Your Guide to Exploring Universal Studios Hollywood

in Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Globe

Credit: Bailee A. Inside the Magic

Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique theme park and movie studio in Los Angeles. There is so much to see and do here that it can be overwhelming to plan a trip.
Here is our complete guide to Universal Studios Hollywood to help make your visit to the theme park fun and stress-free!
Universal Studios Hollywood Virtual Tour
Credit: Universal

Universal Studios Hollywood was closed for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and while the theme park has reopened, there are some health and safety guidelines put in place for the safety of Team Members and Guests. You can read those here.

It is important to note that if you are not a California resident you must present proof of vaccination in order to enter Universal Studios Hollywood at this time. California residents do not need to present proof of vaccination to enter.

What are the newest attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Universal Studios Hollywood has a plethora of incredible attractions. Recently, they have debut two brand new attractions that you should know about before you visit. One of them is a thrill ride, and the other is a family attraction.

Jurassic World the Ride

Jurassic World – The Ride is a brand new thrill ride that replaced Jurassic Park – The Ride as the entire area surrounding the attraction rethemed to the new Jurassic World films. The drop might be the same as the original attraction, but you will see a lot more teeth on Jurassic World – The Ride!

Jurassic World
Credit: Universal

Here is how Universal describes Jurassic World – The Ride:

Prepare yourself for the evolution of Jurassic World – The Ride. Enter an immersive land and come face-to-face with the new Indominus rex as she stalks you through the jungle. Get caught in the fray as she’s confronted by her archrival, the Tyrannosaurus rex, in an epic battle for the ages. 

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

When Universal Studios Hollywood reopened after a year-long closure they debut an incredible new family dark ride. The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash turns you into a pet looking for a family to adopt you! It’s full of fun and heart, a can’t miss when you visit Universal Studios Hollywood, especially if you have little ones.

the secret life of pets
Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

Here is how Universal describes the attraction:

Discover the exciting world of Illumination’s The Secret Life of Pets when you meet your favorite characters on the all-new ride, The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash. Join Max, Duke, Gidget and Snowball on a journey through the streets of New York City as you get ready to be welcomed into your new home.

Universal Studios Hollywood rides

Here are the other attractions available at Universal Studios Hollywood.

I personally recommend the Studio Tour as it gives you a chance to see some of the backlot areas that are used for filming that takes place in the working film studio on Universal property. The Studios Tour also brings you face to face with King Kong, and on a Fast and Furious adventure straight out of the popular film franchise.

  • Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
  • Flight of the Hippogriff
  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Revenge of the Mummy
  • Silly Swirly Fun Ride
  • The Simpsons Ride
  • The World-Famous Studio Tour
  • Transformers 3-D The Ride
  • DreamWorks Theater Featuring Kung Fu Panda
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Credit: Universal

Related: Live Entertainment Returns to Universal Studios Hollywood!

What is a good age to go to Universal Studios Hollywood?

With so many attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood, you may wonder what a good age would be to take your kiddos to enjoy the park. While I believe that there is something to do for everyone of all ages at Universal Studios Hollywood, you can read the height requirements for all of their attractions here and that may better help you make a decision.

Other than the amazing attractions Universal Studios Hollywood has to offer, there are also plenty of live shows for the whole family to enjoy! Here are the live shows:

  • Universal’s Animal Actors
  • WaterWorld
  • Special Effects Show
Universal Hollywood
Credit: Universal

Universal Studios Hollywood has a land that is perfect for kids based on the Despicable Me films called, Super Silly Funland. Your kids can take photos with Minions and enjoy some of the land’s attractions that are created especially for them.

What is there to do near Universal Studios Hollywood?

Before you enter Universal Studios Hollywood you will walk through CityWalk. CityWalk is a dining and shopping district that is full of yummy food and interesting shops that can keep you very busy! If you need a break from the theme park it is easy to walk out into CityWalk and enjoy a meal there.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood
Credit: Universal

Related: Characters You Can See at Universal Studios Hollywood

What hotels are near Universal Studios Hollywood?

Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Los Angeles which has many hotels in the city. However, you can stay at a hotel within walking distance from Universal Studios Hollywood!

Universal has partnered up with several hotels to bring you places to stay close to the Resort. Within one mile from Universal Studios Hollywood, you will find the Hilton Los Angeles at Universal City, as well as the Sheraton Universal Hotel.

You can see a full list of Universal Studios Partner Hotels here.

Universal Studios Hollywood
Credit: Universal

Reach out to our friends at Academy Travel for help planning the perfect Universal Studios Hollywood vacation. 

When are the best times to visit Universal Studios Hollywood?

Depending on what you are your traveling party are interested in will determine what time of year you should visit. Every year Universal Studios Hollywood holds a special Halloween event that lasts about a month called, Halloween Horror Nights. This event sees the theme park closed early on select nights from September through October. If Halloween is not your thing, plan on visiting another time.

Related: Ultimate Guide on When and How to Use the Universal Express Pass

Halloween Horror Nights
Credit: Universal

How much is a child’s ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood?

Children under three can enter Universal Studios Hollywood for free! from age 3-9 you can purchase a Univeral Studios Hollywood child ticket. 10+ require an adult Universal Studios Hollywood ticket. Prices to enter the theme park depend on the expected demand of any given day — weekends typically are more expensive. Tickets range in price from $100 and up.

Related: Universal Calls Out Guest Who Jumped Out of Moving Attraction

Universal Hollwood
Credit: Universal

You can also purchase an Annual Pass to Universal Studios Hollywood and enjoy entry into the theme park for an entire year.

Universal also offers a front-of-the-line pass called, Universal Express Pass. You can purchase this pass at an additional fee and get to the front of the line at select attractions.

How far in advance should you book your tickets to visit Universal Studios Hollywood?

I recommend booking your tickets at least one month ahead of time, if not more. However, it is important to note that you can book tickets anytime as long as the theme park has not already reached capacity for your chosen date. Once you know the dates you want to visit, it is always a good idea to go ahead and purchase your tickets.

How much does it typically cost per person to go to Universal Studios Hollywood?

Tickets cost upwards of one hundred dollars, but when you factor in meals, souvenirs, and accommodations, a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood can cost $200+ a day per person in total. You can always plan ahead for your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood and set a budget with the help of a travel agent.

universal studios hollywood pass member preview
Credit: ITM

What time does Universal Studios Hollywood open?

Universal Studios Hollywood opens bright and early each and every morning. Typically at 9 a.m, however times are subject to change so download the Universal Studios Hollywood app for the most up to date information when you visit.

Where can you rent strollers at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Universal does have strollers and wheelchairs available for rent, according to their official website here is where to find them, and how much they cost.

Strollers, wheelchairs, and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs)are available for rent just inside the park across from the Universal Studios Store. The rental fees are:

    • Wheelchairs – $20
    • ECVs – $60
    • Single Stroller – $18
    • Double Stroller – $25
Krusty Burger USH
Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

Of course, you are welcome to bring your own stroller into the park as well!

What’s coming to Universal Studios Hollywood?

Universal Studios Hollywood is currently undergoing a major expansion on the lower lot of the theme park. Super Nintendo World is coming to Universal Studios Hollywood, and although no opening date has been set for the project yet, construction is moving quickly.

You can see a construction update of Super Nintnedo World here!

Super Nintendo World
Credit: Inside the Magic

What’s new in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Hollywood?

If you are a Harry Potter fan you will not want to miss this Hogsmeade Village! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade is located in the upper lot of Universal Studios Hollywood. Home to two attractions, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff.
Hogsmeade Village is extremely immersive and transports you into the world of Harry Potter. You can enjoy a butterbeer or pick up a wand and cast spells in the land! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a major highlight of Universal Studios Hollywood and should not be missed.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Hollywood
Credit: Universal

You can also read our guides to the theme parks at the Universal Orlando Resort below:

Will you be going to Universal Studios Hollywood soon? Let us know in the comments!

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