Everything You Need to Know for a Magical Universal Studios Hollywood Trip

Planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood? This iconic theme park is home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, thrilling rides, and behind-the-scenes movie magic. To help you make the most of your visit, here are 25 expert tips to maximize fun, minimize stress, and save money on your Universal adventure.

Check out my full guide to visiting Universal Studios Hollywood for even more helpful information!

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1. Buy Tickets in Advance

Purchase your Universal Studios Hollywood tickets online through my travel partners at Get Away Today to save time and money. You’ll often find discounts and avoid long ticket booth lines! You can buy them online or give them a call at 855-GET-AWAY and tell them Mix In Some Magic sent you for the best rates.

2. Arrive Early

The park typically opens at 8:00 or 9:00 AM. Make sure you check the Universal Studios Hollywood website before you arrive to make sure you know what time it opens on the day of your visit. Arrive to the parking area at least 60 minutes before opening to be among the first inside and head straight to the most popular attractions.

3. Consider Universal Express Pass

If you want to skip long lines, the Universal Express Pass grants one-time front-of-the-line access to each ride and attraction. It’s worth the cost on busy days.

4. Check Crowd Calendars

Avoid weekends, holidays, and peak seasons like spring break and summer for lighter crowds and shorter wait times.

5. Download the Universal Studios App

The Universal Studios Hollywood app provides wait times, show schedules, maps, and mobile food ordering to help you plan your day efficiently.

6. Head to Super Nintendo World First

Super Nintendo World is one of the most popular areas, and it fills up fast. You may need a virtual queue reservation to enter the land. Make a Virtual Line reservation in the Universal Studios Hollywood app after buying your park ticket and arriving onsite. Reservations are not always required to enter the land, but it’s important you check on the day of your visit so you don’t miss out

7. Visit Harry Potter Attractions Early or Late

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff have long lines midday. Visit first thing in the morning or in the evening for shorter waits.

8. Don’t Skip the Studio Tour

The World-Famous Studio Tour is a must-do! It lasts about an hour and takes you behind the scenes of actual movie sets, including the famous Fast & Furious and King Kong 360 3D experiences.

9. Single Rider Lines Save Time

Several attractions, including Jurassic World – The Ride and Revenge of the Mummy, offer single rider lines that move much faster than standby queues.

10. Bring a Portable Phone Charger

Between photos, mobile tickets, and checking the app, your phone battery will drain fast. A portable charger is a lifesaver.

11. Pack Light

Many rides require you to store bags in lockers. Bring only essentials like your phone, wallet, and a refillable water bottle to avoid delays.

12. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Universal Studios has hills and stairs, especially to and from the Lower Lot. Expect a lot of walking, so wear comfortable sneakers.

13. Know the Locker System

Certain thrill rides require you to store bags in free time-limited lockers near the ride entrances. Be aware of locker locations to save time.

14. Take Advantage of Child Switch

If you’re visiting with little ones who don’t meet height requirements, use Child Switch so one parent can ride while the other waits with the child, then swap without re-entering the line.

15. See Shows for a Break

Attractions like WaterWorld offer exciting entertainment and a chance to rest while still enjoying the park.

16. Don’t Miss Character Meet-and-Greets

Popular meet-and-greet characters include Minions, Transformers, Jurassic World dinosaurs, and Mario & Luigi. Check the app for schedules.

17. Plan for Water Rides

Rides like Jurassic World – The Ride may get you soaked. Bring a poncho or ride later in the day when it’s warmer.

18. Eat at Off-Peak Times

Lines for food get long around noon and 6 PM. Eat at 11 AM or 3 PM for a faster, more relaxed dining experience. Check out my guide to dining at Universal Studios Hollywood for all your dining options.

19. Try Unique Universal Foods

Don’t miss Butterbeer in Hogsmeade, the Toadstool Café in Super Nintendo World, or the massive Lard Lad Donuts in Springfield.

20. Dress In Layers

Los Angeles weather varies, so bring a light jacket for the evening.

21. Explore the Lower Lot Strategically

The Lower Lot features Jurassic World – The Ride, Revenge of the Mummy, and Transformers: The Ride 3D. Knock them all out before heading back up, as the escalators take time.

22. Bring Sunscreen and Sunglasses

Universal Studios has little shade, and Los Angeles can be sunny year-round. Protect yourself with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

23. Visit CityWalk After the Park

Universal CityWalk has great restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Consider ending your day with dinner or a treat like Voodoo Doughnut.

24. Check for Special Events

Universal hosts seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights, Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Lunar New Year. Check the calendar before your visit.

25. Stay at a Nearby Hotel

If you want extra convenience, Universal’s hotels and nearby Hollywood accommodations offer early access and easy park entry. My travel partners have some great deals on hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood.

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Final Thoughts

A trip to Universal Studios Hollywood is a thrilling experience full of rides, shows, and movie magic. With these 25 expert tips, you’ll be able to save time, avoid crowds, and maximize the fun on your next visit. Ready to plan your trip? Let us know your favorite Universal tip in the comments!