Universal Studios Hollywood
Film-themed amusement park with the Studio Tour backlot tram, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and major thrill rides.
The call
Worth it if you're traveling with kids and you're traveling as a couple.
Short answer
Is Universal Studios Hollywood worth it?
Universal Studios Hollywood deserves a place on most first itineraries. Go early or reserve ahead. Crowds are part of the cost.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
A genuinely good big-IP theme park — the working-backlot Studio Tour is unique, and the Harry Potter and Mario areas are immersive.
- 02
The catches are real: it's expensive, lines are long without an upgrade, and the compact hilly layout plus summer heat make it tiring.
Is it a fit?
Go if
You're traveling with kids
With kids, Universal Studios Hollywood is an easy yes.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, Universal Studios Hollywood is an easy yes.
You want something active
Universal Studios Hollywood rewards a trip built around adventure.
Think twice if
You're watching the budget
Save the money. Universal Studios Hollywood does not return enough for the price.
You only have one day
Keep Universal Studios Hollywood only when it outranks a half-day elsewhere.
You're traveling solo
Solo, Universal Studios Hollywood needs the right timing and tolerance.
History and culture matter to you
Universal Studios Hollywood offers some history & culture, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
Plan it well
- Cost
- $120-180+ per day
- Timing
- A weekday in shoulder season; arrive at opening for the Studio Tour first.
- Booking
- Buy dated tickets online; consider an Express upgrade on busy days.
- Allow
- Full day
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible with ride transfer points, but the terrain is steep in places.
- Getting there
- Metro B (Red) Line to Universal City with a free shuttle, or drive and pay to park.
Consider instead
Sources and method (2)
- Headline themed lands include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World (Mario Kart ride, Power-Up Bands). universalstudioshollywood.com ↗
- General 1-day adult admission starts around $109, rising to roughly $154 on peak summer weekends. lajollamom.com ↗