FAQs about Universal Studios Hollywood

You do not need reservations to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, but buying tickets in advance is recommended, especially on busy days.

It is best to arrive at least 30 to 60 minutes before the park opens to allow time for parking, security checks, and getting to the entrance. If you are at the park entrance 30 minutes before it opens, you just might get in early (depending on the day). Not all attractions may be open, but it gives you a great head start before the crowd arrives.

Universal Studios Hollywood’s 1-Day General Admission ticket costs $109 to $149 per person. The Express Pass, which allows you to skip regular lines once per ride, costs between $199 and $299. For a premium experience, the VIP Experience ranges from $369 to $499 and includes exclusive perks like a guided tour and unlimited Express access. Prices are higher on weekends and holidays but are cheaper on weekdays.

For general admission tickets, expect to spend $218 to $298 for two people. Parking costs between $30 and $70, food and drinks can range from $50 to $100, and if you buy souvenirs, budget an additional $30 to $100. A two-person trip to Universal Studios Hollywood will cost between $325 and $570, depending on your choices and extras.

Children under three years old get in for free. Kids aged 3-9 need a ticket (with a small discount).

Yes! It’s called the Universal Express Pass and lets you skip the regular lines once per ride. You can buy it when purchasing tickets online or upgrade at the park if available.

You can upgrade to an Express Pass at the park. However, the number of Express Passes sold daily is limited, so they may sell out quickly. That’s why we suggest you purchase them online in advance rather than waiting until you arrive.

Yes, you can leave and re-enter the theme park on the same day—just get a hand stamp before exiting.

Yes, the theme park does take cash, but card payments (credit/debit, Apple Pay, Google Pay) are preferred. Some locations inside the park may be cashless.

Tickets are usually cheaper on weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) and more expensive on weekends and holidays. Peak season tickets are costlier than lean season tickets.

It’s best to buy tickets at least a few days in advance, especially during peak times. VIP and Express Pass tickets can sell out early.

The theme park has multiple ticket counters at the entrance. However, buying tickets online is better because they tend to be cheaper, and you can avoid the long ticket counter lines.

Universal Studios stays open, rain or shine. Most rides operate in the rain, except outdoor attractions that may close temporarily.

Unfortunately, tickets are non-refundable.

The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood offers a premium visit with exclusive perks. It includes unlimited Universal Express access, allowing you to skip the regular lines for all rides. Guests also enjoy a private guided tour and backlot access, where you can go behind the scenes of real movie sets. The VIP package also includes complimentary meals in the VIP lounge and valet parking for added convenience.

If you have already bought your entry tickets, you only need around $50 – $100 per person for food, drinks, and souvenirs.

Valet parking at Universal Studios Hollywood costs $25 for the first 2 hours and $60 after 2 hours. However, if you dine at a full-service restaurant in CityWalk and get your parking validated, the rates are lower. With validation, valet parking costs $10 for up to 2.5 hours, $15 for 2.5 to 3.5 hours, and $60 after 3.5 hours.

Universal Studios Hollywood accepts Apple Pay, Google Pay, and major credit/debit cards at most shops and restaurants.

Discounted tickets are available for active and retired military personnel through base ticket offices or the Universal Studios’ website (ID required). These special military discounts are unavailable at the Universal Studios Hollywood ticket booth.

Universal Studios Hollywood offers the Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP) for guests with disabilities who have difficulty waiting in long lines. To qualify, guests must first apply for an Individual Accessibility Card (IAC) through IBCCES.

Occasionally, Universal offers locals one- or two-day discount tickets on its website. California residents can also purchase the California Neighbor Pass if they want to visit the park multiple times throughout the year.

Universal Studios Hollywood’s opening hours change depending on the month and day of the week. During peak seasons (April to August, December, and January), the park opens earlier, around 8–9 AM, and stays open until 9–10 PM. In off-peak months (September to November and February to March), the park has shorter hours, usually opening at 10 AM and closing at 6 or 7 PM on weekdays, with slightly later closing times on weekends.

Closing times change based on the season but usually range from 6 PM to 10 PM.

Outside food is not allowed, except for baby food, food for medical needs, and medicines. Sealed water bottles and reusable water bottles are okay.

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes since you will be walking a lot while exploring the park. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are great for sunny days. Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.

At Universal Studios Hollywood, you can bring sealed bottled water, small snacks, backpacks (checked at security), cameras, phones, and empty reusable water bottles. However, outside meals, large coolers, alcohol, glass containers, weapons, or sharp objects are not allowed.

The nearest airport is Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), about 15 minutes away. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is another option, about 45-60 minutes away (depending on traffic).

Universal Studios Hollywood opens on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Expect bigger crowds on holidays.

Most rides allow small bags, but for faster rides like The Mummy and Jurassic World, you must store them in free lockers near the ride entrance.

Smoking is only allowed in designated smoking areas inside the park. However, cigarettes are not available for purchase at the theme park.

Yes! Backpacks and bags are allowed, but the security team will check them before you are allowed to enter.

If you want to stay close by, book a hotel at Universal CityWalk or in nearby areas like Hollywood or Burbank. Popular choices include the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, which is just a 5-minute walk from the park, and the Sheraton Universal Hotel, located near the entrance.

Yes! Most visitors can do everything in one day, but if you want a relaxed experience, consider Express Pass to skip lines.

Guests can bring empty reusable water bottles, and you can fill them at the water stations.

Lockers are available at the park entrance and near select rides. The largest lockers at Universal Studios Hollywood measure 21½” x 11″ x 16″ and cost $15 per day. Two smaller sizes are also available. Lockers come with unlimited in/out access but are subject to availability, so it’s best to rent one early.

Yes! Universal Studios Hollywood is open every day of the year, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Expect larger crowds on holidays.

Yes! Alcohol is sold at select restaurants and bars inside the park, including Duff Brewery in The Simpsons area.

Vaping is only allowed in designated smoking areas inside the park.

Must-try dishes at the theme park include the Krusty Burger and Lard Lad’s Giant Donut in The Simpsons area, the Three Broomsticks Feast in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Mario-themed meals at Toadstool Café in Super Nintendo World.

The cost of Harry Potter interactive wands ranges from $65 to $75, and they let you cast ‘spells’ in the park. Regular wands (non-interactive) cost less.

There are plenty of exciting attractions near Universal Studios Hollywood. Take the Warner Bros. Studio Tour to see real movie sets and learn about Hollywood’s film industry. Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame to spot famous celebrity stars. For shopping, dining, and live entertainment, visit Universal CityWalk, just outside the park.

You can bring sealed water bottles, but outside drinks (soda, juice, alcohol) are not allowed.

Universal Studios Hollywood has several kid-friendly rides and attractions. Toddlers will love Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash, a fun, gentle ride. They can also enjoy Super Silly Fun Land, a water play area inspired by Despicable Me. Additionally, there are character meet-and-greets with favorites like Minions, Mario, and Transformers.

Yes, you can refill bottles at water fountains and designated refill stations throughout the park.

Yes, baby-changing stations are available in all restrooms.

Service animals are allowed, but they must be on a leash and well-behaved.

Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent just inside the Park, across from the Universal Studios Store. Prices vary between $25 – $30 per day.

Free WiFi is available throughout the park. Look for the “Universal Studios Hollywood Free WiFi” network.

The park features 13 exciting rides, one engaging studio tour, and a special water show, all spread between the Upper and Lower Lots. 

At Universal Studios, you can say hello to the Minions from Despicable Me or meet Mario & Luigi in Super Nintendo World. Action and adventure fans can snap photos with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee from Transformers. You can spot Harry Potter and his Hogwarts friends in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Classic cartoon lovers can meet Scooby-Doo & Shaggy, while Homer, Marge, and Bart from The Simpsons are also around for fun interactions.

One of the most popular experiences is the Studio Tour, where you can see real movie sets and enjoy King Kong 3D. Jurassic World – The Ride takes you on a water adventure with dinosaurs, featuring a dramatic drop. In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can explore Hogwarts Castle, enjoy themed rides, and sip on Butterbeer. Super Nintendo World brings the world of Mario to life with interactive games and attractions. For action lovers, Transformers: The Ride 3D offers a fast-paced motion ride, while the WaterWorld Stunt Show delivers live-action excitement with explosions and stunts.

The Studio Tour lasts about 60 minutes and takes you behind the scenes of real movie sets.

Two-year-olds can go on Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash, a slow-moving ride perfect for young kids. The Studio Tour offers a family-friendly tram ride through real movie sets. At Super Silly Fun Land, toddlers can enjoy a playground and water area inspired by Despicable Me. For a fun photo opportunity, they can also meet beloved characters like the Minions, Mario, and more.

The two roller coasters at Universal Studios Hollywood are Revenge of the Mummy in Lower Lot and Flight of the Hippogriff in the Upper Lot. Other rides are motion simulators or drop rides.

No, Universal Studios Hollywood does not have daily fireworks. However, fireworks displays occur on special occasions like the 4th of July and New Year’s Eve.

The scariest ride is Revenge of the Mummy, a dark indoor roller coaster with sudden launches and stops.

Pregnant ladies can try the Studio Tour which offers a scenic tram ride through real movie sets. Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash is a gentle, slow-moving ride perfect for expectant mothers. In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can explore shops, shows, and magical experiences without going on the rides. The WaterWorld Stunt Show provides exciting live-action entertainment without any motion concerns.

Yes, Universal Studios in Los Angeles has The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It features Hogwarts Castle, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride, and Butterbeer stands.

Universal Studios Hollywood in California is a smaller park with real working movie sets and the famous Studio Tour. Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, is a larger theme park with more thrill rides and distinct themed lands, including Marvel, Jurassic Park, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

No, but you can see a Jaws animatronic on the Studio Tour. The original Jaws ride was removed in 2012.

Revenge of the Mummy lasts about 2 minutes, with fast speeds and sudden stops.

The main water ride at Universal Studios is Jurassic World – The Ride, featuring a big drop at the end.

No, unfortunately, Universal Hollywood doesn’t have Marvel characters. They are available only at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure and Disneyland (California).

One full day is enough to experience all the rides, shows, and attractions.

The Studio Tour offers a tram ride through real movie sets, making it a great option for families with babies. Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash is a slow, gentle dark ride perfect for little ones. Babies can also explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, enjoy the magical atmosphere, and participate in character meet-and-greets throughout the park.

Revenge of the Mummy is the fastest, reaching up to 45 mph (72.42 km/h) speeds.

No, Universal Studios Hollywood does not have a water park.

Yes! Rider Swap is available at Universal Studios Hollywood, allowing parents to take turns riding while the other stays with the child.

Yes! The theme park has height requirements for rider safety. For example, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Revenge of the Mummy require riders to be at least 48 inches (4 feet) tall, while Jurassic World – The Ride has a minimum height of 42 inches.

The newest ride is Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge in Super Nintendo World, which opened in 2023.

Showtimes vary daily. It is best to check the Universal Studios app (Android, iPhone) or park schedule for exact times.

Universal has no daily parades, but seasonal events like Grinchmas character processions happen.

WaterWorld is an action-packed live stunt show featuring explosions, jet skis, and special effects. At Ollivanders Wand Experience, you can watch a magical wand selection ceremony inspired by Harry Potter. Throughout the park, you’ll also find live character street shows.

No, but some rides use 3D or motion simulators to create a virtual experience.

Yes! Transformers: The Ride 3D and parts of the Studio Tour use 3D effects.

In Super Nintendo World, you can play interactive games using a Power-Up Band. In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, guests can cast spells with interactive wands at special locations. Throughout the park, character meet-and-greets allow you to interact with famous movie icons for a fun and immersive experience.

On average, around 20,000 to 30,000 people visit Universal Studios Hollywood each day. However, this number can be higher during holidays and peak seasons. In a year, it gets upwards of 9.5 million visitors.

Yes! Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Los Angeles, California. It’s the original Universal Studios theme park and home to the famous Studio Tour.

Universal Studios is owned by NBCUniversal, which is a part of Comcast Corporation.

No, Universal Studios is not part of Disney. NBCUniversal, a Disney competitor, owns it.

There are five Universal Studios theme parks around the world:
1. Universal Studios Hollywood (California, USA)
2. Universal Orlando Resort (Florida, USA)
3. Universal Studios Japan (Osaka, Japan)
4. Universal Studios Singapore (Sentosa, Singapore)
5. Universal Beijing Resort (Beijing, China)

Universal Studios Hollywood is in California, and Disney World is in Florida – about 2,500 miles (4000 km) apart. If you’re talking about Universal Orlando, it’s just about 15 minutes away from Disney World.

Universal Studios Hollywood opened on July 15, 1964.

Universal Studios Hollywood doesn’t share its earnings with the public. Still, a conservative estimate would put the theme park’s earnings at $5 to $8 million per day, depending on attendance, ticket sales, food, and merchandise.

Universal Studios Hollywood is perfect for movie lovers, offering the famous Studio Tour and access to real working movie sets. Universal Orlando has two theme parks with more rides, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is split between two parks. Universal Japan features exclusive attractions, such as Super Nintendo World, which is also now in Hollywood.

No, Disney does not own Universal Studios. Universal Studios is owned by NBCUniversal, which is part of Comcast.

Universal Studios Hollywood is about 415 acres, including the theme park and working movie studio. It’s smaller than Universal Orlando but still packed with attractions.

No, Hollywood Studios is a Disney theme park in Orlando, Florida. Universal Studios Hollywood is a completely different park in Los Angeles, California, owned by Universal.