More Than Movies: Fun Things to Do Near Universal Studios

Wondering what’s near Universal Studios? We’ve got your L.A. fun covered.

Published: May 22, 2026
Friends at Universal Studios Los Angeles

So, you’re visiting Universal Studios Hollywood—ready for mind-blowing rides, epic sets, and maybe even a Butterbeer or two? Us too! But plot twist: the excitement doesn’t stop at the theme park gates. Universal’s flashy neighborhoood is packed with attractions, adventures and delicious bites that turn any day out into a blockbuster LA experience. Whether you want to get snap-happy on Hollywood Boulevard, roam art-packed museums, or feast alfresco in the California sun, your supporting cast of top-tier activities is right here. Let’s roll out the red carpet for a full Los Angeles adventure! 

Our top things to do near Universal Studios include: 

  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood 
  • The Hollywood Museum 
  • The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes 
  • Madame Tussauds Hollywood 
  • TCL Chinese Theatre Tour 
  • Griffith Observatory Tour 
  • Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour 
  • Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking 
  • Museum of Latin American Art 

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  

If you’re game for more Hollywood magic, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers a peek behind the curtain that’s perfect for film and TV lovers. The vibe here is super relaxed yet exciting as expert guides shuttle you around famous sets and soundstages where cinematic history is made daily. You can sip a Central Perk coffee on the Friends couch, explore the Batcave’s collection of Batmobiles, and see how blockbuster movies are brought to life. 

The blend of nostalgia and discovery on this tour is a real treat for all ages. There are interactive soundstage exhibits, a DC Universe zone, and plenty of places to snap photos destined for your Instagram. No two tours are quite the same, so you’ll always come away with new tales and fun celeb trivia. For movie buffs, this behind-the-scenes look is truly an actor’s-eye view of Hollywood’s creative pulse. 

The Hollywood Museum  

Pop just a few blocks away from Universal and immerse yourself in glamorous Tinseltown history at the Hollywood Museum. Set inside the historic Max Factor Building, the displays here feel like you’re stepping onto a vintage soundstage. Think dazzling costumes, makeup rooms where legends like Marilyn Monroe and Lucille Ball prepped for camera, and walls lined with film memorabilia old and new. 

It’s not just about nostalgia—the four floors celebrate everything from classic noir to modern blockbusters. Peek at horror icons in the basement dungeon, or snap a selfie with costumes from James Bond and Star Wars. The collection is always rotating, so every visit feels freshly star-studded. If you love Hollywood’s golden age, there’s truly no better spot to dial up your movie trivia game. 

The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes

The Hollywood Sign

Ready for some fresh air? Lace up and take the Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour for a guided trek into L.A.’s picturesque hills. These guides are part storyteller, part comedian—they’ll share Hollywood’s juiciest tales while leading you toward the city’s most recognizable landmark. The route is one part scenic hike, one part Instagram dream, offering gorgeous panoramas over Los Angeles and beyond. 

You’ll pause for unbeatable photo ops beneath the sign, and there’s plenty of time to chat pop culture or swap stories with fellow hikers along the way. The group energy makes the climb super fun—plus, you’ll leave with both memories and a map of routes even locals sometimes miss. If you want exercise with a healthy side of Hollywood history, this hike is truly a must-do experience. 

Madame Tussauds Hollywood  

Starstruck? Madame Tussauds Hollywood is where you can meet life-sized versions of your favorite celebs—no red carpet pass required. The energy here is all about fun: you’ll pose with A-listers, belt out a tune with music legends, and even “walk” through iconic movie scenes, all thanks to the museum’s playful immersive settings. 

Snap silly selfies with superheroes, crack up with comedians, or set the scene in the Marvel or Star Wars experience zones. These waxworks are so detailed you’ll blink twice! The interactive exhibits are perfect for families, friends, or anyone eager to update their celebrity selfie collection. Bonus: it’s a cool escape from the L.A. sun and smack in the middle of Hollywood Boulevard’s buzz. 

TCL Chinese Theatre Tour  

Take a step into Hollywood’s glamorous past on a TCL Chinese Theatre Tour, just a short drive from Universal Studios. From the moment you see those famous handprints in the forecourt, it feels like you’ve entered an old-school movie premiere. The guides know their stuff and dish out fun facts about the theater’s history and architecture—including its wild movie star events. 

Peek inside the opulent main auditorium, marvel at Chinese-inspired decorative flourishes, and maybe even spot a red carpet setup for an upcoming premiere. You’ll hear about epic Hollywood legends and movie releases that rocked the world. For architecture geeks and movie buffs alike, there’s nothing quite like wandering these storied halls and learning backstage secrets in the shadow of the Walk of Fame. 

Griffith Observatory Tour  

For a view that stretches from downtown skyscrapers to the sparkling Pacific, venture up to the Griffith Observatory. The tour here gives you the full behind-the-scenes scoop on L.A.’s astronomical history, from massive telescopes to moon rock exhibits. The building itself is a 1930s art deco gem, and the vibe is friendly and curious—just the way we like it. 

You can peer through telescopes, watch fascinating shows in the planetarium, and experiment with hands-on displays about space and science. Outside, sweeping terraces promise one-of-a-kind shots of the Hollywood Sign and city lights below. Whether you’re a stargazer or just want killer views, this spot is pure L.A. adventure. 

Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour

Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour

Hop aboard the Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour for a breezy, star-filled glimpse of L.A.’s most fabulous neighborhoods. The mood is equal parts chill and “whoa, is that Beyoncé’s driveway?” as your guide steers you through Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip, and beyond. The double-decker bus gives you the best seat for spotting those famous mansions tucked behind towering gates. 

It’s not all glitz—the commentary is loaded with sassy tidbits, Hollywood history, and plenty of humor. There are even chances to see the odd reality TV hotspot or luxury boutique. It’s the perfect way to sightsee after a packed day at the parks, all without lifting a finger. Just sit back, enjoy the stories, and get your camera ready for a few surprise celeb sightings! 

Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  

Craving salty breezes and ocean views? Grab a bike and cruise along L.A.’s most beloved beaches with the Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour. Starting in sunny Santa Monica, you’ll coast down palm tree-lined paths, past vibrant Venice murals, Muscle Beach, and the world-famous pier. The guides keep things relaxed and upbeat, sprinkling the route with local trivia, history, and tales of SoCal legends. 

This tour is all about the good vibes: lots of photo stops, plenty of people-watching, and no rush whatsoever—just laidback LA at its finest. Whether you’re a cyclist or a total newbie, the flat paths and cool breezes make this the perfect way to recover from a day spent on thrill rides. Pack sunscreen, bring a smile, and soak up the sand and surf! 

Museum of Latin American Art  

Trade the Hollywood crowds for a colorful cultural escape at the Museum of Latin American Art. Just a short drive from Universal, MOLAA showcases vibrant works from artists across Mexico, Central America, and South America through striking paintings, bold sculptures, and interactive exhibits that spark conversation for all ages. Its bright, modern galleries and rotating exhibitions create a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diverse voices and creative expression. 

Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture garden, where larger-than-life installations make the perfect backdrop for a relaxing stroll or memorable photo. Depending on your timing, you might also catch a film screening or family-friendly workshop. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, MOLAA offers an inspiring and refreshingly different Southern California experience. 

 

So there you have it—adventures galore right on Universal Studios’ doorstep (or a quick spin away)! Whether you’re in the mood for Hollywood glitz, unforgettable hikes, star encounters, or artistic inspiration, Los Angeles serves up endless surprises. Make the most of your trip by mixing thrills and culture, and you’ll soon see why there’s no place quite like LA for rolling out your perfect day. 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do in Los Angeles in the Morning or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes 

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Guides love to point out local history and hidden gems—think Frank Gehry’s beach house or the best coffee shack for an iced latte with ocean views.  Venice’s canals are a highlight, too—gorgeous, peaceful, and a slice of LA few travelers ever see. Finish your ride with a quick swim or just park beneath a palm and watch the world roll by. You’ll come away sandy, salty and ready for your next local food find.  Aquarium of the Pacific: Dive Into Underwater Wonder  Ready for a splash of something different? Head south to Long Beach and step inside the Aquarium of the Pacific, one of America’s largest, most colorful marine destinations.  The first thing you’ll notice? The energy. Every exhibit pulses with movement—jellies floating by, kids squealing at clownfish, and sea otters making friends with everyone who stops by their habitat. Midweek, the atmosphere is vibrant but never overwhelming, so you can chat with staff, hang out at the touch pools, and really take your time getting face-to-face with sharks and moray eels.  The aquarium’s glass tunnels let you stroll “beneath” the water, and their Pacific Visions wing blows visitors away with its immersive art-meets-science displays. Don’t leave without timing your visit for the sea lion show—it’s pure LA fun: part animal antics, part conservation lesson, all delivered with love.  You walk out a little more fascinated by the ocean and, maybe, just a little inspired to do your part for Southern California’s wild coast.  Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, Diamonds and LA Stories  Craving a dash of time travel? Head to the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, where every room is packed with stories millions of years in the making.  On Wednesdays, you’ll often get the exhibit halls almost to yourself—imagine studying a T. rex’s grin or marveling at glittering gems without a selfie-stick forest blocking your view. The Dinosaur Hall is a Jurassic feast (and a favorite with all ages), while the the diorama galleries are filled with local wildlife, frozen in mid-pounce or perched among the towering redwoods.  But there’s so much more: rare fossils, gold nuggets from California’s wild rush days, and a truly stunning Butterfly Pavilion open seasonally (hint: spring and early summer are magical). Don’t skip the interactive Nature Lab, where you can meet LA’s surprise residents—foxes, hawks, even urban beehives.  The setting, nestled among palm trees and rose gardens, is as photo-worthy as the exhibits inside. 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Take your time with exhibits, quiz the friendly staff about movie trivia and snap a selfie in Lucille Ball’s favorite chair. Don’t forget the eerie but oddly fascinating basement—otherwise known as the Dungeon of Doom, with a collection of Hollywood’s creepiest horror history.  You’ll leave with a deeper love for the glimmer and grit of Tinseltown, and enough stories to fill a star-studded dinner party.  Lunch at Grand Central Market: A Foodie Paradise  Feeling hungry? There’s no better Wednesday lunch spot than Grand Central Market, Downtown’s legendary open-air food paradise. Step inside and let your nose guide you—every stall wafts fragrant evidence the city’s best global eats are just yards apart.  Here’s why we adore this spot: One moment, you’re eyeing breakfast burritos at Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, then you’re swooning over golden chicken katsu at Sticky Rice, and before you know it the neon “Eggslut” sign is calling your name. 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On Wednesdays, the energy is relaxed—locals stroll with pups, shopkeepers have time to chat, and window shopping never felt so good.  Peek inside Salt & Straw for uniquely LA ice cream (the honey lavender is a fan favorite), browse handmade ceramics and sustainable fashion, or sip a craft latte at Blue Bottle. If you’re up for something different, check out tarot readings at Mystic Journey Bookstore or the pop-up art shows that sprout in unexpected places.  The vibe here is pure Cali-cool, and the people-watching is off the charts. If you get hungry along the way, Gjelina’s paper-thin pizzas or The Butcher’s Daughter’s avocado toast are not to be missed. As the afternoon sun slants through the palms, you’ll realize: this might just be the best street in LA for soaking up local color.  Sunset at the Getty Center: Art, Gardens and Golden Light  End your Wednesday in style with an early-evening adventure to the Getty Center, perched in the hills above West LA.  Here’s what makes the Getty so special: arrival is half the fun—a futuristic tram glides you up the hillside, and each turn reveals wildflower beds and bold architectural lines. The museum’s galleries brim with everything from Renaissance masters to edgy photography, and there’s always a chance of stumbling upon a live music event or an artist talk.  But the true magic is outside. The garden, designed by Robert Irwin, is a modern paradise of blossom-filled terraces, lively water features, and tranquil corners perfect for Instagram or quiet reflection. When sunset arrives, take your spot on the terrace and watch LA’s skyline turn copper, then neon, then a blanket of twinkling light.  Wednesdays are relaxed—ample space to find your favorite painting, a quiet bench, or just that ideal “goodbye to the day” view. Grab a gelato from the café, lean back and let the city’s hum fade into the wide, Western sky.  Wrap Up: Make Wednesdays Your Favorite Day in LA  LA doesn’t save its best for weekends. On Wednesdays, the city lets its hair down a bit—less hustle, more magic. You’ve got the freedom to chase sunbeams at the observatory, snag a selfie at the Hollywood Sign, wheel your way down the boardwalk or sip something delicious in the heart of Downtown.  Our Wednesday itinerary is only the beginning. The best LA days are those that blend the blockbuster and the unexpected, the famous and the only-you’ll-hear-about-it-here. So fill your midweek with museums, tacos, sea otters and sunsets—your LA adventure is just getting started.    Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Food Markets in Los Angeles or Things to Do in Los Angeles with Family    Step up your sightseeing with Go City®      We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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