Universal Studios Hollywood

The basics

First-timers should head straight for the World-Famous Studio Tour, which takes visitors to movie sets and includes recorded commentary from Jimmy Fallon (as well as live narration from one of the park's tour guides). Stops on this Universal Studios Hollywood tour include the crash site from War of the Worlds, the vehicles from Jurassic Park, and the spooky Bates Motel from Psycho. Ride attractions include King Kong 360 3-D, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Fast & Furious - Supercharged, and Hogwarts Castle.

Things to know before you go

• Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit for fans of movies and TV shows.

• For the best deals and shortest lines, book your Universal Studios Hollywood tickets in advance.

• Some tours include a combination of tickets to Universal Studios and Anaheim theme parks or transportation from downtown LA.

• Snack food and drinks, including beer and margaritas, are available throughout the park and at the adjacent Universal CityWalk.

How to Get to Universal Studios

Universal Studios is located in Universal City, west of Griffith Park, near Los Angeles. To get there, take the Hollywood Freeway and get off at either the Universal Center Drive exit or Lankershim Boulevard exit.

When to get there

Universal Studios Hollywood is open year-round with varying opening hours. As with most popular attractions, you'll beat the crowds and get the most out of your ticket by arriving when the gates open.

Universal Studios Hollywood Options and Upgrades

Sign up for the VIP Experience to get behind the scenes and see the Universal Studios backlot. Where you stop will depend on television show production schedules. WHerever you end up visiting, you’ll be able to see what goes on at a working movie studio.

Ways to explore

First-timers at Universal Studios Hollywood should head straight for the Studio Tour, a narrated tram ride past old and current movie sets, such as the Psycho house and Jaws lake. Spend the rest of your day exploring the rides, shops, shows, and restaurants in Jurassic World, Super Nintendo World, and other corners of the park.

Save time by reserving tickets for the theme park in advance, whether for general admission or upgraded passes that let you skip lines and access VIP tours and perks. You can also pair the attraction with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of LA.

Accessibility

All shops, restaurants, and live shows at Universal Studios Hollywood are wheelchair accessible, as are some rides. Talk to a staff member for assistance with accessibility.

Age limits

While the theme park has attractions for all ages, certain rides and shows may not be suitable for small children, and many rides have minimum height requirements.

What to pack

It’s best to bring only essentials—such as bottled water, medicine, and baby food—that you can carry in a small bag. That way, you won’t have to pay for lockers or worry about where to store your belongings while on rides.

What to wear

This is a big park, and many attractions are outdoors. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Not allowed

Smoking, outside food and drink (besides water), non-service animals

Amenities

Wi-Fi, paid lockers, restrooms, nursing rooms

Address

Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Universal City, California, west of Griffith Park in Los Angeles. Most visitors drive there, but it’s also reachable by public transportation and hop-on hop-off bus.

Driving

Take the 101 Freeway and exit at either Universal Studios Boulevard or Lankershim Boulevard. Be prepared to pay for parking—rates vary depending on the time and location.

Public transportation

The Metro B line runs from Downtown LA through Hollywood and stops at Universal City. From there, walk .6 miles (1 kilometer) along the pedestrian path to Universal CityWalk, or catch one of the frequent shuttles.

Best times to visit

There’s something to do at Universal Studios Hollywood at all hours of the day—beat the crowds and get the most out of your ticket by arriving when the gates open.

Best days to visit

Weekends are especially busy at the theme park, so aim to visit during the week for shorter lines at its rides and attractions.

Best months to visit

Visit the theme park from March–May or September–November, when it's free of summer crowds and occasional winter rainstorms.

Special events

Thrill seekers should visit Universal Studios Hollywood for Halloween Horror Nights from September to October, while fans of the festive season can see the park decked out for the holidays from November to December.