Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary

Are you at Universal Studios Hollywood for the first time and unsure where to begin your adventure? 

Look no further! This guide is your perfect companion, as it will provide a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.

We will uncover the best attractions, dining spots, and tips to ensure you have a fantastic experience at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Get ready for two action-packed days filled with excitement and adventure!

Universal Studios Hollywood One-Day Itinerary

If you are wondering if you can conquer Universal Studios Hollywood in one day, the answer is yes! 

With this curated itinerary, it’s possible to experience all the park’s highlights and make the most of your visit. 

It’s especially good for first-timers wanting to see the main attractions like Harry Potter and the Studio Tour. 

Families will find a good mix of exciting rides and things for kids to enjoy. 

Recommended Ticket: Universal Studios Hollywood 1 Day Ticket or Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass

Pro Tip: Make sure to check wait times on a regular basis to find attractions with shorter queues.

Morning Session: 9 am to 12 pm (Lower Lot)

Starting your day with the Lower Lot is a smart choice because you can enjoy popular rides when they are less crowded in the morning. 

It facilitates smart itinerary planning, allowing you to smoothly transition from exhilarating rides to immersive experiences in a sensible sequence.

• The park opens at 9 am, so arrive as early as possible. Be among the first ones to get a head start on the rides.
• Embark on a tram tour through an actual working film studio set. See iconic locations from movies like Jaws and Jurassic Park, and experience thrilling special effects like King Kong and Fast & Furious: Supercharged.

Pro Tip! Before entering the Studio Tour, check out the chalkboard near the entrance listing the current TV shows filming on the Universal lot that day. It’s a great chance to see if any of your favorite shows are being filmed that day.

• Next, head to Despicable Me Minion Mayhem to join Gru, Lucy, and the mischievous Minions on a 3D adventure. Sing along to their catchy tunes, and get ready for some silly fun.
• If you have some free time, you can cool down in Super Silly Fun Land, filled with playful rides, fountains, and interactive games perfect for young children.
• Visit the Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash and step into the world of Max, Snowball, and the rest of your favorite furry friends on this exciting interactive ride.
• Browse through themed stores like the Super Silly Stuff Shop, Minion Mayhem, and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem for unique souvenirs and movie memorabilia.

Afternoon Session: 12 pm to 5 pm (Upper Lot)

By this time, the initial morning rush tends to subside in the Upper Lot, leading to shorter wait times for attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. 

This allows you to enjoy these popular experiences more efficiently and at a relaxed pace. 

• Before your next adventure, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. 
• Begin your afternoon by immersing yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter inside Hogwarts Castle. Experience the thrilling ride through iconic scenes from the books and films.
• After the ride, take time to explore the shops and attractions in Hogsmeade Village. Don’t miss Ollivanders Wand Shop and Honeydukes for magical treats.
• Head over to Springfield to experience the hilarious adventure with The Simpsons family. This motion-simulator ride is packed with laughs and surprises.
• Catch the Special Effects Show to learn behind-the-scenes secrets of Hollywood movie magic, including practical effects and stunt demonstrations.

Evening Entertainment: (5 pm to 9 pm)

As the sun sets, the park offers a magical and relaxed atmosphere. It is perfect for enjoying attractions with shorter wait times and enhanced lighting effects. 

• Catch the thrilling WaterWorld show for action-packed stunts, pyrotechnics, and special effects based on the film.
• Enjoy dinner at one of the themed restaurants in the park. Options include Krusty Burger in Springfield, Mel’s Diner for classic American fare, or themed dining experiences like Jurassic Café.
• After dinner, stroll through Universal CityWalk. Shop for merchandise at shops like the Universal Studio Store and catch live entertainment.
• End your day with Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular, an outdoor nighttime show featuring iconic movie clips projected onto water screens, accompanied by music and stunning pyrotechnics.

Universal Studios Hollywood Two-Day Itinerary

A 2 day itinerary at Universal Studios Hollywood is perfect for fully enjoying everything the park has to offer. 

With two days, you won’t feel rushed and can explore all the top rides and shows at your own pace. 

Plus, you can relax and enjoy evening shows and dining at Universal CityWalk without feeling pressed for time. 

Recommended Ticket: Universal Studios Hollywood 2 Day Ticket 

Day 1 Morning Session: (9 am to 12 pm) Lower Lot

Begin your morning by experiencing the adrenaline-pumping rides! 

Starting your first day in the lower lot allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy popular attractions with shorter wait times, setting the tone for an exciting day ahead.

• Head straight to the vibrant land of Super Nintendo World. Explore the interactive elements throughout the area, and race through the Mushroom Kingdom on Mario Kart. 
• Don’t miss interactive games like popping virtual balloons with your hands and collecting coins throughout the land.
• Join Gru’s mischievous Minions on a 3D adventure filled with laughter and mayhem. 
• Next, brace yourself for the high-octane thrills of Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride. Speed through a thrilling indoor coaster filled with darkness, special effects, and heart-pounding drops.
• Step into the world of Jurassic World. This intense water raft adventure takes you through the park populated by prehistoric giants, culminating in a breathtaking 85-foot plunge!

Afternoon Session: (12 pm to 5 pm) Lower Lot

In the afternoon, you can make the most of quieter times at attractions like the Studio Tour, which tends to be busier earlier in the day. 

While others are eating lunch, grab a quick bite and head over to these rides when the lines are shorter.

• Grab a delicious fast lunch at one of the many food carts in the lower lot. Some options include pizza, hot dogs, tacos, and refreshing drinks.
• Take the World-Famous Studio Tour. This tram tour takes you behind the scenes of Hollywood movie magic, showcasing movie sets, special effects demonstrations, and more.
• Be transported into the heart of the Transformers battle in this 3D thrill ride that throws you into the middle of the fight between the Autobots and Decepticons.
• Take a hilarious trip to Springfield on this high-speed adventure through the wacky world of The Simpsons.

Evening Entertainment: (5 pm to 9 pm) Lower Lot

There are exciting options to cap off your day. You can enjoy spectacular shows or explore Universal CityWalk just outside the park for lively nightlife.

• Catch the awe-inspiring WaterWorld Stunt Show. Witness jet ski stunts, incredible explosions, and high-flying acrobatics performed by skilled stunt performers. 
• Explore the Universal Studio Store inside the park before exiting for a wider selection at CityWalk.
• Head to Universal CityWalk, an entertainment complex adjacent to the theme park, to buy souvenirs.
• Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants at CityWalk with a view of the park. Try out Hard Rock Cafe or Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
• After dinner, unwind by watching the latest blockbuster at the Universal Cinema at CityWalk.
• If you are looking for nightlife options, CityWalk has several bars and nightclubs, such as The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Bar, which have unique atmospheres.

Day 2 Morning Session: (9 am to 12 pm) Upper Lot

The Upper Lot’s morning session on Day 2 offers a thematic shift, focusing on classic movie parodies and a magical world, before concluding with shows and experiences later in the day.

• If you are a die-hard Harry Potter fan and didn’t secure a virtual line spot on Day 1, arrive early to grab one for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• Soar through Hogwarts Castle and encounter iconic characters on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
• Take a whimsical flight over the pumpkin patch on the Flight of the Hippogriff coaster.
• After the ride, explore the shops and attractions in Hogsmeade Village. Visit Ollivanders Wand Shop and Honeydukes for sweets.
• Indulge in a refreshing Butterbeer, the iconic beverage enjoyed by witches and wizards. Choose between the classic chilled version or a warm and frothy option!

Afternoon Session: (12 pm to 5 pm) Upper Lot

Choosing to spend the afternoon in the Upper Lot offers several smart advantages for maximizing your visit.

You can navigate popular attractions when morning crowds have typically dispersed. Plus, you will have plenty of options for themed dining during lunchtime.

• Grab a delicious and fast bite at one of the kiosks in Hogsmeade. Options include sandwiches, salads, fish and chips, and refreshing beverages.
• You can also enjoy a themed lunch at Three Broomsticks or The Leaky Cauldron for a truly magical experience (reservations recommended). 
• After lunch, go on a hilarious trip to Springfield on this high-speed adventure through the wacky world of The Simpsons.
• Ride the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and join Gru’s mischievous Minions on a 3D adventure filled with laughter, unexpected twists, and surprising effects.
• Revisit favorite attractions, shop for souvenirs, or relax before the evening entertainment.

Evening Entertainment: (5 pm to 9 pm) Upper Lot

Enjoy leisure and entertainment as you cap off your second day at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Relax with live entertainment options or go late-night shopping for souvenirs.

• Start your evening by heading to Universal CityWalk just outside the park. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from casual to themed dining experiences.
• Return to the Upper Lot of Universal Studios Hollywood after dinner to begin your evening entertainment within the park.
• Head over to the Special Effects Stage to witness demonstrations of Hollywood movie magic, including practical effects and stunt performances.
• End your day with Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular, an outdoor nighttime show featuring iconic movie clips projected onto water screens, accompanied by music and pyrotechnics.

Vacatis Tips for Visitors Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood!

• Arrive early (30 minutes before opening) and head straight to the Lower Lot. 
• Utilize the single-rider line for popular rides like Revenge of the Mummy and Jurassic World. This can significantly reduce wait times, especially during peak hours.
• Consider visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on a weekday (Tuesday to Thursday) to avoid weekend crowds and potentially score lower ticket prices.
• If you are fascinated by movie magic, prioritize the Studio Tour and the Special Effects Show.
• Some restaurants at Universal Studios Hollywood (like Springfield’s Krusty Burger) offer ‘secret menu’ items. Ask friendly staff members about these hidden gems to add some unique flavor to your dining experience.
• Rent a locker at the park entrance to store your belongings, and avoid carrying them around all day.

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Featured Image: Tripadvisor.ca