “Jurassic World – The Ride”.
- Size and Price: Lockers come in various sizes and the cost varies depending on the locker size and duration of use. Payment can be made via credit or debit cards.
- Accessibility: Lockers are accessible whenever the park is open, allowing you to store items such as bags, packages, and food items that are not allowed on certain rides.
It’s advisable to secure a locker early in your visit, especially during peak times, to ensure availability and convenience as you enjoy the attractions.
What kind of shows can visitors see at Universal Studios Hollywood?
- WaterWorld: A live stunt show filled with thrilling explosions, water stunts, and a gripping storyline based on the film of the same name.
- Special Effects Show: Learn about and witness firsthand the secrets behind the making of some of Hollywood’s most famous movie scenes.
- Animal Actors: This entertaining show features a range of trained animal actors performing amazing feats, which is fun for the entire family.
- Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show: Explore the world of movie make-up magic in this comedic and informative show.
Shows are scheduled at various times throughout the day, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly to fit them into your visit.
What is the Child Switch program at Universal Studios Hollywood?
- A family queue together and when they reach the ride, one adult can stay with the non-riding child(ren) in a designated waiting area.
- After the first group has enjoyed the ride, roles can be switched without having to queue again, allowing the second adult to ride while the first adult stays with the child(ren).
This program allows the whole family to enjoy their visit without missing out on the attractions due to child supervision requirements.
Is there a recommended itinerary for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood?
- Early Morning: Start your day early by heading directly to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, as this area tends to get more crowded as the day progresses.
- Mid-Morning: Enjoy the Studio Tour next for an insightful peek into real movie-making, followed by visiting nearby attractions like the “King Kong 360 3D.”
- Afternoon: Explore the Lower Lot where major thrill rides like “Jurassic World – The Ride” and “Transformers: The Ride-3D” are located.
- Late Afternoon to Evening: By the evening, head back to the Upper Lot and catch any shows like “WaterWorld” or spend time in Springfield, USA.
- Evening: Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner at CityWalk and enjoy shopping souvenirs.
Consider downloading the Universal Studios Hollywood app for current information on wait times, show schedules, and interactive maps.
Can visitors meet their favorite characters at Universal Studios Hollywood?
- Minions from Despicable Me
- Transformers characters like Optimus Prime and Bumblebee
- Characters from The Simpsons, including Homer and Bart
- Superheroes from the Marvel Universe like Spider-Man
- Classic Universal Monsters such as Dracula and Frankenstein
Character meet-and-greets locations and times can vary, so it’s helpful to check the daily schedule upon arrival or use the Universal Studios Hollywood app.
Are there any unique shopping experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood?
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Here you can visit Ollivanders to purchase your own magic wand or browse the various themed shops for clothing, toys, and other memorabilia from the Harry Potter series.
- Universal Studio Store: This is the largest store in the park where guests can find apparel, toys, and collectibles from their favorite movies and TV shows featured at Universal Studio.
- Super Silly Stuff: Located in the Minion Mayhem area, this store is perfect for fans of the Despicable Me franchise, offering everything from Minion goggles to apparel.
These shopping locations not only provide a fun way to commemorate your visit, but also offer exclusive items that serve as great gifts or personal mementos.
What types of membership and annual passes are available?
- Gold Annual Pass: Offers 12 months of admission with black-out dates, free general parking until 6 PM, and discounts on merchandise, dining, and guest tickets.
- Platinum Annual Pass: Includes 12 months of admission without black-out dates, express access to each ride and attraction, free valet parking, and greater discounts on in-park purchases.
- Silver Annual Pass: This pass provides access to the park with black-out dates, a 10% discount on merchandise and food, and discounts on general parking.
- California Neighbor Pass: Specially designed for California residents, offering admission for over 175 days.
Each pass option caters to different budget levels and usage patterns, ensuring that visitors can choose the one that best suits their needs.
How accessible is Universal Studios Hollywood for visitors with disabilities?
- Ride Access FAQs: Modified ride vehicles and specific boarding requirements for guests with mobility impairments.
- Companion Restrooms: Accessible throughout the park for comfort and convenience.
- Sign Language Interpreters: Available for live performances with advance notice.
- Service Animals: Welcome throughout the park, with specific exceptions due to certain ride regulations.
Guests can obtain a detailed guide from Guest Relations detailing the services and facilities available for visitors with disabilities to help plan their day optimally.
What transportation options are available to Universal Studios Hollywood?
- Driving: Located off the 101 Hollywood freeway, with ample parking available for cars and motorcycles.
- Public Transit: Visitors can take the Metro Red Line to the Universal City/Studio City station and then enjoy a free shuttle to the park.
- Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient options for direct drop-off and pick-up at designated areas near the park.
Is Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles worth visiting?
Universal Studios Hollywood offers a unique blend of entertainment and excitement that can be a high point for movie enthusiasts and theme park lovers. The park provides an in-depth look into the world of movie-making, featuring live shows, thrilling rides, and behind-the-scenes tours. Its standout attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the infamous Studio Tour immerse visitors in cinematic adventures.
However, for those not keen on movies or who prefer more traditional amusement park rides, the charm might be less apparent. Additionally, ticket prices are on the higher side, which might not justify the value for every visitor, especially if they are not die-hard film fans. For those looking for alternative entertainment, nearby attractions like Griffith Park or the Getty Center offer rich cultural experiences without the Hollywood price tag.