Universal Studio Tour (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Universal Studio Tour?
What makes it 85% Kids-Friendly: Kids under 12 love moving tram, water splashes, and surprise effects; no height limit, so whole family boards. Some scenes loud, so supervise and use ear protection if needed.
Positives:
- Family-friendly services: Free child-switch program and baby care rooms keep younger kids comfortable.
- Immersive experiences: 3D scenes and live guides create real movie magic for all ages.
- On-site dining: Themed eateries offer kid favorites like pizza, burgers, and ice cream.
Challenges:
- Height restrictions: Jurassic World requires 42" height and Forbidden Journey may be too intense for younger children.
- Long lines: Popular rides can have waits over 60 minutes, especially midday on weekends.
- Weather exposure: Much of the park is outdoors, so sun and heat can tire out younger kids.
What is Universal Studio Tour?
- A tram-based attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood that traverses the studio’s working backlot sets
- A guided journey through authentic film and television locations, soundstages, and production facilities
- A showcase of specialty effects and backlot craftsmanship, highlighting both historical facades and modern set constructions
What is so special about Universal Studio Tour for with kids?
- Real tram tour through famous movie sets with live guide and 3D effects.
- Kid-focused attractions like Minion Mayhem and Kung Fu Panda 4D show.
- Splash adventure on Jurassic World ride thrills older children.
- Themed dining and play zones let younger kids rest and refuel.
- Services like child switch, nursing rooms, and stroller rentals ease family logistics.
Recommended visit duration: 3-5 hours
Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 3–5 hour visit lets your family enjoy the tram tour plus top kid-friendly rides without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Universal Studio Tour
Studio Tram Tour:
60-minute open-air tram ride through real movie sets with live guide and 3D scenes like King Kong 360-3D and Earthquake.
Tip: Request front-row seats for best views and bring sunscreen.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem:
3D motion simulator that turns riders into Minions in Gru’s lab.
Tip: Visit Super Silly Fun Land afterward for water play and snacks.
Jurassic World – The Ride:
Water-based shoot-the-chute adventure ending in a T. rex encounter.
Tip: Kids must be 42" tall; bring a light poncho for splashes.
DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda:
4D motion show with wind, water effects, and projection mapping.
Tip: Sit center for the best visuals and arrive early to secure seats.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter:
Stroll through Hogsmeade, sample Butterbeer, and ride Forbidden Journey.
Tip: Try a frozen Butterbeer in the afternoon to cool off.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Universal Studio Tour
- Buy tickets online: Purchase 1-day tickets in advance on the official site to skip ticket lines.
- Use Child Switch: Take turns on restricted rides without extra waits using the free child-switch program.
- Download the app: Check real-time wait times, show schedules, and mobile order food via the Universal Studios Hollywood app.
Reviews of Universal Studio Tour
Ruben Wences
Oct. is the time to go, little to no wait on all the rides. The shows were the best part. Very entertaining.
Cinthya Trahyn
LOVED this Tour, cause it takes to several filming locations including Jaws, King Kong, Flood scene, airplane crash etc. You Will enjoy it!
TheRealJoshCall
Waiting most of my life to go on this tour. Having historical context, working sets, essentially four rides in one with Earthquake, King Kong, Jaws, as well as the tour itself. It’s worth the wait. Seeing sets from some of my favorite films was very exciting. Very Hollywood thematic tones as well. Very much played up to a great Universal experience. Would give this tour a five star as I’m so ...
N C.
Been to Universal many times but never did the Studio tour. Great opportunity to rest your feet for about 45 mins to an hour. Also a great opportunity to take a look and see the behind the scenes of how they create special effects.
Rocky Barredo
The universal tour was okay. I love the crushed airplane site and the jaws. It would have been nice more detail it felt like. In some areas, he was trying to fill in space to make the tour a little longer more interesting cause in between some attractions, it was pretty boring for the universal tour on the bus. Understand you have to be quiet cause there could be recording. But it would be nice ...
When is the best time to visit Universal Studio Tour (Los Angeles, United States)?
Summer weekends get hot and crowded. Bring refillable water bottles, apply sunscreen, and cool off in indoor shows. Visit on weekdays or off-peak months (Jan–Mar) for shorter lines and milder weather.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 4 × 1-day general admission tickets | USD 420 |
| Meals and snacks | USD 100 |
| Stroller rental | USD 25 |
| Souvenirs | USD 60 |
| Total Estimated | USD 605 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Universal Studio Tour
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, USA
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About Universal Studio Tour
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
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+1 800-864-8377Average price
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