Things to do in Universal City

Activities, attractions and tours

Universal Studios showing signage, a city and rides
Universal Studios as well as a large group of people
Universal Studios showing rides as well as a small group of people
Universal Studios showing street scenes and heritage architecture
Universal Studios featuring rides, a park and a waterfall
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Top places to visit

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

Since 1915, visitors have flocked to experience the thrill of the movies at Universal Studios. Back then, guests were charged 25 cents to watch silent movie scenes being filmed: now, you might not see a film being made – and you are charged a lot more! - but the studios offer a whole day or more's worth of entertainment.
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Love movies? Then don't miss a visit to Universal Studios, a real working film studio and thrilling theme park in one.

2. Crypto.com Arena

Visit the STAPLES Center and see a major sporting or entertainment event. This arena is home to the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers National Basketball Association (NBA) teams. Take a tour of downtown Los Angeles and view the STAPLES Center or book a ticket for a major event.
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Staples Center which includes shopping, signage and a statue or sculpture

3. Santa Monica Beach

Get the iconic southern California sun-and-surf experience at Santa Monica Beach. Discover a sandy stretch of oceanfront delights close to one of the nation’s biggest cities.
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Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.

4. Venice Beach

It's a good idea to wear sunglasses when heading to Venice Beach – then you can people-watch in private. Not that much is private here though, as you will soon find out! For once, a sandy beach isn't the main draw: instead it's the people who make a visit here so much fun.
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Venice Beach showing a city and picnicking as well as a large group of people

5. Universal CityWalk

A stroll through Universal CityWalk, leading to and from Universal Studios Hollywood, can extend the fun of a theme park visit, but this three-block dining and entertainment district is worth a trip for its own sake. Over 30 restaurants offer varied options for a quick snack or a filling meal. You’ll find everything from Brazilian steakhouse fare and grilled shrimp to sushi, hot dogs, pretzels and frozen yogurt along CityWalk.
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During the day and night, places on both sides of this promenade on the way to Universal Studios Hollywood offer shopping, dining and entertainment.

6. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Come to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Studios Hollywood to experience firsthand the magic and wonder you’ve delighted seeing over and over in J.K. Rowling’s fantastic books and movies. Attention to detail, state-of-the-art robotics technology and some wizardry make this theme park an authentic recreation of the worlds that Harry, Ron and Hermione inhabit.
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Universal City which includes rides

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What to do in Universal City

Popular places to visit

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood

4.5/5(110 reviews)

Love movies? Then don't miss a visit to Universal Studios, a real working film studio and thrilling theme park in one.

Universal Studios Hollywood
Long Beach Cruise Terminal

Long Beach Cruise Terminal

4.5/5(14 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Long Beach with a trip to Long Beach Cruise Terminal. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.

Long Beach Cruise Terminal
Staples Center which includes shopping, signage and a statue or sculpture

Crypto.com Arena

4.5/5(25 reviews)

This multipurpose sports arena has hosted some of the world’s biggest musical acts and is home to two National Basketball Association teams.

Crypto.com Arena
Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain

4/5(12 reviews)

Enjoy the excitement at Six Flags Magic Mountain and find out why this is a popular theme park in Stevenson Ranch. Attend a sporting event or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Six Flags Magic Mountain
Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach

4.5/5(94 reviews)

Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.

Santa Monica Beach
Dodger Stadium

Dodger Stadium

4.5/5(13 reviews)

Catch an event at Dodger Stadium during your trip to Los Angeles. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.

Dodger Stadium
University of Southern California

University of Southern California

4.5/5(12 reviews)

Enjoy the student vibe with a visit to University of Southern California, a top university in Los Angeles. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

University of Southern California
Los Angeles Convention Center

Los Angeles Convention Center

4/5(13 reviews)

During your trip, find out what's happening in Los Angeles Convention Center, a top convention centre in Los Angeles. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and great live music in this vibrant area.

Los Angeles Convention Center
Venice Beach showing a city and picnicking as well as a large group of people

Venice Beach

4/5(149 reviews)

With muscle-bound men and wacky street entertainers, there's plenty of premier people-watching on offer at LA's world-famous boardwalk.

Venice Beach

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Burbank which includes a park as well as a small group of people

Burbank

Los Angeles

Los Angeles

Photo by alisha rothman

North Hollywood

Photo by alisha rothman

Studio City

Frequently asked questions

Is Universal City worth visiting?
Offering a mix of history and family-friendly attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Universal City. When you're here, visit Universal Studios Hollywood, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Universal City?
Universal Studios Hollywood and L.A. Live are two great places to begin your holiday adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Universal City while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Universal City?
The top tourist attraction in Universal City is Universal Studios Hollywood, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Universal City?
Three days will give you time to tick off the leading city attractions, like Universal Studios Hollywood, Rodeo Drive and Sunset Strip. The average stay in Universal City is three days. If you have the urge to extend your trip, Los Angeles isn't far away.
Is Universal City a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Universal City, including Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 5 kilometres from the city centre of Universal City is Hollywood Boulevard and NoHo Arts District is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Universal City with kids?
If you're looking for sights and activities for all the family, we've got some excellent ideas for what to do in Universal City with kids.

What to do in Universal City for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in Universal City for adults including San Antonio Winery and Los Angeles Convention Centre.
Are there free things to do in Universal City?
In Universal City, Rodeo Drive is a top spot for anyone planning to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a great way to explore the best free things to do in Universal City.