Universal Studios Hollywood (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Universal Studios Hollywood?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: Single-rider lines reduce waiting, thrill rides and the studio tram tour fill a whole day, and clear signs plus lockers make an organized, low-stress visit for a person traveling alone.
Positives:
- Compact Single-Rider Options: Several major rides offer single-rider lines that slash wait times.
- Free Lockers: Lockers near key attractions let you stash your bag at no cost.
- Mobile App Live Data: Official app displays real-time wait times and show schedules.
Challenges:
- Peak Crowd Levels: Weekends and holidays can have two-hour waits even with single rider.
- Park Layout: Upper and Lower Lots connect via a steep escalator; allow extra travel time.
- Event Closures: Some rides close early for special events; check daily schedules.
What is Universal Studios Hollywood?
- A working film and television studio situated on the historic Universal backlot in Hollywood, Los Angeles
- A sprawling complex combining active production facilities, soundstages, and purpose-built themed sets
- A property of NBCUniversal–Comcast that integrates operational studio space with public-facing areas
What is so special about Universal Studios Hollywood for solo trip?
- Experience iconic Studio Tour tram ride solo.
- Slash waits with single-rider queues on major attractions.
- Explore Wizarding World and Super Nintendo lands at your pace.
- Enjoy live shows and stunts without coordinating a group.
- Plan with the mobile app for smoother navigation.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 days
Why 1-2 days visit duration is ideal for solo trip: One full day lets you hit key rides; two days means no rush and you can explore CityWalk.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Universal Studios Hollywood
Studio Tour:
Ride the tram through real sets and movie scenes.
Tip: Use the front rows for best views and cool indoor show segments.
Single-Rider Lines:
Skip lines on select rides like Jurassic World and Transformers.
Tip: Join single-rider queues to cut wait times by up to 50%.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter:
Stroll Hogsmeade, see Hogwarts Castle, and ride Forbidden Journey.
Tip: Use single-rider entry and grab Butterbeer during off-peak hours.
Super Nintendo World:
Race on Mario Kart and collect virtual coins around the land.
Tip: Check the app for low-wait windows, usually mid-afternoon.
WaterWorld Stunt Show:
Watch live jet-ski and pyrotechnic stunts.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early; upper deck seats fill last and stay drier.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Universal Studios Hollywood
- Arrive at Rope Drop: Be at the entrance 30 minutes before opening to hit top rides first.
- Use Single-Rider Lines: Leverage single-rider entrances to maximize solo ride count.
- Off-Peak Dining: Eat lunch before 11:30am or after 2pm to dodge long lines.
- Download the App: Monitor wait times and reserve virtual lines where offered.
Reviews of Universal Studios Hollywood
Rachelle Perez
We went for my daughter's 17th birthday. She got a pin at guest services and got 1 complimentary express ride free for her birthday. That was something special they do and it made her happy. That day, the line for rides were very short, so waiting time was great. We ate at a Harry Potter restaurant and the food was delicious. The Butterbeer you must try. There's unique souvenirs to buy in each lan...
Angie A
We’re pass holders and went for HHN this year. We love taking the family out for a visit, nothing feels over crowded. Lots of food options, quick snacks and plenty of restrooms. Employees are always friendly and it’s all around a great time. Lines average from 30-90 minutes depending on the time of day and season of course. HHN was a ton of fun and worth the hype. We went on a Saturday and were ab...
Bec Maher
So much fun. We're usually a Disney family but have wanted to visit Universal for a while and finally got our chance. It was actually quite a welcome change from the crowds of Disneyland. It would get very busy of an afternoon, mainly because we visited on Halloween horror nights and the crowds would arrive for that, but we managed to ride everything and were able to time it so we had less than ha...
Mary Macias
What’s not to love about Universal Studios Hollywood? My kiddos prefer coming here and compared to Disneyland, for me, the cost is a game changer. We’ve had the annual pass for the past couple of years and it works for my fam of four. There are rides and attractions for all ages, an array of restaurants, snack carts, a few Star Buck locations as well. Their Universal Studios app is extremely usef...
Chavez Web Design, LLC
It was such a wonderful time. We had the opportunity to ride different attractions, like those from Mario, The Secret Life of Pets, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and The Studio Tour. The kids loved the tour, especially when we were inside the tunnel. The weather was a little hot, but snacking by the water park was perfect. The food was great. If you bring little kids, a stroller would save you so m...
When is the best time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood (Los Angeles, United States)?
During Halloween Horror Nights (Sep–Oct), buy separate tickets early. In summer, arrive before opening to beat the heat. Check the park calendar for seasonal showtimes.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| One-day park ticket | USD 79 |
| Quick-service meal | USD 20 |
| Universal Express Pass | USD 80 |
| Souvenir | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 199 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Universal Studios Hollywood
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, USA
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About Universal Studios Hollywood
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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