Why Select Hollywood Universal Studios?
In the U.S. there are two Universal theme parks - one in Los Angeles (Hollywood) and one in Orlando. Though Orlando has a larger park with newer attractions, they cannot offer the unique experience of visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, the original Universal park and a cornerstone of Hollywood movie making.
Hollywood Universal Studios was created around a working film studio, and has been associated with film sets linked to King Kong, Jurassic Park, Jaws, Fast & Furious, Desperate Housewives, Back to the Future, and Psycho among many others. The park offers more than just thrill rides, providing guests with the unique experience of bringing movie making to life with real studio sets, practical effects and immersive rides.
The park has long been a favorite destination for stars like the Beckham family, and singers Jay Chou and Hannah Quinlivan, JJ Lin, Xie Na, and Zhang Jie.
Don’t forget, the information in this guide may have changed. The park has previously refused same day re-entry and once guests leave the park they cannot return.
Check their policy and bring a suitable meal if necessary. \n \nUniversal Studios Hollywood \n \n• Located in one of the most expensive regions in Los Angeles, the park started as a Hollywood production site and has expanded to become a major theme park. \n \n• The park features Hollywood storytelling and lets visitors experience rides and shows that use advanced special effects. \n \n• Notable attractions include the Jurassic Park, Revenge of the Mummy, and Transformers rides, as well as Minions motion simulators. These attractions put you into the movie and not just in front of a display. \n \n• The Studio Tour is the main attraction. The tour tram rides through real movie sets and shows fake films about floods, explosions, and car crashes. \n \n• Daily events hosted by characters in the park and a large collection of themed merchandise make it easy to spend the entire day in the park, and don’t forget that the signature attraction in the park is the Studio Tour which is better than many movie-themed attractions. \n \n2. Opening Times \nThe park is open to the public most days of the year. \nPrevious guides reported that the park opened at 8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Some tickets even allowed extra entry an hour before the official opening. \nClose time varied between 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. To check any specific times you have to check the website as it varies. Website: *** \n \n3. Choosing Your Tickets \nUniversal previously had one day tickets, two day tickets, annual tickets, Front of Line ticket options, and VIP tickets.
Since ticket names, inclusions, availability, and pricing frequently change, please confirm all details with the park directly and treat the following information as a historical reference.
Regular Admission: One-Day, Two-Day, and Annual Tickets
One-Day Ticket: The original guide listed prices as $105, $110, and $116 based on the day and season and demand. Tickets were priced differently based on early admission before 10:00 a.m. and regular admission at any time during the day.
Seasonal demand in the U.S. and seasonal demand in China may not correlate. The original guide suggested checking Universal’s calendar for seasonal peak days marked in green (highest-priced peak dates), blue (regular), and purple (lower demand).
Two-Day Ticket: The guide listed a ticket priced at $130 that permitted entry to the park for two days within a one-week span.
Annual Pass: Annual passes had restrictions regarding park entry and exit. The least expensive pass was $129 and was only available on 175 dates, generally excluding weekends, holidays, and peak periods. The 365-day pass was listed at $598 and was more suited for frequent local users.
Front of Line Tickets
Front of Line tickets allow users to use expedited queues. Guests receive a wristband or badge and may use the faster line once per attraction. Repeat rides must go through the regular queue.
The guide listed prices for Front of Line tickets as $179 to $254 depending on the date. They could be purchased online or at the park until they met a daily purchase limit.
Purchasing ahead of time made sense for busy dates.
Tips:
For the 2019 Lunar New Year holiday period, January 22 to February 19, 2019, the first guide showed the promotion of Front of the Line for $159, which is only available through a travel agency, not the official website. This is a time-specific offer, so do not look at this as current.
VIP Tickets
VIP experiences were available to individual and one-off private group bookings.
The private VIP individual package as per the guide included entry, continental breakfast, lunch by a Michelin-star chef, a six-hour guided tour, access to props and backstage areas, unlimited fast pass access to rides, and front row seats to shows.
Private group bookings of the VIP experience included the above and more if able to within operational needs.
The guide stated that VIP pricing was between $329 and $399, depending on the day.
In the first half of 2019, a Chinese language VIP tour was added on select dates. Please check park for availability, language assistance and inclusions.
Chinese VIP Tour Dates
Universal’s pricing is variable and official promotions may be worth. Guide noted that direct purchases with a Chinese credit card were feasible, even if payment page was hit or miss on a network from mainland China. Also, be aware that ticket delivery via email may be late.
While it's true that local agencies might offer lower rates and quicker bookings, travelers should be cautious and only book through trustworthy agencies.
How do you get to the Park easily?
Driving:
In favourable traffic, driving from central Los Angeles to Universal Studios Hollywood takes 10 minutes. It'll also be quick if you use the Hollywood Freeway (US 101).
Simply enter "Universal Studios Hollywood" in Google Maps.
For older navigation devices, the guide says to use "00 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 916081" and the coordinates are 34.135832, -118.351166. There will also be road signs from the freeway that will guide you to the park.
As of the original guide's publication date, the parking rates were $15 before 3:00 p.m. and $10 from 3:00 p.m. until the garage closed. Large tour buses were charged $17. Make sure to check the current parking rates before arrival.
Public Transport:
If you wish to use public transport, take the Metro Red Line and get off at Universal City. A free shuttle that takes about 3 minutes to reach Universal Studios is located just across the street from the metro station (as mentioned in the original guide).
What will you do at the Park?
On the upper level of the park, you will find the lower lot and a lengthy escalator. There will be a long lineup to get on the escalator.
Park maps are distributed to all visitors at the front gate (available in Chinese).
The original list included the following rides: 1. King Kong 360 3-D; 2. Revenge of the Mummy roller coaster; 3. Jurassic Park water ride; 4. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem; 5. The Walking Dead attraction; 6. WaterWorld; 7. a family roller coaster; 8. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter; 9. Studio Tour; 10. The Simpsons Ride; and 11. Universal's Animal Actors show.
The first three attractions were referenced as the Lower Lot, while the rest were Upper Lot. There are electronic boards near attractions that indicate how long the wait is, but the previous guide found that actual wait times could be 10 to 20 minutes longer. It is best to use the wait time as an estimate.
Covering Six Must do Attractions in 4 Hours Universal Studios Hollywood Lower Lot Step One: Since the entrance is Upper Lot, go immediately to the escalators and head down to the Lower Lot to do the three attractions there first. Suggested order for Lower Lot: Revenge of the Mummy coaster, Jurassic Park water ride, and Transformers 3D ride.
Must do attraction: Transformers 3D ride This was one of the park's busiest rides and is located in the Lower Lot. It combines 3D images and large scale visual effects so that guests feel they are part of the Transformers, on a mission of sorts. There is a careful design of the screen and the surrounding physical environment which is aimed to integrate well and be more convincing than the average simulator. Must do attraction: Jurassic Park water ride The original guide recommended the second row, because front row riders would get drenched. The ride features a jungle and dinosaur themed environment. There is a pursuit by a colossal 50-foot T-rex and an 84 foot drop.
Prepare to Get Wet
Optional Experience: Revenge of the Mummy
This ride is considered more intense than Transformers. This dark coaster experiences near total darkness, creepy audio & sudden surprises, as well as a make for a tight and uncomfortable ride experience.
Universal Studios Hollywood Upper Lot
Step Two: Ride the escalator to the upper lot
As you move through the upper lot, you will find The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the studio tour, The Simpsons Ride, Animal Actors, Despicable Me Minions Mayhem, The Walking Dead Experience, WaterWorld, and a family coaster.
Essential Experience: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
As you enter Hogwarts Castle, you will see moving paintings, the Dumbledore's office, the Defense against the dark arts classroom, the Gryffindor common room, the Room of Requirement, and floating candles. The main attraction, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, takes you through the classroom and hallways of Hogwarts on a highly immersive and dynamic ride experience. This will engulf you in the most of any of the parks attractions.
Studio Tour
The studio tour tram ride lasts 60 minutes. It starts at the sound stages and production houses before moving past simulated city streets that include a “New York” street and city hall, followed by simulated effects sequences that include a King Kong vs. dinosaurs battle, flooding, earthquake in a subway, vehicle collisions, and more. The tour also visits sites from
Jaws,
Desperate Housewives, and a crashed 747.
The original tour guide said that the Chinese language studio tours are scheduled daily, and the times and guides are different from those in the official schedule, so you should check it for the most up-to-date information.
The Walking Dead Experience is not for the faint of heart.
This spooktacular experience features zombies and combines physical sets, special effects, animatronics, and even live actors to create a multi-sensory experience. The original guide recommended that older guests, children, and pregnant visitors sit this one out.
WaterWorld
This outdoor water stunt show has live actors, an amazing storyline, and lots of pyrotechnics. The original guide mentions that the green seats in the Splash Zone will get you very wet, and the silver seats are for those who prefer not to get splashed. Choose your seats wisely—this is not the show to attend in your best clothes!
Best Family Attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood
In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, all the family members can enjoy the Flight of the Hippogriff ride which is a junior coaster that goes up and down above the pumpkin patch. It’s a great first coaster for the little ones.
The Simpsons and Despicable Me motion simulator rides are great for the family as they use 3D animation to enhance the experience of drops and speed turns. These are great options for people who want the thrill of a full roller coaster without the stress.
On the Animal Actors Stage, you can meet the animal performers and learn about their training and you may even get to go on stage! The original guide also mentioned that the special effects show, DinoPlay, and Shrek 4-D are all family-friendly shows. Be sure to confirm which attractions are available before you go.
Food Worth Trying
Three Broomsticks
Butterbeer is almost an essential stop for a lot of visitors, and this rustic tavern is where you can get it.
The first menu also featured sausages and mashed potatoes, ale and cheese soup, fish and chips, various beef dishes, lamb stew made with Guinness, shepherd's pie, turkey legs, and fresh veggies. <\/p>\
\ Despicable Me Café<\/p>\
\ The first guide suggested Mexican-style corn chips, grilled chicken from Gru’s backyard, specialty sandwiches, chicken bites, salads, and sweet treats. <\/p>\
\ Phineas Q. Butterfat’s Ice Cream<\/p>\
\ Mentioned options included various swirled ice cream flavors served in a cone, and a giant cold donut sundae. <\/p>\
\ Panda Express<\/p>\
\ This famous American chain of Asian food was listed as a choice for Eastern food.
The guide mentioned sushi rolls, California rolls, and rainbow rolls. Luigi’s Pizza Freshly baked personal pizzas include a cheese pizza, vegetarian pizza, and meat lover's pizza. Krusty Burger The original guide mentioned the classic Krusty Burger, Clogger Burger, Ribwich, Sideshow Bob Footlong, and Buzz Cola. 8. Souvenirs You Can Buy Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes Robes and other wizarding accessories (including crystal balls, telescopes, binoculars, armillary spheres, compasses, magnifying glasses, hourglasses) as well as merchandise from Platform 9¾ and Hogwarts Express. Zonko's Joke Shop The guide mentioned Extendable Ears, Screaming Yo-Yos, Pygmy Puffs, and novelty candies (including Fainting Fancies, hot chocolate, Nosebleed Nougat, and Constipation Sensation). Super Silly Fun Store Minion toys, plush unicorns, fart blasters, and other themed clothing. Jurassic Outfitters In addition to merchandise and snacks from the original Jurassic Park, the shop featured prehistoric collectibles and items related to The Mummy Returns. Transformers Supply Vault Visitors can purchase themed merchandise after riding Transformers. 9. Accommodation Near Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios is a big part of Los Angeles, especially during summer, and the entry line wait time is extensive.
Staying nearby can save a significant amount of time on a park day.
① Hilton Universal City: the original guide said it had a free shuttle to Universal Studios and Universal CityWalk.
② Sheraton Universal Hotel: the original guide said it had a free shuttle to Universal Studios and Universal CityWalk.
③ Loews Hollywood Hotel: one Metro stop from Universal Studios, per the original guide.
④ The Garland: original guide said it had a free shuttle to Universal Studios.
⑤ Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport: original guide said it had a free shuttle to Universal Studios.
⑥ Sportsmen's Lodge Hotel: original guide said it had a free shuttle to Universal Studios.
Hotel shuttle services change, so check directly with the property before booking.
10. Useful Advice and Warnings
Advice:
1. If you do not plan to purchase Front of Line access and do not like waiting, stay away from public holidays and, when possible, weekends.
2. Put on some shoes that you don’t mind getting wet.
3. Shorts are practical. A skirt is a bad choice for a lot of rides.
4. If you have hair of medium length or longer, remember to bring a hair tie, particularly for the coasters.
5. If you have a sun sensitivity, remember to put on sunscreen before you get there.
6. Be ready to buy a poncho or bring a cheap rain poncho.
7. Be careful with your glasses on the Jurassic-themed water ride.
8. Wait times are just estimates; the actual wait can be even longer.
9. Single-rider lines exist on a lot of rides. If your group can split up, you can save a lot of time.
10. To save time in the entrance lines, buy your tickets online ahead of time.
11.
Locker services are offered for your convenience to store belongings. The first notification has stated that a payment option is available via cash or credit card.
12. Smoking is allowed only in the areas designated for smoking.
Ride Height Restrictions
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Must be 40 inches (102 cm) tall. Children who are 40 to 48 inches (102 to 122 cm) tall must ride with a means of supervision who is 14 years old or older.
Transformers 3D Ride: Must be 40 inches (102 cm) tall. Children who are 40 to 48 inches (102 to 122 cm) must ride with an adult who is 14 years old or older.
The Simpsons Ride™: Must be 40 inches (102 cm) tall. Children who are 40 to 48 inches (102 to 122 cm) must ride with an adult who is 14 years old or older.
Jurassic Park water ride®: Must be 42 inches (107 cm) tall. Children who are 42 to 48 inches (107 to 122 cm) must ride with an adult who is 14 years old or older.
Revenge of the Mummy℠: Must be 48 inches (122 cm) tall.
Always check with the park for the latest height, health, and accessibility restrictions as they are subject to change.
Universal Studios day tour offers the least effort for travelers, especially when it comes to tour guiding in Chinese and round transfers. Those who value their privacy will have the best flexibility if they buy park tickets on their own and book a private transfer.
First and foremost, no matter which option you select, make sure to arrive early, begin with the Lower Lot, and schedule the Studio Tour for the middle of the day, as that is the time when Universal Studios Hollywood remains the most Hollywood-like. \nHollywood-Universal Studios Full-Day Tour with Admission: experience 8 hours at the Southern California movie-themed park, the immersive Wizarding World of Harry Potter experience, and potential private-group customization. \nOscar ceremony venue / world-class attractions / admission included / daily departures.
