What’s so appealing about Universal Studios Hollywood, how to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, what to do in Universal Studios Hollywood? How much is the entrance fee? Save the secret to enjoying fun and exciting activities at the park with The ULTIMATE Universal Studios Hollywood travel guide: Top attraction, Ticket Prices, Tips & MORE in this article!
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Universal Studios Hollywood is like a “gateway” to the world of epic cinema. With game zones simulating blockbuster movies such as Harry Potter™, Fast & Furious™, Jurassic World™ and a series of top shows, this park is a destination not to be missed when visiting Los Angeles. So is it worth spending a full day at Universal Studios Hollywood? How to plan to play the most games without getting tired?
Let’s explore the detailed experience of going to Universal Studios Hollywood from A-Z right now!
Universal Studios Hollywood – A Destination Not to Be Missed in Los Angeles
If you are a movie fan or are looking for a “one-of-a-kind” experience in Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood is the perfect stop. Located at 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, this is the first original theme park of the Universal system in the world, and is also a real Hollywood studio that is still in operation, the birthplace of countless famous blockbusters.
The most “expensive” activity here is the Studio “Tram” Tour. The journey takes visitors through real movie sets, which you cannot find in any other Universal park. Moreover, Universal Studios Hollywood also owns countless entertainment games based on famous movies such as Jurassic World, Fast & Furious, The Secret Life of Pets, … along with a series of spectacular shows simulating top-notch cinema effects.
Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket
True to the name “Entertainment Capital of Los Angeles”, this place is the perfect intersection between top-notch filmmaking technology and a vibrant entertainment world. You definitely have to add this place to your California exploration plan.
Universal Studios Hollywood travel guide: How to Get there
How to Get From Downtown Los Angeles to the Park Entrance?
Full Day Grand Bus Tour in Los Angeles
Universal Studios Hollywood is located at 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, just 10 miles from downtown Los Angeles. From Downtown LA, take the Metro B Line (Red Line) and stop at Universal City/Studio City Station. Then, simply walk across the pedestrian bridge or take the free trolley to the park entrance. If you are driving, take US-101 North, then turn right onto Universal Studios Blvd and follow the signs.
How to Get From LAX Airport to Universal Studios?
From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you have three transportation options:
- Self-drive car rental: Convenient and flexible, travel time is about 30–40 minutes via US-101 N.
- Taxi/Uber/Lyft: Distance 25 miles, price ranges from $30 – $50 (~784,000–1,307,000 VND) depending on the time.
- Public transportation: Take the LAX FlyAway Bus to Union Station, then transfer to the Metro Red Line to Universal City/Studio City Station, total time is about 1–1.5 hours.
Want a quick and private ride to the park? Check out the Universal Studios Hollywood private car rental on Klook. A professional driver will pick you up from your hotel, no need to worry about getting lost or being late for the fun!
Parking Information and Self-Driving Instructions
If you drive your own car to the park, you can choose one of the parking lots with the following fees:
- General Parking: $35 (before 5 PM), $10 (after 5 PM)
- Preferred Parking: $55 (before 5 PM), $20 (after 5 PM)
- Front Gate Parking: $75
- Valet: $25 for the first 2 hours, $60 thereafter
Some lots have electric vehicle charging stations such as Jurassic Parking or E.T. Garage. In particular, if you watch a movie at Universal Cinema, you will get a discounted parking price of $5. Note: you should arrive early to avoid traffic jams and choose the most convenient parking spot.
The Latest Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket Prices
Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket
Below is a summary of the Universal Studios Hollywood ticket types currently available on Klook. Prices may vary depending on the day, but are always updated and confirmed immediately when booking tickets:
| Ticket type | Adults (USD/VND) | Children 3-9 years old (USD/VND) |
|---|---|---|
| Special offer 1-day ticket (Free day 2) | 109.00 ≈ 2.850.000đ | 103.00 ≈ 2.693.000đ |
| Standard 1-day ticket | 109.00 ≈ 2.850.000đ | 97.85 ≈ 2.558.000đ |
| Halloween Horror Night Tickets | 103.55 ≈ 2.707.000đ | Not recommended for children under 13 years old |
| Halloween Night Tickets (after 2:00 PM) | from 77.00 ≈ 2,013,000 VND | Not recommended for children under 13 years old |
| Universal Express Ticket (with priority access) | from 117.00 ≈ 3,059,000 VND | |
| VIP Tickets (includes backstage tour + priority access) | 179.55 ≈ 4,695,000 VND |
Summary of the Most Attractive Amusement Parks and Rides at Universal Studios Hollywood
Super Nintendo World – The Living Mario Kingdom
Super Nintendo World™ is the perfect destination for all gamers, especially long-time fans of Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach. As soon as you step through the familiar green water pipe gate, you will “teleport” into a vivid 3D game world, every detail is simulated as real.
The centerpiece of the area is the game Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge. You will sit on a racing car, wear augmented reality glasses (AR), combine head and hand movements to collect gold coins and defeat Bowser’s team. This game is suitable for both adults and children over 107cm (with an accompanying person).
The Official Hollywood Sign Express Walking Tour in Los Angeles
Additionally, guests can purchase Power-Up Band™ (sold separately) to collect coins, complete interactive missions like breaking “? Blocks” or fight bosses with Bowser Jr. Don’t forget to check-in at Bowser’s Castle or dine at Toadstool Café with its cute game-inspired menu. Note: this area is very crowded, so you should check-in early or reserve a spot in advance via the Virtual Line system.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Become a Hogwarts Student
The journey to Hogsmeade begins with a snow-covered stone wall and the mysterious music ringing in the distance. At The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, you will feel like you are lost in a real wizarding village with full of magic book shops, Ollivanders wand shop and even the Three Broomsticks where the famous Butterbeer is sold.
Go City – Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass
The main highlight is the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ game, which allows you to fly with Harry and friends over the Quidditch pitch, avoid dragons and fight Dementors in a memorable 4D adventure. In addition, young children can try a gentler feeling with the Flight of the Hippogriff™ roller coaster, suitable for heights of 91cm and above.
This area also regularly hosts magic shows, a cappella performances from Hogwarts students, and becomes brilliant during the festive season like Christmas in the Wizarding World with fake snow and sparkling lights throughout the village.
Studio Tour – Journey Through Hollywood Behind the Scenes
When coming to Universal Studios Hollywood, visitors must join the Studio Tour, a legendary 60-minute journey that takes you to explore the real behind-the-scenes of Hollywood blockbusters. This is an exclusive tour only available at the Hollywood facility, completely different from branches in other countries.
Los Angeles in One Day Private Tour
You will sit on a specially designed tram, passing through the film sets that recreate many blockbusters such as Fast & Furious, War of the Worlds, The Grinch, Jaws… with vivid sound, light and water effects. In particular, King Kong 360 3-D, Earthquake Simulation and Fast & Furious – Supercharged will bring a dramatic feeling as if standing in the middle of a real film set.
The tour is bilingual (English and subtitled on screen) and is suitable for all ages. As this is one of the most popular activities, you should join in the early afternoon to avoid the queues at the end of the day.
Classic Rides Not to Be Missed in the Park
Exploring Universal Studios Hollywood is immersing yourself in the vivid cinematic world with a series of attractive games and shows:
Jurassic World – The Ride
Hollywood, Griffith Observatory, City & Beach Tour in Los Angeles
You will board a boat to explore the world of dinosaurs and face the Indominus Rex before ending with an extremely exciting wet plunge. With a minimum height requirement of 106.7 cm, this game is suitable for teenagers and adults. Don’t forget to bring a raincoat if you don’t want to get soaked when the boat plunges down the spectacular finale.
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
Natural History Museum Ticket in Los Angeles
If you want to change the wind with a little fun, join the training to become a Minion at Gru’s house. This is a light simulation game with 3D effects for all ages. Moreover, you can also join the interactive dance party and have fun at the Super Silly Fun Land right next door.
WaterWorld Stunt Show Classic
Madame Tussauds Hollywood Ticket in Los Angeles
With more than 168,000 effects fired each year, this is considered the number one show in the park. WaterWorld lasts 20 minutes with a series of breathtaking action scenes: from jet-skis soaring across the water to planes crashing straight into the stage in a sea of fire. The water fire effects, acrobatics and sounds will make you feel like you are living in a real action movie.
Transformers: The Ride 3D
Immerse yourself in the battle between Autobots and Decepticons with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee. Taking advantage of advanced 3D simulation technology, the game puts you in the heart of fierce battle with powerful movements, realistic images and vivid sounds. Not for the faint of heart, but extremely worthwhile for those who love to feel the adrenaline rush.
The Simpsons Ride
Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour in Los Angeles
A humorous journey full of chaos at Krustyland amusement park. Here, you accompany the Simpsons family on a virtual roller coaster that twists, crashes, free falls and explodes with laughter. With modern 4D technology projected on a giant dome screen, this is a fun family game for both children and adults.
DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda
Lost in the colorful animated world, you will join Po, Master Shifu and Mr. Ping on the mission to transport the ultimate power liquid. The smooth interaction between 4D effects, images and sounds brings vivid memories for the whole family from young children to adults who love cartoons.
Festivals & Special Events at Universal Studios
Universal Studios Hollywood is also the “stage” for a series of unique events. Here is a list of festivals and attractive programs that visitors should not miss:
Halloween Horror Nights (September-November every year)
Halloween Horror Nights Tickets at Universal Studios Hollywood
One of the biggest horror events in the US. A series of haunted houses recreate scary movie scenes, actors in top-notch costumes will make your hair stand on end. The event is suitable for guests aged 13 and over.
Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood (late November – early January)
- Grinchmas™: Meet the mischievous Grinch, check-in with the giant Christmas tree and enjoy art performances.
- Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™: Hogsmeade is sparkling with white snow, hot Butterbeer and magical Hogwarts Christmas music.
New Year’s Eve (December 31)
A New Year’s Eve party at the park with DJs, outdoor stages, dancing, countdowns and fireworks. Tickets are limited, so book early to avoid missing out on this epic year-end party.
Universal Fan Fest Nights (Usually Spring)
A paradise for anime, sci-fi and gaming fans. There are cosplay, fan meetings, food stalls and themed interactive activities. The dates may change from year to year, so stay tuned for updates to plan your itinerary.
What to Eat When Having Fun at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Ticket
Universal Studios Hollywood is famous for being a “food paradise” with countless options for every taste. In the park, visitors can enjoy unique themed food at Toadstool Café™ (Super Nintendo World™), or visit Minion Café, Jurassic Café, Mel’s Diner and Three Broomsticks, which recreate the culinary flavors of the Harry Potter world.
In addition, don’t miss the Universal CityWalk area right outside the park gate. Here, you have the opportunity to try rich Mexican food at Antojitos Cocina Mexicana, fresh seafood and cocktails at Jimmy Buffett’s® Margaritaville®, or immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere at NBC Sports Grill & Brew. And if you have a sweet tooth, visit The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium to sip on a “giant” milkshake and countless impressive desserts.
Los Angeles and Hollywood City Sightseeing Bus Pass
You should book a table in advance through the official Universal app or website to save waiting time. In addition, the app also allows you to order online, choose a pick-up time and pay quickly, extremely convenient for a whole day of uninterrupted fun!
What to Buy at Universal Studios as a Gift?
Are you looking for a memorable gift from your trip to Universal Studios Hollywood? Don’t worry, the Universal City area is a shopping paradise with a series of unique stores, allowing you to bring the whole movie world home!
Disneyland Resort in California Theme Park Tickets
Stop by the Universal Studio Store to collect T-shirts, mugs, keychains… printed with famous characters such as Minions, Transformers, Harry Potter. If you are a “hardcore fan” of the wizarding world, you will definitely be fascinated by the chain of stores such as Ollivanders, Honeydukes, Dervish and Banges or Zonko’s Joke Shop, which sells wands, magical candies and super unique souvenirs.
In addition, don’t miss Kwik-E-Mart dedicated to The Simpsons fans or Jurassic Outfitters with a series of products from Dinosaur Park. Stores such as Transformers Supply Vault, Feature Presentation or Super Silly Stuff are also ideal check-in points for toy and movie accessory collectors.
When to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood?
The ideal time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood is in the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). At this time, the weather is pleasant, sunny and not too crowded like in the summer or holidays. In addition, visiting during the week from Tuesday to Thursday is a smart choice. You will save time queuing, easily participate in many games as well as take beautiful photos with natural light.
In addition, avoid going on major holidays such as Easter, US Independence Day (July 4), Christmas or New Year if you do not want to jostle with crowds. However, if you love festive events such as Halloween Horror Nights or Grinchmas, then this is the right time.
Los Angeles Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
The park is open year-round, with regular hours from 9:00–21:00 (for early entry tickets from 8:00). A little tip is to arrive 30 minutes before opening time to explore popular areas like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ or Super Nintendo World™ when it’s not too crowded.
Suggested One-Day Itinerary at Universal Studios
If you only have one day to explore Universal Studios Hollywood, check out the suggested 1 day itinerary below.
08:00 – Check-in & enter Super Nintendo World
As soon as the park opens, hurry to Super Nintendo World to admire the colorful Mario world with an Early Access ticket. Don’t forget to try the extremely vivid virtual reality game Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.
09:30 – Visit Harry Potter World, play and drink Butterbeer
Next, move to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to immerse yourself in the mysterious space with Hogwarts castle, magic and the game Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Remember to enjoy a cool glass of Butterbeer here!
11:30 – Lunch at Minion Cafe or Springfield Food Court
Time to recharge! You have the option to dine at Minion Cafe with super cute food or head to Springfield Food Court if you are a fan of The Simpsons.
13:00 – Join the 60-minute Studio Tour
The studio tour is an activity not to be missed! The hour-long journey will take you through famous movie scenes and extremely “eye-catching” cinematic effects.
15:00 – Enjoy the remaining games such as Transformers, Jurassic World
The afternoon is the ideal time to explore adventure games such as Transformers 3D, The Mummy or Jurassic World – The Ride.
17:00 – Watch a show or join Halloween Horror Nights (seasonal)
End the day with a spectacular show or, if you come during Halloween, be brave enough to try Halloween Horror Nights for a truly unique thrill.
Tips for Having Fun at Universal Studios All Day Without Getting Tired
Dolby Theatre Admission in Los Angeles
To keep your energy up throughout the day and enjoy hundreds of exciting activities at Universal Studios Hollywood, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Get a US visa early: Complete your visa application before your trip to avoid missing out on your plans. Check out Klook’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ESTA) support service to save time preparing.
- Book tickets in advance on Klook: Avoid long lines at the gate and get exclusive deals when buying tickets online.
- Plan your itinerary wisely: Prioritize visiting famous areas such as Super Nintendo World, Wizarding World of Harry Potter… first, then spend time exploring smaller spots.
- Prepare suitable clothes: Sneakers, comfortable clothes, hats, sunglasses, light jackets and small backpacks will be great “assistants” for a long day of activities.
- Stay connected with US eSIM: Easily order on Klook and activate before flying, helping you to proactively look up maps, wait times for games and share moments at any time.
FAQ When Going to Universal Studios Hollywood
When is the ideal time to go to Universal Studios Hollywood?
Weekdays (Monday to Thursday), especially in the morning to early afternoon, are the ideal times to avoid crowds and hunt for good prices. In addition, the low season from January to March or mid-September to November is also a reasonable time to visit comfortably.
How much does a ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood cost?
Ticket prices vary depending on the time, usually from 109 USD – 149 USD/adult for a standard 1-day ticket. Buying tickets online in advance will save you money compared to buying directly at the gate. Note that ticket prices are higher on weekends and holidays.
Should I spend 1 or 2 days visiting?
With a reasonable schedule, you can completely explore most of the highlights in 1 day. However, if you want to explore comfortably without rushing, especially during peak season, you should spend 2 days at the park.
Can I bring food or drinks?
You are allowed to bring water bottles no more than 2 liters, snacks such as biscuits, fruit, medical supplies or food according to health requirements. However, you are not allowed to bring large food, hard coolers or glass bottles.
What is the difference between Universal Express and Universal Express Add-On?
Both allow you to enter the fast queue once per game/show. However, the Universal Express includes admission, while the Add-On is an upgrade for those who already have a ticket or Annual Pass.
If you are looking for a destination that perfectly combines high-end entertainment and authentic cinema, Universal Studios Hollywood is the ideal choice. From thrilling rides inspired by Hollywood blockbusters to themed areas that come to life, this place promises to bring exciting adventures to every visitor.
Plan and book your Universal Studios Hollywood tickets today to start your journey to explore the exciting world of cinema!
Read more the US guide here.
