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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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.   

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Make It a Perfect Friday: Top Things to Do in LA

Fridays in Los Angeles hit differently. There's excitement in the air as the city wakes up, ready to show you its movie-star sparkle, beachy breezes, and neighborhoods bursting with flavor. If you’re a tourist on a mission to make the most of your trip, Friday is when LA’s energy really kicks in—from sunrise moments at the Griffith Observatory to dancing under neon lights downtown. Here’s where you can catch epic views, snap sunsets, feast on world-class treats, walk with Hollywood legends, and soak up that endless summer feeling, all in one jam-packed, joy-filled day. Ready for your best LA Friday ever? Let’s start planning.  Our Friday favorites in Los Angeles include:  Griffith Observatory Tour  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Natural History Museum  Aquarium of the Pacific  Grand Central Market lunch adventure  Rooftop drinks at Perch  Live music at The Troubadour  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour: Doorway to LA’s Neighborhoods  Don’t want to stress about parking or deciphering addresses? Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour is your all-access pass to LA’s dazzling neighborhoods—all while riding in style. Hop aboard an open-top double-decker and lean into that tourist life as you cruise, guided by lively narration packed with local scoops and cheeky stories.  Why do we rate this as a top Friday pick? Because it blends total flexibility with classic sightseeing—step off wherever catches your eye, and you’re already part of the party. Maybe you want to wander in Beverly Hills, snap the palm-lined streets, or scope out Melrose’s famous murals. Maybe the Walk of Fame is calling, with its ever-changing crowd and glittering theater marquees. Big Bus lets you bounce effortlessly between must-sees and hidden gems. With multiple loops connecting Hollywood, Downtown, and the beaches, you set the pace—people-watch in West Hollywood, dig up vintage finds on Fairfax, or jump back on and head for the ocean breeze.  The vibe on Fridays is unbeatable: you’ll cruise by locals gearing up for the weekend, artists setting up pop-up galleries, and musicians spilling tunes onto sidewalk patios. It’s sightseeing with zero stress and max fun—just don’t forget your sunglasses.  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour: Sunshine, Surf and Street Art  You can’t say you’ve done LA right without hitting the coast, and our secret weapon for Friday feels? The Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking. Imagine miles of golden sand, ocean air in your hair, and a parade of street performers, sunbathers, and bodybuilders giving you a real SoCal welcome.  Start by cruising through the Santa Monica Pier, spinning the Ferris wheel, and admiring the view from above. As you pedal south, the scenery quickly shifts: surfers dot the horizon, rollerbladers flash by, and palm trees sway in the salty breeze. Your guide will point out colorful murals, muscle beach gyms, and secret photo spots you’d probably miss alone. Venice’s meandering canals and Boardwalk buzz put you in the center of LA’s most eclectic artistry—think mural-covered walls, skate parks, and high-energy music.  Stop for a smoothie at a sidewalk shack or snap selfies with the famous Venice sign overhead. Every stop offers a fresh surprise: street art, boutique food stands, and even a quick detour to quirky local shops. By the tour’s end, you’ll feel like a beach-town regular—sun-soaked, smiling, and ready for the next adventure.  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood: Step Into the Stories  Movie magic hits different when you’re walking right on set. Enter the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood—a Friday adventure that catapults you onto the backlots where big-screen legends (and your favorite TV characters) come to life. This isn’t just a tour; it’s a full-on immersion into the lifeblood of Los Angeles storytelling.  What makes it special? Guides share industry secrets and surreal facts—stand in “Central Perk” from Friends, explore the DC Universe, and see where superheroes, sitcom families, and Hogwarts students found their roots. The enormity of the sets, all those vintage cars, and the behind-the-scenes wizardry are enough to make even movie buffs speechless. You’ll recognize corners from recent hits and classic films alike.  Friday tours run with extra buzz—maybe you’ll spot a real film crew at work, or catch the stardust whirling as actors and directors scuttle between shoots. The on-site café gets you close to celebrity dining (try their themed lattes!), and the gift shop is a goldmine for souvenirs. Every LA visitor needs a brush with Hollywood—here, you’re part of the story.  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes: Epic Views, Legendary Letters  If your LA dreams revolve around catching that up-close shot of the Hollywood Sign, nothing beats The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes. It’s a Friday hike with layers—exercise, city lore, and views you’ll replay in your mind for years.  You’ll join a lively crew at the base of the Hollywood Hills, ready to trek up winding city trails. The guides aren’t just fitness pros—they’re local experts, sharing juicy Hollywood gossip, history, and fun facts at every turn. Along the route you pass whimsical hillside houses and spot landmarks straight out of your favorite movies.  The grand finale? You're rewarded with panoramic views of the LA skyline, the valley, and a rare side-angle shot with those world-famous white letters. The mood up here feels electric: everyone’s snapping pics, sharing stories, and soaking up that “top of the world” high. Trust us—your Instagram grid will thank you.  Aquarium of the Pacific: Ocean Wonders Just Down the Coast  Santa Monica and Venice get all the beach buzz, but just a short drive south, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach delivers a whole different kind of sea excitement. Step inside and instantly, you’re transported to the deep—shimmering tanks, interactive touch pools, and sea otters playing hide-and-seek.  What’s extra-special on a Friday? Local families, school groups, and travelers mingle in the glow of blue-lit galleries. Watch sharks swirl, see jellyfish undulate like living art, or pop outside for a waterfront view of the busy harbor. Dive into interactive experiences, from feeding rays to inspecting tidepool creatures, all guided by friendly staff bursting with ocean facts.  Each exhibit explores a different slice of Pacific coastline, from tropical reefs to the chilly waters of the north. The Aquarium even spotlights California’s vibrant marine conservation movement, giving you a sense of place and purpose while you explore. With food stands and picnic tables overlooking Rainbow Harbor, it’s easy to make an afternoon of it—plus, you’re close to the Queen Mary for a bonus stroll after.  Grand Central Market: Global Eats in Every Bite  Lunchtime in Downtown LA means one thing: Grand Central Market. This grand old market, running since 1917, brings together LA’s best and boldest food purveyors under one buzzing roof. On Fridays, the energy is infectious—locals and globetrotters alike lining up for everything from ramen to tacos.  What’s on our must-try list? Start with an Eggslut breakfast sandwich (the “Fairfax” is famous for a reason!), then grab a carnitas taco from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, or cross continents with Filipino rice bowls from Sari Sari Store. Love spice? Sichuan bites at China Café kick up the heat. For dessert, we vote for the funfetti doughnuts at The Donut Man or a classic horchata from Horchatería.  The setup is 100% unpretentious—long communal tables, neon signs, and a hustle-bustle soundtrack of cooks, buskers and happy eaters. It’s the definition of LA’s never-ending food story, and the perfect pit stop before your next adventure.  Rooftop Drinks at Perch: Sundowners with Style  Sunset hour in Los Angeles means rooftop bars, and Perch is where the Friday transformation really happens. Located downtown, this French-inspired sky lounge delivers knockout views, lush greenery, and a soundtrack of clinking glasses and live jazz. As day turns to night, the mood is both elegant and easygoing.  Perch’s 16th-story perch (pun intended) means you get glittering panoramas stretching across the city, while the décor—think Parisian garden meets contemporary LA—makes every seat selfie-worthy. The signature cocktails are a feast for the senses: “French Maid” with cucumber and mint is a crowd-pleaser, and the truffle fries are outrageously good for sharing.  On a Friday, Perch draws a mellow yet lively crowd: date nights, friends celebrating, out-of-towners gazing wide-eyed at the LA cityscape. Come for the sunset, but stay for the shared plates, tunes, and the sheer feeling of being part of something special. You’ll leave with a fresh appreciation for how LA does “Friday night out.”  Live Music at The Troubadour: Legends and New Discoveries  Round off your Friday with the beating heart of LA’s nightlife: live music. For this, The Troubadour in West Hollywood gets top billing. Since the 1950s, this intimate venue has hosted everyone from Elton John and Joni Mitchell to today’s hottest indie stars. You never know if you’re catching an emerging legend or experiencing a surprise secret show.  What sets The Troubadour apart? The space oozes character—low ceilings, simple wooden décor, and a stage close enough you feel every note. The sound is pristine, and the crowd comes for one thing only: great music. Fridays here range from folk and indie to rock and jazz, often with two or even three bands on the bill. Grab a craft beer at the bar and settle in—one night at The Troubadour and you’ll understand why LA’s music scene still leads the pack.  Friday in LA: The Full Experience  If you want to know what makes Los Angeles so endlessly fascinating, it’s Friday. Art and sunshine, world-class eats and blockbuster studios, panoramic hiking trails and salty ocean breezes—all within reach in a single city. Whether you’re chasing celebrity trailblazers, noshing at vibrant markets, or raising a toast on a glowy rooftop, LA’s Friday rhythm is pure magic. Trust us: you’ll want to stay until Sunday.    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do When it Rains in Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes.    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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