does the universal studio tour cost extra

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Do you have to pay extra for the studio tour at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Do you have to pay extra for the studio tour at Universal Studios Hollywood? Universal Studios Hollywood is a great destination for families and friends looking for a fun day out. The theme park offers movie-themed attractions, shows, and rides as well as a studio tour that takes you behind the scenes of some of the most popular movies and television shows. While tickets to the theme park are included in general admission, the studio tour does require an additional ticket.

The studio tour takes visitors on a guided journey through some of the most iconic sets, soundstages, and backlots used in Universal Pictures films. During the tour, visitors can see sets from Jurassic Park, King Kong, the Fast & Furious franchise, and many more. The tour also includes a ride through the world-famous Universal backlot, the largest production facility in the United States. At the end of the tour, visitors are treated to a high-definition 3D movie experience.

The studio tour is an additional charge and is not included in the general admission ticket. Tickets for the studio tour can be purchased at the gate, online, or in advance at any Universal Studios store. The price of the studio tour varies depending on the time of year and the package you choose. Prices range from around $44 for adults and $38 for children ages 3-9, to $69 for adults and $59 for children.

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to experience Universal Studios Hollywood, the studio tour is a great option. You’ll get an inside look at the sets and soundstages used in some of the world’s most popular movies and television shows. The experience is enhanced by the tour guide’s entertaining anecdotes and behind-the-scenes facts. So if you’re planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, make sure to plan for the additional cost of the studio tour.

Discovering the Cost of Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood and you’re wondering whether or not you have to pay extra for the Studio Tour, the answer is yes. The standard admission ticket does not include the cost of the Studio Tour. However, there are different ways to add the Studio Tour to your ticket.

The Universal Studio Tour is a 45-minute guided tour through the Universal Studios backlot and beyond. The tour takes guests through some of the most iconic sets from Universal’s film and television history. During the tour, guests will also get a behind-the-scenes look at the state-of-the-art filmmaking technology used at Universal Studios.

If you’re looking to add the Universal Studio Tour to your ticket, there are several options available. The Standard Ticket option includes access to the Universal Studio Tour, as well as general admission to the rest of the park. This option starts at $149.00 for adults and $114.00 for children, plus taxes and fees. This ticket also includes access to select attractions, live entertainment, and Character Experiences.

If you’re a Universal Studios Annual Passholder, you can purchase an upgrade to the Universal Deluxe Pass, which includes access to the Universal Studio Tour and more. The cost of the upgrade varies depending on the pass selected, ranging from $50.00 to $150.00. This upgrade also includes access to select attractions, live entertainment, and Character Experiences.

For those looking for a more comprehensive experience, the Universal VIP Experience is the ultimate way to experience the Universal Studio Tour. The Universal VIP Experience starts at $299.00 and includes a private, guided tour of the Universal Studios backlot, exclusive access to select attractions, and more.

No matter which option you choose, the Universal Studio Tour is an experience you won’t soon forget. So whether you’re a Universal Studios Annual Passholder or just looking for a one-time visit, the Universal Studio Tour is a must-do for any Universal Studios Hollywood fan.

What Does the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour Include?

Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-see for any fan of the movies. Whether you’re a Hollywood buff or a regular moviegoer, the Studio Tour is a great experience that offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into making the movies. But do you have to pay extra for the studio tour at Universal Studios Hollywood? The answer is no.

The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour is included with your ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood. The tour takes approximately 45 minutes and takes you on a winding path through some of the most iconic sets and back lot locations in Hollywood. The tour includes a variety of special effects and surprises, including the King Kong 360 3-D experience, the Fast & Furious – Supercharged stunt show and more.

The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour also includes a stop at the world-famous Universal back lot. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the sets that have been used in films such as Back to the Future, Jurassic Park and E.T. You’ll also be able to take a stroll down the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood Walk of Fame, and see some of the stars that have appeared in classic Universal films.

The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour also includes a stop at the Universal Plaza, where you can take in the view of the Hollywood Hills and the iconic Universal Studios Globe. You’ll also have the chance to explore the Universal CityWalk, with its numerous shops and restaurants, and take a look at some of the world-famous attractions such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour is included with your ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood. You don’t have to pay extra for the tour, but you can upgrade your ticket if you’d like to purchase additional experiences such as the VIP Experience or the Front of Line Pass. Both of these offers enhanced experiences, with shorter lines, access to exclusive areas and more.

So if you’re planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood, be sure to check out the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour and all of the exciting experiences it has to offer. You won’t have to pay extra for the tour, and you’re sure to have a great time.

Yes, there is an additional cost for the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour.

Yes, you can purchase tickets for the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour in advance.

Yes, there are discounts available for the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour.

The minimum age requirement for the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour is 3 years old.

Yes, you can book a private tour of the Universal Studios Hollywood studio.

Yes, the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour is wheelchair accessible.

The Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Yes, there are certain restrictions during the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour.

Yes, you can take pictures during the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour.

Yes, the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour includes behind-the-scenes footage.

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Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour – tickets, prices, discounts

The World-Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is a 60-minute tram ride to explore a real working movie studio behind the scenes.

It is also known as Universal Studios Hollywood backlot tour or the studio tour.

During this tour, you will visit 13 city blocks of the studio (also known as the backlot), built with creative consultation from Steven Spielberg.

It is one of the most important experiences at the Los Angeles tourist attraction and is included with every  Universal Studios Hollywood ticket . 

This article covers everything you must know about the World-Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Top Universal Studios Hollywood Tours Tickets

# VIP Tour ticket # General Admission ticket # Express Ticket

Table of contents

King kong 360 3-d, fast & furious – supercharged, earthquake – the big one, flash flood, boeing 747 from war of the worlds, amity island’s jaws, bates hotel & mansion, celebrity guides of the studio tour, studio tour’s timings, how long does the studio tour last, best time to take the studio tour, vip backlot access, what to expect on the studio tour.

Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit for movie buffs, and the studio tour is the closest visitors get to movie-making. 

It takes you behind the scenes where movies are made and where Hollywood’s biggest stars work daily. 

During the world-famous studio tour, you will learn about Hollywood’s filmmaking secrets and see the world’s most extensive street movie set.

Buy tickets in advance The  General Admission ticket  helps you skip the ticket counter lines and save money. Select the Express Ticket  on the booking page if you want to skip both the ticket counter lines and the ride queues. Follow the link to find out more about Universal Hollywood Express Pass . If you are on a budget holiday, there are many ways to score discount tickets at Universal Hollywood .

Here are some of the highlights of the backlot tour –

The award-winning King Kong 360-3D created by Peter Jackson is the world’s most enormous 3-D experience and is included with every  Universal Studios ticket . 

During this experience, you will get caught in a terrifying struggle between a 35-foot T-Rex and King Kong.

During the Universal Studios Hollywood’s King Kong ride, your heart will pound, and you will be scared, but you will ask for more when it is over!

Fast & Furious – Supercharged At Universal Studios Hollywood is a 3-D immersive attraction that takes you into all the movie action.

You will ride along with the all-star cast from the hit movies on an exhilarating high-speed chase that exceeds 195 km (120 miles) per hour and catapult you into the world of fast cars and international crime cartels.

The length of the attraction is 247 meters (809 feet) — longer than two football fields – and uses cutting-edge, hyper-realistic special effects on the world’s most expansive 360-degree canvas.

The Fast and Furious ride, which you will experience during the World-Famous Studio Tour, is not a roller coaster.

Recommended Reading: Minimum height requirements at Universal rides

Universal Studio’s Earthquake experience is designed to look like an 8.3 Ritcher scale earthquake in a San Francisco subway station.

When the tram tour reaches Stage 50, the earthquake starts. 

The whole station starts shaking, a burning gasoline truck collapses through the roof; a subway train derails, and a flood of water rushes in. 

Even as there is chaos everywhere, your tram starts shaking. 

The attraction resets itself within just 15 seconds and gets ready to welcome the next studio tour tram.

Before booking your tickets, find out everything about the  different kinds of tickets at Universal Studios Hollywood .

Visual Story : 13 must-know tips before visiting Universal Studios Hollywood

The Flash Flood effect at Universal Studios happens on a winding street running through a Mexican village. 

Even as you are enjoying the ‘rain effect’ and ‘thunderstorm effect’ from your tram seat, the guide announces that there has been a flash flood and water is rushing down from the hill.

A wall of water (10,000 gallons!) rushes down the hill, scares the guests, and drains off. 

The massive Boeing 747 set used by Steven Spielberg for his movie  War of the Worlds  is next to the Psycho house (remember Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho?).

The outdoor set was erected at an exorbitant cost – US$60,000 for a decommissioned plane and US$200,000 to cut it into pieces and transport it to Universal Studios Hollywood.

It got used for three days of shooting in 2005 and is still available for guests to walk around and explore. 

Recommended Reading: Universal Hollywood to Disneyland Park

The Amity island set, used in  the Jaws  movie, got included in the Universal Studios Hollywood Backlot Tour a year after Steven Spielberg’s 1975 film.

Guests see a moving shark animatronic from the film, which usually scares them.

The Jaws attraction is a recreation of a few buildings seen on Martha’s Vineyard, where the entire film was shot on location.

During the studio tour, you will see both the Psycho House and the Bates Motel.

Since Alfred Hitchcock wound Psycho’s shooting in 1960, the sets have been moved around the backlot a bit. 

You will also see Norman Bates hanging around the motel if you are lucky. 

Occasionally he is moving around a dead body, and if he sees you seeing him, he chases your tram with a knife!

Is the Studio Tour scary? Some of the  rides at Universal Hollywood , such as Jurassic Park, Harry Potter And The Forbidden Journey , and Revenge of the Mummy, can be terrifying for some. However, putting a scare quotient on the Studio Tour is difficult. During the studios’ backlot tour, you will be seated in a tram and exposed to loud sounds, intense shaking, extreme water, fire effects, etc., which can scare some kids and adults. 

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Comedian Jimmy Fallon, the star host of “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” shares entertaining clips during your tour. 

He augments the live Studio Tour guide’s narration, and you can see him on the HD monitors in the trams.

Visitors love his jokes and laugh their hearts out during the tour. 

Occasionally, the tour has special guests who hop on and serve as a guide. 

Studio Tours are available in Spanish on special days. On the day of your visit, look for digital boards throughout the Park for tour times.

Backlot Tour at Night During the peak season, guests can go on a night tour of the studio’s backlot. If you visit during the peak summer, we recommend doing both the regular Studio and Nighttime tours. The  General Admission ticket  can also get you access to the nighttime tour.

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The Universal Studios Hollywood opens some days at 8 am; on some days, it begins at 10 am, and its closing time varies seasonally, from 6 pm in winter to 11 pm during peak summer. 

Check the daily hours in advance of your visit.

The World-Famous Studio Tour trams start an hour after the park opens and end an hour before the theme park shuts down for the day. 

The Universal Studios Hollywood tour lasts about 60 minutes, and you get a peek into the world of movies. 

The tram travels through the Front Lot, Backlot, and various attractions, passing sets and props from numerous movies.

Some tourists have claimed that their tours lasted only 45 to 50 minutes, which is possible during crowded days.

The best time to take the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour is late morning, afternoon, or early evening because the temperature increases and waiting times for the Universal rides are high .

It is better to go on the Studio Tour mid-way through your visit when you are tired and would prefer to sit down and enjoy the 60 minutes of the tram ride.

The World Famous Studio Tour trams stop before Universal Studios Hollywood closes, so don’t wait till the last tram departure.

Opt for  Universal Studios Hollywood’s VIP Tour , which includes exclusive access to the Universal Studios Backlot, if you want to get a closer look behind the scenes. 

You can access areas not available to regular ticket holders with the  VIP Tour ticket . 

You will tour the movie industry’s busiest sets in a special trolley and disembark to explore famous outdoor locations.

The VIP ticket also gets valet parking, light snacks, refreshments in the private VIP lounge, unlimited priority access to all rides and shows, and a gourmet meal in the private VIP dining room. 

Sources # Universalstudioshollywood.com # Wikipedia.org # Blog.discoveruniversal.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Priyanka Dwivedi

Since she doesn't want to leave anything to chance, she prefers sightseeing with the assistance of a tour guide or a city map. She also prefers to visit one place during one holiday, and leave nothing unexplored. During her vacations, she takes long walks, pondering the most profound philosophies of life. Favorite Cities: Prague, Lisbon, Vienna, Munich, Nice

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Ultimate Guide: Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood

The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is in my opinion one of the best attractions at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

The World-Famous Studio Tour is a one-hour tour around the backlot at Universal. This is a real working movie studio, as such you’ll see sets from your favourite shows and movies as well as some of Hollywood’s most legendary filming locations.

This tour is suitable for the whole family (I recently did it with my wife and our 14-month-old little boy) and features two cinematic ride experiences; Fast & The Furious: Supercharged & King Kong 3D.

What Is The Universal Studio Tour?

The World-Famous Studio Tour takes you behind the scenes of a real film studio which has been the home to a number of movie and television shows since its inception over 50 years ago.

The tour is hosted by comedian Jimmy Fallon alongside a live guide who provides commentary throughout the duration of the tour.

Highlights Of The Studio Tour

During the tour, you will travel through different past various sound stages, and through movie sets. Throughout this time you’ll experience a variety of attractions including;

Bates Motel

This is perhaps the scariest part of the tour.

Here you’ll pull up to the Bates Motel from the epic thriller film Psycho just as Norman Bates himself is carrying a body from a room to place in the back of his truck.

As he does so, he spots you, a witness.

In an aim to cover his tracks, Norman will come towards you with a fake knife. Thankfully, the driver will begin to pull away just in time.

Norman gets closest to the back two carriages of the tram. As such I highly recommend sitting in the carriages closest to the front if you’re travelling with young children.

Plane Crash Wreckage

After escaping Norman Bates, you’ll enter the plane crash wreckage area of the tour. This features a commercial 747 aircraft which was purchased by the production company behind the hit 2005 film War of the Worlds, directed by Steven Spielberg.

The plane was chopped into pieces and transported to Universal where the full set has been left fully dressed as it was during filming.

Obviously, given how realistic this all is, it can be scary for younger guests.

Jupiter’s Claim

This new area of the backlot tour opened on July 22, 2022 (timed to open the same day as Jordan Peele’s movie Nope).

This is a drive-through area which has been rebuilt at Falls Lake (previously occupied by the Log Cabin) and features select theme park sets used in the sci-fi horror film.

Flash Flood Simulator

As you drive through the Mexcian Village, you’ll experience one of two flooding simulators that feature within the Universal Studios backlot tour.

This is one of the oldest parts of the backlot tour (in operation since 1968) and has appeared in countless films including Big Fat Liar and Fletch Lives.

In my opinion, this isn’t as scary as the other flash flood simulator which takes place as part of Earthquake: The Big One!

Earthquake: The Big One!

Earthquake: The Big One is the only split-level sound stage in the world, and has been in operation at Universal since 1969.

As the tram pulls into the subway area, an 8.4 Richter-level earthquake hits, causing a subway train to come off the tracks as it pulls into the station and flooding from the streets above to pour down into the underground.

Various scenes have been shot here including; Beverly Hills Cop III and Season 5, Episode 15 of the TV show Bones.

The Jaws portion of the Studio Tour dates back to 1967 and subsequently is one of the most nostalgic parts for long-time visitors.

As the tram approaches the water, the tension builds as the tour guide narrates the scene. Suddenly the giant animatronic shark jumps out of the water, jaws wide open.

King Kong 360 3-D

King Kong 360 3-D is one of two simulator-based rides on the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour.

This simulator was created by Peter Jackson himself and is the world’s largest 3-D experience.

The film lasts just a couple of minutes and see’s you caught in the middle of a terrifying struggle between a 35-foot T-Rex and the 8th wonder of the world – King Kong.

Fast & The Furious Supercharged

This is another simulator-based ride situated on the back lot tour.

Once again you’ll put on your 3D glasses and experience a high-speed chase alongside Dom and the gang. This is far from my favourite part of the tour, but sadly it’s not optional. Thankfully, it only lasts a couple of minutes.

Where Is The Universal Studios Tour Located?

The World Famous Studio Tour is located in a dedicated lower lot area of Universal Studios Hollywood which can be accessed from Springfield, home of The Simpsons via a number of escalators.

This dedicated lower lot area is not to be confused with the lower lot escalators down to Jurassic World & Super Nintendo World.

If you’re unsure as to where to go for the Studio Tour be sure to ask one of the Universal Studios team members situated around the park, or the Universal Studios mobile app which features a map with GPS.

How Long Is The Universal Studio Tour?

The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood lasts between 40 minutes and one hour. During the ride, there are no stops and no toilet breaks.

While the ride itself is between 40 minutes and an hour, the standby wait line for the ride can be another hour (give or take) depending on how busy the park is during your visit.

This ride is eligible for the Universal Express Pass so, if you are upgrading to the Universal Express Pass then you will be able to skip the line here. We did this during our most recent visit and we walked straight on (the standby line at the time was around 20 mins – February 2022).

How Much Does The Universal Studio Tour Cost?

The Universal Studios Tour is free.

However, to go on the tour you will need a Universal Studios Hollywood park ticket.

Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are sold using a dynamic pricing model based on estimated demand.

As such quieter days or times of year often have lower ticket prices, while more popular days and seasons (Christmas, Halloween, Spring Break, Summer etc.) have higher ticket prices.

This dynamic pricing model also applies to Universal Express Pass tickets and tickets for the VIP Experience.

Do You Have To Book The Universal Studio Tour?

Sadly, you can not book your tour of the Universal Studios backlot in advance. Instead, spaces on each tram are on a first-come, first-served basis. Each tram roughly holds between 100 and 150 people split across 6 or so carriages.

How Long Is The Wait For The Universal Studios Tour?

The wait time for the World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood can vary depending on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and season.

During quieter times at the park, you can wait as little as 10 or 20 minutes to board the tram. However, during peak periods such as holidays or weekends, wait times can be in excess of one hour.

Can You Use A Universal Express Ticket For The Universal Studio Tour?

A Universal Express ticket at Universal Studios Hollywood can be used for the Studio Tour, as well as for many of the other popular attractions and rides in the park.

The Universal Express ticket gives guests priority access to select attractions, allowing them to bypass the regular standby line and experience the attraction with a shorter wait time.

Best Time To Go On The Universal Studios Tour?

Generally, speaking the best time to go on the tour is in the morning when the park first opens.

During this time the crowds are typically smaller and the lines are shorter, allowing visitors to enjoy the tour with minimal wait times.

On the flip side, the worst time to go on the tour is usually in the early afternoon, just after lunchtime as most people get to this area of the park at this time of day.

Is The Universal Studios Tour Scary?

Certain areas and attractions within the World-Famous Universal Studio Tour may be scary to younger children. However, none of them last long (maximum of four minutes).

If you’re looking for thrill rides then this tour isn’t it!

Is The Universal Studios Tour Suitable For Babies & Toddlers?

The Universal Studios Tour is suitable for babies and toddlers.

However, you will be on the tram ride for up to an hour so be sure to bring any supplies you may need for that duration of time with you.

It’s also worth noting that children must remain seated throughout the duration of the tour for health and safety reasons. So if you have a restless little one consider bringing a book, toy or iPad.

There is an extensive stroller parking lot available in the Lower Lot area from where the tour departs, this is covered so if it does start raining while you’re out on the tour then your stroller should be protected.

Are There Any Height Or Weight Restrictions For The Studio Tour?

Unlike other rides at Universal Studios Hollywood there are no weight or height restrictions on the World-Famous Studio Tour.

Can You Take Photographs & Videos During The Studio Tour?

Visitors are permitted to take photographs and videos during The World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood.

However, flash photography is not permitted during the tours 3D cinema experiences (King Kong 360 & Fast and Furious: Supercharged).

Is The Studio Tour At Universal Studios Hollywood Worth It?

While going on the Studio Tour takes up a significant portion of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood park. I believe it’s a worthwhile time investment.

This tour provides a unique insight into how scenes from your favourite movies and TV shows are made while the expert tour guide provides some incredible Hollywood secrets.

Can You See Celebrities On The Universal Studios Hollywood Tour?

There is always the possibility of seeing celebrities on the World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, as the tour takes visitors through active movie and television sets where productions are often being filmed.

However, there is no guarantee.

I’ve been on this tour more than ten times over the past couple of years, and the only person I’ve seen is Mario Lopez who was filming at the entrance of the theme park.

Does Universal Studios Orlando Have A Backlot Tour?

Sadly, Universal Studios in Orlando does not have a backlot tour since it is a dedicated theme park, rather than a film studio.

The Universal Orlando Resort does, however, have a VIP Experience (which is also available at Universal Studios Hollywood).

The VIP Experience is a full-day tour of the Universal Studios park with a dedicated Universal guide. The ratio of guests to guide is roughly 8:1 so it’s a very personal experience in which you’ll skip the line on every ride in the park, go behind the scenes and learn park secrets.

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Is the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood Worth the Price?

What you need to know about the vip experience at universal studios hollywood.

The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood includes a gourmet meal, unlimited express access to rides and shows (with a guide), and a special VIP Studio Tour with exclusive access that you can't find anywhere else.    

If you're headed to Universal Florida soon and wondering if the VIP Experience there is worth the cost there, be sure to read all about out our recent tour experience in Orlando, Florida:  What You Need to Know About the VIP Tour Experience at Universal Orlando

The VIP Experience is a limited capacity product with up to 18 guests per tour, with children needing to be at least 5 years old to attend and at least 17 years old to attend without an accompanying adult.  Pricing for this experience ranges from $349/person to $449/person.  

The VIP Experience is valid for a selected date and time and includes valet parking, 1-Day Park admission and unlimited (per day) express access to each ride, attraction, and seated show.  

You'll start the day at the VIP lounge, where you'll check-in and then have access to light snacks and refreshments, before meeting your guide for the day, where you'll discuss the overall itinerary for the day.  You'll break for an exclusive gourmet meal (lunch or dinner depending on your start time) and then continue on with the day with the guide.

Now that we've discussed a high level overview of what the VIP Experience covers, you're probably looking for more details to see if the VIP Experience justifies the extra price, so let's dive into it:

Exclusive Backlot Access

• Tour the movie industry’s busiest sets in a special private trolley where you can disembark to explore some of the famous outdoor sets.
• Enjoy VIP privileges with escorted express access to rides, shows and attractions, such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
• Begin your day in the exclusive VIP lounge with light snacks and refreshments.
• Savor a gourmet meal in the private VIP dining room, prepared by Universal’s very own executive chef (alcoholic beverages excluded).
• Unlimited Universal Express access to all open rides and priority seating for select shows.
• Enjoy complimentary valet parking and VIP entry to the Park.
• The expert VIP guides will immerse you in the past, present and future of Universal’s Backlot during the exclusive Studio Tour.
• The VIP guide will escort you through the express line at rides and attractions.
• They will also find you the best seats at seated shows.

Our VIP Experience

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Studio Tour

The ultimate hollywood experience.

Go behind the scenes on the legendary Studio Tour to explore Hollywood’s most famous backlot. On the Studio Tour, you’ll catch a glimpse at movie sets, learn about movie magic, and enjoy motion base rides on board, including Fast & Furious – Supercharged, King Kong 360 3-D, JAWS, and more.

Our Overview

The world-famous Studio Tour is a phenomenal attraction that gives you a look at one of the world's most iconic movie studios. This attraction provides you with a tour of Universal’s historic studio lot, where well-known shows and films were brought to life. The tour also takes you through brief ride experiences, such as Earthquake: The Big One and King Kong 360 3-D, essentially making the Studio Tour a ride within a ride. You cannot leave Universal Studios Hollywood without going on the Studio Tour.

Universal Express Participating Attraction

Universal Express is Universal Studios Hollywood’s express line system. Guests who purchase a Universal Express pass can experience significantly shorter wait times than the regular lines and access better seat selections at shows due to early access to venues. Guests with a Universal Express pass can also bypass attractions utilizing a Virtual Line * .

* Virtual Line is a complimentary service offered by Universal Studios Hollywood for select attractions. If available, guests first wait in a virtual line, allowing them to freely roam and visit other experiences, and then return to the attraction at a designated time to experience a shorter physical wait time.

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Universal Studios Hollywood Planning Guide

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• Universal Orlando
• Disneyland Resort
• Universal Studios Hollywood
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Universal Studios Hollywood celebrates 60 years with this new Studio Tour experience

Universal Studios Hollywood reissues iconic Glamor Trams as the world-renowned Studio Tour celebrates a milestone 60 years. (Photo credit: Victoria Wall Harris/Universal Studios Hollywood)

LOS ANGELES - Universal Studios Hollywood celebrates the Studio Tour's 60th anniversary this season with a new, "experiential" addition to their popular Los Angeles back lot tours. 

While guests are normally confined to keeping their arms and legs inside their vehicle during the tour, beginning April 26, Universal Studios Hollywood is flipping the script. The park invites guests to get off the tram to pose for photo opportunities in front of some legendary movie scenes, like Universal's "King Kong" and "Jaws" sets.

For a photo opportunity like never before, the anniversary event will also feature the first-ever original replica of the Hollywood Sign situated along the iconic back lot for guests to get up close to the iconic landmark.

Universal Studios Hollywood reissues iconic Glamor Trams as world-renowned Studio Tour celebrates a milestone 60 years. (Photo credit Victoria Wall Harris/Universal Studios Hollywood)

Other notable attractions include the renovated debut of Universal's "Earthquake – The Big One," which features a realistic 8.3-magnitude quake, and a large Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur display. The 60th-anniversary elements offer guests new ways to immerse themselves in Hollywood's most iconic scenes – and take the photos to prove it.

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"The Studio Tour is a crown jewel in our theme park portfolio and a beloved attraction for millions of guests," said Universal Studios Hollywood Executive Vice President and General Manager Scott Strobl. "We are thrilled and honored to share our enthusiasm for its historic relevance with guests both new to the experience as well as those who have journeyed with us along the way."

As part of the Studio Tour 60th anniversary celebration, Universal Studios Hollywood offers a selection of specially created, highly themed food and beverages, available from April 26-August 11, 2024. (Photo credit Victoria Wall Harris/Universal Studios Hollywood)

The anniversary celebration also includes new eatery options, including BBQ brisket sandwiches and BBQ chicken sandwiches from Hollywood & Dine, burgers and chili dogs from Mel's Diner, ice cream from Studio Scoops and cookie sandwiches from City Snack Shop.

Universal Studios Hollywood's 60th anniversary event runs from April 26 through August 11, 2024. Click here for more information and for tickets .

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General costs of visiting Universal Studios

How much is a universal ticket, flight costs for universal studios, hotel costs for universal studios, universal studios parking costs, saving money on a trip to universal studios, universal studios costs, recapped.

Whether you live in Miami or Seattle, a trip to Universal Studios can be a great time.

Are you pining for a pint of Butterbeer and an exhilarating ride on the VelociCoaster? We don’t blame you — after all, everyone loves a good theme park experience. 

But when you consider pricing — between park tickets, airfare, lodging and parking — such a vacation may feel out of budget.

Let’s take a look at how much a trip to Universal Studios Orlando or Universal Studios Hollywood will cost you and some tips for helping reduce those expenses. 

When considering a trip to Universal Studios, you’re going to want to consider multiple aspects of the vacation, especially if you live far away.

Say, for example, that you’re heading to Universal Studios Orlando for a week during the summer. Here are some common expenses you’ll encounter during your trip:

Accommodations.

Theme park tickets.

Rental car and parking.

Souvenirs. 

Food and drinks.

Miscellaneous. 

Obviously, these costs are going to vary based on how many people you’re traveling with.

If you’re a group of four adults, you may want to split two rooms, which could double your accommodation costs. But if you’re a family with two parents and two children, you’re probably all going to want to squeeze into a single room. 

» Learn more: Best Universal Orlando hotels

Ticket prices can vary widely based on when you’re visiting, how long you’re staying and where you buy your ticket. 

Universal Studios Orlando: At this Universal theme park, located in Florida, tickets start at $116.09 for a single day, single park visit for one adult. One-day tickets that grant you access to both parks, meanwhile, start at $174.66 for the day.

Universal Studios Hollywood: If you’re visiting Universal Studios Hollywood in California, you’ll still be subject to varying costs depending on the date and demand. Single-day tickets start at $109. 

Note that all of these prices are after-tax. 

Prices fluctuate

The Universal Studios ticket price can have some pretty huge fluctuations, so expect to pay a lot more during peak periods.

For example, a one-day, park-to-park ticket to Universal Studios Orlando during the winter holiday season comes in at $227.91 — over $50 more than the same ticket during the low season. 

Multiday visits can drop your per-day price

If you’re visiting for more than one day, prices will adjust. You’ll pay more overall, but the per-day price will be lower.

This is true whether you’re visiting Universal Studios Orlando or Universal Studios Hollywood. 

» Learn more: T heme parks that are cheaper than Disney

If you’re flying to Universal Studios Orlando rather than driving, you’ll want to consider your budget carefully.

While it can be fairly inexpensive to fly to Orlando, especially on low-cost airlines such as Frontier and Spirit , you’ll want to watch out for extra fees that’ll drive up your overall cost. 

As an example, we looked at flights from New York-LaGuardia to Orlando in mid-April, a peak season trip to Universal Studios Orlando for spring break.

Although we found flights for less than $100 round-trip, you’ll have a stopover on the way home and will need to pay for add-ons such as seat selection and checked luggage. 

You can find similar cheap flights to Universal Studios Hollywood, which is located near a few different airports, including Los Angeles International Airport. This means you’ll have plenty of route options no matter where you originate.

» Learn more: How to travel to Orlando on points and miles

Happily, Orlando is rife with lodging options . This includes low-cost stays in hotels — some of which can be had for as little as $30 per night. 

Of course, you’ll also find all the usual suspects when it comes to hotels, including options from: 

» Learn more: The best non-Disney hotels in Orlando to book with points

If you’ve decided to drive to Universal Studios rather than take a shuttle or rideshare, you’ll want to account for the costs of parking.

At Universal Studios Orlando, you’ll pay $30 per day for general parking, though those with a bus or recreational vehicle will be charged $40. 

In California, parking charges will depend on when you arrive. Before 5 p.m., general parking costs $30. However, after 5 p.m., the price drops down to just $10. 

We’ve already talked about how much tickets are to Universal Studios, which can be pretty pricey. However, there are ways to save money on nearly all facets of a theme park vacation, regardless of which coast you head toward.

Universal Studios Orlando will often offer promotions allowing you to save money on multiday tickets. This can include promotions such as getting two days free when purchasing two-day tickets. 

Those who hold an eligible Chase card, meanwhile, can redeem their Chase Ultimate Rewards® for theme park tickets. The redemption rate you’ll receive will vary, but it can be as high as 1.5 cents per point for those who hold the Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Hotels such as the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando include free unlimited Express Pass for guests, which allows you to bypass the regular line.

Finally, you can also save some money on theme park tickets by purchasing through a third party, such as Undercover Tourist. It’s not a huge difference in price, but every little bit helps. 

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Flights and hotels

Our next recommendation applies equally to both flights and hotels, which is to redeem points against these purchases. 

Flexible points currencies with hotel and airline transfer partners can help you get to Orlando for as little money out of pocket as possible. Partners include:

American Express Membership Rewards .

Chase Ultimate Rewards® .

Capital One Miles .

Bilt Rewards .

Citi ThankYou points .

If you’re paying with cash, you can also stack your savings by making sure you use a shopping portal for your purchases. Websites such as Cashback Monitor will show you the portals with the highest return for your spending. 

» Learn more: How to purchase theme park tickets with points

When trying to plan a trip, you’ll want to consider all the costs involved, including flights, tickets and accommodation.

Just note that if the cost looks to be a little high, consider taking advantage of some of our money-saving tips to help make that Universal Studios vacation happen. 

(Top photo courtesy of Universal Parks and Resorts)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-3x Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Universal Studios Tour Tickets

This post provides details about visiting Universal Studios in Hollywood.

We also include information about the Universal Studios Tour, ticket prices, discounts, attractions to see, and more.

• Studio Tour
• Attractions
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• Things to Do in LA

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS TICKETS

The price of a ticket varies based on what you want to see, how many days you plan to visit, and when you will be coming to Universal Studios Hollywood.

If you’re looking for a skip-the-line experience, you can purchase a Universal Express ticket which will make it much easier to see everything available.

For an even better experience including gourmet meals and valet parking, you can get VIP entry.

This option also includes exclusive backlot access , allowing you to get an even closer look behind the scenes.

The VIP tour is an entirely different experience from their main tour, including a special VIP trolley, so if you want to see as much as possible, check our attractions section for more details about this opportunity.

General admission can be purchased for either 1 or 2 days at a time, and the 2-day ticket option allows you to save at least $60-$70.

What is included in a Universal Studios Hollywood ticket?

The general 1 and 2-day tickets include admission to all the rides, shows, and attractions at the theme park, including the popular Universal Studios Tour .

Ticket Prices

• 1-Day Ticket: $109-$129
• 2-Day Ticket: $149-$169
• Universal Express Ticket: $189-$289
• Purchase tickets or learn more .

VIP Entry Prices

• VIP Experience Ticket: $369

Please keep in mind that these prices reflect tickets purchased online. You can expect tickets to cost more at the gate.

It’s also worth noting that the studio tour is included with admission, so you don’t have to pay anything extra to get a behind-the-scenes look at Universal Studios.

TIP: You can save anywhere from 20% - 50% off one-day general admission Universal Studios Hollywood tickets with a Los Angeles tourist pass. Check our discounts section for more details.

NOTE: The studio tour offered by this studio is included with the price of admission to Universal Studios Hollywood. Read our tour section for additional information.

This section covers all of the best discounts available on tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood, including information about tourist passes, discount sites, and more.

Tourist Passes

If you’re planning to enjoy more than just Universal Studios while visiting Los Angeles, you may want to consider getting a tourist attraction discount pass to save money on a variety of activities, museums, tours, and even other theme parks.

The following passes include tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood:

• Go City Los Angeles Card
• Los Angeles Explorer Pass
• Los Angeles CityPASS

These passes bundle dozens of popular tours and other fun services together at up to a 50% discount off of retail prices.

Aside from Universal Studios Hollywood, here are some of the best attraction options included with each of these tourist passes:

• SeaWorld | $68
• Disneyland | $129
• LEGOLAND | $95
• Knott’s Berry Farm | $64
• Six Flags Magic Mountain | $93
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour | $72
• Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour | $50
• Madame Tussauds Hollywood | $30
• Pacific Park Santa Monica | $33
• TCL Chinese Theater Tour | $18
• Dolby Theater Tour | $25
• OUE Skyspace + Skyslide | $ 33
• Aquarium of the Pacific | $35
• Whale Watching Cruise | $50

Depending on which service you choose, you should be able to save at least 20% - 60% off general admission prices for a variety of fun activities in Los Angeles.

For more details, please read our full post covering Los Angeles tourist passes .

AAA Discount

Members of AAA are eligible for the following discounts at Universal Studios Hollywood:

• $20 off the VIP Experience when purchased online.
• $10 off Universal Express tickets at the gate.
• 10% off at select CityWalk locations.

All you have to do is present proof of valid AAA membership to take advantage of these deals.

Military Discount

Universal Studios Hollywood offers special rates for both active duty and retired military.

These rates are only available through participating military ticket offices and cannot be obtained either online or at the gate.

That said, even if you don’t have time to visit a military ticket office, you can still save $3 off general admission tickets at the gate.

Discount Sites

In addition to all the other opportunities to save money on tickets, you can also find admission to Universal Studios Hollywood on discount sites such as Groupon or Living Social .

On top of the deals they already offer (currently about 20% off), these sites typically provide additional coupon codes with anywhere from 10% - 50% off local activities.

Before making any purchase, please check both the top and bottom of each page for banners that may contain coupons you can use to save even more money!

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD TOUR

This world-famous tour is included with the price of admission to Universal Studios Hollywood, and it’s a combination of a behind-the-scenes tour and a theme park ride.

The studio tour is usually led by none other than Jimmy Fallon, but at times they’ll have special guests who hop on and serve as a guide. In the past, guests have included characters like the Grinch.

Considering that legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg provided creative consultation for the experience, you can expect to have a great time!

During the tour, you’ll visit 13 city blocks of the studio lot via tram ride and see several notable sets from throughout the history of Universal Studios, as well as areas that are usually off-limits to the general public.

Visitors can expect to see actual sets from Hollywood movies and television shows like War of the Worlds , Jaws , King Kong , Desperate Housewives , Psycho (including Bates Motel), and other notable titles brought to you by one of the most historic movie studios in the world.

Some sets like The Fast & The Furious have actually been designed as more of an amusement park ride, bringing you closer to the action of filmmaking with live special effects all from the comfort of your tram.

How long is the Universal Studios tour?

This tour runs for approximately 60 minutes and it’s offered several times each day.

Although this may seem short, it also means you’ll have more time to visit other locations in and around Universal Studios Hollywood!

Can you tour Universal Studios in one day?

Well, you can take the tour in just 60 minutes, so yes!

That said, if you want to see everything Universal Studios Hollywood has to offer, you'll probably need more than one day.

And Universal isn't the only studio tour in Los Angeles. There are many other studio tours to consider .

OTHER ATTRACTIONS AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

This section will provide a few details about some of the other activities and attractions you can enjoy at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

This studio is like an amusement park, so there are several great heart-pounding rides to enjoy that we will discuss below.

There are also quite a few shopping opportunities you may want to consider.

Backlot Access

If you want to get an even closer look behind the scenes, VIP entry tickets include exclusive access to the Universal Backlot, allowing you to check out actual sound stages and the prop department.

Many people report that while taking advantage of this opportunity, they have actually seen notable actors and celebrities!

This experience is best for movie buffs who legitimately want to learn more about the filmmaking process and see interesting locations related to their favorite films.

One of the nicest things about this option is that it includes a special VIP tram that is off-limits to the general public, and they also have a private VIP dining room for guests who purchase this experience.

How much is the private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Currently, this tour is approximately $369 per person. You can purchase tickets here .

Universal CityWalk Hollywood

Believe it or not, this attraction is actually located right outside Universal Studios Hollywood, and you don’t need to pay for admission to visit CityWalk.

With more than 30 places to eat, a 19-screen theater, and 30 stores to shop at, there’s plenty to see and do here.

Best of all, if you’re a AAA member, you can save 10% at certain CityWalk locations!

Amusement Rides

There are several themed amusement rides at Universal Studios, including some of the following popular examples:

• Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
• Harry Potter: Flight of the Hippogriff
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride
• Springfield: The Simpsons Ride
• Jurassic World: The Ride
• Transformers: The Ride

Some of these rides are located in themed locations within the park that are designed to replicate the world within the films and shows they reference.

Themed Locations

In addition to all the rides available in Universal Studios Hollywood, there are also several areas in the park that replicate the look and feel of your favorite movies in popular movies and television franchises.

Here are some of the most notable examples:

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Hogwarts
• The Walking Dead Walkthrough
• Super Nintendo World
• The Simpsons World
• Jurassic World

Each themed location typically includes at least a few rides, attractions, restaurants, and shops where you can find a lot of great memorabilia related to your favorite franchises.

Character Sightings

Much like a theme park, you can expect to see several notable characters walking around Universal Studios Hollywood, including some of the following examples:

• The Minions
• The Simpsons
• Optimus Prime
• Curious George
• Shrek, Donkey & Princess Fiona
• And many more!

Aside from character sightings, you may also spot a few celebrities on the Universals Studio backlot while taking their studio tour!

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• Which Studio Tour to Choose?

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Universal Studios' VIP tour costs $369 per person. Is it worth it?

T here are a few ways to get into  Super Nintendo World , the wildly popular new land that opened at Universal Studios Hollywood in February 2023. The first is to buy a regular park ticket and get in the virtual queue once you arrive in the park — but depending on what time you arrive at Universal for the day, you could be waiting several hours or not get a spot at all. An express ticket (or the express privileges that come with the highest tier of annual pass) provides entry into the faster line-skipping ride queues and will also get you entry into the land. 

The second is to purchase the Super Nintendo World early-access add-on, which is an additional $20-$30 per ticket depending on the day. That extra cost gets you into the land an hour before the park opens, so you’ll avoid a significant portion of the always-long wait for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, which is far and away the most popular ride at the park right now. As of this writing, only five days for the rest of June are available, for $30 each. 

But the third is the surest bet: to buy a ticket for a Universal VIP tour . This small-group tour might sound expensive — it starts at $369 per person — but once all is said and done, the math really works out in your favor. As does the enjoyment level for your day, but I digress. 

On the tour, you are one of a small group — the number varies but could be up to 24 — and the tour lasts about seven hours with a VIP guide. There are a lot of perks, but the biggest one by far is that the VIP tour is the only way to get front-of-line access to the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride in Super Nintendo World. The park doesn’t offer express access to the ride, and while there is a single-rider lane, that benefits only solo riders. Part of the fun of the ride is competing within your party to see who gets the most coins and unlocks the most badges.

For a Thursday at the end of June, a park ticket costs $139 for basic entry, with the option of the $30 Super Nintendo World early entry, for a total of $169. A Universal Express ticket with one-time express lane entrance per ride for the same day costs $289, plus $30 early entry, totaling $319. Unlimited express for the same day totals $369. For a spot on a group VIP tour, the ticket is $469. (This is absolutely a lot of money, there’s no question about it — but keep in mind it’s also a ticket for peak summer season, and less expensive days are available.)

The VIP ticket includes a lot that you wouldn’t otherwise get: unlimited front-of-line access (even the express lines sometimes have a wait), free breakfast and lunch, free bottled water, concierge assistance with dining reservations, and other perks sprinkled throughout. It also includes a special extended Studio Tour; I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, but that tour is a unique, absolutely unmissable attraction. 

The day starts in the VIP lounge, which has a separate entrance from the main Universal Studios gates. You go straight into the breakfast dining room, which has a spread of breakfast sandwiches, yogurt, pastries, fruit, desserts, juices, coffees and espresso drinks. (The person who checks you in also gives you a poncho for the Jurassic World water ride.)

Then you meet your guide for the day and embark on your tour, starting with the enhanced Studio Tour. If you  love a Hollywood studio tour as much as I do, this part alone is worth the extra cost. The regular studio tour is about 45 minutes and runs through several working movie lots, like the Little Europe backlot, which was the location of “The Good Place” and all of the classic Universal movie monster films of the 1920s and ‘30s, and the airplane wreckage from Steven Spielberg’s “War of the Worlds.”

Depending on how invested the group is in this part of the day, the enhanced studio tour can be two hours, or even longer. On our tour, we spent quite a while on a normally off-limits part of the backlot, the town square area with the famous courthouse and clock tower from “Back to the Future.” We got to stop at  the set of Jupiter’s Claim from Jordan Peele’s “Nope,” where we went through the attraction and then pulled around to get off the trolley and walk around the set. We also walked through the Prop House, where I saw original set pieces from “King Kong” but wasn’t allowed to take a single picture. That part of the tour recently reopened; it had been closed since before the pandemic.

After the tour, we went to lunch, which is a surprisingly robust buffet at the private Moulin Rouge restaurant in the French section of the Upper Lot. Normally, Frankenstein and Dracula wander around here and talk to (terrorize?) guests, but during our lunch, Dracula came inside and went from table to table taking photos and interacting with all of us. When he left, Doc Brown came in. Spying Dracula still there, he said, “There must be a rip in the space-time continuum!” before the vampire took his leave.

The afternoon is dedicated to rides. The guide will take guests to the rides they prefer to do, but the big hits both times I’ve been on this tour were the Secret Life of Pets and Jurassic World, plus Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. 

In Super Nintendo World, if you do this tour, be prepared for a lot of dirty looks from people who have been waiting in line for an hour or more. They will understandably be upset to watch you skip the whole line. You can also do the same for the Bowser Jr. battle in his castle, which you can normally only play if you beat the three key challenges outside in the Mushroom Kingdom. Speaking of mushrooms, depending on the day, your guide might be able to help you get entry into the perpetually booked Toadstool Cafe inside Super Nintendo World. It’s not always possible, but it can sometimes be done. 

Once your tour is up and you’re on your own, your VIP badge acts like an unlimited express pass for the rest of the day. You can ride anything you want as many times as you want (except Mario Kart — that’s a one-time deal). The pass also gets you into preferred seating at the Waterworld stunt show . 

You can even ask your guide to help you get a table at a restaurant at Universal CityWalk, like the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Kitchen that opened in January. Most of the sit-down restaurants extend a free appetizer to people who have been on the VIP tour that day. By the time you total up what you would have spent on food during the day, the cost comes out to about the same for a park ticket or VIP ticket. 

There are private VIP tours of up to 10 people that act like the Disneyland VIP tours: You’re in your own group with just your party, and those tours cost several thousand dollars. Way out of my price range. But the group tour feels very special, even if you are with a few people you don’t know. By the end of mine, it felt like we were all friends.

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Guide to the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood

What’s better than being a guest at Universal Studios Hollywood ? Being a VIP guest at Universal Studios Hollywood. Don’t get us wrong , every day at Universal feels like magic. But the VIP Tour feels like…well, extra cushy magic.

So what, exactly, does it mean to be an A-lister at Universal Studios Hollywood? In the VIP Experience , you’ll explore the theme park with a super knowledgeable tour guide, in a maximum 13-person group. The tours last a minimum of five hours and include one (truly delicious) meal, an extended Studio Tour , unlimited Express Pass access, and — well, let’s just get into it, shall we? Here’s everything you need to know about the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood.

THE PRE-TOUR PERKS

When you hear the words “VIP,” it’s fair to assume you’re about to be peppered with sweet, sweet perks. The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood is no exception to the rule. And, lucky for you, those fun little bonuses begin the second you arrive at Universal. Here’s what you can expect before you even start the tour:

• Valet parking. This is a huge perk! Just roll up to the main entrance to the Jurassic Parking garage, hand your keys over to a Team Member, and they’ll take it from there. No fretting over losing your keys or forgetting where you parked — you’re a VIP now. 
• Complimentary refreshments. Enter the VIP lounge (just look for the red carpet to the right of the entry gates after security) for a comfortable, air-conditioned waiting area before your tour. There, you can enjoy a complimentary spread including bagels, coffee, and other light bites.
• Sun protectants. You’re about to spend a full day in a theme park — there’s no such thing as enough sunscreen! Guests have access to complimentary sunscreen ,lip balm, and ice water in the VIP Experience Center.

Once your group is assembled, fed and sunscreened up, it’s time to explore Universal Studios Hollywood — VIP style!

The tour guides are what make the VIP Experience truly one-of-a-kind. First, they’re perhaps the most knowledgeable folks you’ll ever meet about all things Universal. As your tour guide leads your small group through the theme park, they’ll hit you with factoid after factoid. It’s an inundation of anecdotes to use at your next cocktail party.

Do you know which other major studios you can see from the escalator on the way to the Studio Tour? Or what iconic 80s film the facade of Saul & Sons in the New York section of the theme park is based on? Or who dubbed Universal “the strangest city in the world”? Your VIP tour guide does.

Beyond a sky-high Universal IQ, the tour guides are there to help make your experience exactly what you want it to be. Each VIP Tour is different. Your Guide is given an allotted time to take your group to three things: the Studio Tour, the WaterWorld show, and lunch. Other than that, they have room to improvise. That means there’s lots of time for rides via Express Lanes. While you can’t completely tailor the experience to every little thing that you, personally, would like to do — you are on a group tour, after all — the guides are able to take your input into consideration.

THE STUDIO TOUR

The Studio Tour is your chance to see the ins and outs of how movies get made. But on the VIP Experience, the Studio Tour brings you just shy of straight-up making the movies yourself. While General Admission guests stay on the tram, VIP guests get to hop off and walk the sets. The exclusive access of movie and TV sets — plus certain luxe amenities — make this unlike any other Studio Tour you’ve experienced. In addition to all standard Studio Tour experience, VIP guests have access to:

• The VIP Trolley. Forget the tram, you’re a trolley rider now! Part of being very important means riding on a special trolley, complete with complementary ice water.
• Soundstage stop. Learn how movie magic comes to life inside one of Universal’s massive soundstages. You might walk through rooms that look totally real — until you learn all the walls are removable for lighting and camera access.
• Edith Head Costume and Prop department. Named for the legendary 20th century costume designer, this building homes hundreds of props used in iconic films throughout time. Just one rule: you break it, you buy it. So I’d keep my hands to myself. 
• Walk on a real set. VIP guests get to hop off and explore iconic movie sets on foot. It could be New York City, or Courthouse Square, or Colonial Street, but each tour is slightly different.

NOTE: These are all real, working sets! Therefore, all VIP Experience tours are subject to availability based on production schedules and other factors. Each tour is a little bit different.

VIPs? Wait in long lines? What a ridiculous concept! With your Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience comes an Unlimited Express Pass, meaning you get to use the Express Lanes on every ride in the theme park. That means less time waiting, and more time riding. We made it onto seven rides during my VIP Experience.

And the best part? The VIP Experience is the only way to bypass the general queue for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge . The regular Express Pass doesn’t come with that perk.

But the VIP Experience isn’t just about skipping lines, it’s about the little things. It’s all about removing friction from your day. Here are a couple examples of little luxuries on the rides:

• No Ride Locker Necessary. VIP guests can just hand their bag to their tour guide as they hop on a ride, who hands it back when you get off. Easy peasy. 
• WaterWorld Seats. Snagging seats for this crowd-pleaser is no sweat when you’ve got VIP seats waiting for you. 

PRO TIP: Your VIP lanyard functions as an Express Pass for the remainder of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood! If you’re a real thrill-seeker, snag a spot on an early tour — then hit the rides via Express Lane until the theme park closes. 

You’ve done everything at Universal Studios Hollywood, you claim? Bet you haven’t eaten at VIP Dining. If you haven’t already done the VIP Tour, you definitely haven’t. I mean, I hadn’t, and Iwork here.

VIP Dining, tucked in the Parisian (so you know it’s fancy) portion of the Upper Lot, is the VIP-only dining room. During your VIP Tour, you’ll enjoy a one-hour, all-you-can-eat experience here. And I do mean enjoy. VIP Dining has (arguably) the tastiest food available at the theme park and CityWalk. The whole buffet is delicious, but I especially recommend the mushroom risotto, the melon and prosciutto, the caprese salad, the asian cucumber salad — I could go on. And, you know what? I will: Don’t forget to save room for gelato, cheesecake and cookies.

The elevated menu, plus free phone charging stations and visits from Universal characters, makes VIP Dining the perfect oasis at which to refuel during a jam-packed day at the theme park.

THE DETAILS

Here are the nitty-gritty details you need to know:

• VIP Tours start at various times throughout the morning. The number of tours per day varies by season and day of the week.
• Tours are capped at 13 guests each.
• Tours run for a minimum of 5 hours.
• Children must be at least 5 years old to attend, and 17 years old to attend without an accompanying adult.
• Book your VIP Experience here.
• VIP Private Experience tours are also available. Call (818) 622-8477 to reserve yours.

THE SPOOKY VERSION

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the combination of two of the best parts of Universal Studios Hollywood: VIP + Halloween Horror Nights. It’s called the R.I.P. Tour. (Genius.)

The R.I.P. Tour differs slightly from the regular VIP Experience, but the bones (har-har) are the same. You’ll get a guided walking tour of the event, one-time express entry to each haunted house and available attractions, the Terror Tram backlot experience in a VIP trolley, and gourmet dining experience, and more. Check out the full details her e . But basically, it’s the VIP Experience, plus a whole lot of guts and gore and jump-scares. Hell really is a place on Earth.

THE VERDICT

So, should you splurge on the VIP Experience? The short answer: yes. But let’s break it down and see if it makes sense for you. The VIP Experience is awesome for…

• Universal superfans. If you want to soak up every last thing the theme park has to offer, the VIP Experience is an absolute must. As I mentioned, certain experiences, like VIP Dining and the up-close Studio Tour, are only available to VIP guests.
• Folks who want a cushier experience . Treat yourself! Theme park days can be long ones — make yours a truly relaxing visit with the VIP Experience.
• Entertainment buffs. Even the biggest film nerds can learn a thing or two from the brainiac VIP tour guides.
• Parents of young ones. Tired of planning every single little detail of the family vacation? Your VIP tour guide has got you covered. Parents will appreciate someone else taking the lead for a jam-packed day!

Overall? Going VIP totally elevates the Universal Studios Hollywood experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or have an Annual Pass, put this one on your bucket list.

What part of the VIP Experience are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments below.

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Grace Perry

Senior Editor, Universal Studios Hollywood. Lisa sun, Smithers rising, Disco Stu moon.

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24 comments.

I am thinking about doing the Vip experience on my own on Jan 19, 2024. Well I still have fun?

We think you’ll have the best time! 🤩

Hello, I booked a VIP tour for January 30, since WaterWorld will be closed what will the tour substitute?

Hi Naomi! We recommend reaching out to our VIP Team at (818) 622-8477 with any questions you may have regarding your specific tour!

We did it one time..WAS AMAZING.

was amazing , you really feel like a VIP

We’re so glad that you had a great time!

I spy Greg! He was our tour guide for RIP last year and was amazing. Looking forward to going again this year with fingers crossed we get him as our guide again!

We’re so happy to hear you had a great time on your tour, and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon!

We have a 5 year old. Would he enjoy the tour or be bored? I worry about the backlot portion?

Hi Sandra! For any questions or assistance with our VIP Experience, please feel free to reach out via phone at (818) 622-8477. We hope to see you soon!

Where and how we can get VIP experience..

Hi Rosita! To book a VIP Experience, we recommend contacting our team at 1-866-346-9350 as they would be more than happy to answer any questions and provide further assistance. We can’t wait to see you at our parks soon!

Goedemiddag,

We hebben vandaag ook deze tickets geboekt alvast voor komende zomervakantie in Augustus. Maar weet iemand ook of je met deze tickets voorrang krijgt om op de foto te gaan met de karakters die in het park staan/lopen?

Hi Marcel, we’re so excited to hear of your upcoming visit and VIP Experience! This tour does not include expedited access to our character meet and greets.

Does the unlimited express include the Bowser Mario Cart ride, or is it only once while on the actual tour?

Hi Michael, the only way to bypass the general queue for that attraction is the VIP Experience. Universal Express Unlimited does not include that attraction.

Is the Toadstool Cafe included with the VIP-Tour, or do I have to make a reservation?

Hi Moni! We recommend reaching out to our VIP Experience Team at 1 (800) 864-8377 for more information regarding your tour offerings!

Hi! Can we upgrade VIP tickets to platinum passes should we decide to become pass holders that day?

Hey Liz! If you had any questions regarding upgrading your ticket packages, we recommend reach out via phone at 800-864-8377. We hope to have you visit soon!

I see that during April-Aug, general admission tickets also can get off the tram and experience the movie sets. What am I paying extra for besides food and rides? This was a major draw for my family of 4 booking the vip tour and being able to leave the tram.

Hi Ramon, while Celebrating 60 Years of the Studio Tour, Guests will be able to step off the tram for about 10 minutes. During the VIP Experience, Guests get a much more in-depth look at some iconic movie sets on foot when stepping off the VIP trolley.

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Complete guide to Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood

When Mario Bros. made its arcade debut in 1983, an 8-bit star was born. Though Mario had made appearances in a handful of Nintendo games before getting his very own video game, he – along with his brother Luigi – stole the hearts of video game fans everywhere and the release kick-started one of the most iconic gaming franchises ever created.

In the four decades since, kids of all ages have interacted with Mario's world on two-dimensional screens.

Now, you can step through the screen and into a living, breathing, four-dimensional world with Mario, Luigi and the whole gang at Universal Studios Hollywood's Super Nintendo World.

As of Feb. 17, the land is officially open to the public and welcoming guests into the Mushroom Kingdom.

Ready to play? Here's everything you need to know.

Related: The most exciting theme park additions of 2023

What is Super Nintendo World?

Super Nintendo World is Universal Studios Hollywood's newest land.

As the name suggests, the land is themed around popular Nintendo games and characters — most notably Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach. Of course, no video game would be complete without a big, bad villain, and you'll find Bowser's evil presence looming in the land, as well.

Upon walking through the warp pipe into Super Nintendo World, the land's immersive theming effectively makes you a video game character. There are points to score, achievements to unlock and bad guys to overcome, spanning a multitude of games from the Super Mario multiverse.

Whether you want to race to victory in a real-life Mario Kart game, visit Bowser's Castle or dine at Toadstool Cafe, there are plenty of ways to interact with the various elements of the land during your visit.

Getting into Super Nintendo World

Entry to Super Nintendo World is included with your regular admission to Universal Studios Hollywood. During the busy weeks (and maybe months) after the land's Feb. 17 opening, you may need to make a virtual line reservation to enter.

If the land is at capacity during your visit, a virtual line system will be in place. After you enter the park, you can check the Universal Studios Hollywood app to find out if you need a spot in the virtual line to enter the land. If a virtual line is in place, you'll be able to choose a time to return to the land and you can enjoy the rest of the park until it's time to "warp" over to Super Nintendo World.

Related: From downtown to the Westside and beyond: Los Angeles hotels you can book on points

Ticketholders and annual pass holders with Universal Express skip-the-line access as well as guests on a VIP tour can use their Universal Express benefits to enter Super Nintendo World once per day if the land is using the reservation system. If the land isn't at capacity, you can enter the land without a reservation and press start on your day of fun.

You can also buy your way into Super Nintendo World an hour before it opens to other guests by adding a Super Nintendo World Early Access Ticket to your regular admission.

The prices vary by day but should generally be between $20 and $25, and allow entry to the land one hour before the park's opening. You'll also get Universal Express access to the Studio Tour before 11 a.m. on the day of your visit.

Related: Is Universal's Express Pass worth it?

Rides at Super Nintendo World

The only ride at Super Nintendo World is Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. To get to the ride, you must pass through the imposing Bowser's Castle. The queue winds through the corridors of his castle, showcasing Mario Kart trophies, memorabilia and evidence of Bowser's plan to defeat Team Mario along the way.

This interactive, multisensory ride puts you behind the wheel in a high-stakes Mario Kart race. Just like in the Mario Kart game you've played at home, you can race through familiar courses, throw turtle shells and fight to beat Team Bowser.

The real-life version relies on a mix of projection mapping technology, colorful physical set pieces and augmented reality goggles to bring the popular racing game to life. The ride doesn't move fast like a roller coaster. It is relatively slow in speed compared to many theme park thrill rides, but the technology makes the ride feel like a high-speed race.

Each car holds four riders, and everyone in your car has to work together to earn enough coins to beat Team Bowser.

How do you earn coins? By successfully "steering" your car in the right direction and throwing turtle shells at the bad guys.

It can be a little tricky at first using the steering wheel to maneuver the car, but to throw turtle shells you simply look at the bad guy you are going for and hit the trigger on your steering wheel. Because Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge puts you in the driver's seat, the outcome changes every time you race.

You must be 40 inches tall to ride Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and 48 inches tall to ride without a supervising adult.

Related: How Universal is stepping out of the mouse's shadow to become the hottest theme park

Just because Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge is the only ride in Super Nintendo World right now doesn't necessarily mean that will always be the case. Universal Studios Japan's version of the land has a second ride called Yoshi's Adventure and a Donkey Kong-themed roller coaster is scheduled to open in 2024.

It is expected that Super Nintendo World at Universal's new Epic Universe in Orlando will also have all three of these rides when it opens in 2025.

Activities at Super Nintendo World

Like any good video game, Super Nintendo World follows a storyline.

As soon as you walk through the warp pipe and step into the land, it is your mission to retrieve the golden mushroom that Bowser Jr. has stolen from Princess Peach's castle. To complete your mission, you'll need to collect keys from around the land, which you can earn by playing a series of interactive games.

There are four games to choose from, and you need to beat three of them in order to enter Bowser Jr.'s lair for the final boss battle. If you can beat Bowser Jr., the golden mushroom will be restored to its rightful owner, and you'll emerge from his lair victorious.

Each game will have you facing off against various Nintendo baddies like Goomba, Koopa Troopa, Piranha Plant and Thwomp. Some can be done on your own and others are easier to complete with a team.

Completing these "key challenges" isn't the only way to interact with Super Nintendo World. Almost everything you see is meant to be explored or played with ... and all of these things can help you earn stamps that will boost your score. Meet Mario and Luigi? You earn a stamp. Punch a pow block? You earn a stamp. Earn a top score on Mario Kart? You earn a stamp.

To earn coins and stamps, compete in key challenges and keep score within the land, you'll need to purchase a Power-Up Band. Power-Up Bands are available at kiosks inside the land or at Super Nintendo World retail locations inside the park and at CityWalk.

There are six character designs to choose from and each band costs $40. The character you choose determines your "team" in the land. Anyone playing that day with the same Power-Up Band design as yours is now your teammate. You can see how your team stacks up against other teams on the scoreboards or in the app.

You don't need a Power-Up Band to enjoy the land, but it is well worth the money if you want to fully experience the land and compete with your friends and family to see who can get the highest score.

Dining at Super Nintendo World

Toadstool Cafe is Super Nintendo World's signature restaurant and each item on the menu is almost as adorable as Chef Toad himself. Housed within a giant red-and-white mushroom, you can watch Chef Toad preparing dishes like a Piranha Plant Caprese Salad, Mario Burger and Fire Flower Spaghetti & Meatballs on video screens around the restaurant.

Keep your eyes on the screens while you dine, because Bowser may make a surprise appearance during your visit.

For dessert, you can have Question Block Tiramisu, Mt. Beanpole Cake or a Princess Peach Cupcake, and there is also a specialty Super Star Lemon Squash boba drink available, as well as water and soft drinks. There are even specialty souvenir cups you can bring home with you.

Shopping at Super Nintendo World

You can find Super Nintendo World merchandise at the 1-Up Factory inside the land or at the Super Nintendo World store at CityWalk or inside the park at the Character Shop and the Feature Presentation Shop. You'll find everything from plush toy versions of the characters in the land to apparel, mugs, home decor and more.

Super Nintendo World tips and secrets

• There is no "right way" to experience Super Nintendo World. The land is meant to be explored. If you find a doorway, staircase or anything else that looks as if it's meant to be discovered, give it a try. You never know what surprises you may find.
• You can use the Super Nintendo World map in the Universal Studios Hollywood app to find the interactive elements, key challenges and character meet-and-greets within the land.
• When you get into your Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge ride vehicle, remember to tap your Power-Up Band on the steering wheel. This will sync up the points you score on the ride with your daily total so you can see how you rank against your friends and family.
• If you have a Nintendo Switch, you can tap your Power-Up Band to your Switch to unlock exclusive content.
• There are four "M" symbols on walls throughout the land. Tap your Power-Up Band over the symbol to discover hidden 8-bit characters from the original Super Mario Bros.
• If you follow the staircase to the left of the entrance to Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge, you'll find binoculars that look out over the land. They show a real-time feed of the land with a few surprises sprinkled in. Zoom in on the characters and objects you see to reveal Easter eggs and earn stamps.
• Plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring Super Nintendo World. You can always stay longer, but that is the minimum amount of time you need to experience all the land has to offer.

Bottom line

Universal Studios Hollywood's new Super Nintendo World is colorful, vibrant and just plain joyful.

All around you, people are having fun living out their video game dreams and the feeling is infectious. You'll find that you can't walk past a question block without punching it and that you want to ride Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge over and over again to see if you can beat your previous score.

Once you start playing a video game, it's hard to stop. At Super Nintendo World, you don't have to. The land is the game and you are the player. And this time, it's not "game over" until you say so.

Related reading:

• These are the best credit cards for theme parks
• New attractions coming to Disney World in 2023
• How to use points to save at Universal Orlando
• What to pack in your bag for a theme park day

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Super Nintendo World Hollywood: Ticket Prices, Reservations & Everything You Need to Know

Here’s everything you need to know about the Mario-themed land at Universal Studios Hollywood.

After first enticing us back in 2016 , Super Nintendo World’s opening  is finally here, and it’s brought a colorful bit of the Mushroom Kingdom into Universal Studios Hollywood . It’s by far the biggest addition to the theme park  since the introduction of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter , so here’s everything you need to know about your foray into Super Nintendo World.

Where is Super Nintendo World?

The latest iteration of Super Nintendo World can be found at Universal Studios Hollywood in L.A. Specfically, you’ll encounter the land on the theme park’s lower lot, near the Transformers ride (just look for the large green warp pipe—and likely an even larger crowd of people).

When did Super Nintendo World open?

Without any prior announcement, the land began to welcome visitors in mid-January for a series of technical rehearsals. Then, it officially opened on February 17, 2023.

How can I make a reservation?

Though the theme park itself doesn’t require reservations, access to the Super Nintendo World area may be limited via a virtual queue on the busiest days. Once on property, you can open up the Universal Studios Hollywood smartphone app to see if the virtual queue is required for entry and claim your place in it . You can add up to 10 people to a reservation, and the app will alert you if your return time is adjusted.

If you purchase a Universal Express pass, you can enter the land once without a reservation. However, it’s worth noting that the pass  won’t let you skip the Mario Kart ride line for now (only a pricey VIP tour will let you do that).

How much do Super Nintendo World tickets cost?

Access is included with general theme park admission , which ranges from $109 to $154 depending on the day. A Universal Express pass costs $209 to $309 and includes park admission.

For an extra $20 to $25, you can also add on an early access ticket that gets you into Super Nintedo World an hour before the rest of the park opens.

How many rides are there?

Unlike the version of the land in Japan, which has both Mario Kart and Yoshi-themed rides, Super Nintendo World in L.A. only has one ride: Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.

This augmented reality-enhanced ride finds you competing on some of the chaotic racing series’ courses. In a nutshell (or a Koopa shell, if you will), your kart follows a set path in the style of classic dark rides while most of the interactivity plays out on your AR headset. You tighten a Mario-themed visor on your head while you’re still waiting in the queue, and then once you board your kart you simply magnetically snap on the lenses.

As the vehicle skids and spins along a physical course, steering prompts and combative karts appear in your visor and seem to hover in real space, as do the shells that you can launch using buttons on the steering wheel (whatever direction you’re looking in is where they’ll aim; it’s a little weird at first, but you quickly get the hang of it).

There’s a lot going on in the ride, and after having been on a bunch of times now we’d say that the many videos online don’t effectively capture how it all comes together. Also, the AR component looks way more crisp in real life than it does in often-fuzzy videos; they do have a fairly narrow field of view, but given how much is going on, we didn’t find that much of an issue. It’s a hectic, remarkably fun ride, and the score component will absolutely have you wanting to ride again.

It’s worth noting that the ride has received a bit of attention for the size of its karts: If your waistline is above 40 inches, you may not be able to comfortably fit inside of the seats. The seats do feel a bit narrow and snug, so if you’re worried about whether or not you can comfortably ride, we suggest trying the sample seat in the line (once you walk through the warp pipe entrance, it’s immediately to the right).  

What can you do at Super Nintendo World?

The main attraction, as we mentioned above, is Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. But you can also eat at Toadstool Cafe, an adorable restaurant where animated mushroom-capped Toads toil away in the kitchen, and shop at the 1-UP Factory store, which features exclusive merchandise themed to the franchise’s core characters. (You’ll also find some Nintendo-themed merch in the Character Shop just before the entrance to the land, closer to Jurassic World.) 

Toadstool Cafe has proven  exceptionally popular, so much so that you likely won’t be able to just waltz in. Instead, look for a sign with a QR code outside of the entrance, and you’ll need to use that to make a same-day reservation for the restaurant. Also, even if the sign says all reservations are booked for the day, scan it anyway: You may get lucky with an unclaimed, last-minute spot, particularly later in the evening.

There are also tons of interactive experiences tied into the land: You can partake in four minigames dubbed Key Challenges; pose for photos with Mario, Luigi and Peach; peer through digital binoculars with a Yoshi ambling along in the distance; and punch ? and POW blocks to hear that familiar coin sound.

What’s a Power-Up Band? And is it worth it?

Available in a half-dozen different character themes, these smart slap bracelets ($40) will track your score as you collect coins from blocks and inside the Mario Kart ride. When paired with the Universal Studios Hollywood app, your exploits then unlock all sorts of digital stickers.

It’s also the only way you can enter one of the attractions, a shadowy showdown with Bowser Jr. Let’s rewind a bit first, though: There are four minigames scattered throughout the world dubbed “Key Challenges”; these include tasks like perfectly timing a Koopa shell shot and smashing alarm clocks to put an angry Piranha Plant back to sleep. The Power-Up Band is the only way that you can actually track whether you’ve obtained the keys from these challenges, though; complete three of them and then you can tap your band at the lock-shaped entrance to the final minigame, the Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown (only one person in your party needs a Power-Up Band to gain access).

So is it worth it? If you can spare the extra $40, then we certainly think it’s an entertaining enhancement to the land, especially if you plan on repeat visits. Who knows how strictly the bands will be enforced in the future for gaining entrance into the Bowser Jr. encounter, but we happen to think that experience (where you use your shadow to hit bombs and unload fireballs on Bowser Jr.) is pretty fun. The bands also double as an amiibo for the Nintendo Switch (corresponding to whatever character you have on the band), so either that helps swallow some of the cost or means absolutely nothing to you. All that said, we’d say one for your entire party is plenty—and if you opt not to buy one at all, Super Nintendo World is no less enjoyable.

Are there any other non-Mario characters in Super Nintendo World?

Despite the Nintendo name, which covers everything from Zelda to Kirby to Pokémon, Super Nintendo World is almost entirely limited to friends and foes from the  Super Mario games ( a Donkey Kong-inspired area  is due to open in Japan in 2024). That said, there’s one very small exception: These tiny Pikmin, which were added in at least two locations just ahead of the official opening.

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Here’s how Super Nintendo World warped the Mushroom Kingdom into Universal Studios Hollywood

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We talk with one of the Mario-themed land’s creative leads about its colorful scenery and augmented reality Mario Kart ride.

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Complete Guide to the Universal Studios VIP Experience

This article is your complete guide to the Universal VIP Experience! We are going to cover everything about the Universal Studios Orlando VIP tour and of course the Universal Studios VIP pass in Hollywood. There are some major benefits to the Universal VIP pass which include front-of-the-line access to all of the major shows and rides, free meals, free parking, and your tour guide for the day. We have done the Universal Studios VIP, and have a lot of good things to say, as well as downsides for the extra cost.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Universal Orlando be sure to check out our Universal Crowd Calendar!

 Universal Crowd Calendar

What Are The Universal VIP Tours?

The Universal VIP tour offers an unparalleled experience for guests. This tour is guided by an expert through the park’s top attractions and shows, and is available at both Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood! This exclusive experience includes significant perks like the Universal Express Pass , allowing you to bypass lines at most attractions. The tour is offered in both private and non-private formats and provides the flexibility to customize your visit. Whether you enjoy the Universal Studios Orlando VIP experience or the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour, you’re guaranteed priority access, expert insights, and a memorable, comprehensive way to enjoy Universal Studios, making every moment unforgettable!

How Long Does the Universal VIP Tour Last?

• 5 – 7 hours

The duration of the Universal VIP tours varies between 5-7 hours, depending on the type of tour package you choose. The Universal Orlando VIP tour typically spans 6-7 hours, while its counterpart, the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour, usually lasts between 5-6 hours.

How Early Should You Arrive for Your Universal VIP Tour?

• 45 – 60 minutes before the tour begins

One of the most useful tips and tricks we can provide to get the most out of your Universal Orlando VIP tour is to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your tour even begins. One of the main reasons is it will take you some time to get through security at Universal. And once you do arrive at the park gates, your group will still have to check in to your VIP experience. We also enjoyed getting to meet with our Universal VIP tour guide and coming up with a game plan for how the entire group would prefer to tackle the parks.

Related Post: Complete Guide to Harry Potter Orlando Vs California 

Universal Orlando VIP Experience Express Pass

The Universal VIP experience provides guests with front-of-the-line access to both of the main Universal Orlando parks. Out of the many perks that the Universal Orlando VIP ticket also includes, the free Universal Express Pass ticket is our favorite one! The second biggest pro to the VIP experiences at Universal Studios Orlando is that they include the two most popular rides in Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the VelociCoaster.

It’s important to point this out as although both of these rides are included with early park admission, they are not included with the Universal Orlando express pass ticket.

Does Universal VIP include Hagrid’s?

• Yes, all VIP experience Universal offers front-of-the-line access to every ride and attraction within the theme parks, including Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure!

The significance of this feature cannot be overstated, especially considering that this ride is not covered by the standard Universal Orlando Express Pass. So when you decide to go for Universal Studios VIP tickets, you’re gaining an advantage that goes beyond the usual benefits!

Related Post: Complete Guide to Universal Studios Orlando Shows

Universal Orlando Non-Private VIP Tour Overview

You can purchase tickets for up to six guests for the Universal Orlando non-private VIP experience. Then you will be combined with other parties to form a group of up to twelve people for the day’s adventures. The non-private Universal Orlando VIP tour typically begins at 11:00 AM each morning and typically lasts between five and seven hours. We will also say that even though guests follow the Universal tour guide lead on average they are guaranteed to get an average of ten rides.

One key distinction between the non-private and private Universal Orlando VIP experience is the role of the tour guide in selecting the day’s attractions. While the guide will make the final decisions, they typically conduct a group poll to gauge everyone’s interests. Given this, we strongly recommend engaging in a discussion with the other members of your non-private VIP experience Universal Orlando tour before it starts! This will allow you to align your ride preferences and ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

What is Included in the Universal Orlando Non-Private VIP Tour?

• Free Valet Parking
• Front-of-the-line access to Universal Orlando shows and rides
• Backstage tour and knowledge from your tour guide
• Universal Express pass for after
• Complimentary breakfast and lunch

Does the Universal Orlando VIP Experience Cost?

Another common question we receive is, how much is the Universal Orlando non-private VIP tour?  The Universal Orlando non-private VIP tour for 2 parks over 1 day starts at  $189.00 per person plus sales tax. It’s also important to note that a valid Universal Orlando park-to-park admission ticket is required as well to participate in the Universal Orlando VIP tour.

Related Post: Complete Guide to the Lockers at Universal Orlando

Private Universal Orlando VIP Tour Overview

This option is mandatory for groups of seven or more who are interested in upgrading to the Universal Orlando VIP experience. The most significant difference between private and non-private VIP tours lies in the level of control you have over your itinerary. In a private VIP tour, the guests have the final say on which attractions they’ll visit during the eight-hour tour.

This level of customization can be a game-changer. For instance, if your private tour group is enamored with H agrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or the VelociCoaster , you have the freedom to ride these attractions as many times as you’d like. This makes the VIP experience uniquely tailored to your group’s preferences.

As for the Universal Private VIP Experience cost , it’s worth noting that while this option may come at a premium, the personalized nature of the tour often makes it a value-added choice for larger groups or those seeking a bespoke experience at VIP Universal Studios .

Overall the private Universal Orlando includes the same private Universal tour guide to bring guests to the front of the line on all shows and attractions. It also includes free valet parking, a Universal express pass for after the tour, and two full-service meal vouchers which can be used inside the theme parks or at CityWalk. Non-private VIP tours also come with a 3-day Universal Orlando photo pass. 

What is included in the Universal Orlando Private VIP tour?

• Front-of-the-line access to Universal Orlando shows and rides which you select
• Universal express pass for after
• Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• 3-day Universal Orlando photo pass
• Additional discounts on food and merchandise

Private VIP tour Universal Orlando Cost?

So, what is the Universal private VIP tour cost? The Universal Studios private VIP tour costs start at $3,099 for the two park-a-day private VIP experience for up to five guests, and additional guests will start at $375 per person each. The private VIP tours at Universal Orlando can accommodate up to ten guests. It’s also important to note that these are the starting costs and the final price can fluctuate based on the time of year that you are visiting.

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Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour 2024

Now, let’s shift our focus from Florida to California and address the question: What is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP pass ? Much like its Orlando counterpart, the Universal Hollywood VIP ticket represents the pinnacle of exclusivity, offering front-of-the-line access and behind-the-scenes experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood.

The VIP offerings at Universal Studios Hollywood come in two flavors: the non-private VIP tour and the Universal Hollywood private VIP experience. Both options provide an elevated way to explore the park, but they cater to different needs and group sizes.

The non-private option is similar to the Orlando guided tours , where you join a group of up to twelve people and follow a pre-determined itinerary set by your tour guide. On the other hand, the private VIP experience is more akin to Orlando private tours , offering a customizable agenda that you and your group dictate.

If you’re considering the Hollywood option, you might be interested in looking up a VIP experience Universal Studios Hollywood review to get a sense of what past guests have thought of their experience. For those who are still weighing the pros and cons between the two coasts, comparing this with a private tour from Universal Orlando could provide valuable insights into which experience might be the best fit for you.

What are the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tours?

• Non-private Universal Hollywood VIP tour
• Private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour

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 Universal Studios Hollywood Non-Private VIP Tour

So, what is the Non-private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood? The non-private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is a limited-capacity experience with up to eighteen guests per VIP tour. It will provide guests with a backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot, free parking, an unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass with priority seating for select shows, light snacks and refreshments in the morning, and a gourmet meal for lunch.

What’s included with the Non-private Universal Hollywood VIP Tour?

• Backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot
• Free parking
• Unlimited Universal Hollywood Express Pass
• Snacks and gourmet lunch

How much does the Universal Hollywood Non-private VIP tour cost?

Now that we have gone over the details, how much does the Universal Hollywood VIP tour cost? The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tours start at $379 per person and each group can accommodate up to eighteen people. We would say one of the biggest differences between the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP and the Orlando VIP tour is with Hollywood the cost of admission is included in the purchase price.

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Private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour

Okay, now that we have covered the non-private you might be wondering what is the private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour. And, the private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood includes guests a backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot, free parking, an unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass with priority seating for select shows, light snacks and refreshments in the morning, and a gourmet meal for lunch. However, the biggest difference is it will only be for members of your group, and you will not be paired with any of the groups that day.

How long is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour?

Another common question we receive is, how long is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour?  As a general rule of thumb, the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour is approximately 6 hours, however, it is important to note that guests can stay in the park until closing to take advantage of their unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass.

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Is the Universal VIP Tour Worth it?

One of the most frequently asked questions we encounter is: Is the Universal Studios VIP tour worth it? As a general guideline, if your goal is to maximize your time and experiences, the Universal VIP tour is often well worth the investment. This is particularly true if you’re already considering an upgrade to include the Universal Express Pass ticket.

The reason for this is quite compelling. In the case of Universal Orlando, three major rides are not covered by the standard Express Pass but are included in the VIP tour Universal . This offers families a significant level of flexibility. You won’t need to worry about arriving for early park admission, which can sometimes be as early as 7:00 AM, to benefit from shorter wait times at the most popular attractions.

So, when considering a tour of Universal Studios Orlando, the VIP option provides a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the park. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned theme park veteran, the Universal Studios Orlando VIP and Orlando VIP experiences offer a premium, hassle-free way to enjoy all that Universal has to offer.

From a budgeting standpoint families will also be surprised to learn that the non-private VIP tours can make sense when you add up all of the extra benefits. We believe the fact that an unlimited Universal express pass is included with your Universal VIP ticket is huge as it will allow you to get onto so many more rides within your day. We also find that the Universal express pass is typically 60-70% of the cost of the non-private VIP tour anyway. So once you add the free valet parking and meals to your budget it might not be that much more to upgrade to the Universal VIP tour.

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Universal VIP Tour FAQ

Does the Universal VIP tour include VelociCoaster?

As a general rule of thumb, the Universal Orlando VIP tour does include the VelociCoaster. It’s important to note that the VelociCoaster is not included with the Universal Express pass so you will be sure to want to ride this attraction during your tour throughout the day.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our   Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar  is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We breakdown the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to  Universal Studios,  be sure to check out  Universal Orlando Tickets! Not only will you save money vs buying direct, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits that can help save you up to three hours in the parks!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at  Themeparktoday.com!

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