Universal Studios Hollywood 2025: Travel Guide – Rides, Tips, Where to Stay and Exciting Updates

Universal Studios Hollywood is always evolving, and 2025 brings even more exciting updates, must-ride attractions, and fun filled experiences! I was lucky enough to explore it all thanks to Get Away Today, who hosted me, and now I’m sharing my best tips and tricks to help you plan the perfect visit. From choosing where to stay to maximizing your time at the park, this guide has everything you need to know before you go!

How Many Hours or Days Do I Need to Enjoy Universal Studios Hollywood in 2025?

Planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood in 2025? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, you might be wondering: How many days do you really need to experience everything this incredible theme park has to offer? The answer depends on your travel style, but for most guests, one full day is enough to enjoy the park’s biggest attractions, shows, and entertainment. However, if you want to take your time, or visit during a busy season like summer, holidays or weekends, then adding a second day is a great option and what I would recommend– otherwise it is likely encounter longer wait times for rides and attractions.

For the best experience, here are some tips and recommendations to make the most of your time at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2025:

Arriving at park opening and heading straight to the more popular rides can save you hours in line if you do not wish to purchase a Universal Express Pass!

A Universal Express Pass can help you skip the regular lines, saving you hours throughout the day. If you’re a big movie fan or want to take your time exploring areas like Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the World-Famous Studio Tour, consider a two-day visit for a more relaxed experience. Another key factor is whether you want to enjoy Universal CityWalk after the park closes. Universal CityWalk Hollywood is the perfect place to unwind with delicious restaurants, unique shops, and live entertainment. Grab a bite at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen™, enjoy the famous Voodoo Doughnut, or pick up souvenirs at the massive Universal Studios Store™.

How Many Rides Are there at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2025?

Universal Studios Hollywood 2025 features more than 10 major rides, plus live shows, interactive experiences, and character meet-and-greets. Some of the most popular attractions include Jurassic World – The Ride, where you come face-to-face with a massive Indominus Rex, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which takes you through Hogwarts Castle on a thrilling, immersive adventure. The park’s newest addition, Super Nintendo World, features Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, an interactive ride that brings the beloved video game to life. In addition to rides, Universal also offers incredible live shows like WaterWorld, a high-energy stunt spectacular.

Fast & Furious– Supercharged on the Studio Tour: A Final Farewell

One of the biggest changes at Universal Studios Hollywood is the recent retirement of its Fast & Furious segment on the legendary Studio Tour that opened back in 2015. The final day for this feature was March 10, 2025, so it was nice that I was able to experience it one last time before it closed!

What Was the Fast & Furious Segment in Universal Studios Hollywood?

• High-Octane Immersion: Guests aboard this ride would have experienced a simulated high-speed chase sequence featuring well known and loved characters from the Fast & Furious franchise (i.e, Vin Disel known as Toreto, Dwayne the Rock Johnson as Luke Hobbs , Michelle Rodriguez as Letty, and Tyrese Gibson as Roman Pierce) that combined special effects like wind blasts, vibrations, and roaring engines, physical sets, 3D technology, meant to make you feel immersed into the action.
• This attraction was accessible via the Studio Tour and the reviews for this attraction from what I’ve seen and heard from fans was truthfully mixed. I personally think that with today’s currently technology this ride could have used some updates and TLC which is why I ultimately believe Universal themselves decided to retire it and will soon be giving us major Hollywood thrills with a fast and furious coaster!

Will there be a replacement attraction for the Fast and Furious in Universal Studios Hollywood?

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is set to bring high-speed thrills to Universal Studios Hollywood in 2026, immersing guests in the heart-pounding action of the Fast & Furious universe. Announced in May 2024, Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift can be described as a cutting-edge rollercoaster that will feature 360-degree rotating ride vehicles, simulating the adrenaline-fueled sensation of drifting at extreme speeds. Riders will launch from a garage-style queue, boarding film-inspired cars before racing along an elevated track weaving through the park’s Upper Lot. Engineered with sound reduction technology, this attraction promises a smooth yet exhilarating ride experience according to Universal Studios. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the franchise or a thrill-seeker looking for the next big coaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is sounds like it is shaping up to be a must-ride experience at Universal Studios Hollywood. Stay tuned for updates as the 2026 opening approaches!

Super Nintendo World: A New Level of Fun

A major highlight at Universal Studios Hollywood is Super Nintendo World, which opened two years ago now in 2023. As a lifelong Mario fan, I couldn’t wait to step into this vibrant realm of course I was there when they first opened the land. Here are some picture from my most recent trip in 2025.

What can I experience over at Super Nintendo World?

• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: This attraction is a fan favorite for a reason! It uses augmented reality (AR) alongside a go-kart style track, where your goal is to throw shells at virtual opponents and zoom through iconic Mario-themed environments. Out of respect to other guests and Universal Studios Hollywood I did not take any video or pictures of the inside of the attraction. Besides, I wouldn’t want to spoil the fun and magic of you getting to experience it!

• Enjoy Interactive Activities: For those of you who grew up playing many of the games from Super Nintendo (like myself), Universal Studios offers you the option of purchasing Power-Up Bands! These are not included in you admissions ticket but if you plan on spending a majority of your time here or revisiting often I believe it is a worthwhile purchase. With the Power-Up Bands you get to collecting digital coins and the more you earn you can then unlock other specialty mini-games scattered throughout the area in hopes of defeating Bowser.

• What are the types of dining experiences and merchandise available?: If you’re asking strictly about Super Nintendo World you should consider swinging by Toadstool Cafe (a sit down restaurant)! The atmosphere is extremely playful with the storyline of Chef Toad creating a variety of foods for guests to enjoy like whimsical mushroom-inspired dishes. Meanwhile you get to watch some magical scenery of the Mushroom Kingdom through the display windows inside the restaurant. And in case you’re wondering, they do offer guests some gluten-free and vegetarian options. Keep in mind that this is a popular dining location so I do recommend getting there as soon as possible to join their queue to reserve your time slot to return. You can scan the QR code they have near entrances to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ and Toadstool Cafe.

• Consider stopping by the Power Up Cafe (a quick dining service) where you can grab some specialty snacks and drinks which is located in the production plaza. Some of their more popular drink options that are both gluten and vegan free include: Super Mushroom Fizz, Fire Flower Fizz, 1-Up Mushroom Fizz and Super Star Fizz. With each of these drinks you get a power up that you are supposed to drop into your drink which will then change the flavor and color! They also sell some fun popcorn buckets and sippers and mobile order is available at this location.

• Remember no day is complete without stopping by to shop at the 1-Up Factory for Nintendo gear like apparel, toys, souvenirs, collectibles and gifts for your loved ones! You can find this shop in the lower lot of Universal Studios in Super Nintendo World.

When is the best time to visit Super Nintendo World?

Anytime you visit here you’re in for some fun! But if you’re wanting to experience less crowds, you might want to consider booking your trip during a weekday during non-peak seasons (like major holidays and summer weekends). Also if your priority is to spend the most time in this land, try heading there first thing in the morning.

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Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade

Step into the magic of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade and experience the ultimate Harry Potter adventure! Seeing the Hogwarts Castle up close and personal is a sight to behold! It’s so immersive and you’ll feel transported into this iconic Wizarding World.

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Hogwarts, now’s your chance! At The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Hollywood, you can stroll through Hogsmeade, explore the towering Hogwarts Castle, and experience the magic firsthand. Take a piece of the magic with you, and stop by Honeydukes for some sweets and Ollivanders so you can later cast spells throughout the village and see it come to life, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, this magical destination is an unforgettable experience!

READ: How to Plan a Disney World Trip on a Budget!

What can I experience when spending time in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter over at Universal Studios Hollywood?

• Starting with attractions, Universal Studios has Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey! This is a state-of-the-art dark ride featuring a journey through Hogwarts Castle and the grounds like the Whomping Willow, complete with appearances by your favorite characters which do include Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Professor Dumbledore and other mystical creatures like the Dragons, Acromantula (a.k.a. giant spiders) and Dementors to name a few.
• If you’re traveling with little ones, the attraction of Flight of the Hippogriff will undoubtedly catch their eye. It’s a family-friendly outdoor coaster that takes you in for a brief swoop around Hagrid’s hut. The coaster doesn’t feel fast at all and feels ideal for little ones in my opinion but of course you know your child best so talk about it with them first before riding if they have any concerns. Also Keep in mind that there is a height requirement for this one so be sure to check it before promising them they can ride.
• If you’re looking for a stellar dining experience, you’ve got to stop by The Three Broomsticks restaurant. Here they serves a variety of British-inspired dishes, like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. And if you’re traveling with a bigger party I do recommend you purchase what they call “The Great Feast” where you can select the option of “chicken and ribs, corn on the cob, fresh vegetables and roasted potatoes”. It is enough to feed about four people I’d say.

• While you’re in Hogsmeade you definitely ought to enjoy a nice cold Butterbeer! It’s up for debate on whether hot, cold or frozen Butterbeer is the best but if you’re asking me buy yourself a FROZEN Butterbeer and you won’t regret it! And if your visiting anytime from now March through May 2025 take advantage of Butterbeer season where you can get some new merch collectibles and limited time treat.

Popular Attractions and Must-Sees at Universal Studios Hollywood

There are plenty of attractions and shows for you to experience when visiting Universal Studios Hollywood which include

Jurassic World – The Ride

Here you can immerse yourself in a jungle ecosystem full of dinosaurs like a Mosasaurus and a Stegosaurus! Fair warning, you’ll hang on tight because the Indominous Rex has escaped and she is on the hunt and you’ll have to make your way out! The technology that is used to bring this attraction to life is incredible and it will feel as if you’ve stepped into a Jurassic World. This is a water based attraction so you will more than likely end up wet!

If you’re still craving more interactions with dinosaurs make sure to take some time to explore Raptor Encounters. Here you’ll get a chance to spend sometime with a raptor handler who will explain all you need to know about these fascinating dinosaurs! Make sure to have your cameras ready for some fun photo ops with Velociraptor Blue!

And if you’re looking for some awesome dino merch, make sure you stop by Jurassic Outfitters for that perfect souvenir to commemorate your trip to Universal!

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

Step into the world of The Secret Life of Pets and go on an exciting adventure with Max, Duke, and their furry friends! Off the Leash is a family-friendly dark ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, where guests become stray puppies searching for their forever homes. With lifelike animatronics, colorful sets, and fun surprises, this ride feels just like stepping into the movie. Ride in a pet adoption box and explore the busy streets of New York, meeting familiar characters along the way. This interactive and heartwarming ride is perfect for kids, families, and animal lovers!

READ: Is a Disney VIP Tour Worth It? Uncover the Ultimate Guide Here with the Costs, Perks, Insider Tips & more!

Transformers™: The Ride-3D

Get ready for an epic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons on Transformers™: The Ride-3D! This high-speed motion simulator takes you right into the action as you team up with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee to save Earth. Using amazing 3D visuals, flight simulation, and real-world special effects, this ride makes you feel like you’re actually in a Transformers movie. Ride inside EVAC, a brave Autobot, as you zoom through explosions, dodge enemy attacks, and fight against Megatron. If you love thrilling rides and action-packed adventures, this is a fun attraction you won’t want to miss at Universal Studios Hollywood!

Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride

Are you brave enough to face the curse of Imhotep? Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride is a fast indoor rollercoaster that takes you deep into an ancient tomb filled with treasure, traps, and terrifying surprises. Riders launch forward at high speeds, drop into darkness, and even race backward as they try to escape the Mummy’s curse. With spooky special effects, sudden turns, and intense thrills, this ride is perfect for fans of fast rollercoasters and scary adventures at Universal Studios Hollywood!

The World-Famous Studio Tour

The Studio Tour is a tram ride that remains a hallmark of Universal Studios Hollywood, offering behind-the-scenes views of working sets, classic movie history, back lot sets from Jaws, the infamous Bates Motel from Psycho, seeing the wreckage from War of the Worlds, and other special effects experiences and soundstages like King Kong 360 3-D. With fun stories from expert tour guides it a fun experience for movie lovers and theme park fans alike!

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Join Gru, the Minions, and your favorite characters from Despicable Me on a wacky, laugh-out-loud adventure! Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is a fun motion simulator ride where guests get “turned into Minions” and go through Gru’s crazy training course. Expect bouncing, spinning, and lots of hilarious Minion chaos along the way! With colorful animation, silly humor, and exciting action, this family-friendly ride is a must-do for Minion fans and anyone looking for a fun, lighthearted experience at Universal Studios Hollywood!

Kung Fu Panda Adventure

Join Po and his friends on an 4D adventure in Kung Fu Panda Adventure! This immersive theater experience at Universal Studios Hollywood brings the world of Kung Fu Panda to life with huge screens, moving seats, and special effects like wind, water, and vibrations. Follow Po on a legendary journey filled with action and comedy that the little ones are sure to enjoy.

What is an Express Pass at Universal Studios and is it worth it?

If you want to minimize wait times or enjoy a behind-the-scenes look with a guided tour, Universal Express could be a great investment—especially on busier days. What the Express Pass does is drastically lower the time you wait in the regular standby lines for most rides, shows, and attractions. This express pass is a great option if you’re looking to maximize your day and while making sure to check off some of top attractions like Jurassic World – The Ride, Revenge of The Mummy, Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey to name a few. This pass is especially valuable on busy days when wait times soar. Whether it’s right for you depends on your budget and crowd expectations. To lock in the best deals for Universal Studios tickets, book through Get Away Today for exclusive savings and flexible options!

Are there height restrictions for the rides?

Yes, at Universal Studios Hollywood they do have height requirements for all major rides to ensure guest safety. Family-friendly rides like The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash have a minimum height requirement of 34 inches, making it perfect for younger guests. However, more intense attractions like Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride require guests to be at least 48 inches tall due to the high-speed drops and sudden stops. One of the most popular attractions, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, has a minimum height requirement of 48 inches, while Jurassic World – The Ride requires guests to be at least 42 inches tall. If you’re traveling with little ones, be sure to check height restrictions in advance using the Universal Studios Hollywood app, which also provides wait times, mobile food ordering, and a digital map to make navigating the park easier.

Where can I book a nearby hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood?

Holiday Inn Express North Hollywood – Affordable, Modern, and Convenient

If you’re looking for a modern, budget-friendly hotel near Universal Studios Hollywood, the Holiday Inn Express North Hollywood is a top pick for many travelers! Located just 3.5 miles from Universal Studios Hollywood, this stylish hotel features a rooftop pool with city views, a free daily breakfast buffet, and spacious, newly renovated rooms designed for ultimate comfort. What makes this hotel stand out? Its easy access to the Metro Red Line, which takes you straight to Universal Studios and Hollywood’s biggest attractions without the hassle of driving! Plus, with free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, and a business center, you’ll have everything you need for a stress-free vacation. Book your Universal Studios trip with Get Away Today and enjoy exclusive hotel discounts and big savings on park tickets!

Coast Burbank Hotel – Stylish Comfort with Free Universal Shuttle

The Coast Burbank Hotel – This hotel is also 3.5 miles away from Universal Studios and has a complimentary shuttle service to and from Warner brothers studio, universal studios and Hollywood Burbank airport with reservations required. You can also enjoy dining at Olive’s Bistro and Lounge on this property. This hotel is considered moderate value.

For a boutique-style hotel near Universal Studios Hollywood, check out the Coast Burbank Hotel! Just 3.5 miles from the park, this recently updated hotel features a full-service restaurant and bar, a relaxing outdoor pool, and a free shuttle to Universal Studios, making your trip hassle-free. What makes this hotel a standout? It’s located in Burbank’s Media District, close to Warner Bros. Studios, and other great shopping and dining options. Whether you’re visiting Universal, taking the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, or exploring Hollywood, this hotel is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

The Garland – A Retro-Chic Resort Near Universal Studios & Top LA Attractions

The Garland – Only 1.3 miles from Universal Studios Hollywood and has a complimentary shuttle to and from Universal Studios Hollywood, Warner Bros. Studio and the Burbank Airport. Hotel offers on-site dining and more.

This retro-inspired property features spacious rooms with private balconies, a heated outdoor pool, a fire pit lounge, and a complimentary trolley to Universal Studios. What sets this hotel apart? Its award-winning restaurant, The Front Yard, serves breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner and has a vegan friendly menu! Plus, its prime location puts you just minutes from Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Bowl, and Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive for luxury shopping. If you want a relaxing, stylish retreat with easy access to LA’s top attractions, this is the hotel for you! And if you’re looking for a pet friendly hotel they’ve also got you covered here! Book now with Get Away Today for VIP perks and Universal Studios vacation savings!

Booking Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets

If you’re planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, Get Away Today can help you secure discounted tickets. They often run special promos like “Adults at Kids’ Prices” or multi-day passes. Check out the latest deals here on my website or give them a call at 855-GET-AWAY and mention Angie’s Magical Style sent you so they can apply another bonus code when booking to help you save more on your magical vacation!

Final Thoughts

Universal Studios Hollywood offers a mix of thrill rides, family-friendly attractions, and Hollywood-style entertainment. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed rides or looking to immerse yourself in the world of movies, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit destination for movie lovers, families, and thrill-seekers alike! 🎬✨

Ready to plan your visit? Don’t forget to check out Get Away Today for those discounted tickets, special packages, and hassle-free booking. Enjoy the thrilling rides, soak in the Hollywood vibe, and make those epic memories!