Universal Studios, L.A.

Universal Studios, L.A.

• August 2025

Planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood? You've picked a brilliant place for a family holiday. It's a bit different from our Aussie theme parks, but in the best way possible. Think of it as stepping right into your favourite movies. Here's a friendly guide to help you navigate the fun and make the most of your trip!

Getting a Feel for the Park: The Different Lands

Universal Studios Hollywood is split into a few main areas, each with its own vibe and attractions. The park is built on a hill, so you've got the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot, connected by a series of escalators called the StarWay.

The Upper Lot

This is where you'll find most of the big-name lands and shows. It's a great place to start your day.

The World-Famous Studio Tour: This is an absolute must-do. It's not a ride, but a long tram tour that takes you behind the scenes of a real working movie studio. You'll see famous sets, get a look at how special effects are made, and even experience some thrilling 3D moments with King Kong and the Fast & Furious crew. It's a classic and a brilliant insight into Hollywood.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: This is a fan favourite for a reason! It's an incredibly detailed and immersive land. You'll feel like you've stepped into Hogsmeade with its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: A thrilling ride inside Hogwarts Castle that uses a mix of screens and physical sets to make you feel like you're flying with Harry on a broomstick.

Flight of the Hippogriff: A family-friendly outdoor rollercoaster that's a good first coaster for the kids.

Ollivanders: Where a wand might just choose one of you! It's a super cool show and a great spot to buy an interactive wand to cast spells around the land.

Minion Land: Get ready for some cheekiness! This area is all about the lovable Minions and the Secret Life of Pets.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: A motion simulator ride where you become a Minion in Gru's house. It's a lot of fun and a bit silly!

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!: A cute and charming dark ride where you journey through the streets of New York City as a lost puppy.

Super Silly Fun Land: A colourful outdoor play area and a great spot for little ones to run around and cool off.

Springfield, U.S.A.: The Simpsons come to life in this vibrant land.

The Simpsons Ride: Another motion simulator that takes you on a wild ride through Krustyland.

You can also grab a Krusty Burger, a Duff Beer at Moe's Tavern, or a massive Lard Lad Donut!

WaterWorld: A Live Sea War Spectacular: This is a stunt show, not a ride, and it's a spectacle! Think huge explosions, jet skis, and incredible stunts. It's a must-see, but get there early for a good seat. Be warned: the front rows are the "soak zone"!

The Lower Lot

This is where the big, adrenaline-pumping rides are. It's a smaller area, but packs a punch. It's a good idea to head here first thing in the morning when the lines are shorter.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD: The newest and most popular land! It's a vibrant, interactive world straight out of the Mario games.

Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge: This is a groundbreaking augmented reality ride where you get to race against Team Bowser. It's incredible and you'll want to ride it more than once!

You can also buy a Power-Up Band to play interactive games and track your score throughout the land.

Jurassic World - The Ride: This is an epic water ride that takes you through the Jurassic World paddock. It's got an amazing T-Rex animatronic and a massive splashdown at the end. You will get wet!

Transformers: The Ride-3D: An exhilarating motion simulator that puts you in the middle of an epic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons. It's a total sensory overload in the best way possible.

Express Yourself: Universal Express Pass

This is a game-changer, especially if you're visiting on a busy day. The Universal Express Pass is an add-on to your ticket that lets you skip the regular line once per ride, attraction, and seated show. It can be a little pricey, but it can save you hours of waiting in line, which is a big win with kids.

You can either buy a ticket that includes it, or add it on to a regular ticket. If you're on a tight schedule or visiting during school holidays, it's a serious consideration.

Fuel Up and Shop

You'll find plenty of food options throughout the park, from quick-service counters to full-service restaurants.

Food: Don't miss out on themed eats like a Krusty Burger in Springfield or Fish and Chips at Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World. The park also has the Universal CityWalk right out front, which is full of restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. It's a great place for a proper sit-down meal before or after your park day.

Shopping: Each land has its own dedicated stores with unique merchandise. Think wands and robes in the Wizarding World, Minion gear in Minion Land, or Mario toys in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. There's a big Universal Studio Store near the front of the park that has a bit of everything, so you can do your souvenir shopping on the way out.

Handy Tips for Aussie Families

Book in advance: Buy your tickets online before you go to save time and money. The park can sell out on really busy days, so it's best to be prepared.

Download the app: The Universal Studios Hollywood app is your best friend. It has a park map, show times, and most importantly, current wait times for all the rides.

Pack light: You can bring a small backpack with essentials, but leave the big stuff at home. There are lockers available, but it's easier to be hands-free.

Rider Swap: If you have a child who isn't tall enough for a ride, you can use the "Child Switch" program. One parent waits with the child while the rest of the family rides, then you swap without having to wait in line all over again. Ask a staff member at the ride entrance for help.

Be SunSmart: Even in L.A., the sun is strong! Slip, slop, slap. Bring hats and sunscreen, and stay hydrated. You can bring your own water bottles and refill them at water fountains around the park.

Get there early: Aim to arrive before the park opens. The first hour is often the quietest, so you can knock out a popular ride or two with a minimal wait.

Most importantly, have an amazing time! Universal Studios Hollywood is an absolute blast and a trip your family will be talking about for years. Enjoy every second!

For more info check the Universal Studios web site.

Images © Kids Holidays