CityWalk Hollywood Overview
- Introduction – A vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment destination next to Universal Studios Hollywood.
- Activities – Experience a variety of entertainment options, including dining, shopping, and concerts.
- Visitor Insights – Understand pros and cons before your visit to enhance your experience.
- Helpful Tips – Discover practical advice to maximize your visit.
- Essential Information – Find the basics you need to know for a smooth trip.
CityWalk Hollywood is a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located next to Universal Studios Hollywood. It’s home to more than a dozen restaurants, many retail shops, and an 18-screen movie theater. Conveniently, it is outside the theme park’s gates and accessible to everyone.
CityWalk resembles a narrow pedestrian-only city street, evoking the street sets on Universal’s back lot—vaguely familiar but not entirely real. Colorful, brightly lit signs dance overhead, reminiscent of a mini-scale Vegas scene, sans the alcohol.
Vibrant with neon energy in the evening, CityWalk is a lively area. During the day, however, it tends to be quieter, with many visitors walking to and from the theme park gates.
As the primary route between the theme park garages and its entrance, you’ll likely pass through CityWalk. The key question is whether it’s worth your time to stop for a while or if a dedicated visit is advisable.
What to Do at CityWalk Hollywood
This three-block-long simulated city street features a variety of shops, from souvenir stores to well-known brand-name retailers. There are also numerous dining establishments to choose from.
A major attraction at Universal CityWalk is the movie theater, which Universal touts as LA’s ultimate movie experience. With its 18 screens, including a seven-story IMAX screen equipped with dual 4K laser projection and 12-channel sound, it certainly delivers. Moreover, the concession stand boasts an impressive selection of drinks to complement your movie experience. Sink into your reserved seat in a plush leather recliner and enjoy the show.
The shopping and dining offerings at CityWalk are continuously evolving. Additionally, the 5 Towers live performance stage frequently hosts bands and entertainers. For real-time concert schedules and other activities, check the CityWalk website.
Universal CityWalk hosts free outdoor concerts during the summer months and features street performers year-round. Children love splashing around in the water play area, providing a refreshing experience for families as adults capture precious moments with photos.
Why You Might Like CityWalk Hollywood – Or Not
Before your visit, review the CityWalk map to familiarize yourself with the layout, potentially saving you from unnecessary walking.
Opinions about CityWalk are mixed. While some visitors find it overpriced and unimpressive, others enjoy the lively atmosphere, people-watching opportunities, and vibrant street performers. Interestingly, locals often rate it lower than visitors from other areas.
Some guests prefer to focus their time at Universal inside the theme park rather than at CityWalk. If you’re among this group, you might want to explore other aspects of Universal Studios Hollywood that may be more appealing.
If you’re seeking a peaceful meal away from the theme park hubbub, CityWalk provides an excellent setting for dining.
While CityWalk can serve as a standalone destination, it’s not the sole vibrant area in Los Angeles. Other lively places featuring shopping and dining include Hollywood & Highland (notable for its cheaper parking) and Los Angeles Farmers Market and The Grove.
Universal CityWalk Hollywood Tips
Parking at Universal CityWalk is available, though it can be quite expensive. However, if you dine at a full-service restaurant or catch a movie while you’re there, you can typically receive a parking discount.
For budget-conscious visitors, using public transportation is advisable to sidestep parking fees. Directions for public transit options can be reviewed online or in local guides.
Enjoying the atmosphere, browsing shops, and attending outdoor concerts can provide an enriching experience without spending a dime, making CityWalk an ideal option if you’re budget-restrained.
The Basics About Universal CityWalk Hollywood
1000 Universal Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA
Universal CityWalk Website
Access CityWalk effortlessly via the LA Metro Red Line, which runs through downtown Hollywood to Universal City. From the Metro station, a free shuttle operates or visitors can opt to walk to CityWalk.
Utilizing ridesharing services like Lyft and Uber can also be economical in LA, providing a viable alternative to parking expenses. In fact, depending on your travel distance, these services may cost less than parking would.
