Universal Studios Hollywood: How the Star-Struck Save

Universal Studios Discount Tickets Roundup & Review

When people come to Southern California, they typically want to know about the stars — where are they, how can we see them out and about. Whether  you’re visiting or live in Los Angeles, sometimes it’s fun to play tourist in the heart of Hollywood.

While it isn’t all that easy to rub shoulders with Hollywood celebrities on a moment’s notice. there is an attraction for that: Universal Studios Hollywood, the film studio and theme park in Los Angeles, one of the most visited attractions in the SoCal area.

SAVVY TIP: Skip down to save on tickets and find hotels near Universal Studios

Grab some cheap sunglasses and head to the new movie sets at Universal Studios Hollywood

At Universal Studios Hollywood, you can see how and where your favorite movie and TV stars work, how movies are made, all the behind the scenes stuff that goes into Hollywood blockbusters.

The original idea for Universal Studios Hollywood was to provide tours so people could experience the real Universal Studios movie sets. You can go behind the scenes  by taking the studio tour.

Along with the movie tours, we liked the shows and especially the movie-themed rides and attractions, especially the Transformers Ride-3D. and the Waterworld ride.

Tips for Visiting Universal’s Wizarding Word of Harry Potter

My favorite attraction at Universal Hollywood is the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter. If you haven’t been to Universal, it may be time for a second look. Here’s what you need to know to go the savvy way.

Go to to Hogwarts Castle First

For the Forbidden Journey dark ride, of course. Get there really early if you can for the shortest possible line. As the train conductor invites you into this magical world, and the snow-capped set and Scottish shops beckon, stay focused and walk directly to Hogwarts’ Forbidden Journey (plenty of time to shop and browse later).

This place is a huge movie set, from script to screen, so enjoy the sights as you stand in line. You are in Hogwarts, so don’t forget to look around. Everything — from lamp posts to door knobs to rooftops — is part of the experience.

Put on the 3D Quidditch Goggles and Go

There’s a reason the Forbidden Journey ride won the Golden Ticket award for Best Dark Ride not once but five years in a row.) Don’t eat first. Be very afraid.

Rinse and Repeat

Traveling sans tots? Head to the shorter”singles” line and go again. If you have kids that can’t go it along, you’ll have to use the longer main line.

Skip the Flight of the Hippogriff Coaster and Ollivanders’ Wand Show

Just my opinion maybe, but the family rollercoaster is kind of a snooze, and the wand show is a long let down (much quicker to just pick out your own wand at the shop). Your littlest wizards might disagree with me. Your choice, of course.

Head over to Hogsmeade Village

The gift shops and Harry Potter-themed souvenirs in this part of the park are really fun. Candy, cool games, and magical mementos are even better with a butterbeer. The detail in this place is delightful, so don’t forget to have a good look around.

Then consider stopping for a propper British lunch at the Three Broomsticks.

Here’s an updated roundup of ticket deals. Universal Studios discount tickets that not only help you save on each daily ticket, but can get Front-of-Line access at each ride and attraction, and priority seating at each show, now, during peak season, depending on which offer you choose.

The front-of-the-line deals are a savvy choice for peak days at the park because you get priority access to all rides and reserved seating for all shows. And you won’t need a coupon or promo code for any of these discounts.

Other Ways to Save at Universal Studios

Student Discount

California college students, faculty, and staff at many California can get a discount on Universal Hollywood tickets and annual passes. Check with your college or university for instructions on how to redeem the deal since they all have different rules.

Military Discount

Active and retired US Military, DOD personnel, National Guard, Reservists and their dependents can get $3 off general admission Universal Hollywood tickets at the gates, with ID. Even better, get tickets in advance from MWR/ITT offices for a higher percent off.

AAA Discount

American Automobile Association and the Canadian Automobile Association members can get $3 off at the gate. Or check for the occasional off-season online discounts on the AAA.com website.

Once you’re at Universal Studios, showing your AAA membership card may get you a 10% discount on food and beverages at many park and CityWalk locations.

Costco Discount

SoCal Costco stores sometimes have discounted Universal Hollywood tickets. They don’t always have them, but when they do they are good deals.  from time to time. If you order them on the Costco website, you’ll pay a shipping charge, plus an extra 5% if you’re not a Costco member.

Hotel Deals Near Universal Studios Hollywood

I always check the Vacation Packages first. This source lets you choose from 57 available hotels and you get Universal Studios Hollywood 1-Day General Admission Universal Express tickets with the package. Plus you can go straight to the gate (no ticket lines).

Closest hotels

1. Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City – < 1mi
2. Sheraton Universal Hotel – < 1mi
3. Tilt Hotel Universal/Hollywood an Ascend Hotel Collection Member – < 1mi
4. The BLVD Hotel and Spa – Studio City – < 1mi
5. Oakwood Toluca Hills – < 1mi
6. The Garland – 1.07mi
7. Best Western Plus Media Center Inn & Suites – 1.14mi

Know Before You Go

Ticket Deals

See my Universal Studios discount tickets review (above) for the best available Universal Studios special offers and coupon codes.

Hotels near Universal Studios

I found the lowest rate here on Hotels.com for nearby hotels when we went, but check your favorite booking sites.

Address

Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608.

Parking

Prices on site, last checked, are General Parking $18, Preferred Parking $25, Front Gate Parking $35. After 5pm General Parking $10, Preferred $20, Front Gate $30.

Official Info

For attraction details see universalstudioshollywood.com (for the best deals, see offer websites above).