Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is a world-famous theme park and working film studio located in Los Angeles, California. Built into the hills of Hollywood, it offers a one-of-a-kind combination of thrilling attractions, real movie sets, and behind-the-scenes access. Guests can step into iconic films, explore themed lands like Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and even tour an active backlot where real productions are filmed.
History & Background
The park originated as a studio tram tour in the early 1960s, giving guests a peek behind the scenes of film production. Officially opening in 1964, Universal Studios Hollywood has evolved into a full-scale theme park while maintaining its roots as a functioning movie and television studio. Over the decades, it introduced ground-breaking attractions like Back to the Future: The Ride, Jurassic Park, and the Studio Tour, which remains the park’s signature experience.
Ticket Prices & Packages
One-day tickets generally range from $109 to $159, depending on crowd level and time of year.
Upgrades and options include:
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Universal Express Pass – skip the line once per attraction
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VIP Experience – includes guided tour, backlot access, and meals
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Annual Passes – several tiers with blackout date options
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, typically from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though summer and holidays may feature longer hours.
Best times to visit include:
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Mid-January through mid-March
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Late April to early June
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Weekdays in September and early November
Avoid weekends and holiday breaks for the shortest wait times.
Top Rides & Attractions
Studio Tour – 60-minute tram tour through active soundstages, outdoor sets, and special effects features like King Kong 360 and Fast & Furious: Supercharged
Jurassic World – The Ride – Water-based thrill ride with stunning animatronics and a steep drop
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Immersive dark ride through Hogwarts Castle
Flight of the Hippogriff – Family coaster in the Wizarding World
Transformers: The Ride 3D – Intense motion simulator through a robot war
The Simpsons Ride – Chaotic, hilarious simulator set in Krustyland
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem – Fun 3D ride for all ages
Revenge of the Mummy – Indoor roller coaster with special effects
Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge – Augmented reality racing ride inside Super Nintendo World
Shows & Entertainment
WaterWorld: A Live Sea War Spectacular – High-energy stunt show with explosions, jet skis, and water effects
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Live wand experiences and atmospheric street shows
Character Meet & Greets – Includes Transformers, Minions, Scooby-Doo, and Mario characters
Dining Options
Three Broomsticks – British pub food and Butterbeer in Hogsmeade
Toadstool Café – Mario-themed meals like mushroom soup and Princess Peach cupcakes
Krusty Burger & Lard Lad Donuts – Simpsons-inspired quick bites
Mel’s Diner – Classic American burgers and shakes
Minion Café – Sandwiches, mac & cheese, and kid-friendly combos
Mobile ordering is available through the Universal app.
Hotels & Accommodation
Universal Studios Hollywood does not have on-site hotels, but there are many options within a short drive or walking distance in Universal City and nearby Hollywood.
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City – Closest hotel, walking distance to the park
Sheraton Universal Hotel – Modern, full-service hotel adjacent to the entrance
BLVD Hotel & Spa – Trendy boutique option nearby
Hotels in Hollywood or Burbank – Great for combining a longer LA visit with park days
Many local hotels offer park shuttle service or partner packages with tickets included.
Getting There & Parking
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Located just off the Hollywood Freeway (101), it’s easy to reach by car, Metro Red Line, or ride-share.
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General Parking: $30
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Preferred Parking: $50
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Front Gate Parking: $70
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Metro stop: Universal City/Studio City Station, followed by free shuttle
Tips for Visiting
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Arrive early and head straight to Super Nintendo World, which often reaches capacity
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Book Express Pass if visiting during peak season — it’s worth it for this park
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Take the Studio Tour in the morning or early afternoon to avoid longer waits
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Hydrate and wear good shoes — the park has steep escalators between levels
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The VIP Experience is excellent if you want full backlot access and a private guide
Photo Gallery
Suggested images: Super Nintendo World entrance, tram on Studio Tour, Hogwarts Castle at night, T-Rex from Jurassic World, WaterWorld stunt finale.