Universal Studios Hollywood delivers blockbuster thrills, but a smart family itinerary often needs more than one day of movie magic. The surrounding neighborhoods of Los Angeles are packed with interactive museums, outdoor adventures, and cultural landmarks that cater specifically to kids and parents alike. Balancing the high-energy stimulation of the theme park with these nearby destinations creates a more relaxed, varied, and memorable Southern California vacation.
Families looking to extend their trip beyond the Wizarding World and the Studio Tour will find that the San Fernando Valley and Hollywood areas are surprisingly accessible. Many of the best options are located within a 20-minute drive, allowing you to pivot easily if the kids get tired or the weather shifts. Whether your family loves science, animals, classic cars, or simply running around in a beautiful park, there is a perfect match waiting just down the road.
Understanding the geography is key to avoiding Los Angeles traffic fatigue. While the city is vast, Universal Studios sits at a strategic junction near the 101 and 134 freeways, making it a convenient hub for exploring both the Valley and central Los Angeles. Planning a day trip to one of these attractions is easy if you schedule your driving outside of rush hour.
This guide focuses on practical, high-value experiences that offer a distinct change of pace from the theme park. Instead of more roller coasters, you will find opportunities for hands-on learning, wildlife viewing, and classic Hollywood sightseeing. These destinations are ideal for families with children of varying ages, including toddlers who may be too small for many Universal rides.
We have selected options that prioritize safety, cleanliness, and family-friendly amenities like nearby parking and restrooms. Each recommendation is based on a combination of local reputation, accessibility, and the unique value it adds to a family vacation. You will not find obscure or overly touristy traps here—only established attractions that consistently earn high marks from visiting families.
From world-class museums that make science fun to sprawling urban parks that offer a free afternoon of play, the area around Universal Studios is a treasure trove for parents in the know. Use this list to build a balanced itinerary that keeps everyone engaged without exhausting your budget or your patience.
Super Silly Fun Land
| Address | 100 Universal City Plaza, Studio City, CA 91602 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (800) 864-8377 |
You can’t go wrong if you have kids or toddlers, it’s truly a fun-filled place for them! Bonus tip: don’t miss the splash pad during the summer. It’s a huge hit and provides tons of fun for the little ones. 😊
I recently visited a local park and had such a relaxing experience. The atmosphere was peaceful, with lots of green trees, fresh air, and well-maintained walking paths. There were plenty of areas to sit and unwind, as well as spaces for activities like jogging or having a picnic. I especially loved how clean and organized everything was, which made the visit even more enjoyable. It’s a perfect place to escape the busy city life and spend some quiet time alone or with friends. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a refreshing outdoor spot.
Despicable Me-themed outdoor play area designed for families featuring a large wet/dry playground, Silly Swirly spinner ride & carnival games...
Super Silly Fun Land is a fantastic, exceptionally clean spot for families. The vibrant decorations create a great atmosphere, and the water play area is perfect for keeping kids entertained and cool. It’s a well-maintained, high-energy destination that little ones will love!
This is a great place to be with kids during summer time. You need to have Universal Studios tickets to get in this area. When planning a park visit make sure to have towel and extra clothes or bathing suit for your little ones. You also need SHOES to play in this water area. No bare foot allowed.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
| Address | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (800) 864-8377 |
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood is truly one of the most magical and unforgettable theme park experiences I have ever had. From the moment you enter Hogsmeade, it feels like you are stepping directly into the world of Harry Potter. Every single detail is beautifully designed, from the snow-covered rooftops and shop windows to the music, costumes, signs, streets, and the incredible view of Hogwarts Castle.
What impressed us the most was how immersive everything felt. It is not just a themed area, it is a complete experience. The atmosphere makes you want to slow down, look around carefully, take photos from every angle, and enjoy every little detail. As Harry Potter fans, we felt amazed and emotional walking through a place that brought so many memories from the books and movies to life.
Hogwarts Castle is absolutely breathtaking, Hogsmeade is full of charm, and the whole area has a special energy that makes it stand out from the rest of the park. The shops, decorations, photo spots, and overall design are all extremely well done. Words are honestly not enough to describe how impressed we were.
This part of Universal Studios Hollywood was one of the main reasons we visited, and it was completely worth it. A must-see place for every Harry Potter fan and easily one of the best experiences in the entire park.
Im writing a review that came from 2016. A month after it opened. Can you believe that. If you believe in magic yes you do.
I remember I wanted to go when it *slowed* down when it wasn't overly packed. We made the right call. Just like anything new in Los Angeles something this big of a magnitude its going to attract a lot of people and is should be.
It's a decent size section in universal. They have a lot of the famous land marks and especially a lot of themes and attractions just like in the harry potter world. From Diagon Alley, to the Hogwarts Castle to the train station. I had so much fun when we went here. There are rides and lots of photo ops. They do have a show they host I remember.
parking you pay just like anything and that's what i can remember from this trip. I wasn't a yelper back then but better late than never.
A true Harry Potter atmosphere, my favorite in the Park. Quidditch attraction is magnificent, very exciting. Staff is friendly. Many souvenir options. I ate at the Three chopsticks, fish and chips, food was good but service slow (kitchen capacity). Interactive use of magic wand is nice. Very recommended if you are a Potterhead.
Butterbear ice cream is very tasty. My son (age 2 almost 3) loved Flight of the Hippogriff and could spend most of the day just looking at things in this area of the park. This is one of our favorite parts of Universal and we always hit it up early in the day.
Awesome experience from Harry Potter stufio tour ride.. its 3D 4D experience and feel like you are part of movie characters. Enjoyed the ride and studio creativity.
Universal Studios Hollywood
| Address | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (800) 864-8377 |
Universal Studios Hollywood was such an amazing experience! 🎬✨ The rides were exciting, the movie-themed attractions were incredible, and the Studio Tour was definitely one of my favorite parts.
I also loved exploring Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Everything was so detailed and immersive, making it feel like stepping into the movies.
A must-visit place when you're in Los Angeles! Highly recommended for families, movie lovers, and anyone looking for a fun and unforgettable day. 🎢🍿✨
Universal Studios is a mixed bag that really depends on how much you enjoy movies and how much you can tolerate crowds. If you are a Harry Potter fan, it is almost a non-negotiable experience. Walking into Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley for the first time is genuinely impressive because the scale and the detail make you feel like you have actually stepped onto a film set.
The rides themselves are high-tech but can be repetitive. Universal relies heavily on 3D screens and motion simulators. After the third or fourth ride where you are being shaken in front of a giant screen, it can start to feel a bit samey, and if you get motion sickness easily, you might have a rough afternoon. That said, the newer additions like the VelociCoaster in Orlando or the Mario Kart ride in Hollywood are massive steps up in terms of physical thrills and interactivity.
One of the biggest frustrations is the cost of everything once you are inside. Between the ticket price, parking, and a twenty dollar burger, your wallet takes a hit before you even get to a ride. The Express Pass is almost a necessity on weekends if you actually want to see the whole park, but it often costs as much as a second ticket.
If you are going to the Hollywood location, the Studio Tour is the clear standout. It is the one thing you cannot get at any other theme park and it gives you a real look at working backlots. In Orlando, the experience is much more spread out across different parks, which feels more like a full vacation destination but requires a lot more walking.
Universal Studios Hollywood is definitely worth visiting, but our biggest tip is to arrive early.
We arrived at the parking lot around 8:30 AM, which was more than enough, and we didn’t have to wait in line to enter the park.
Once inside, we recommend going straight to the Lower Lot and doing the main attractions there first. Afterwards, head up to the Upper Lot. This strategy helps you avoid the biggest crowds and makes the day much more enjoyable.
The prices are definitely very high, both for the tickets and for the shops inside the park, but the park itself is really well done and offers a great experience.
The Studio Tour is also nice and definitely worth doing. Some of the movie sets feel a little dated, but the tour is still interesting and gives you a glimpse behind the scenes of Hollywood productions.
Overall, a fun experience and definitely recommended, especially if you plan your day strategically!
Universal Studios Hollywood is an incredible place for the whole family. The rides are exciting, the shows are entertaining, and the Studio Tour is an unforgettable experience. The Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World areas are amazing and full of detail. WaterWorld was my favorite show—it was absolutely incredible and exceeded all my expectations. Jurassic World – The Ride was also a highlight and so much fun. We spent the entire day here and had a fantastic time. Definitely worth visiting if you're in Los Angeles!
We bought the general passes and arrived a little before the park opened, which gave us a calm start to the day. It has definitely become one of my favorite places to visit.If you don’t want to spend too much time waiting in line, it’s better to get the Express Passes. My favorite attraction was The Mummy — it was amazing! I even lost my voice from screaming so much.As expected in places like this, everything is more expensive than usual, so it’s best to go prepared knowing you’ll spend.Overall: a highly recommended experience.
Raptor Encounter
| Address | 12 Upper and Lower Lot Path, North Hollywood, CA 91602 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
The people running the Raptor Encounter are great actors. Even knowing full well there’s a person in that raptor suit, you can’t help but feel cautious. They really know how to entertain a crowd, even if most are just there for photo ops. The line was the shortest in the evening before closing. Overall, 4/5.
I thought this was going to be a silly show for kids, but boy was I mistaken!
My friends and I had a blast watching from the sidelines, which can still get you very close to Blue. She came right up to me at one point. Yet again, the attention to detail with her movements, eyes, sound, everything was unbelievably realistic, we were impressed beyond words!
I’m so glad we managed to catch a showing, it was a huge crowd pleaser, it’s funny, yet could be slightly frightening/unsettling for little ones, but it’s fantastic, don’t miss out!
The Brightest Spot in a Difficult Visit Thank You, Isiah, Tyler, and Frank
I want to take a moment to recognize three truly outstanding employees at Universal Studios Hollywood: Isiah, Tyler, and Frank from the Raptor Encounter.
While much of our visit to the park was stressful, frustrating, and filled with disappointment especially as a parent of a special needs child these three individuals gave us the only moment of real joy and connection during our entire trip.
They were incredibly kind, attentive, and patient with my son, who had already been through so much overstimulation and emotional ups and downs in the park. Their interaction with him wasn’t rushed or forced it was genuine, respectful, and full of heart. For a child who was struggling, their warmth made him light up in a way I hadn’t seen all day.
It didn’t fix everything that had gone wrong but it meant everything to us in that moment. Their compassion was the highlight of our visit and the only part of our day that felt truly magical.
Universal Studios is lucky to have them. I hope their kindness is recognized, because it made a lasting impact on a child who needed it more than they probably knew.
Thank you, Isiah, Tyler, and Frank you were the heart of our trip. Also a huge shot out to Shannon who was Blue’s handler for making this moment special.
— A grateful special needs mom
What a cool experience! As a dinosaur lover, it was a dream come true. I even got to PET Blue! Congrats to Universal for hosting this!
What a cool experience! As a dinosaur lover, it was a dream come true. The big velociraptor scared all the children. There was also a baby raptor you couple interact with more by playing and petting it. Overall, it was one of my favorite experiences in Universal Studios.
Universal CityWalk Hollywood
| Address | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (800) 864-8377 |
Universal CityWalk Hollywood is a fantastic destination, even if you're not visiting the theme park. The atmosphere is lively and full of energy, with a great mix of restaurants, shops, live entertainment, and attractions.
There are plenty of dining options for every taste, unique stores to explore, and it's a great place to spend an evening walking around, listening to music, and enjoying the vibrant Hollywood vibe. Everything is clean, well maintained, and easy to navigate.
Whether you're grabbing dinner, shopping, or just soaking in the atmosphere before or after Universal Studios, CityWalk is definitely worth a visit. It's a fun experience for families, couples, and anyone looking for a great night out in Los Angeles.
Universal CityWalk is such a fun area to walk around, especially if you’re visiting Universal but don’t necessarily want to buy a park ticket. It’s completely free to enter, which is awesome, and there are tons of shops and places to eat.
There’s a great variety of stores from fun souvenir spots to bigger retail stores and it’s a cool atmosphere overall with music playing and lots of energy. Even early in the morning there was a lot of foot traffic, so it definitely stays busy.
The only downside during our visit was that quite a few stores I wanted to go into were still closed since it was early. So if you’re hoping to shop, it’s probably better to go later in the day.
Overall, it’s a fun place to hang out, grab food, and explore — especially if you’re in the area but not going into the park. Today a high school band was playing live on the stage from Illinois.
Universal CityWalk Hollywood is honestly one of the best places to hang out at night in Los Angeles.
4
This was one of the highlights of my LA trip. The whole area is packed with energy — bright lights, music, restaurants, bars, and people everywhere. It feels like a mix of a theme park and a nightlife street.
What I liked the most is that you don’t need a ticket to enjoy this place. You can just walk around, grab food, have drinks, and enjoy the vibe without entering Universal Studios.
There are plenty of options — from casual food to restaurants and bars — so it’s a perfect spot to chill after a long day or before heading into the park.
✔ Free entry (no ticket needed)
✔ Great night atmosphere
✔ Lots of food, bars, and shops
✔ Perfect pre/post Universal Studios stop
If you’re in LA, especially near Universal Studios, this place is definitely worth checking out at night.
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A great mix of dining and shopping. Everyone enters through security and there are security officers all around making it feel very safe even in a crowd. We loved live music each evening and trying new places to eat. The sushi place IS open their phone is just down.
Universal City Walk is AMAZING! It is a vibrant shopping and dining area in Hollywood. The entire city walk was beautiful, clean, and safe. They have a tremendous selection of iconic eateries and shopping opportunities. Everything feels larger than life.... like you stepped into a motion picture. It is adjacent to Universal Studios as well as the Universal Theme Park, as well as close to other entertainment venues. Self-parking fees are very reasonable for the city. If dining out, shopping, and the hustle and bustle of the city is your thing.... I highly recommend you take a stroll through Universal City Walk.
Silly Swirly
| Address | 49 Production Plaza, North Hollywood, CA 91602 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Definitely for smaller kids to enjoy. There was no wait so my husband and I got on. Otherwise we wouldn’t have gone if there was a long line and we didn’t have kids with us.
Special for babies and small kids, no large waiting lines and always fun, worth it the ride and my kidos have to ride it every visit. Good to have a great time. 👍👍
This carnival ride is pretty neat for the little wee kiddos that are not tall enough to ride the other attractions such as the Minion Mayhem ride. The ride lifts from the ground and rotates in a circle. Riders can control the lift to go up and down. Each vehicles are crafted to look like silly creatures, all decorated in fun, bright colors.
I just wish there were more rides like this one, at Universal, for the wee ones.
The wait is insane and always has express line guests cutting the line in this stupid ride
Pretty standard ride that you can control going up in down while riding in a circle! Very nice views of the park and also Los Angeles.
Universal Studio Tour
| Address | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (800) 864-8377 |
The tour is so much fun. It’s also a great time to relax for about an hour after walking all day at the park. I love seeing the backlots, studios, and sets. The tour guide we had this time was super fun and informative. She made a lot of jokes and made the tour extra enjoyable.
Studio Tour is easily the best attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood — and honestly, something you can’t experience anywhere else.
This was one of the highlights of my entire LA trip. Riding the tram through real movie sets and backlots felt like stepping behind the scenes of Hollywood.
You pass through actual filming locations, see iconic sets, and experience immersive scenes like King Kong and Jaws. It’s not just a ride — it’s a full experience that mixes storytelling, special effects, and real film history.
What makes it special is that it’s unique to Hollywood. This is not something you’ll find in other Universal parks.
The tour takes around an hour, but it doesn’t feel long at all because there’s always something happening.
✔ Unique Hollywood experience
✔ Real movie sets and filming locations
✔ Long but engaging (never boring)
✔ Must-do attraction in the park
Tip — try to ride it earlier in the day to avoid long wait times.
If you go to Universal Studios Hollywood, this is something you absolutely cannot skip.
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About 20 years back, I recall a TV host from my country visiting this ride. Even now, two decades later, many of the attractions remain, and we’re still amazed. It’s probably the Hollywood magic!
This tour took us several people on this (Fan Fest) to places to solve a mystery and here were the characters of Scooby doo. Everything was fun.
This is a must do at universal. The tour guides are fun and interactive, and the sets are amazing.
Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride
| Address | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (510) 269-0263 |
Location: Universal Studios Hollywood
Park section: Lower Lot
Opening date: 2004
Type: Steel – Launched – Enclosed
Lift/launch system: Linear induction motors
Height: 13.5m
Speed; 64km/h
Inversions: 0
Duration: 2:57
Max vertical angle: 50°
This was the only universal ride I rode multiple times (thank you universal express). I am a true roller coaster fan and this one was the closest you can get at a theme park (fast and furious wasn’t open yet. I imagine that one will be better). I love the darkness and backwards part. Maybe a little too scary for kids.
We went to Revenge of the Mummy ride and enjoyed a lot.
It’s scary as it has like ghosts and spraying water. The main part is the darkest area where the ride will be going dropping off behind and giving more scary feelings.
A famous indoor roller coaster with sudden launches, dark tunnels, fire effects, scares and twists
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Revenge of the Mummy ride was an absolutely incredible experience from start to finish. The entire attraction was so immersive, with amazing storytelling, detailed sets, and effects that made everything feel so real.
The staff and ride team were also very kind and professional, which made the experience even better. Even though the ride was thrilling and intense at times, everything felt very well organized and safe, allowing us to just enjoy the adventure.
We truly appreciated how smoothly everything ran and how memorable the whole experience was. This was one of the highlights of our visit, and we are very grateful for such an amazing attraction and experience.
Absolutely love this ride! It is one of the best rides at Universal Studios Hollywood. It’s fast and thrilling. My husband and I rode it three times in a row with zero wait since we had early entry. We walked right on each time and it was so worth it! We would have rode it more if we didn’t had other rides we wanted to get to
Jurassic World - The Ride
| Address | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
We were a family of 5 with my 2 adult children and teenage grandkids. We went mid-July on a Monday and Tuesday and it was very hot & humid. This attraction was very popular and busy. Later in the day, we decided to go single ride since it was faster. This is one of our favorite rides.
Fun water ride with a thrilling drop! You may are not get soaked. There’s time where I’ve rode this ride and didn’t get wet at all and there’s times where my shirt gets soaked. It’s a hit or miss. The main drop at the end is so exciting! If getting wet bugs you, save this ride for the end of day.
The best overall ride at universal. Prepare to get wet, and prepare to get soaked if you’re on the edges. Great during hot summer days! The line is crazy if you don’t have universal express.
Jurassic World The Ride at Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic reimagining of the original Jurassic Park ride and feels far more immersive and cinematic. While longtime fans of the classic attraction will immediately notice the differences, this updated version does an excellent job aligning the experience with the newer Jurassic World franchise and its storytelling style.
The biggest improvement is immersion. From the queue to the ride scenes, everything feels more modern and cohesive, with detailed environments and upgraded animatronics that make the dinosaurs feel genuinely alive. The Mosasaurus tank scene is a standout moment and sets the tone for the escalating tension throughout the ride. The final drop remains just as thrilling as ever, enhanced by dramatic lighting, sound, and effects that make the finale feel bigger and more intense than the original.
Planning tip: Jurassic World – The Ride is located in the Lower Lot, which makes ride strategy especially important. If you enter SUPER NINTENDO WORLD using Early Access, you can usually complete Nintendo World within the first hour and then head straight to Jurassic World The Ride before the main crowds arrive. This timing often results in significantly shorter waits sometimes close to a walk-on, compared to later in the day when Lower Lot lines build quickly.
Be prepared to get wet, especially if seated toward the front, so plan accordingly or ride earlier in warmer weather. Express Pass is also worth considering during peak seasons.
Overall, Jurassic World The Ride successfully modernizes a beloved classic while delivering a more immersive, story-driven experience. It’s a must-ride for fans of the Jurassic World films and a highlight of Universal Studios Hollywood when planned strategically.
This was so much fun! From the line the expectation is set high, you are on the narrative even before getting into the roller coaster, special effects are simply breathtaking!
Hogwarts Express
| Address | Studio way, North Hollywood, CA 91602 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (407) 363-8000 |
The Hogwarts Express at Universal Studios Hollywood is a very nice photo spot and definitely adds to the magical Harry Potter atmosphere. The train looks beautiful, and the actor in front of it really makes an effort to interact with guests and create a fun experience. However, I was expecting a little more action or something extra beyond the visual appeal and photo opportunity. It is still a lovely and iconic place to see, but compared to the rest of the Harry Potter area, it felt like it could offer a bit more.
I like trains, so I like this. I read that it’s not a real steam train, but a replica? A little disappointing, and on closer inspection, you can tell. A cool landmark to take pictures with. I think if you have one of those special wand things, you can activate something in this area. Overall, 4/5.
Location: Universal Studios Hollywood
Area: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Train that ran between London King's Cross Station Platform 9¾ & Hogsmeade Station & carried students of all years to & from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry...
This was the only thing I wanted to do and so glad I did!!! We were stuck on the ride for a little bit because (I'm assuming) someone had a problem getting on/off the ride because it's on a moving platform. A dream location for any Harry Potter fan and if you buy a wand, there's hidden locations throught the attraction where you can use it to do "magic". The conductor at the train was only there in the mornings when we went, but it was a hot two days, so maybe they dont let him stay out for safety, but if you want a photo, go in the morning!! Hogsmede is also one of the few places where you can get "real" food, not pizza/burgers and the like, and the Great Feast easily served 4 of us and, BONUS, you can order ahead so you're not waiting in line!! We stopped on the way out to get sweets, my daughter opted for a cupcake whereas I HAD to get a chocolate frog. ❤️
Not too bad. I thought i feel into a portal that sent me to hogwarts or I was tripping on some good stuff.
The Wizarding world was great, I'd recommend to hit this place up if you happen to wander into universal studios Hollywood for sure.
Try the platter of pig ribs at the three brooms
Ok
Bye
Griffith Park
| Address | Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | (323) 644-2050 |
super neat! the parking lot near the observatory is $10/hour, but the parking lot about a mile away is free. i saw the hollywood sign and a beautiful view of los angeles!! must see! loses a star because the employee at the observatory was really rude and not welcoming
Incredible how beautiful this place is, super clean. The staff super helpful and everything went super smoothly. We parked at the bottom (free parking) and took the bus. 50 cents per person. You can pay with cash. 10 dollar parking all the way up, great place to go before sunset.
As luck would have it, we visited on the day of a concert... The traffic and crowds were absolutely terrible. We initially thought about spending some time in the park, but that turned out to be a bad idea. Later, we wanted to go to the Observation area; even though we had made it all the way up, they directed us back down to the lower road because there was no parking available. I strongly recommend checking the concert schedule before you go—otherwise, you’ll end up going through the same miserable experience we did. After such a bad experience, I didn't really feel like writing anything positive.
Great and quiet place for sunrise. You can see many people doing sports here early in the morning. Ideal for start your day with a coffee.
It was my first time at the Griffith Park Observatory. I stayed for the star show, which was phenomenal, and got to see the only Mark IX projector, if I'm correct, which is a marvel—the only one working in the state of California. There is one on display in New York. There is plenty to do and see; it is a great place for you and your family to make cherished memories.
WaterWorld
| Address | 1000 Universal Center Dr, Universal City, CA 91608 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
WaterWorld at Universal Studios Hollywood is an absolutely outstanding show and easily one of the most impressive live performances in the park. The actors, stunts, explosions, water effects, and overall energy of the show are truly unique. It perfectly brings the spirit of the Waterworld movie to life while adding the excitement of a live action performance. The final surprise was honestly the most impressive stage surprise I have experienced so far. It was unexpected, powerful, and unforgettable. A must-see show and definitely a five-star experience.
Highly recommend not to miss this show. The plot, actors/actresses, stunts, etc were amazing.
I'm glad this stunt spectacular is still going. It was nice to have a seat in the shade and enjoy the action show. Full of water flying everywhere and fire effects, it was the last thing we visited in the park and a great way to end the day. The buildings in the background are sort of a necessary evil but did detract slightly from the shows ambiance.
The show itself was incredible. When they say "you will get wet on the green seats" they are not joking around. In hot day it is fun, but be aware.
Unfortunately, organization is tragic. We were kept 20 minutes in scorching sun on concrete while, in the end 20% of the seats were empty. It was literally dangerous for kids to stand in such crowd as it was hard to breath around waist. We had to wave what We had in hand in order for them not to faint.
Staff was standing in shade not letting people on the stands.
This is unacceptable, and has nothing to do with familly fun.
WaterWorld at Universal Studios is one of the most amazing live shows I’ve ever seen.
The stunt performers - most notably Brian Combs - were incredibly skilled, and the action, jet ski chases, and special effects, especially the fire, were very impressive.
In my opinion, it is suitable for all ages over 6, with loads of exciting moments and an amazing finale, including the high drop into the water and the plane landing.
It’s a must-see attraction if you’re visiting Universal Studios.
Tips for Maximizing Your Family Trip Around Universal Studios
Before you pack up the stroller and head out, a little local knowledge can save you significant time, money, and stress. The Los Angeles area operates differently than many other tourist destinations, especially regarding parking, timing, and ticket purchasing. These practical strategies will help you navigate the region like a seasoned local rather than a first-time visitor.
Buy Tickets Online in Advance
Many local museums and attractions offer discounted rates for online purchases, and some require timed-entry reservations. Buying ahead not only saves a few dollars per person but also lets you skip the general admission line. This is especially important on weekends and during school holidays when popular spots like the California Science Center or Griffith Observatory can reach capacity.
Start Early to Beat Traffic and Crowds
Los Angeles traffic is famously unpredictable, but the window between 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM is generally the most manageable. Arriving at your chosen attraction right when it opens means cooler morning temperatures, shorter lines, and a better chance of finding convenient parking. If you are staying near Universal, you can often reach most of these destinations in under 20 minutes if you leave by 9:00 AM.
Pack Snacks and Refillable Water Bottles
While most attractions have on-site cafes, they can be pricey and crowded during peak lunch hours. Bringing your own snacks keeps energy levels stable and avoids meltdowns while you wait for a table. Southern California is warm year-round, so a refillable water bottle is essential; many museums and parks now have water bottle filling stations.
Check for Free Admission Days
Several of the best family attractions in Los Angeles, including the Natural History Museum and the Autry Museum, offer free admission on specific days of the month. If your travel dates are flexible, aligning your visit with these free days can save a family of four over $60. Check the official website for each venue before finalizing your itinerary.
Use Rideshare for Tight Parking Situations
Some attractions, particularly those in Griffith Park or near Hollywood Boulevard, have notoriously difficult or expensive parking. If you are already paying for parking at your Universal-area hotel, consider using a rideshare service for the day. This eliminates the stress of finding a spot and allows you to be dropped off right at the entrance, which is a huge advantage when traveling with young children.
Choosing the right mix of activities transforms a simple theme park trip into a full Los Angeles family adventure. Whether you spend a quiet morning at a nature center or an action-packed afternoon at a science museum, these nearby attractions offer a deeper connection to the culture and landscape of Southern California.
By planning ahead and staying flexible, you can create a vacation that feels both exciting and relaxing. The key is to choose one or two of these destinations that match your family’s specific interests, then give yourself permission to slow down and enjoy the journey between them.
