Things To Do
in Universal City
Universal City is a community located in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, California. It is best known for being the home of Universal Studios Hollywood, a major entertainment destination featuring theme park rides and studio tours. The area has a mix of residential neighborhoods, businesses, and tourist attractions.
Universal City offers visitors a unique blend of entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $400
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a breakfast at a local café. Head straight to Universal Studios Hollywood to beat the crowds.
Enjoy the rides and attractions, making sure to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Don’t forget to refuel with lunch inside the park at one of the themed restaurants.
Wrap up your day by watching the spectacular Universal CityWalk fountain show. Take a leisurely stroll among the shops and grab dinner at a nearby eatery.
After a hearty breakfast, explore the historical sites around Universal City. Visit the nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame to see your favorite stars.
Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with a view of the iconic Hollywood sign. Spend the afternoon at the Hollywood Museum for some cinematic history.
Finish the day with a movie at the famous TCL Chinese Theatre. Treat yourself to dinner at a trendy spot along Sunset Boulevard.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Attraction of Universal Studios Hollywood, offering a variety of entertainment and experiences.
- Location in Southern California, providing access to beautiful weather year-round.
- Diverse dining and shopping options in and around the Universal City area.
- Proximity to other major attractions in Los Angeles, such as Hollywood and the Santa Monica Pier.
- Strong sense of community with events and activities for residents.
- High cost of living compared to other areas in the United States.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited public transportation options may require reliance on personal vehicles.
- Potential for noise from attraction activities and events.
- Crowds and long lines can be a downside, particularly at the theme park.
Best Activities in Universal City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy thrilling amusement park rides, live entertainment, and movie-themed attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Explore the scenic trails and take in panoramic views of Los Angeles from Runyon Canyon Park, a popular hiking spot near Universal City.
Play a round of golf at Lakeside Golf Club, a beautiful course with scenic views and well-maintained fairways.
Tours
Uncover the best of Universal City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Universal City
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant entertainment district with great views of Universal Studios Hollywood and the surrounding area.
Offers stunning views of the theme park, movie sets, and the iconic Universal Studios globe.
Boasts panoramic views of the Hollywood hills, Universal Studios, and the Los Angeles skyline.
Food in Universal City
Universal City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic local favorite, this iconic burger features two beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions, all sandwiched in a fresh bun. You can find this burger at the In-N-Out Burger outlets throughout Universal City.
Must-Try!
Hawaiian-inspired, this dish consists of fresh, cubed raw fish (such as tuna or salmon) served over rice, with a variety of toppings and sauces. For a delicious poke bowl, head to local eateries like Poke Bar or Sweetfin Poke.
Enjoy the interactive experience of grilling marinated meats, such as bulgogi and galbi, at Korean BBQ restaurants like Gen Korean BBQ House or Oo-Kook Korean BBQ.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Universal City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Universal CityWalk for a vibrant street food experience, offering an array of options ranging from gourmet hot dogs and crepes to authentic Mexican street tacos and fusion cuisine.
Visit the Studio City Farmers Market held on Sundays for a variety of fresh produce, artisanal food products, and local street food vendors offering a diverse selection of culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Universal City, it is important to respect personal space and boundaries, so be mindful of giving people space and not invading their personal bubble.
Punctuality is highly valued in Universal City. Arriving on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings shows respect for others' time.
Universal City is a diverse community, so it's important to be open-minded and inclusive of different cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Universal City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Universal City
Ensure a smooth experience
In Universal City, United States, it is customary to tip service workers such as restaurant servers, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Universal City, United States, is primarily done using credit or debit cards. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted. Cash is still commonly used, especially for small transactions and tipping.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Universal City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Universal City as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. You can expect blooming flowers, mild temperatures, and various events and festivals.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Universal City. Expect hot temperatures, larger crowds, and longer wait times for attractions. However, many seasonal shows and events are held during this time, providing a lively atmosphere.
Fall brings milder temperatures and smaller crowds, making it an ideal time to visit Universal City. The Halloween season at Universal Studios is a major highlight, with themed attractions and spooky events.
Winter is generally cooler and quieter, with shorter operating hours for some attractions. However, the holiday season brings festive decorations, special events, and shows, creating a magical atmosphere at Universal City.
Universal City at Night
Hiking in Universal City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the largest urban parks in North America, offering a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and the iconic Hollywood sign.
A popular hiking destination with trails that provide panoramic views of the city and Santa Monica Mountains. It's known for its social atmosphere and dog-friendly environment.
This trail offers a direct route to the Hollywood Sign, with paths that present breathtaking city views and an opportunity to take memorable photos.
A large city park with numerous hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks, featuring picturesque views of downtown Los Angeles.
Located a bit further away, it offers a network of trails that take you through scenic canyons and ridges with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Universal City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Universal City by plane.
The primary airport serving Los Angeles, located approximately 18 miles from Universal City.
Also known as Hollywood Burbank Airport, located about 5 miles from Universal City.
A city-owned airport in Long Beach, approximately 24 miles from Universal City.
Located in Orange County, approximately 45 miles from Universal City.
Located in Ontario, California, about 37 miles from Universal City.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Universal City's population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
This group represents a substantial demographic within Universal City, reflecting the historical population trends in the region.
The Black or African American community in Universal City is an important demographic that adds to the city's cultural fabric.
Asian individuals, including those from various cultural backgrounds, form a smaller yet significant segment of the population in Universal City.
This category encompasses individuals who identify as belonging to multiple racial groups, highlighting the increasing diversity in Universal City.
A smaller demographic compared to others, Native American or Alaska Native individuals contribute to the historical and cultural richness of the area.
This group represents a very small portion of the Universal City population, contributing to the diversity and representation of different cultures.
The Soul of Universal City
Discover the essence of Universal City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a popular sport in Universal City, with many residents supporting local teams and engaging in recreational leagues.
Basketball enjoys popularity among youth and adults alike, with various courts available for both organized play and casual games.
Soccer is increasingly popular in Universal City, with youth leagues and community events promoting the sport.
American football has a strong following, with local schools and recreational leagues providing opportunities for participation.
Tennis is a favored sport for many residents, with public courts available for both casual and competitive play.
Golf is popular among residents, with several nearby courses offering both leisure and competitive play.
Running clubs and events are popular in Universal City, with many residents taking advantage of local parks and trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Universal City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available throughout Universal City, with many restaurants offering plant-based dishes and substituting ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences. Vegan Glory and Ramen Bangaichi are excellent choices for vegan and vegetarian fare.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable dining options in Universal City, as many establishments offer gluten-free selections and are willing to accommodate special dietary needs. It's advisable to inquire with the restaurant staff about gluten-free choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Universal City with these cultural adventures.
