This post has been updated April 3, 2026
Thank you to Universal Studios Hollywood™ for supplying complimentary tickets in exchange for this post. All opinions are my own.
Yes, you can do Universal Studios Hollywood in one day—but arriving early and using an Express Pass will help you ride more attractions with shorter wait times.
Planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood in 2026 can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re trying to fit everything into one day without overspending or waiting in long lines.
After visiting multiple times with kids and teens, we’ve learned what actually matters: when to arrive, which rides to prioritize, whether the Express Pass is worth it, and what you can skip.
This guide covers everything first-time visitors need to know—from ticket strategies and food tips to ride priorities—so you can plan a smoother, more enjoyable day.
👉 Want to know exactly which rides are worth your time? Check out my guide to the best rides at Universal Studios Hollywood™ .
Must-Do Rides at Universal Studios Hollywood”
If you only have one day, these are the rides you absolutely don’t want to miss:
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Jurassic World – The Ride
- Studio Tour
- Mario Kart
What’s New at Universal Studios Hollywood™ in 2026
Universal Studios Hollywood™ continues to expand its attractions and experiences. If you’re visiting in 2026, here are a few updates to keep in mind.
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift (Coming 2026)
Universal Studios Hollywood™ is building its first high-speed outdoor roller coaster, called Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. The new coaster will feature vehicles that rotate 360° while racing along more than 4,000 feet of track around the park. The ride is expected to open in 2026 and will likely become one of the park’s most popular thrill rides.
Super Nintendo World
One of the busiest and most exciting areas in the park, Super Nintendo World features:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
- Interactive games with Power-Up Bands
- Toadstool Café
MomJunky Tip: Go here first thing in the morning—it fills up FAST.
Minion Land
Minion Land is perfect for younger kids and includes:
- Minion Café
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash
- Super Silly Fun Land
Character Experiences Kids Will Love
One of the most fun (and easy-to-miss) parts of Universal Studios Hollywood™ is the character interactions.
You’ll often see:
- Minions
- Trolls
- Shrek and Fiona
walking around or available for photos throughout the park.
MomJunky Tip: These moments happen quickly, so keep your camera ready!
What Time Should I Get to Universal Studios Hollywood?™
Arriving early can make a HUGE difference.
Even getting there 30–45 minutes before opening helps you beat the crowds and ride popular attractions before lines build.
From our experience, arriving right at opening isn’t always necessary—but the earlier you go, the more you’ll get done.
Quick Tips:
- Front Gate Parking saves time (but costs more)
- Buy tickets online in advance
- Download the Universal Studios Hollywood™ app
Can I bring snacks to Universal Studios?
Yes! You can bring small snacks and bottled water.
This is especially helpful if you’re visiting with kids. Think:
- Granola bars
- Crackers
- Fruit snacks
Full meals aren’t allowed, but snacks can save you money and time.
MomJunky Tip: Whenever we have road trips, we take a MunchPak Box with us, filled with fun snacks from around the world.
Can you do Universal Studios Hollywood™ in one day?
Yes—you absolutely can.
We were able to ride everything we wanted (some rides twice!) in one day using a combination of:
- Early arrival
- Express Pass
- Smart planning
If you want a more relaxed experience, two days is great—but one day is doable.
👉 If you are pressed for time check out How to Do Universal Studios Hollywood™ in One Day (2026 Guide)
MomJunky Tip: You can also take advantage of the single rider lines or “child switch.” And no, the child switch program doesn’t mean you can switch your kids for better ones, lol, as my husband asked.
When is the Best Day to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood?™
- Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are best
- Avoid weekends + holidays
- Go during off-peak months (January–March, September)
- Early mornings = lowest wait times
👉 Avoid peak summer and holidays if possible, as wait times can exceed 60–90 minutes for popular rides.
Check out hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood.™ and 15 best hotels Universal Studios Hollywood.™
What is the best food in Universal Studios Hollywood?™
Universal has some surprisingly good food options for families.
Some of our favorites include:
- Minion Café
- Three Broomsticks (don’t miss the Great Feast!)
- Krusty Burger
- Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck
You’ll also find plenty of quick snacks like churros, pretzels, and frozen drinks throughout the park.
MomJunky Tip: If you’re visiting the Wizarding World, grabbing Butterbeer is a must.
Check out Harry Potter Butterbeer Recipe – 4 Ingredients!
How Much Does it Cost to Get into Universal Studios Hollywood?™
How Much Do Tickets Cost?
Prices vary depending on the day and season.
- General Admission: ~$109–$179
- Express Pass: ~$179–$279
- Annual Passes available
MomJunky Tip: If you only have one day, Express Pass is worth it.If you want to avoid long lines, a simple plan makes a big difference.
What Rides Should You Go On First?
Start with rope drop (arrive 30–45 minutes before opening), then head straight to the Lower Lot.
Best order:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
- Jurassic World – The Ride
- Revenge of the Mummy
Then move up to:
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Flight of the Hippogriff
Try to do the Studio Tour before lunch — wait times get much longer later in the day.
Quick Tips:
- Avoid peak hours (11 AM–3 PM)
- Use Single Rider lines when possible
- Check wait times in the app
What Do I Pack for Universal?
Bring a lightweight backpack with:
- Bucket Hat
- Bucket Hat for Kids
- Snacks
- Sunglasses
- Bandaids
- Sanitizer Wipes
- Clorox Wipes (travel)
- Masks
- Sanitizer
- Sunblock
Comfort is key—you’ll be walking a LOT.
Universal Studios Hollywood™ Tips for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first visit, a few simple strategies can make your day much easier:
- Arrive early – Even 30–45 minutes before opening helps you beat the crowds
- Start in the Lower Lot – Hit the biggest rides before lines build
- Download the app – Track wait times and navigate the park
- Consider Express Pass – Worth it if you only have one day
What Is the Studio Tour?
The Studio Tour is a MUST.
It’s one of the most unique experiences in the park and includes:
- King Kong 360 3D
- Jaws
- War of the Worlds plane crash
- Fast & Furious: Supercharged
*Note: The Studio Tour and King Kong 360 are not recommended for pregnant women or people.
MomJunky Tip: The Studio Tour is one of the most popular attractions in the park. Try to ride it before noon or later in the evening when wait times are typically shorter.
How Much Are the Wands?
- Interactive wands: ~$55
- Resin (non-interactive): ~$49
Interactive wands can be used throughout the Harry Potter area for special effects.
What Rides can a Pregnant Woman Ride at Universal Studios Hollywood™ ?
There are still plenty of options, including:
- Animal Actors
- WaterWorld
- Super Silly Fun Land
MomJunky Tip– you can rent single and double strollers also
Final Thoughts
Universal Studios Hollywood™ is one of the best theme parks in California for families.
With immersive lands like:
- Super Nintendo World
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Minion Land
There’s something for everyone.
A little planning goes a long way—arrive early, prioritize your must-do rides, and don’t skip the Studio Tour.
