Best Family Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood
A working movie studio and theme park in one, with the Wizarding World, Studio Tour, and Hollywood's best family rides.
Universal Studios Hollywood is both a working film studio and a world-class theme park. The famous Studio Tour takes families behind the scenes of actual movie sets, while thrill rides based on Jurassic World, Transformers, and Harry Potter deliver unforgettable experiences.
As a single-park destination, it's more manageable for families than multi-park resorts. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the new attractions keep the park fresh and exciting year after year.
Top Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood
Ranked by proximity and Family Score — the closest, highest-rated family hotels.
Family Tips
Best Time to Visit
January through March and September through November offer the best weather and lowest crowds. Summer is peak season with long wait times and higher prices.
Save Money
- ✓The park can be done in one day, saving you multi-day ticket costs.
- ✓CityWalk restaurants often have better value than in-park dining options.
- ✓Buy tickets online in advance for discounts versus gate pricing.
What to Pack
- •Sunscreen — LA sun is strong even on overcast days
- •Layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons
- •Comfortable walking shoes
- •Hats and sunglasses for sun protection
Sample Itineraries
Plan your family trip with our day-by-day guides.
Day 1: Universal Studios
Wizarding World and Forbidden Journey at opening.
Studio Tour and lower lot rides.
CityWalk dining.
Pro Tip: Start on the lower lot — it's harder to get to later when crowds build.
Day 2: Hollywood & Museums
Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Sign hike.
Natural History Museum or La Brea Tar Pits.
Hollywood Boulevard walk.
Pro Tip: The Bronson Canyon trail to the Hollywood Sign is the most family-friendly route.
Day 3: Beach Day
Head to Santa Monica Pier for rides and the beach.
Venice Beach boardwalk and Muscle Beach.
Sunset dinner at a Santa Monica restaurant.
Pro Tip: Santa Monica Pier is about 30 minutes from Universal with light traffic.
What Families Are Saying
“Will definitely come back I am enjoying a nice family vacation at Universal Studios Hollywood here on Ventura Boulevard right next to the 101 S”
“I will definitely be back to stay the next time I bring my family down to visit LA and Universal Studios Hollywood”
“We chose this Hotel due to it's proximity to Universal Studios Hollywood but we will be returning in October again for a long weekend just to enjoy the Garland and its amenities and fantastic Staff”
“We chose this Hotel due to it's proximity to Universal Studios Hollywood but we will be returning in October again for a long weekend just to enjoy the Garland and its amenities and fantastic Staff”
“Doorstep delvery ftom Fratelli's Pizza was also such a lovely thing after a long day of walking at Universal Studios Hollywood”
“It’s an excellent location for getting over to Universal Studios Hollywood as it’s just a 10 minute walk away and it is also easy to drive from the hotel to other locations like the LA Zoo, etc”
“It had a great view of and was in easy walking distance to Universal Studios Hollywood (but also had a convenient shuttle that ran constantly)”
“Very great location to Universal Studios Hollywood and City Walk”
“The hotel is just a short walk to Universal Studios Hollywood—super convenient and perfect for park visitors”
Age Guide
Toddlers (0-3)
Super Silly Fun Land has gentle rides perfect for toddlers. The Studio Tour is fascinating for all ages from the tram.
Young Kids (4-7)
The Wizarding World, Despicable Me, and Secret Life of Pets ride are huge hits with young kids.
Older Kids (8-12)
Jurassic World, Transformers, and the Mummy rides deliver great thrills for the 8-12 age group.
Teens (13-17)
The Studio Tour's behind-the-scenes movie magic is uniquely appealing. CityWalk offers teen-friendly shops and restaurants.
Practical Information
Parking
General parking starts at $30. Preferred parking is $50 and front gate parking is $70. Carpooling saves on costs.
Hours
Typically 9am-7pm on weekdays and 9am-10pm on weekends. Extended hours during summer and holidays.
Ticket Tips
Single-day General Admission is often sufficient. Universal Express ($100+) eliminates most waits. After 2pm tickets are available at a discount.
Dining
Three Broomsticks in the Wizarding World is the best in-park option. Krusty Burger in Springfield is fun and affordable.
Accessibility
Fully ADA accessible. Wheelchair rental available. Guest Services provides accessibility information for each attraction.
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