Universal Studios Hollywood: A Unique Experience

Universal Studios Hollywood blends the excitement of a working television and movie studio with the thrills of a movie-themed park. The Studio Tour offers a tram ride through actual studio sets alongside immersive special effects. It’s important to note that the Studio Tour is only accessible with a theme park day pass.

Experience the enchanting Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the whimsical Springfield Hollywood, inspired by The Simpsons. The park features a variety of attractions, including exhilarating rides such as Jurassic Park: The Ride, alongside virtual experiences, live shows, and vibrant performances. Moreover, you’ll find numerous shopping and dining options to enhance your visit. If you are considering an overnight stay, it’s advisable to begin your search for nearby hotels at TripAdvisor.

Getting There

Traveling to Universal Studios Hollywood can be daunting due to the heavily trafficked roads of southern California. However, there are multiple transportation options available. Here are some tips to navigate your way to the park.

By Metro

The Metro Red Line train connects from Downtown LA and Hollywood, stopping at Universal City. Situated right across from the Metro station and bus stop, a complimentary Universal Studios shuttle runs every 10 to 15 minutes to the park entrance. This convenient service continues for two hours post-park closure. Although the walk from the station to the entrance takes about five to ten minutes, be prepared for an uphill trek, as the sidewalk only partially covers the route.

Shuttle from Anaheim Hotels

If you are staying in Anaheim, many hotels offer complimentary shuttles to Universal Studios. Make sure to check the shuttle availability before your stay, as it may enhance your visit.

Driving

For those who prefer to drive, Universal Studios Hollywood is conveniently located off the 101 Freeway in Universal City, just north of Hollywood. The northbound exit is Universal Studios Blvd, while southbound drivers should take the Lankershim Blvd exit and turn right. Follow the signs for parking.

The park is built on a hillside, comprised of two levels connected by four flights of escalators. The primary parking area is located near the main entrance on the Upper Lot. The Frankenstein Parking Structure on the Lower Lot can often provide quicker access during peak times, and escalators will transport you back up to the main entrance.

Maximizing Your Visit

Universal Studios is split into the Upper Lot, which includes major attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the Lower Lot, home to more adventurous rides. To optimize your time, focus on your priority activities on one level before transitioning to the next. This approach will prevent unnecessary backtracking.

Buy a Front of the Line Pass

If you aim to experience everything Universal Studios has to offer within an eight-hour timeframe, careful planning is essential. However, during busy periods, investing in a Front of the Line Pass could significantly reduce your wait times, especially when the park is crowded.

Get In Early

With the advent of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, online ticket purchasers can gain advanced admission to the area an hour before the park officially opens, subject to availability and change. This option can enhance your experience by allowing you to explore this popular area before the general crowd arrives.

Choose Your High Priority Attractions in Advance

Typically, rides operate continuously while show times follow a set schedule. Therefore, if specific shows are of high interest to you, arrange your visit around those timings while fitting in rides during the intervals. Show schedules are readily available at several locations across the park.

If rides are your primary focus, aim to arrive early and head straight to the Lower Lot while others explore the Upper Lot, which often results in shorter queues.

Be Aware of the Studio Tram Hours

The Studio Tram Tour, which takes guests through the NBC Universal backlot, lasts approximately one hour. The final tram departs one to two hours before park closing, so it’s crucial to plan accordingly to ensure you don’t miss out.

Keep Cool and Dry

Waiting areas throughout the park usually feature ample shade, and during warm days, a refreshing mist is sprayed overhead in line queues. Additionally, there are cooling stations scattered across the park where visitors can enjoy a gentle spray of water to help beat the heat.

If you’re carrying photography equipment, it may be useful to bring a waterproof case or plastic bag to keep your gear dry. Lockers are available near the main entrance and close to several thrilling attractions.

Take Advantage of Child Switch

For families visiting Universal Studios, a Child Switch option allows one parent to enjoy an attraction while the other supervises the child. Subsequently, the second parent can ride without waiting in line again, offering a convenient solution for families.

Annual Events at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios hosts two major annual events, bringing festive cheer and thrilling experiences to visitors.

• Halloween Horror Nights: A separately ticketed nighttime event held from late September through Halloween, showcasing some of the scariest attractions in Southern California. It may not be suitable for young children, given its intense themes.
• Grinchmas at Universal Studios: This festive re-theming transforms the park during the holiday season, featuring characters from Who-ville and an impressive Grinchmas Tree at Universal Plaza, providing festive photo opportunities.