The escalators between the Upper and Lower Lots offer an unexpectedly great view — the Santa Monica Mountains in the background, the park below, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter waiting with frozen Butterbeer.

This isn't just a theme park. It's a working Hollywood film studio with rides built around it.

Tram tours of active soundstages have been running here since 1964. The attraction built on top of that history has grown into one of Southern California's biggest draws — and with Super Nintendo World now open and a new Fast & Furious coaster arriving in 2026, it keeps getting better.

Getting There

Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Universal City, just north of Los Angeles in the San Fernando Valley. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is the closest at just 6 miles away — a 10–15 minute drive. LAX is about 25 miles southeast, usually a 30–50 minute drive depending on traffic. Rideshare from central LA or Hollywood typically runs $15–$25 and is the most convenient option for avoiding parking fees.

By public transit, take the Metro B Line (Red Line) to Universal City/Studio City Station — fare is just $1.75. A free shuttle runs every 10–15 minutes from directly outside the station to the park entrance. From Hollywood/Highland, the ride is about 5 minutes. From Downtown LA's Union Station, about 27 minutes. Clean, air-conditioned, and completely avoids the parking situation.

If you do drive, general parking costs $40 before 5pm. Preferred parking is $80. A budget alternative: park at Universal City's Park and Ride Lot nearby for just $3 and take the shuttle over.

Hours & Tickets

Universal Studios Hollywood is open year-round, with hours typically running 9am to 7–10pm depending on the season. Check the park's official calendar before visiting as hours vary. Buy tickets in advance online — the park can sell out on peak days during summer and holidays, and online tickets are generally cheaper than gate prices. Standard general admission starts around $109 per person.

Universal Express Pass gives one-time priority access to most rides and shows — worth serious consideration during spring break, summer, and holiday periods when regular standby lines can hit 60–90 minutes. Universal Express Unlimited covers unlimited same-day express access and is pricier but eliminates nearly all waiting.

The VIP Experience ($417+) includes valet parking, unlimited express access, backstage studio tour access, a gourmet meal, and a private lounge — the only way to skip the line for Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge in Super Nintendo World. Book well in advance; availability is limited and children must be at least 5 years old.

Must-Do Attractions

The Studio Tour is the backbone of Universal Studios Hollywood — a 45-minute tram ride through active working stages and sets, including a 3D encounter with King Kong, the Jaws lake, the Bates Motel from Psycho, and the iconic Courthouse Square from Back to the Future. It's unlike anything at any other theme park, because it's real. Get on it early before lines build.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the Upper Lot is immersive and meticulous — Hogsmeade looks exactly right, Butterbeer comes frozen or regular, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is the headliner ride. Get there early. The Mummy Returns coaster in the Lower Lot is a classic that still delivers.

Super Nintendo World transports visitors into the Mushroom Kingdom with Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge as the centerpiece. If you want to eat at Toadstool Cafe inside the land, scan the QR code outside the restaurant first thing in the morning — reservations are only available same-day and fill up fast.

Where to Stay

The Sheraton Universal and Hilton Universal City are both within a 10-minute walk from the park entrance — the most convenient options at $150–$300+ per night. If you're staying near Hollywood proper, an Uber ride to the park runs about $8–$15, keeping things simple without paying the hotel premium.

Universal Studios Hollywood offers a unique blend of working film studio and world-class theme park that you won't find anywhere else. Plan ahead by booking tickets online, arriving early, and deciding if the Express Pass fits your budget. Keep an eye on the park's official calendar for seasonal hours and upcoming attractions like the Fast & Furious coaster arriving in 2026.

With a little preparation, you'll spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the Wizarding World, Super Nintendo World, and the legendary Studio Tour.