Universal Studios Hollywood opening hours

Universal Studios Hollywood is generally open from 10 am to 7 pm.

The opening hours vary based on seasons and holidays.

The opening time of Universal Studios is extended during summer and holidays.

The park closes early during winter and school days.

Given below are the Universal Studios Hollywood month-wise opening hours:

Months	Opening	Closing
Jan	8 am	9 pm
Feb	10 am	7 pm
March	10 am	7 pm
April	10 am	7 pm
May	9 am	10 pm
June	9 am	10 pm
July	9 am	10 pm
Aug	9 am	10 pm
Sept	10 am	6 pm
Oct	10 am	6 pm
Nov	8 am	10 pm
Dec	8 am	10 pm

Read further to know more about seasonal Universal Studios Hollywood timings, the best time to visit, how long it takes and the best Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary.

Universal Studios Hollywood summer hours

Generally, Universal Studios Hollywood summer hours are from 9 am until 10 pm on weekdays.

On weekends, it is open from 8 am to 10 pm.

The early access hours are one hour before the usual opening time.

Since summer is the busiest tourist season, the park extends its hours to accommodate more visitors.

Universal Studios Hollywood

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Universal Studios Hollywood back to school season

On weekdays, the park is open from 10 am to 7 pm and on the weekends, it is open from 9 am to 10 pm.

In August, most schools re-open, meaning many families return to a routine.

Hence, Universal Studios Hollywood reduces the park’s opening hours.

During this time, there are fewer children and tourists who visit the park.

Universal Studios Hollywood Fall Hours

The Hollywood Universal Studios opening hours are 10 am to 6 pm on fall weekdays, though there are some exceptions for school vacations.

During the weekend, opening hours extend from 9 am to 7 pm.

The park also increases the timings during some special weekdays and Thanksgiving.

You can enjoy Halloween Horror Nights from Thursdays to Sundays during this season.

Halloween Horror Nights typically start at 7 pm and continue until 2 am.

If you wish to enjoy this fest, you need to prebook your Hollywood Horror Night tickets.

Universal Studios Hollywood hours during winter

During the winter holiday, the park is open from 8 am to 10 pm.

Universal Studios Hollywood hosts several events during the Christmas season and has extended opening hours.

These shows attract a lot of tourists and locals.

You can enjoy unique experiences like Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and New Year’s Eve events.

Universal Studios Hollywood Spring hours

During Spring, Universal Studios Hollywood has extended opening hours.

The park is open from 10 am to 6 pm or 7 pm on weekdays as daylight increases.

The park’s hours typically extend from 9 am to 9 pm on weekdays.

Busiest Days at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023

Visitors who prefer a crowd-free visit to Universal Studios should know about the busiest days in the park.

Here is a list of days that will be the busiest at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023:

January 1 to 8
January 13 to 16
February 17 to 20
March 11 to April 16
Weekends in May
Memorial Day
Second Half of June
July
August 1 to 13
September 1 to 4
September 22 to 25
October 2 to 23
November 17 to 26
December 17 to 31

Best time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood

The best time to visit Universal Studios is at 9 am or 10 am when the park opens.

This gives you ample time to tour the entire park and enjoy popular rides before the crowd arrives.

We suggest you visit during weekdays, especially Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, for the best crowd-free experience.

You can avoid crowds on school days, months of February, May, August and September.

If you want to beat the waiting queues and grab a prime spot on the busiest rides, arrive at the park 15 minutes before Universal Studios Hollywood Park opens.

Pro tip: Get Universal Studios Express Ticket to avoid the crowds and waiting lines at rides.

How locals influence the best time to visit

Universal Studios Hollywood is a visitor’s favorite attraction for tourists and locals.

Some locals hold the Universal Studios Hollywood annual pass and visit the park often, making the park very busy.

However, during the Summer, Spring Breaks and holidays, the annual pass holders are not allowed.

If you want to find out the number of visitors, the waiting period and show timings for the day, then download the Universal Mobile App (Android) and the iOS app for convenience.

How long does it take to tour Universal Studios Hollywood?

It usually takes 2 days to cover the entire Universal Studios Hollywood Park.

However, if you are short on time, you can cover the park’s major attractions in one day.

To do so, the key is arriving early as soon as the park opens for the day. Be the first group to enter the park and spend up to eight hours.

If you are visiting for a day and are low on time, express tickets are your best bet to get the most out of your trip.

Visitors with the Universal Studios Hollywood Express ticket, skip the waiting lines for rides and enjoy priority access, making their trip hassle-free and fast.

For visitors who want to tour most of the Universal Studios Hollywood park in one day, here is our suggestion:

Universal Studios Hollywood is divided into two lots – avoid switching between the lots.

The Lower Lot houses adventure rides and the Upper Lot has the most popular rides.

Tour the Lower lot first, as the queues are small during the early hours. Then, move to the Upper lot while most crowds switch from the Upper to the Lower Lot.

We also suggest you note the waiting time for the rides to plan your visit and the time you will need to visit the park.

Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary

If you are planning to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, here is an itinerary that helps you cover most of the rides and attractions in the park.

1-Day itinerary for Universal Studios Hollywood

Arrive at the park early to take advantage of early entry if applicable.

Stop 01:Studio Tour

Start your day with the iconic Studio Tour as soon as the park opens.

This behind-the-scenes tram ride takes you through movie sets and soundstages, providing a fascinating glimpse into the world of filmmaking.

Stop 02: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Head to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and visit Hogwarts Castle.

Experience the thrilling “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” ride and explore Hogsmeade’s charming shops and eateries.

Take a break and grab a delicious meal at one of the park’s restaurants or eateries.

Consider dining at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or Mel’s Drive-In for a 1950s diner experience.

Stop 03: Jurassic World: The Ride

Journey to Jurassic Park and take a thrilling ride on “Jurassic World: The Ride,” an exciting water-based adventure with dinosaurs.

Stop 04: Lower Lot Attractions

Head down to the Lower Lot and experience adrenaline-pumping rides like “Transformers: The Ride 3D” and “The Revenge of the Mummy.”

Check showtimes for “WaterWorld” and catch this action-packed live show.

Stop 05: Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Head back to the Upper Lot and join the Minions for a hilarious 3D adventure in “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.”

Stop 06: The Simpsons Ride

Immerse yourself in Springfield and enjoy the hilarious ride “The Simpsons Ride.”

Take some time to explore the shops and pick up souvenirs. Grab a snack or treat from the numerous carts and kiosks throughout the park.

Stop 07: Special Effects Show

Don’t miss the “Special Effects Show,” where you’ll learn the secrets behind movie magic and practical effects.

Stop 08: Nighttime Entertainment

Stay for the park’s nighttime entertainment. This may include spectacular shows, parades, or special events depending on the season.

After an exciting day of movie-themed adventures, it’s time to bid farewell to Universal Studios Hollywood.

Take one last look at the iconic Universal globe as you exit the park.

Universal Studios Hollywood 2-day itinerary

Here’s a suggested 2-day itinerary for Universal Studios Hollywood to fully immerse yourself in the movie magic and enjoy the park’s many attractions and experiences:

Day 1

Arrive at the park early to start your day filled with entertainment and adventure.

If you are a Universal Express Pass or Annual Pass holder, you can get early access to the park.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Start your day by heading straight to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Experience the thrilling “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” ride, wander through Hogsmeade, and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Three Broomsticks.

Studio Tour

After visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, embark on the Studio Tour to explore iconic movie sets and see behind-the-scenes magic.

Get some lunch at Universal CityWalk and take a break from the park; you’ll find various restaurants and eateries to choose from.

Lower Lot Attractions

Head down to the Lower Lot and experience action-packed rides like “Transformers: The Ride 3D” and “Jurassic World: The Ride.”

WaterWorld

Catch the “WaterWorld” live show, known for its thrilling stunts and special effects.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Return to the Upper Lot and join the Minions for a hilarious 3D adventure in “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.”

The Simpsons Ride

Immerse yourself in Springfield and enjoy the hilarious ride “The Simpsons Ride.”

Special Effects Show

Don’t miss the “Special Effects Show,” where you’ll learn the secrets behind movie magic and practical effects.

Day 2

You can choose to arrive early or leisurely! But we recommend you arrive early to make the most of your second day in the park.

Universal Animal Actors

Attend the “Universal Animal Actors” show, featuring talented animals from Hollywood movies.

You must get lunch at Universal Studios Hollywood. Enjoy lunch inside the park at one of the quick-service or full-service restaurants.

The Walking Dead Attraction

Experience the intense “The Walking Dead” attraction for a chilling encounter with zombies.

DreamWorks Theatre

Catch a 4D movie adventure at the DreamWorks Theatre, showcasing characters like Kung Fu Panda or Shrek (depending on current shows).

Shopping and Souvenirs

Explore the shops and pick up souvenirs to remember your trip.

Nighttime Entertainment

Stay for the park’s nighttime entertainment, including shows, parades, or special events.

Take final photos and soak in the atmosphere before bidding farewell to Universal Studios Hollywood.

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FAQs

1. What time does Universal Studios Start?

Generally, Universal Studios Hollywood’s opening hours start from 9 am in the summer and 10 am during spring!

2. What time do the gates open at Universal Studios Hollywood?

The gates to Universal Studios Hollywood open typically at 9 am in the morning!

3. Does Universal Studios Hollywood let you in early?

Early Park Admission begins thirty minutes prior to the Universal Studios Hollywood opening time.

It is also subject to availability, cancellation and change.

4. Can you do Universal Studios in 1 day?

Yes, you can visit Universal Studios in one day! It has got something for every one of us!

You must prioritize your wishes and try things depending on the time availability!

5. What is the least busy day at Universal Studios Hollywood?

The least busy days at Universal Studios Hollywood typically fall on weekdays, specifically Tuesdays through Thursdays, outside of major holidays and school breaks.

If you want to visit the park with fewer crowds, aim for these midweek days during non-peak seasons.

6. How to avoid long lines at Universal Studios Hollywood?

The best way to avoid lines at Universal Studios Hollywood is by booking your entrance tickets online!

The Universal Studio Hollywood express pass and VIP pass help you skip all the waiting lines at the entrance and the rides.

7. Is Universal less busy than Disney?

Both Universal Studios Hollywood and Disney parks have popular attractions that draw large crowds, over a few million people each year.

8. What is a peak day at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Saturdays and Sundays can be busy at the park, especially during the warmer months and popular vacation periods.

Major holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Easter, and the Fourth of July are typically peak days at the park.