Lights, camera, action! Universal Studios Hollywood is a thrilling theme park built inside a working Hollywood film studio, packed with roller coasters, immersive lands, live stunt shows and real movie sets. There's so much to see and do that we always recommend giving yourself two days, so you can explore at a relaxed pace, catch every show and ride your favourites again (and again!).
Our handy two-day itinerary splits the park into one lot per day, so you'll spend less time on the escalators and more time having fun. Let's get started!
How should you spend 2 days at Universal Studios Hollywood?
The best way to spend two days at Universal Studios Hollywood is to explore one lot per day:
- On day one, start at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, take the Studio Tour mid-morning, then enjoy Springfield, Minion Land and WaterWorld in the afternoon, finishing with Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.
- On day two, head down the Starway to Super Nintendo World at opening, ride Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge, then enjoy Transformers, Revenge of the Mummy and Jurassic World before revisiting your favourites.
How many days should you spend at Universal Studios Hollywood?
You can enjoy the highlights of Universal Studios Hollywood in one day with a good plan, but we recommend two days for first-time visitors. A second day gives you time to enjoy every ride and show, explore Hogsmeade and Super Nintendo World at your own pace, and ride your favourites again without rushing. And with our Universal Studios Hollywood Buy a Day, Get a 2nd Day Free Ticket, your second day is on us!
Only have one day? Our guide on how to make the most of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood has a one-day route that fits in all the big highlights.
Your 2-day itinerary in one table
Time | Day 1: Upper Lot | Day 2: Lower Lot |
|---|---|---|
Early morning | Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff | Super Nintendo World (Early Access or park opening), Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge |
Mid-morning | The World-Famous Studio Tour | Power-Up Band Key Challenges, Transformers: The Ride-3D |
Late morning | Springfield and The Simpsons Ride | Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride, Jurassic World - The Ride (from 21 November 2026) |
Lunch | Three Broomsticks or Springfield | Toadstool Cafe |
Afternoon | Minion Land, The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!, DreamWorks Theatre, WaterWorld | Back up to the Upper Lot for favourites and any shows you missed |
Late afternoon | Ollivanders and the Hogsmeade shops | Second ride on Hollywood Drift or Forbidden Journey |
Evening | Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, then CityWalk | Dinner and a film at Universal CityWalk |
How is Universal Studios Hollywood laid out?
Universal Studios Hollywood is split into two areas, the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot, linked by the Starway, a chain of escalators running down the hillside. The park entrance is on the Upper Lot.
The Starway takes around 7 to 8 minutes on the escalators alone, so allow around 15 minutes door to door each way. That's why a two-day visit works so well, as you can spend each day on one lot and enjoy the views over the San Fernando Valley on the way down.
Upper Lot | Lower Lot |
|---|---|
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Super Nintendo World |
The Simpsons Ride and Springfield | Transformers: The Ride-3D |
Minion Land, including Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Super Silly Fun Land | Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride |
The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash! | Jurassic World - The Ride (from 21 November 2026) |
DreamWorks Theatre featuring Kung Fu Panda | |
WaterWorld | |
The World-Famous Studio Tour (departure point) | |
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift |
If you can't use the escalators, or you're travelling with a pushchair or wheelchair, there's a shuttle and an elevator between the Upper and Lower Lots. Team Members will happily point you in the right direction!
Day 1 at Universal Studios Hollywood: the Upper Lot
Our favourite theme park saying is "the early bird catches the worm!", and it's especially true at Universal Studios Hollywood. Aim to arrive around an hour before the park opens, so you have plenty of time to park, clear security and be ready to go.
Morning: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
If you're a Harry Potter fan (and who isn't?), start your two days at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It sits close to the park entrance, so it's the perfect first stop.
Head inside Hogwarts Castle for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, where you'll soar over the Quidditch pitch and through the Forbidden Forest with Harry, Ron and Hermione. The castle queue is a highlight in its own right, with talking portraits, Dumbledore's office and the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom along the way.
Next, hop on Flight of the Hippogriff, a fun family coaster that swoops past Hagrid's hut with views over the snowy rooftops of Hogsmeade. It's a lovely first coaster for little witches and wizards.
Our expert tip:
“Free lockers are available for loose items on Forbidden Journey. Keep your park ticket with you, as you'll need it to open your locker again!”
Save the shopping, Butterbeer and Ollivanders for later in the day, as you'll be coming back to Hogsmeade this afternoon.
Mid-morning: The World-Famous Studio Tour
Seeing as you're in Hollywood, it's time to get into the movies! The World-Famous Studio Tour is what makes Universal Studios Hollywood so special, taking you on a tram through real film sets and sound stages on a working studio backlot. It lasts around an hour, with Jimmy Fallon as your video host.
Look out for the Bates Motel from Psycho, Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives, the town square from Back to the Future, and the screen-used ship from Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, added in summer 2026. Along the way, you'll come face to face with King Kong 360 and Jaws, and you might even spot filming taking place!
The morning is the perfect time for the tour, as it's cooler and gives you a relaxing sit-down before lunch. The World-Famous Studio Tour also usually closes earlier than the rest of the park, so it's best not to leave it until late in the day.
Our expert tip:
“Want to go even further behind the scenes? The VIP Experience includes a guided tour with exclusive access to sound stages, the props warehouse and backlot areas that aren't open to other guests, plus a gourmet lunch and unlimited priority access to the rides.”
Our guide to the film and TV sets you can explore at Universal Studios Hollywood has more behind-the-scenes highlights.
Late morning: Springfield
The tram drops you back near Springfield, the colourful home of The Simpsons. Hop on The Simpsons Ride, a hilarious simulator adventure through Krustyland, then explore the town's fun photo spots and carnival games.
And what would a visit to Springfield be without a doughnut? Lard Lad Donuts is home to the famous giant pink doughnut, perfect for sharing (or not!).
Lunch
You definitely won't go hungry on the Upper Lot. For a quick bite, Springfield has Krusty Burger, Bumblebee Man's Taco Truck and plenty more. If you fancy something heartier, head back to Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade for British classics like fish and chips and shepherd's pie.
Our expert tip:
“Use mobile ordering in the app and aim to eat a little before or after the busiest lunchtime hours, so you'll have more time for the rides.”
Afternoon: Minion Land, Secret Life of Pets and WaterWorld
Now that your tummies are full, it's time for some family favourites. In Minion Land, join Gru and his girls on Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, where you'll be transformed into a Minion, then dance the afternoon away at the Minion party. Little ones will love the spinning rides and water play in Super Silly Fun Land.
Next door, hop into a cardboard box on The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash! and explore the streets of New York City with Max, Duke, Gidget and Snowball, as you find out what it's like to be a puppy on adoption day. Then cool off inside DreamWorks Theatre featuring Kung Fu Panda.
Don't miss WaterWorld, the park's spectacular live stunt show, packed with jet skis, explosions and daredevil stunts. Check the show times in the app, arrive a little early to find a seat, and choose your spot carefully, as some seats are in the splash zone!
Late afternoon: Back to Hogsmeade
Head back to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where the shops tend to be calmer later in the day. Here's how to soak up the magic:
- Visit Ollivanders, where the wand chooses the wizard. If you buy an interactive wand, you can cast spells at special spots around Hogsmeade.
- Sip a Butterbeer, the sweet, non-alcoholic favourite of Harry, Ron and Hermione, served cold or frozen.
- Catch the Frog Choir and the Triwizard Spirit Rally (check the app for show times).
- Snap a photo of Hogwarts Castle, one of the most magical holiday photos you'll take!
Evening: Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift
Finish day one on the park's newest ride. Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is Universal's first high-speed outdoor coaster, racing along 4,100 feet (around 1,250 metres) of track at up to 72 mph (116 km/h), in cars that spin a full 360 degrees as they drift through the turns.
- Height requirement: 51 inches (129.5 cm)
- Single Rider line: Yes, alongside the standard line
- Lockers: Free and mandatory, so all loose items, including phones, go in a locker before you ride
- Test seat: Check the fit at the entrance before you join the line
The last hour before the park closes is a great time to ride, and with two days, you can always ride again tomorrow!
On select evenings, Hogwarts Castle also comes to life with a dazzling nighttime light show. Check the app on the day to see if it's running during your visit.
After the park: Universal CityWalk
If you've still got energy left, Universal CityWalk sits right outside the park gates, with themed restaurants, shops and a lively evening atmosphere. Book a table in the app before you leave the park, so you can head straight to dinner.
Day 2 at Universal Studios Hollywood: the Lower Lot
Day two is all about Nintendo magic and big thrills, so it's time to head down the Starway!
Early morning: Super Nintendo World
As soon as you're through the gates, head across the Upper Lot to the Starway escalators and down to the Lower Lot. Look out for the giant green warp pipe, then step through into the vibrant Mushroom Kingdom of Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and friends.
Super Nintendo World is one of the most popular lands in the park, so we recommend making it your very first stop. Aim to be at the park gates a little before opening time, and you'll be among the first to step into the Mushroom Kingdom.
Head straight to the back of the land for Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. Pop on your augmented-reality headset and join Team Mario as you race against Team Bowser, throwing shells and collecting coins on your way to the Golden Cup. Every ride is different, so you can race again and again!
- Height requirement for Mario Kart: 40 inches (102 cm)
- Single Rider line: Yes
- Universal Express: Included
Mid-morning: Key Challenges and characters
Once you've (hopefully!) beaten Bowser, explore the rest of the land at your own pace. Pick up a Power-Up Band from the 1-UP Factory to punch the ? Blocks, collect digital coins and play the four Key Challenges. Win three, and you'll unlock the Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown, one of the most fun interactive experiences in the park. You don't need a Power-Up Band to ride Mario Kart.
Keep your camera ready, as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad pop up around the land for photos. Check the app for meet and greet times, and head over early for the most popular characters.
On the busiest days, Universal sometimes uses a Virtual Line in the app to manage entry to Super Nintendo World, so check the app when you arrive.
Late morning: Lower Lot thrill rides
The Lower Lot is home to the park's most exciting thrill rides, all within a short walk of Super Nintendo World.
Transformers: The Ride-3D puts you at the heart of a battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons. Team up with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee as you race through the city to protect the AllSpark. It's a high-energy ride with incredible 3D effects, so hold on tight!
Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride is an indoor coaster that sends you racing through ancient Egyptian tombs in the dark. Expect sudden bursts of speed, swarms of scarab beetles and a few surprises we won't spoil!
Jurassic World - The Ride reopens on 21 November 2026 after its refurbishment. This river adventure takes you past towering animatronic dinosaurs before a thrilling drop and a big splash at the end. Pack a poncho if you'd like to stay dry!
Our expert tip:
“Single Rider lines are a brilliant way to enjoy these rides more than once. If you're happy to ride separately from your group, ask a Team Member at the entrance.”
Lunch: Toadstool Cafe
You deserve a treat after all that racing! Head back to Super Nintendo World for lunch at Toadstool Cafe, where Toad and the chefs serve up delicious Mushroom Kingdom-themed dishes. We love the cheesy garlic knots, and the ? Block Tiramisu makes a sweet finish.
Book a table through the app or website up to 60 days ahead, and allow a little extra time to be seated. The menu marks vegetarian, vegan, gluten-friendly and dairy-free options.
If you'd prefer something quick, Jurassic Cafe on the Lower Lot is a great alternative.
Afternoon: Revisit your favourites
This is where a two-day visit really shines! Head back up the Starway and spend the afternoon on whatever you loved most. Here are a few ideas:
- Ride Hollywood Drift again, or try the Single Rider line for a quick second go.
- Return to Forbidden Journey for another flight over Hogwarts.
- Catch a WaterWorld show if you missed it, or sit further forward for a splashier view.
- Pick up any characters or shows you didn't get to on day one.
- Do your souvenir shopping in Hogsmeade, Springfield and the 1-UP Factory.
Our expert tip:
“Use package pickup for any souvenirs you buy during the day. Ask the shop team to send your purchases to the store near the park exit, and collect them on your way out.”
Evening: Universal CityWalk
Round off your two days with a well-deserved dinner at Universal CityWalk. There's something for every taste, including Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, VIVO Italian Kitchen, Antojitos, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, NBC Sports Grill & Brew and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Dining at any of the full-service CityWalk restaurants also gets your valet parking validated, so ask when you book.
After dinner, put your feet up at Universal Cinema with a film on the big screen, or browse the shops for a last souvenir. What a way to end your Hollywood adventure!
Which tickets and upgrades are best for 2 days at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Our Universal Studios Hollywood ticket prices are date-based, with adult prices for guests aged 10 and over, child prices for ages 3 to 9, and free entry for under-3s. Here's how the main options compare for a two-day visit.
Ticket or upgrade | What's included | Best for |
|---|---|---|
Universal Studios Hollywood Buy a Day, Get a 2nd Day Free Ticket | Two days at the park for the same price as a one-day ticket, with your second visit any time within 7 days (inclusive) of your first | Seeing everything at a relaxed pace |
Park entry plus one-time priority access to each participating ride, attraction and seated show (excluding Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift) | Busier dates and school holidays | |
A guided tour with unlimited priority access (including Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift), exclusive backlot access, light breakfast, gourmet lunch, valet parking and priority show seating | A once-in-a-lifetime treat (ages 5+) |
Do you need Universal Express for two days?
With two days and our itinerary, you can enjoy all the big highlights with a standard ticket, especially on quieter weekdays. Universal Express is a brilliant extra on weekends, in summer, during school holidays and on US public holidays, when it frees up even more time for shows, shopping and second rides.
Booking your Universal Studios Hollywood tickets with AttractionTickets.com
Our Universal Studios Hollywood Buy a Day, Get a 2nd Day Free Ticket is made for this itinerary. You get two epic days at the park for the same price as a one-day ticket, so you'll have all the time you need to enjoy both lots, catch every show and ride your favourites again.
Your second visit can be any time within 7 days (inclusive) of your first, so if your first day is a Monday, you can come back any day up to the following Sunday. That means you can follow our itinerary on back-to-back days, or enjoy a day exploring Los Angeles in between!
Our Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are official, gate-ready tickets, so you can head straight to the park entrance on the day. Here's what you can look forward to:
- Instant delivery. Your tickets arrive in your AttractionTickets.com account as soon as you book.
- Gate-ready entry. Show the QR code on your phone at the entrance, or print your tickets before you go.
- Flexible dates. You can change the date of your first visit free of charge, subject to availability (new prices may apply).
- Book with confidence. Enjoy free cancellation with a full refund up to 72 hours before your visit date.
- A free gift. Every adult ticket comes with free 1GB eSIM mobile data, perfect for using the park app on the go.
Please note, the second visit can't be used between 26 and 31 December 2026 or 26 and 31 December 2027, and parking is booked separately on the day.
Tips for families
Universal Studios Hollywood is brilliant for families, and two days gives little ones plenty of time for rest breaks too.
- Use Child Switch. If some of your group are too small for a ride, let the Team Member at the entrance know. One adult waits with the child while the rest of the group rides, then swaps over without rejoining the line.
- Plan in some play time. Super Silly Fun Land in Minion Land has spinning rides and a water play area that younger children love.
- Enjoy the gentler rides. The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!, Flight of the Hippogriff and the Studio Tour are perfect for younger explorers.
- Bring snacks and water. You can bring water bottles, small snacks, baby food and food for medical or dietary needs into the park.
How to use the Universal Studios Hollywood app
The official app is your best friend across both days, so download it and set it up before you leave home. You can:
- See live wait times on a park map, and set alerts for your favourite rides
- Check show times for WaterWorld, the Wizarding World performances and seasonal shows
- Join Virtual Lines, used on selected attractions on busier days
- Order food and drinks from your phone at selected restaurants
- Book dining reservations, including Toadstool Cafe and CityWalk restaurants
- Track your Power-Up Band coins, keys and stamps
If a ride pauses for a while, which can happen with high-tech attractions, set a wait time alert in the app and enjoy something nearby in the meantime. With two days, there's always time to come back!
When is the best time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood?
Universal Studios Hollywood is open every day of the year, and each season has its own magic.
Time of year | What to expect | Our tip |
|---|---|---|
Weekdays outside school holidays | The most relaxed days of the year | An early start is often all you need |
Weekends, summer and US holidays | Lively days with the longest opening hours | Universal Express makes a big difference |
September to early November | Halloween Horror Nights on selected evenings, with earlier day-park closing | Arrive for opening on both days |
Late November to early January | Grinchmas and Christmas at Hogwarts Castle bring festive magic to the park | Check the official calendar for this year's dates |
Halloween Horror Nights 2026 runs on selected nights until 1 November 2026, and on those dates the park closes to daytime guests at 6pm. If you'd like to stay on for the scares, our complete guide to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood has all the details.
Visiting on a rainy day? Southern California rain doesn't last long, and most of the park's biggest attractions are indoors, including Forbidden Journey, Mario Kart, Transformers, Revenge of the Mummy and The Secret Life of Pets. Outdoor rides may pause during wet weather, so check the app and head indoors for a while.
What to pack for 2 days at Universal Studios Hollywood
- Comfortable shoes, as you'll do plenty of walking over both days
- A small bag that fits easily in a ride locker
- Your park ticket in a pocket, as you'll need it to open ride lockers
- A refillable water bottle
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- A portable phone charger, as you'll use the app a lot
- A light jacket for cooler evenings from autumn to spring
- A poncho for Jurassic World - The Ride and the WaterWorld splash zone
That's a wrap on your Hollywood adventure!
There you have it, our plan for two perfect days at Universal Studios Hollywood! Spend day one soaring over Hogwarts, exploring real movie sets and racing on the thrilling new Hollywood Drift, then head down to the Lower Lot on day two for Mario Kart, Transformers and The Mummy. With time to ride your favourites again, it's the ultimate way to enjoy the magic of the movies. Have an amazing trip!
