Universal Studios Hollywood, la nuit

Things to Do Near Universal Studios Hollywood

There's more to Hollywood than the movies, but it's a great place to start.
By Casey Makovich

Looking for fun things to do on your California trip that will fit into your Universal Studios Hollywood itinerary? Look no further, we've rounded up the best of the best.

Planning a trip to California to visit Universal Studios Hollywood™? Great choice — there's so much to experience in this popular SoCal destination!

Once you've had your fill of thrilling rides, studio tours, and amazing movie experiences, be sure to leave time in your itinerary to explore the many attractions in the area. Here are some don't-miss things to do on your next trip to Los Angeles.

Universal Studios Hollywood

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If you love movies, your time in LA won't be complete without a day (or two, or three) spent exploring Universal Studios Hollywood™. Here, you'll experience your favorite films and shows in a whole new way, with heart-pounding rides, behind-the-scenes tours of movie sets, special effects shows, and much more. As with any theme park, weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, and holidays can be extra busy. Universal Studios allows you to bring in your water bottles, so pack up to 2 liters and stay hydrated.

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Please note: Universal Studios is only available on the All-Inclusive Pass

Tips for visiting:

  • Show up earlier in the day to avoid crowds.
  • Eat breakfast before you go.
  • Check the website a few weeks before your trip to reserve tickets to live tapings and see which celebrities may be filming that day.
  • Schedule your day's activities around show times, rather than rides

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Warner Bros Potions

If you want to see filming in real-time, don't miss Warner Bros. Studio Tour. On this entertaining and educational tour, an expert guide will drive you around the 110-acre studio lot in a comfy golf cart, where you'll see sets from classic and current movies. Keep your eyes open for celebrities who may be on-site filming.

To avoid crowds, plan your visit on a winter or spring afternoon, which tend to be less busy. Bring your comfy shoes, as the tour does involve walking, as well as golf cart rides.

Tips for visiting:
 

  • Don't forget your camera, as you may see movies and TV stars on set, but remember that video isn't allowed.
  • Book in advance, so your preferred tour doesn't fill up.
  • Got a favorite WB show? Let your guide know, as they may be able to swing by the set.
  • Plan to spend a couple of hours at the Stage 48 museum after the tour ends.
  • Grab a coffee at Central Perk.

Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

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Gorillas, Komodo dragons, and snow leopards, oh my! More than 1.5 million people visit the fabulous Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens each year to view thousands of colorful, noisy, and fascinating birds, mammals, reptiles and insects.

Bring sunscreen and a hat, because the afternoon sun can be intense. To see the animals when they're most active, plan to visit the zoo as soon as possible after they open in the morning.
 

Tips for visiting:
 

  • You may see more animals on overcast days.
  • Don't miss the daily elephant training demonstration, free with admission.
  • Book your Hippo Encounter tickets before you go, as they tend to sell out quickly.
  • If cutting down on walking, take the shuttle to the top of the zoo and work your way back toward the entrance; it'll be downhill.
  • To skip the carousel lines, purchase tickets in advance.

Hollywood Sign Tour

Get your daily steps in while enjoying some of the best views in town! A knowledgeable guide leads you through beautiful Griffith Park and the Hollywood Hills on this walking tour, which includes stops at the Griffith Park Observatory and amazing photo ops of the infamous Hollywood sign. Avoid the afternoon heat and schedule your hike in the morning. Bring sunscreen and wear your most comfortable shoes.

Tips for visiting:

  • This hike is rated as easy to moderate
  • Expect to walk for 90 minutes on your tour
  • Park for free at the Greek Theater
  • This hike is appropriate for families and solo travelers
  • Take the twilight hike for romantic views of the city

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Get up close and personal with your favorite celebs — or at least with their amazingly life-like wax doppelgangers — at Madame Tussauds Hollywood. Bring your camera, because this is the best place in Hollywood to take selfies with your celebrity crush. If you plan your visit for early in the day, you'll have a better chance of getting a space in the valet parking area located under Madame Tussauds Hollywood.

Tips for visiting:

  • Eat before you visit, as Madame Tussauds Hollywood doesn't allow outside food or drink.
  • Leave any large bags or backpacks in your hotel, as you won't be permitted to bring them inside.
  • Displays are always changing, so check the website before you go to ensure you see your top celebrity wax figures.
  • For a fee, you can have a wax mold made of your own hand.
  • Make sure your camera has a flash, as certain areas of the museum don't have optimal lighting for photos.

TCL Chinese Theatres Guided Tour

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Experience decades of iconic history when you visit TCL Chinese Theatre. This 30-minute walking tour offers a rich glimpse into Hollywood's past and present, with access to the movie theater where celebrities attend red-carpet premieres and, of course, those famous cement hands and footprints in the Forecourt of the Stars.

Take a morning tour, as the forecourt tends to fill with tourists (and sometimes technicians setting up for a premier) in the afternoon. Bring a few small bills with you if you plan on taking pictures with the street performers outside the theater, as they'll expect a tip.
 

  • Reserve your tour ahead of time to get the time slot you want
  • Look for the three celebrity horse hoof prints among the human hand and footprints
  • See a movie at matinee prices in the early afternoon or late morning
  • See an IMAX film in the world's largest IMAX auditorium
  • The TCL validates parking

Dolby Theatre Guided Tour

Explore the stunning venue that hosts the Academy Awards. The Dolby Theatre Guided Tour takes you behind the scenes in this iconic facility. Plan your visit during a time other than the run-up to the Oscars in February, as it's closed to the public during that time. Bring your camera, but note that some areas of the facility don't allow photography.

Tips for visiting:

  • Read up on the history and architecture of this stunning venue before your visit for a better understanding.
  • You'll have to check your stroller at the door.
  • The theatre validates parking for the first two hours.
  • Check ahead to ensure that the theatre is open, as often closes for special events.
  • Don't miss the photo galleries of past Academy Award winners on the sides of the spiral staircase.

Hollywood Museum

Hollywood Museum

See the world's largest collection of movie props, costumes, and photos at the Hollywood Museum. From Marilyn Monroe to Max Factor, this amazing collection of memorabilia from the silver screen (and the small screen) will keep you mesmerized. Wear shoes you can walk and climb stairs in, as the museum has four floors to explore. Plan your visit on Wednesdays through Sundays, as it's closed during the first part of the week.

Tips for visiting:

  • Budget enough time to explore this large museum, as it contains more than 10,000 items.
  • Very young children may not appreciate this attraction.
  • Paid parking is available across the street.
  • Check out your reflection in each of the "hair color" rooms in the Max Factor exhibit.
  • Be aware that the basement is dedicated to horror films and shows.

Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour

Dreaming of running into your favorite A-lister? Then you won't want to miss this drive past celebrity mansions, hang-outs, and hot locations for spotting luminaries of stage and screen. This two-hour hour takes you through Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, and more. Schedule your tour for a sunny day and bring a sun hat, because you might ride in an open-air vehicle.

Tips for visitors:

  • Check the weather before you go and be prepared for sun or showers.
  • Bring your camera and keep your eyes open for the stars.
  • Use the restroom before you go as there may not be a chance to stop.
  • Bring water and sunscreen.
  • If you tour on a chilly day, bring a jacket or sweater for the open-air vehicle.

Self-Guided Movie Star Homes Bike Tour

Self guided movie homes bike tour

See a side of Hollywood that tour buses can't access on a self-guided bike tour! Explore at your own pace as you pedal through beautiful neighborhoods and landscapes you'll recognize from famous films. Take your tour outside of rush hour, when traffic will be minimal. Be sure to bring extra water and stay hydrated on this three-hour ride.

Tips for visitors:

  • The ride forms a 12-mile loop
  • Helmet, hybrid bike rental, and safety vest included
  • You'll use an included GPS to follow the route
  • Schedule an early morning or evening ride to avoid the sun and high temperatures
  • A moderate level of fitness may be required to handle hilly areas

Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City®  

Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, and more.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

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San Diego to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary - A California Vacation for Tons of Fun

There are so many amazing things to see and do in California that we know it can be overwhelming when planning out your vacation. That's where we come in! Our local experts put together a California road trip itinerary covering a ton of fun family attractions from San Diego to San Francisco! Best yet, visiting these attractions with Go City Cards will allow you to save up to 55% on attraction admission. Enjoy! This itinerary includes family favorite attractions like: SeaWorld® San Diego LEGOLAND® California Universal Studios Hollywood Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Aquarium of the Bay and more! You Can Save on Attraction Admission Admission to these top California attractions are available on our Passes. Go City Cards give you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose as you go from dozens of top attractions to create a vacation tailored to your family's interests. Remember, this California itinerary is just one of many ways to experience this beautiful region. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. LEGOLAND® California Upon entering the LEGO® world, you'll find an endless combinations of LEGO-related activities and fun for the whole family to share. At LEGOLAND California, there are more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions all along the themes of your favorite LEGO characters, games, and movies. The SEA LIFE® Aquarium in LEGOLAND is the home to more than 5,000 creatures that you can experience alongside your LEGO characters and friends. Don't forget about the LEGOLAND Water Park! This attraction offers more than 7 slides and other watery adventures to explore, and is a great family-oriented place that all ages will fully enjoy. NEW for Summer 2018 at LEGOLAND is the much-anticipated LEGO CITY: Deep Sea Adventure. This submarine-style ride sees you hunting for treasure alongside real sharks, rays, and fish. If you're lucky, you'll even get to see a shipwreck with LEGO divers! Getting In: LEGOLAND California tickets are included on the Go San Diego Card. Fun San Diego Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the San Diego area, including these activities, many of which are included on the Go San Diego Card. San Diego Zoo Safari Park - This sister attraction to the San Diego Zoo recreates a real African safari right outside the city. Pick a custom safari adventure for a specific journey, or take a trip around the park on the African Tram to see a little bit of everything! This park is a great experience for all ages and will transport you halfway across the world without getting on a plane. Belmont Park - This amazing beachfront amusement park offers endless fun for the whole family alongside a beautiful ocean view. From laser tag to countless rides to adventures in the waves, Belmont Park has an incredible amount of activities that will keep you busy all day long. More Time in Balboa Park - From museums to performances to restaurants to beautiful gardens, this Park has an incredible collection of exciting interesting and beautiful experiences. Many of the museums are also included with the Go San Diego Card, appealing to those interested in art, natural history, air & space, anthropology, and much more. Visit La Jolla - La Jolla, San Diego's jewel by the sea, is the most popular beach in California. This beautiful peninsula beach with spectacular views has many outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. This is a great destination with so much to do and a view that will take your breath away. Visit Torrey Pines - Torrey Pines is a natural state reserve located within the city limits of San Diego. It's comprised of 2,000 acres of preserved wilderness, untouched since the first development of the city. This expanse of wild land gives visitors an idea of what California must have looked like when it was first discovered by early settlers. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Hollywood brings you through one of the busiest movie studios in L.A. The tour includes the opportunity to visit several soundstages and backlots, as well as the exterior sets of classic Warner Bros. productions. Then, visit the interior of a current set and see what the team is working on at that moment and how the magic happens. Next, visit the Archived Exhibits of the preserved sets, costumes, and everything that went into some of the most famous movies. The tour will also include a visit to the Warner Bros. Prop Department (the largest in the world), as well as a visit to "Stage 48: Script to Stage" which will provide an interactive journey of how the creation process really happens. Getting In: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour This tour will bring you to the homes of 45 famous L.A. residents, while providing a glimpse into the lives of many of your favorite celebrities that you hear so much about. Your narrated trip, conducted in a comfortable air conditioned tour bus, reveals all the popular places celebrities can be found in the city. If you're lucky, you may spot more then just houses -- so bring your camera! This 3 hour experience is also a great opportunity to become more familiar with the layout of the city in a fun and exciting way. Getting In: Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Fun LA Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the Los Angeles area, including these activities, many of which are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. OUE Skyspace LA - The exhilarating OUE Skyspace in Los Angeles is the tallest open air observation deck in California and will give you a spectacular 360 degree view of the city from almost 1,000 feet above the streets. The deck is amazing both in the day and at night, so you can't really go wrong with a visit here. Other Great Theme Parks - If the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier wasn't enough for your thrill-seeking family, there are many other great theme park options in the area including: Six Flags Magic Mountain, Knott's Berry Farm, and Knott's Soak City Waterpark. All have great rides and games and everything you need for a day of complete and exciting family fun! Aquarium of the Pacific - Experience sea life up close through countless engaging exhibits. The incredible creatures of the sea will amaze the whole family, and you'll all learn more about the ocean and the organisms that live in it then you could have ever imagined. Sony Picture Studio Tour - This 2-hour guided walking tour of the Sony Picture Studio will allow you to visit historic sound stages and get to experience what a real working studio is like. Griffith Observatory - At this gateway to the sky, you will be able to look through the famous Griffith Observatory telescope, experience exhibits, see a live show and enjoy the incredible views of the city of L.A. and the famous Hollywood sign. Hop On Hop Off San Francisco Tour This easy and convenient bus tour is a great way to see a lot of the city and orient yourself quickly. Your guided adventure will take you through all the main parts of the city including Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, the Ferry Building, and so much more. The best part of this bus tour is its flexibility. If you see something that interests you, like the great shops in the Ferry Building, you can just hop off the bus, take your time looking around, and then catch another bus when you are ready to move on. This is a truly great way to see the city and experience all it has to offer. Getting In: Hop on Hop Off Big Bus San Francisco Tour tickets are included on the Go San Francisco Card. Fun San Fran Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the San Francisco area, including these activities, many of which included on the Go San Francisco Card or the Build Your Own Pass. Golden Gate Park - The Golden Gate Park is home to the de Young museum and the California Academy of Sciences and many more attractions. This beautiful park is made up of large grassy spaces (great for picnics), incredible gardens, lakes, museums, and more. Fisherman's Wharf - On Fisherman's Wharf you'll find lots of activity and excitement. From the street performers to the fresh seafood stands, there isn't a dull moment at this iconic place. Other Cruise Options (Escape From The Rock, Golden Gate Bay Cruise) - If you're interested in spending more time on the San Francisco Bay, there are other great cruise options. Some of these options include the Escape From the Rock boat trip (a trip to Alcatraz, the prison of the San Francisco coast) and the Golden Gate Bay Cruise (which will take you around the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge for great views and an unforgettable experience). Wine Country Tours - Wine Country Tours will take you outside the city of San Francisco and into the rolling hills of the surrounding country. On a Wine Country Tour, you will find yourself on a beautiful vineyard and with the opportunity to explore everything it has to offer. Blazing Saddles Bike Rental - Explore the city on your own time with a bike rental. One of the best ways to use this bike rental is to take a ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. At any of the Blazing Saddles Bike Rental locations, the employees will direct you to the fastest route to the Golden Gate Bridge. This unforgettable and thrilling experience will provide you with amazing views of the city and the bay. Let's Recap This California itinerary was designed to be a fun San Diego to San Francisco road trip packed full of the west coast's top attractions and things to do. Remember, many of these great attraction options and more are available on our California attractions pass options, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your California vacation itinerary!
Go City Expert
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Los Angeles Attraction Tips

Looking for things to do in Los Angeles that fall outside the box? Hollywood tours and the like are always fun, but sometimes we all need to explore a little further afield to seek out new and unique attractions. To help you take the path less traveled in LA, we’ve put together this “must-see” list of local hidden gems. The Huntington Library If you’re a nature lover, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Located in the beautiful Griffith Park, the LA Zoo hosts over 1000 different creatures from all over the animal kingdom. The accompanying Botanical Gardens feature the plants that constitute the natural world in which these creatures live. In fact, a significant point of emphasis at the LA Zoo is the protection of natural habitats and the ways in which humans can positively impact the natural world through preservation and conservation activities. The botanical specimens are incorporated throughout the grounds, so you’ll be able to enjoy everything on one observant stroll. The La Brea Tar Pits The Page Museum is an important local institution dedicated to the history of the famous La Brea Tar Pits, one of the best-known Ice Age excavation sites in the world. Home to the most diverse array of plant and animal specimens from the period, the La Brea Tar Pits are a paleontologist’s dream. At the museum, you’ll get to watch as scientists examine and process fossils in the working Fish Bowl Lab. Then, explore galleries containing the most famous of the unearthed specimens, including saber-tooth cats, dire wolves, and wooly mammoths. As a bonus, the Page Museum is located right near the LA County Museum of Art! For those of you who enjoy nature and culture in equal measure, there’s no more perfect Los Angeles attraction than the Huntington Library and Gardens. The Huntington is home to a prestigious research library, lush gardens, an expertly curated art collection, and a museum-like exhibition hall that features rare texts like the first folio edition of Shakespeare’s plays, the Ellesmere Manuscript of the Canterbury Tales, and the Gutenberg Bible. It’s a place unlike any other in the country, and is a can’t-miss cultural destination for visitors to LA. Looking for more artistic Los Angeles attractions? The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (MOCA) features a representative selection of the important artistic movements of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. A current special exhibit, entitled “Andy Warhol: Shadows,” has proven to be very popular since its September opening and is well worth a visit. The museum structure itself is equally impressive, winning a number of design accolades from prestigious institutions like the American Institute of Architects. With a convenient downtown location on Grand Avenue, MOCA is an inspiring choice for any art lover. There are so many things to do in LA that go beyond the conventional – so check a few of them out! Create your own perfect LA itinerary with a fully customizable Los Angeles Pass, and save on everything you want to see and do.
Katie Sagal
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The Spectator's Guide to the Long Beach Marathon

The hours are ticking down to the 28th annual Long Beach International City Bank Marathon, which will take over the city on Sunday, October 7th. One of the most scenic and flat courses in America, the Long Beach Marathon draws tens of thousands of athletes and spectators each year. The course meanders through quaint seaside communities and urban landmarks, offering ocean views throughout 80% of the route. Although 23,000 athletes are expected to take part in the five events offered, only about 5,000 will be running the full marathon, making it a somewhat intimate event. Moreover, the certified marathon course is the perfect qualifier for other popular races, even the notorious Boston Marathon. As a spectator, you’ll appreciate Long Beach’s moderate Mediterranean climate and the spectacular views of the ocean and the cityscape along the race course. So whether you're a runner yourself, or just someone who loves excitement and good cheer, viewing the Long Beach Marathon is one of the truly unique things to do in Los Angeles. To make the most of your marathon experience, check out the guide below. Events Five separate athletic events will take place over the race weekend: the Marathon, Half-Marathon, 26.2 Mile Bike Tour, Run Forest Run 5k, and the Aquarium of the Pacific Kids Fun Run. The Kids Fun Run will take place on Saturday, October 6th, while all the other events will be held on the official race day (Sunday). The race day events will kick-off with the Bike Tour at 6 AM, followed by the Marathon and Half Marathon at 7AM and finally the Run Forest Run 5k at 8:30 AM. Fore more information on start times and specific waves, visit the Marathon’s official website. The Health & Fitness expo draws nearly 50,000 visitors each year, and is the perfect prelude to the race. A surplus of vendors and exhibitors will be on display, selling official Long Beach Marathon merchandise, including top-of-the-line performance gear, running caps, visors, headbands, and much more. The Finish Line Festival on Marina Green is THE place to be as exhausted runners cross the finish line. Celebrate with the athletes and enjoy a wide variety of vendors as well as a Beer Garden for those of age. Best Viewing Areas The Long Beach Marathon boasts one of the most beautiful courses in the country. Start/Finish Line – As this is a loop course, you can catch the start and the end of the race without moving a muscle. You’ll also be able to enjoy the food, drinks, and other entertainment as the first runners cross the line. Situate yourself on Shoreline Drive between Linden and Pine. Belmont Plaza Olympic Pool (Mile 9) – Catch the runners here as they get into their groove. There’s a huge grass area to sit on while you wait for the runners. Colorado Lagoon (miles 14 and 22.5) – This is an ideal spot because you can catch the runners in two places, just by taking a quick walk along the grassy Lagoon. Cal State University (Mile 17-20) – If you want to be there for the runners as they “hit the wall,” find yourself a viewing spot by the California State Academy. Ocean Avenue between Livingston and Alamitos (Mile 24-26) – Cheer the runners on as they race to the finish on Ocean Avenue. You’ll also be able to catch the end of the half marathon from this spot. Accommodations Finding inexpensive accommodations on marathon weekend can be tricky. However, these hotels offer reasonable prices and still currently have vacancy. Best Western Golden Sails Hotel 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, California, 90803-4803 Phone: (562) 596-1631 Holiday Inn Downtown 1133 Atlantic Avenue Long Beach, California 90813 Phone: (562) 590-8858 Parking By far the most convenient place to park on race day is in the Convention Center/Arena/Terrace Theater parking lots. Although there is a $10 charge for parking, you will be located adjacent to the Long Beach Arena and will be within walking distance of the official start/finish line. Make Your Way Around LA While in Greater Los Angeles for the race day festivities, why not see what else the area has to offer? Spend the day before the marathon taking advantage of our Go Los Angeles Card including access to over 39 attractions for one low price. Some of the most popular attractions include the Warner Brothers Studio Tour, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, and Knotts Berry Farm—to name a few.
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