Universal CityWalk Hollywood
A vibrant entertainment hub with thrilling rides, immersive themed lands, and a lively district of shops and restaurants.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother experience
Universal CityWalk Hollywood
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant entertainment hub with thrilling rides, immersive themed lands, and a lively district of shops and restaurants.
"Super Nintendo World is a must-do, and the Early Access Pass is worth every penny!"
🎯 Early Access is Key
Secure an Early Access Pass for Super Nintendo World to avoid long lines and dine at Toadstool Cafe.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the park and CityWalk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Super Nintendo World
Lower Lot
Immerse yourself in the Mushroom Kingdom with interactive rides and character meet-and-greets. Early access is key!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Upper Lot
Experience the magic of Hogwarts, enjoy thrilling rides, and sip on a Butterbeer. A must-do for any Potter fan.
Studio Tour
Upper Lot
Go behind the scenes of iconic movie sets and special effects on this legendary studio tour.
CityWalk Shopping & Dining
Adjacent to park entrance
Explore a lively district filled with unique shops, diverse restaurants, and entertainment options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds with Early Access
CityWalk: Your Gateway to Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Early Access is Key
Secure an Early Access Pass for Super Nintendo World to avoid long lines and dine at Toadstool Cafe. +2
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the park and CityWalk.
📱 Download the App
Use the official Universal Studios Hollywood app for wait times, show schedules, and mobile ordering.
💰 Look for Discounts
Check AAA, T-Mobile Tuesdays, or partner sites for potential ticket discounts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Early Access is Key
Secure an Early Access Pass for Super Nintendo World to avoid long lines and dine at Toadstool Cafe. +2
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the park and CityWalk.
📱 Download the App
Use the official Universal Studios Hollywood app for wait times, show schedules, and mobile ordering.
💰 Look for Discounts
Check AAA, T-Mobile Tuesdays, or partner sites for potential ticket discounts.
🍽️ Reserve Dining Early
Toadstool Cafe in Super Nintendo World requires reservations. Book through the app as soon as possible.
🛍️ CityWalk for Shopping
Explore CityWalk for unique souvenirs and merchandise, including potential discounts at the 'Take Two' outlet.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Universal Studios Hollywood for its immersive themed lands, particularly Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Studio Tour is a unique highlight, and CityWalk offers a lively entertainment experience. However, some find the park can be expensive, and wait times can be significant without an Express Pass.
"We were visiting after almost 20 years as we’ve moved to East Coast. We as a family had an awesome time.❤️We visited on a weekday & it wasn’t over crowded but still a lot of people were visiting. Restaurants and shops all around. Very clean. A must visit place if you are in Los Angeles area and it’s even more beautiful at night with all the wonderful lights around."
Keyuri D
"Wonderful place to hang out with kids. Our daughters had a lot of fun and got their favorite stuff last weekend. If you don't want to buy stuff or do other things, simply just have fun walking around it also would be nice🚶♂️. Parking lots charge different fees, so you can choose cheaper area to park then you can save some money :) 💰💸"
Helen Mai
"Just visited Universal Studios Hollywood and had a great time! The park was clean, the rides were a blast, and the staff was genuinely kind and helpful throughout the day. From the front gate to the attractions, everyone made the experience feel welcoming and fun. Definitely a memorable visit! 🎢🌟"
Carl Joshua Lamonio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and park in the Universal City parking structures, take the Metro Red Line to the Universal City/Studio City station, or use ride-sharing services. CityWalk is the walkway leading to the park entrance. +1
There are several parking decks. The closest ones to the entrance are premium priced, while regular parking is available. You can get $5 parking with an AMC ticket if you're an A-list member.
Yes, there is a shuttle service available from the Metro station to the park entrance, which is convenient if you're not driving.
Absolutely! Universal CityWalk Hollywood is an entertainment district separate from the theme park, so you can visit for dining and shopping without a park ticket.
Driving times vary greatly depending on traffic in Los Angeles. It's advisable to check real-time traffic conditions before your journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a virtual line reservation or an Early Access Pass is highly recommended to enter Super Nintendo World and experience its attractions and dining. +2
The Early Access Pass typically costs an additional $20-$25 on top of your general admission ticket, allowing you to enter the park before it opens to the public. +2
While there are no resident discounts, check for deals through AAA, T-Mobile Tuesdays, or other partner membership programs. Sometimes tickets can be found slightly cheaper on third-party sites like Undercover Tourist. +1
The Express Pass can be beneficial, especially on busy days or if you want to experience all the rides with minimal wait times. It's a splurge but can significantly enhance your visit. +2
Park hours vary seasonally and daily. It's best to check the official Universal Studios Hollywood website or app for the most up-to-date operating hours for your visit date.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Don't miss Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Studio Tour, and Jurassic World – The Ride.
Reservations for Toadstool Cafe in Super Nintendo World are highly recommended and can be made through the Universal Studios Hollywood app. They fill up quickly!
CityWalk offers a wide array of shops, diverse dining options, bars, and entertainment, including the iconic 7-story IMAX theater.
Recently, CityWalk has seen new openings like the LINE FRIENDS store and the NBA store, while some older establishments have closed as part of upcoming renovations. 
Arrive early, prioritize Super Nintendo World with an Early Access Pass, and consider the Express Pass if your budget allows. Utilize the park app for real-time information. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
CityWalk boasts a variety of dining, from casual spots like Blaze Pizza to themed restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Margaritaville.
While walk-in availability might be limited, it's strongly advised to secure a reservation for Toadstool Cafe in Super Nintendo World via the app to guarantee a dining experience.
Many restaurants at CityWalk offer diverse menus that include vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check individual restaurant menus or ask staff for recommendations.
The park offers a range of food, from quick bites and themed snacks in areas like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to sit-down meals at places like the Three Broomsticks.
Dining prices at CityWalk can range from moderate to expensive, depending on the restaurant. Budget-friendly options are available, but themed dining experiences tend to be pricier.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture iconic shots in front of Hogwarts Castle, the Hollywood Sign replica, the Jurassic World area, and the vibrant streets of Super Nintendo World.
Yes, photography is allowed in Super Nintendo World, but be mindful of other guests and the immersive experience. Some interactive elements might be best captured in motion.
CityWalk offers dynamic backdrops with its colorful architecture, themed storefronts, and lively atmosphere, perfect for casual snapshots.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. Mid-day can be harsh, but indoor attractions and shaded areas are good alternatives.
No, drones are generally not permitted within Universal Studios Hollywood or CityWalk for safety and operational reasons. Always check park regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the major lands, the Studio Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into filmmaking that can captivate older children. For dining, CityWalk provides numerous family-friendly options. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover, and utilize the park app to keep track of show times and attractions suitable for your family's interests.
💰 Budget Travelers
For dining, explore the more casual eateries in Universal CityWalk Hollywood or opt for quick-service locations within the park. While the Express Pass is a splurge, assess if it's truly necessary for your visit based on crowd levels and your desire to experience every attraction. Weekday visits generally offer lower crowd density, potentially reducing the need for an Express Pass.
couples
Universal CityWalk Hollywood provides a vibrant evening atmosphere with its array of restaurants and bars, ideal for a date night after a day in the park. Consider visiting during the holiday season for festive decorations and special events, adding an extra touch of magic to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Super Nintendo World
Once inside, the interactive elements are key to the experience. You can use a Power-Up Band (sold separately) to enhance your gameplay and collect digital coins. Redditors emphasize that even without the band, the land is incredibly immersive and fun. Remember that reservations for Toadstool Cafe are often required and can be made via the Universal Studios Hollywood app, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Key Takeaways for Super Nintendo World:
* Early Access Pass: Highly recommended for guaranteed entry and shorter waits.
* Toadstool Cafe Reservations: Book through the app well in advance.
* Interactive Fun: Engage with the environment and consider a Power-Up Band for an enhanced experience.
Exploring Universal CityWalk Hollywood
Recent updates indicate that CityWalk is undergoing changes, with some businesses closing and new ones opening, including the popular LINE FRIENDS store and the NBA store.
+2 This means there's always something new to discover. You don't need a park ticket to enjoy CityWalk, making it a perfect spot for a pre-park breakfast, a post-park dinner, or even just a casual stroll. CityWalk Highlights:
* Shopping: Discover unique merchandise and themed stores.
* Dining: A wide variety of culinary options from casual to upscale.
* Entertainment: Enjoy the atmosphere and the iconic IMAX theater.
Maximizing Your Visit with Passes and Tips
Beyond passes, arriving early, ideally before park opening, is consistently recommended by visitors and creators alike. This allows you to experience popular rides with significantly shorter waits before the crowds build up.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Visit:
* Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by getting to the park before it opens.
* Express Pass: Consider if budget allows for shorter waits.
* Park App: Your go-to for wait times and reservations.
* Comfortable Shoes: Essential for a day of exploring.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit