TIPS

Check the show times upon entering the park and plan your day around the shows you want to see. Arrive at least 15 minutes in advance for shows to get a decent seat.

The Lower Lot typically opens an hour later than the Upper Lot, so we suggest you do the headliner attractions on the Upper Lot first before heading down to the Lower Lot.

If you’re visiting during crowded times, we strongly recommend you purchase the Front of Line Pass (see page 145), as lines can be very long.

You cannot view any live movie or TV shoots while at the park, but portions of the TV show EXTRA are currently being filmed around Universal Studios and CityWalk, often near globe outside of the front gate. You may even spot celebrities, such as Mario Lopez, Tracey Edmonds, and/or Charissa Thompson almost every weekday (Monday through Friday). 

NOTES

Dining is mostly fast food in the park, and no restaurants take reservations. You may enjoy eating at CityWalk instead. Descriptions of eateries at both Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk begin on page 234.

The All-You-Can-Eat pass was discontinued in 2012.

Universal Studios is not ideal for preschoolers as attractions have limited appeal and schlepping a stroller down to the Lower Lot is very difficult. If you visit with a child who needs a stroller, we recommend you rent a stroller ($15–$25) at the park, as you can get a new stroller when you get to the Lower Lot.

Wheelchairs can be rented for $15/day ($25 refundable deposit) just inside the park, along with ECVs ($50/day).

Smoking is permitted only in designated smoking areas (see park maps).

There is no longer a kennel service for guests with pets. Consider using Bone Sweet Bone, only two miles away (http://www.bonesweetbone.com, 818-985-2663).

Several attractions are very noisy, and we note those in our attraction descriptions. Bring earplugs if you or your kids are noise-sensitive.