The attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood have specific height requirements to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Seeing your little one disappointed because they are too short to ride can be tough. Luckily, you can prepare them for the trip by following this guide.
Previously, the studio focused on adults because there were few rides suitable for younger children who may not meet the height requirements.
That has changed recently with the addition of DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda and Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem to the park.
Now, families can enjoy a wider range of experiences together at this Los Angeles theme park.
Why Height Requirements Exist at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Height requirements at Universal Studios Hollywood are in place to ensure the safety of all guests.
These rules help make sure that everyone is properly secured in the ride restraints and can enjoy the attractions safely.
Reaching a specific height often indicates a child can handle the G-forces, drops, and other thrills the ride throws their way.
Younger children might not be quite ready for that level of excitement, and height restrictions help ensure everyone has a fun and enjoyable experience.
So next time you see a height requirement, remember – it’s all about keeping everyone safe and happy!
Universal Studios Hollywood Rides & Attractions with Height Requirements
Universal Studios Hollywood is divided into the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot, connected by a series of escalators called the Starway.
Both the Upper and Lower Lots offer a mix of rides, shows and attractions for everyone. Let’s take a look at their height requirements.
Upper Lot Rides
Rides like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, a motion simulator, require you to be at least 40 inches (102 cm) tall.
The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash requires a minimum height of 34 inches (86 cm).
The Simpsons Ride, another motion simulator, also requires a minimum height of 40 inches (102 cm).
Rides | Type | Minimum Height Requirements |
---|---|---|
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem | Motion Simulator | 40″ (102 cm) |
The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash! | Dark Ride | 34″ (86 cm) |
The Simpsons Ride | Motion Simulator | 40″ (102 cm) |
Note: Children under 34 to 48″ (86 to 122 cm) require a Supervising Companion who is at least 14 years old to accompany them.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
It is the largest themed area in the Upper Lot of Universal Studios Hollywood.
It features two main rides: Flight of the Hippogriff, which requires a minimum height of 39 inches (99 cm), and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which requires a minimum height of 48 inches (122 cm).
Rides | Type | Minimum Height Requirements |
---|---|---|
Flight of the Hippogriff | Roller Coaster | 39″ (99 cm) |
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey | Dark Ride | 48″ (122 cm) |
Note: Children under 39 to 48″ (99 to 122 cm) require a Supervising Companion who is at least 14 years old to accompany them.
Lower Lot Rides
The Lower Lot at Universal Studios Hollywood is the smaller of the two lots but still features some exciting rides.
Jurassic World: The Ride, a shoot-the-chute attraction, has a minimum height requirement of 42 inches (110 cm).
Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride requires you to be at least 48 inches (120 cm) tall.
Transformers: The Ride 3D and Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge both have a minimum height requirement of 40 inches (100 cm).
Rides | Type | Minimum Height Requirements |
---|---|---|
Jurassic World: The Ride | Shoot the Chute | 42″ (110 cm) |
Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride | Enclosed roller coaster | 48″ (120 cm) |
Transformers: The Ride 3D | 3D dark ride | 40″ (100 cm) |
Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge | Augmented reality dark ride | 40″ (100 cm) |
Note: Children under 40 to 48″ (100 to 122 cm) require a Supervising Companion who is at least 14 years old to accompany them.
Universal Studios Hollywood Rides & Attractions with No Height Requirements
If your little one doesn’t meet the height requirements for some rides, there are still plenty of attractions they can enjoy without any height restrictions. These include:
- Kung Fu Panda at DreamWorks Theatre
- Studio Tour
- The Silly Swirly Fun Ride
- King Kong 360
- Fast & Furious Supercharged
How is Height Measured at Universal Studios Hollywood?
At Universal Studios Hollywood, height is measured using a simple and straightforward process:
- Standing Measurement Stations: Attractions with height restrictions have designated height measurement stations near their entrances. These stations consist of a horizontal sliding bar and a vertical bar that is clearly marked.
- With Socks or Barefoot: Park employees will request you to take off your shoes in order to obtain an accurate measurement.
- Standing Straight: The park staff will give you instructions on how to stand straight, with your back against the vertical bar and your heels flat on the assigned platform.
- Sliding Bar to the Top of the Head: The staff member will then adjust the horizontal sliding bar so it lightly touches the top of your head.
- Clear Mark or Indicator: A clear mark or indicator on the sliding bar will indicate the required minimum height for the ride. If the mark falls at or below your head, you meet the height requirement and can continue with the ride.
Child Switch at Universal Studios Hollywood
Assume you and your partner want to go on a thrilling ride, but your child does not meet the height requirements or is scared.
Child Switch allows you to take turns enjoying the ride while the other adult stays with the child.
This way, everyone gets a chance to have fun without any hassle.
How Does It Work?
- When you get to the ride, let the staff know you want to use Child Switch.
- One adult waits with the child in a designated area near the ride’s exit.
- The other adult and anyone else who wants to ride go to the attraction.
- When the first group finishes, the waiting adult gets to ride without waiting in line again while the other adult stays with the child.
Note: Child Switch allows a maximum of two adults to switch places per ride.
Vacatis Safety Tips for Visitors
- There are posted safety rules and regulations for each ride. Before you line up, take a moment to read them.
- Have a conversation with your child about what to expect before approaching a ride. Give them a clear explanation of the motions and speed. This can help ease any anxieties they might have.
- Pay close attention to and follow the pre-ride instructions carefully. They will explain the proper seating, safety precautions, and what to expect during the ride.
- Loose items like phones, cameras, and sunglasses can become dangerous projectiles during rides. Secure them in a locker before the ride.
- If you experience any discomfort or malfunction during the ride, alert a staff member as soon as you exit.
- As mentioned before, Child Switch is a fantastic program for families. It allows you to take turns experiencing rides while the other adult stays with the child.
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FAQs
1. What happens if my child doesn’t meet the height requirement for a ride?
Your child will not be permitted to ride if they do not meet the height requirement. They can, however, enjoy a variety of attractions that do not have height restrictions, including Kung Fu Panda at DreamWorks Theatre and the Studio Tour.
2. Can my child ride if they are close to the height requirement?
To ensure their safety, kids must meet or surpass the height requirement exactly as measured at the park.
3. What is Child Switch at Universal Studios Hollywood, and how does it work?
Child Switch allows one adult to stay with a child who is unable to ride while the other adult enjoys the ride. After the first adult rides, they switch places so the next adult can ride without waiting in line again.
4. What is the weight limit at Universal Studios Hollywood?
The park doesn’t have specific weight limits for most rides. However, you need to fit securely in the ride restraints for safety. Some rides have test seats at the entrance, so you can check if you are comfortable.
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Featured Image: Tripadvisor.ca