Universal Studios Hollywood, located in Los Angeles, California, offers visitors an exciting blend of movie magic and thrilling attractions. As one of the world’s oldest movie studio theme parks, it gives guests a unique behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood’s film and television industry.
It also delivers adrenaline-pumping rides and immersive experiences. If it’s your first time visiting, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip. First, let me encourage you to utilize the services of a travel planner for this trip. At no additional cost, you can have an expert guide to help you have the best vacation possible.
Planning a Universal Vacation?
Whether you’re planning your first Universal vacation or returning for another adventure, our Explore Universal Destinations guide is a great place to start. You’ll find helpful planning information for Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, and more, including tips on tickets, resorts, attractions, and ways to make the most of your time.
👉 Explore Universal Destinations Hub
Get Ready!
Before you dive into the excitement, a bit of planning can make your day smoother and more enjoyable.
Hotels
Universal Studios Hollywood has 2 associated hotels: The Sheraton Universal Hotel and The Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City. Both hotels are within walking distance of the park and offer complimentary shuttle service as an alternative.
Each hotel offers similar amenities such as booking your stay and tickets as a package as well as additional popular Los Angeles sightseeing. The Hilton is only slightly closer to Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk. Bundling a room and ticket package reduces the cost of your general admission ticket.
If you stay off property, Universal Studios Hollywood is just off the 101 Freeway in Universal City. You can drive and park on-site, with different parking options available, including general, preferred, and valet parking.
Ticket Options
Universal Studios Hollywood offers various ticket types:
– General Admission: Grants access to the park for the day. (Starting at $99/person)
– Universal Express: Includes one-time express access to each ride, show, and attraction—ideal for reducing wait times. (Starting at $199/person in addition to a base ticket)
– VIP Experience: Offers guided tours, behind-the-scenes access, and front-of-line privileges. (Starting at $369/person in addition to a base ticket)
– Annual Passes: Great if you plan to visit multiple times a year.
In addition, guests can purchase “Early Entry to Super Nintendo World” (approximately $20/person). That option allows you to enter the popular section before the park officially opens.
More importantly, buying in advance is highly recommended, as prices at the gate may be higher.
Park Hours and Best Time to Visit
Universal Studios opens as early as 9 AM and closes between 6 PM and 10 PM, depending on the season. Arriving early can help you avoid long lines, especially for popular attractions. Weekdays, especially during the school year, tend to be less crowded than weekends or holidays.
Top Attractions & Rides
Universal Studios Hollywood is divided into two main areas: the “Upper Lot” and “Lower Lot”. They are connected by a series of escalators called the “Starway.” Each section offers distinct experiences.
Upper Lot Highlights
🏎️ NEW! Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift
Universal Studios Hollywood has a brand-new thrill ride—and this one is FAST. Officially opening September 16, 2026, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is the park’s first outdoor, high-speed roller coaster and takes the Fast Saga experience to a whole new level.
The coaster uses the natural hillside terrain to send riders racing over and around the park, including sections that cross over the multi-level Starway. But the really unique part? You’re not just riding a coaster—you’re drifting. Each ride vehicle can rotate a full 360 degrees independently while traveling along the track, creating the sensation of a car drifting through high-speed turns.
And this is definitely one for the thrill seekers. The ride features four launches, speeds up to 72 mph, multiple inversions, including an inverted dive loop, pretzel loop and inverted stall, and 4,100 feet of aerial track. The ride vehicles are themed after iconic Fast Saga cars, including the Dodge Charger, Mazda RX-7, Nissan Skyline GT-R and Toyota Supra.
The attraction doesn’t stop at the coaster itself. The queue is designed to continue the Fast & Furious storytelling, with recreated props from the films and opportunities to learn more about the franchise along the way. And because each vehicle has its own independently programmed rotation and audio system, your ride can actually feel different depending on which car you’re riding in.
Our Take: If you’re building a Southern California vacation around thrill rides, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift puts Universal Studios Hollywood firmly on the must-consider list. It’s a very different coaster experience, and the fact that you’re racing across the Hollywood hills while your car is spinning and drifting makes this one hard to forget.
Studio Tour
The park’s signature attraction, the “Universal Studio Tour”, gives you a behind-the-scenes look at real working film sets. Along the way, you’ll encounter iconic movie moments, such as “Jaws” and “King Kong 360 3D”, and enjoy surprises like the “Fast & Furious—Supercharged”.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
This section of the Upper Lot is a carbon copy of Hogsmeade Village inside Islands of Adventure complete with Hogwarts Castle. Don’t miss “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey inside the castle or Flight of the Hippogriff.
The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!
Perfect for families, this ride takes you through the charming world of “The Secret Life of Pets”, where you’ll join adorable characters on a fun, animated adventure.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
This 3D motion-simulator ride, also found at Universal Studios Florida, is based on the popular “Despicable Me” franchise. It’s a wild, hilarious journey as you become a Minion for the day!
The Upper Lot is also home to:
- The Simpsons Land
- DreamWorks Theater
- Unique character meet & greets like Dracula, Frankenstein and Trolls.
Lower Lot Highlights
Jurassic World—The Ride
An exhilarating water ride that plunges you into the terrifying world of “Jurassic World”. It’s one of the park’s most thrilling attractions, featuring impressive animatronics and a big splash at the end.
Transformers: The Ride-3D
A high-octane 3D ride where you’ll join Optimus Prime and the Autobots in an epic battle against the Decepticons. It combines motion simulation with impressive visual effects identical to the same attraction at Universal Studios Florida.
Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride
Also found at Universal Orlando Resort, this indoor roller coaster is perfect for thrill-seekers. It’s a fast-paced journey through dark tunnels with unexpected twists and turns, based on “The Mummy” franchise.
Super Nintendo World
Last, but certainly not least, Super Nintendo World is the latest addition to the Lower Lot. This land brings the world of Super Mario Bros. to life and makes guests feel as if they are inside the popular game. The best news is that this will be recreated in the new Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort in 2025
Compete in a part virtual reality, part practical set Mario Kart adventure on Bowser’s Challenge and enjoy some lunch at Toad Stool Café. Finally, meet your favorite gaming characters like Mario, Luigi or Princess Peach.
Entertainment and Shows
In addition to rides, Universal Studios Hollywood offers world-class live shows and character meet-and-greets.
WaterWorld
This live stunt show features incredible water-based action, pyrotechnics, and impressive stunts. It’s a must-see and often ranks as one of the park’s top experiences.
Special Effects Show
Get an insider’s view into how Hollywood creates mind-bending special effects, from explosions to motion-capture technology. This show is a fascinating peek into the tricks of the movie trade.
Character Encounters
Throughout the park, you’ll meet characters from beloved franchises like Transformers, The Simpsons, Minions, and classic movie favorites. Don’t forget to snap a photo!
Dining and Shopping
After all the excitement, you’re bound to get hungry, and Universal Studios Hollywood offers a variety of dining options.
Three Broomsticks
Three Broomsticks serves up classic British fare, like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. You can also enjoy the famous Butterbeer here—served cold, frozen, or hot much the same as at Islands of Adventure.
Power Up Café
Fans of Nintendo can satisfy their hunger pangs with dishes like calzones, pretzels, and specialty drinks all themed to the “Super Mario Bros.” franchise.
Universal CityWalk
The shopping and dining area of Universal City is full of unique and familiar dining locations like Bubba Gumps, Margaritaville, also found at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk. You won’t want for choices in this area of the property.
If you’re a fan of movie memorabilia, be sure to stop by the many themed shops scattered throughout the park and CityWalk. Your souvenir choices are plenty. Browse the Universal Store, Super Nintendo Store, and much more.
Tips for First Timers
Download the Universal Studios Hollywood App
The park’s official app is a lifesaver. You can check ride wait times, show schedules, and even order food ahead of time from select restaurants.
Single Rider Lines
Many attractions, including Jurassic World and Revenge of the Mummy, offer single rider lines. If you’re okay with riding separately from your group, this can significantly cut down your wait time.
Take a Break in Universal CityWalk
Adjacent to the park, Universal CityWalk offers additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options. If you need a breather from the park, it’s a great place to relax or grab a bite.
Stay Hydrated and Wear Comfortable Shoes
Just like at most theme park destinations, Universal Studios Hollywood involves a lot of walking, especially between the Upper and Lower Lots. Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique destination that blends the magic of Hollywood with world-class entertainment. With a little planning and knowledge of the park layout, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re soaring through the skies with Harry Potter, escaping dinosaurs in Jurassic World, or witnessing thrilling live shows, the memories you create at Universal Studios Hollywood will last a lifetime.
Continue Planning Your Universal Vacation
Ready to keep planning? These guides can help you take the next step toward your Universal vacation:
- Explore Universal Destinations – Start here for our complete Universal vacation planning resources.
- Universal Tickets Guide – Compare ticket options and learn what you need to know before purchasing.
- Universal Orlando Resort Guide – Explore Universal Orlando’s hotels and find the right resort for your stay.
- Is Universal Express Pass Worth It? – Learn how Express Pass works and whether it’s worth adding to your vacation.
- Universal VIP Tour Review – Get a firsthand look at the VIP Tour experience and what you can expect.
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