Quick Overview

Address: Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, USA.
Location: In the hills above Hollywood, just north of Los Angeles, off US-101 between Hollywood and Burbank.
Nearest Metro: Universal / Studio City station on the B (Red) Line. A free shuttle or uphill walk connects the station to the park entrance.
Main Park Entrance: At Universal Studios Blvd, next to Universal CityWalk and the parking structures.

Best First-Time Route

If you’re staying in Hollywood or Downtown LA, the easiest option is usually the Metro B (Red) Line. Ride to Universal / Studio City station, then take the free Universal shuttle up the hill to the main entrance and security area.

Driving vs Public Transport

Driving is convenient for families and groups but parking is paid and LA traffic can be heavy. The Metro avoids parking costs and is predictable during rush hour, but requires a bit of walking and stairs/escalators.

Book Park Admission Ticket + Transfer Option

Option 1 — Metro B (Red) Line & Free Universal Shuttle

Best for visitors staying in Downtown LA, Hollywood, or near a Metro connection.

  • Step 1 — Reach the B (Red) Line: Make your way to any station on the B (Red) Line, such as Union Station, Civic Center, Pershing Square, 7th St/Metro Center, Hollywood/Vine, or Hollywood/Highland.
  • Step 2 — Ride to Universal / Studio City: Take the train toward North Hollywood and get off at Universal / Studio City station. Trains usually run every few minutes.
  • Step 3 — Follow Signs to the Shuttle: After exiting fare gates, follow the signs for the Universal Studios Shuttle. You’ll cross a pedestrian bridge over the freeway to reach the shuttle stop.
  • Step 4 — Take the Free Shuttle Up the Hill: A free Universal Studios shuttle runs regularly between the Metro station and the park. The ride is only a few minutes and drops you near the entrance and CityWalk.
  • Step 5 — Walk to Security & Gates: From the shuttle drop-off, follow the crowd through security and up to the Universal Studios Hollywood gates.

Metro Tickets & Passes

You can use a TAP card or tap-to-pay with a contactless card/phone at Metro validators. Fares are generally cheaper than parking, especially if multiple people in your group are using public transport.

Option 2 — Driving & Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood

Driving Directions

Universal Studios Hollywood is located just off the US-101 (Hollywood Freeway) between Hollywood and Burbank. Follow signs for Universal Studios Blvd and Universal City.

From Downtown LA, take US-101 North and exit at Universal Studios Blvd.
From Hollywood, head north on US-101 and take the same exit.
From Burbank / North Hollywood, take US-101 South and exit at Universal Studios Blvd.

Parking Basics

Universal offers multiple paid parking lots and garages (e.g. General, Preferred, and Front Gate parking). Prices vary by proximity to the entrance and event days.

Follow the garage signs and staff directions, park your car, then walk through CityWalk toward the Universal Studios Hollywood entrance.

Rideshare Drop-off

For Uber, Lyft, and taxis, use the designated drop-off zones signed for Rideshare / Guest Drop-off in Universal City. From there, follow signs up to CityWalk and the park gates.

Traffic & Timing

LA freeways can be busy, especially on weekdays 7–10 am and 4–7 pm, and on weekends near opening time. Plan to arrive at the parking area at least 45–60 minutes before the official park opening if you want to rope-drop popular rides.

Tip for Families

If you’re traveling with children, bringing the car can be comfortable: you can leave extra clothes, snacks, or souvenirs in the trunk and return mid-day if needed.

Option 3 — From Popular Areas in & Around Los Angeles

Here’s how to reach Universal Studios Hollywood from some of the most common tourist bases.

  • From Downtown Los Angeles: Take the Metro B (Red) Line from Union Station, Civic Center, or 7th St/Metro Center toward North Hollywood and exit at Universal / Studio City, then use the free shuttle.
  • From Hollywood (Walk of Fame): From Hollywood/Highland or Hollywood/Vine, ride the B Line two stops to Universal / Studio City, then take the free shuttle, or drive ~10–15 minutes on US-101 (traffic dependent).
  • From Santa Monica / Westside: Drive via the I-10 East then US-101 North to Universal. Off-peak, this can be 30–40 minutes; in traffic it may be closer to an hour or more. There are also bus/Metro combos, but driving is usually easiest from the beach.
  • From Anaheim & Disneyland Area: Drive via I-5 North toward Los Angeles, then connect to US-101 North and exit at Universal Studios Blvd. Off-peak, expect around 45–60 minutes; during peak times, allow 90 minutes or more.
  • From Burbank: Universal is very close—often just a 10–20 minute drive depending on your exact location. You can also use rideshare for a quick trip.

Guided Transfers & Day Trips

Don’t want to drive or navigate public transport? Consider a tour that includes park admission plus transfers from central LA pickup points.

Universal Ticket + Bus Transfer Express Entry Options

Reaching Universal Studios Hollywood from Airports

From LAX (Los Angeles International Airport)

Universal is roughly 35–45 km from LAX. The simplest options:

  • Rideshare / Taxi: Door-to-door but can be expensive in traffic.
  • Shuttle or Private Transfer: Pre-booked vans and cars can take you directly to Universal or your hotel near the park.
  • Public Transport: Take the airport shuttle to Metro, ride toward Downtown, then switch to the B (Red) Line to reach Universal / Studio City.

From Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)

BUR is the closest major airport to Universal. In light traffic, it’s often just 15–20 minutes away by taxi or rideshare. Some hotels near Universal also offer shuttle services—check before you book.

From Long Beach Airport (LGB)

Expect a longer drive via I-405 North and US-101 North. Rideshare, rental car, or shuttle services are the main options; public transport is possible but involves multiple transfers.

Luggage & Timing

If you’re heading straight from the airport to the park, try to travel light. Large suitcases may not be allowed inside; consider a luggage storage service or hotel drop-off first.

Arrival Day Strategy

If your flight lands early in the morning, plan for a slightly later park entry so you have time to clear immigration, collect bags, travel across the city, and eat before tackling rides.

Practical Visit Tips for Getting There

Arrive Early

Aim to reach the security area 45–60 minutes before opening if you want to be among the first in line for popular attractions like Super Nintendo World™ and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™.

Check Opening Hours & Peak Days

Hours vary by season and special events. Always check the latest schedule before planning your route, especially if you’re coming from far away or during holidays.

Weather & Clothing

Los Angeles can be warm and sunny—even in winter. Wear comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and bring a light layer for cooler evenings or indoor shows.

Navigation Apps

Use apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze to compare drive times vs Metro and to spot traffic jams. For public transport, check LA Metro schedules and any planned service changes.

Check Tickets & Prices Park with Transport Included

Getting There Cheatsheet — Universal Studios Hollywood

Exact Location

100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 — above Hollywood off the US-101 freeway.

Closest Metro

Universal / Studio City on the B (Red) Line, plus a free shuttle or short uphill walk to the entrance.

Key Transport Options

Metro B Line + shuttle • Driving via US-101 • Rideshare & taxis • Airport transfers from LAX/BUR.

Parking

Multiple paid garages; General, Preferred, and Front Gate options. Follow staff directions and signs from Universal Studios Blvd.

Best Arrival Window

At opening time or just before for lower queues; evenings can be busy but cooler and less sunny.

Good to Know

Build extra time for LA traffic, security checks, and walking from parking/Metro to the gates.

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Choose the route that works best for you—Metro, car, shuttle, or guided transfer—then lock in your tickets so you can focus on rides, shows, and movie magic instead of parking and traffic.

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