Are you trying to figure out what the parking situation is at Universal Studios Hollywood?
If you’re planning a visit to this iconic theme park, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of parking at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Finding the perfect spot for your vehicle can greatly enhance your overall experience and ensure a smooth start to your adventure.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about Universal Studios Hollywood parking, from available options to tips and tricks that will make your visit a breeze.
So buckle up and get ready to dive right in!
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Cost of Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood at a Glance:
- General Parking: Before 5pm – $32 and After 5pm – $10
- Preferred Parking: Before 5pm – $50 and After 5pm – $20
- Front Gate Parking: $70
- Valet Parking: $25 for First 2 Hours and $50 after 2 Hours
Keep reading this full guide to see which option is best for you!
Where to Park at Universal Studios Hollywood?
When it comes to parking at Universal Studios Hollywood, the theme park offers a variety of parking options to accommodate different needs and preferences. You have:
- General Parking
- Preferred Parking
- Valet Parking
All options which I will discuss in detail.
Whether you’re looking for convenience, proximity to the park entrance or budget-friendly alternatives, I’ve got you covered.
So, let’s explore the different parking options at Universal Studios Hollywood and help you make an informed choice that suits your specific requirements.
General parking at Universal Studios Hollywood
The General Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood is available in four different parking structures, designated as:
- Jurassic Parking
- Curious George Parking
- Frankenstein Parking
- ET Garage
- King Kong Parking
Each of these parking structures provides easy access to the theme park entrance and is connected via escalators and elevators to the park’s main plaza.
How does General Parking work at Universal Studios Hollywood?
On arrival, you will be guided to one of these four garages so there is no need to decide which to head to in advance.
How much does it cost to park at Universal Studios Hollywood?
If you’re wondering how much is parking at Universal Studios Hollywood, general parking is the cheapest option at Universal Studios Hollywood but also means that these garages are further from the park entrance.
General Parking Cost at Universal Studios Hollywood:
- Before 5 p.m.: $32
- After 5 p.m.: $10
How far is general parking at Universal Studios Hollywood?:
- General Parking is a 5 to 10 minute walk depending on the garage you park at
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Preferred parking at Universal Studios Hollywood
The Preferred Parking area at Universal Studios Hollywood is a premium parking option that offers you an enhanced parking experience.
Where are the Preferred Parking spaces at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Preferred Parking spaces are located in the Frankenstein Lot, providing quick and easy access to the theme park.
In addition to the convenience of being located close to the park entrance, Preferred Parking offers you the added benefit of reserved parking spaces.
This means that anyone who opts for this parking option can be assured that they will have a guaranteed parking spot, even during peak periods when parking can be limited.
Hipster Power Tip: The ultimate preferred parking option is front gate parking offering a priority spot just feet from the park entrance.
This is a great option for those who want to return to the car quickly, perfect for young families.
How much does Preferred Parking cost at Universal Studios Hollywood?
While Preferred Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood is a more expensive option, it provides visitors with a hassle-free and stress-free parking experience.
The added convenience of being located closer to the park entrance and the assurance of having a reserved parking space can make a significant difference in the overall enjoyment of the theme park experience.
Preferred Parking Cost at Universal Studios Hollywood:
- Before 5 p.m.: $50
- Parking After 5 p.m.: $20
- Front Gate Parking: $70
Distance to the Park Gates:
- Preferred Parking saves you an average of 5 minutes walking time compared to general parking. Distance to park is under 5 minutes.
- Front gate parking puts you closest to the park located approximately 20 feet from the security entrance.
Valet parking at Universal Studios Hollywood
The Valet Parking situation at Universal Studios Hollywood is also a premium parking service that offers you a luxurious parking experience.
This service provides you with the added convenience of dropping off their vehicle at the valet stand and having it parked for them.
While this option is more expensive, it can be a convenient and stress-free option for anyone looking for a luxury parking experience.
It’s worth noting that valet parking is subject to availability and may not be offered during peak periods.
Where is the Valet Parking Service at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Valet Parking is located on the ground floor area of the Jurassic Parking Garage at Universal Studios Hollywood.
While the Front Gate Parking and occasionally Preferred Parking is closer to the park entrance, there is no need to locate your vehicle in busy crowds at the end of the park day.
How much does Valet Parking cost at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Below are the current prices for Valet Parking at Universal Studios.
Standard Valet Parking Rates at Universal Studios Hollywood
- First 2 Hours: $25
- After 2 Hours: $50
Valet Parking Rates With Validation from CityWalk Full-Service Restaurant
- 0 – 2.5 Hours: $10
- 2.5 – 3.5 Hours: $15
- After 3.5 Hours: $50
Distance to the Park Gates:
- Located in the middle of CityWalk approximately 5 minutes to park entrance
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CityWalk Parking Rules at Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood CityWalk offers visitors a range of entertainment, dining, and shopping options.
For visitors looking to park at CityWalk, parking options are the same as Universal Studios Hollywood but there are some pricing differences.
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Getting Your Parking Ticket Validated at Universal CityWalk in Hollywood
It’s worth noting that parking validation is available at some CityWalk venues, such as the movie theater and full-service restaurants, which can provide you with discounted or even free parking.
For example, with the purchase of a Universal Cinema movie ticket, parking is just $5.
According to Universal, to receive your $5 parking, present your General Parking receipt at the Universal Cinema ticket window.
Universal Hollywood CityWalk Parking Rules To Remember
Visitors who park at CityWalk should be aware that parking is strictly enforced, and parking violations can result in a citation or even towing of the vehicle.
Additionally, overnight parking is not allowed at CityWalk, and vehicles left overnight may be subject to towing.
Overall, CityWalk parking at Universal Studios Hollywood gives you a convenient and accessible parking option, with the added benefit of parking validation at some venues.
However, you should be aware of the parking fees, rules and regulations to avoid any inconveniences on your vacation.
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If you’re planning to use a ride-sharing service to get to Universal Studios Hollywood, there are designated ride-share pickup and drop-off locations located throughout the property.
The main ride-share pickup location is located in the Frankenstein Parking structure, which is conveniently located near the park entrance.
Other pickup locations can be found near the ET Parking garage near CityWalk.
Signs are posted throughout the property to help guide you to these designated locations.
Just know that these locations can change at anytime.
It’s also worth noting that ride-share drivers are required to pick up and drop off passengers only at these designated locations.
Attempting to hail a ride-share outside of these areas may result in a citation or other penalties.
Hipster Power Tip: It can take a while for to get a ride share vehicle during the peak time of park closing so keep this in mind when planning out your day.
How can I avoid paying for parking at Universal Studios Hollywood?
The only true free parking option at Universal Studios Hollywood is to be dropped off or picked up at the designated area by someone you trust.
If you’re staying at one of the local hotels, then you may be able to use the free shuttle.
You may also receive free parking at Universal Studios Hollywood if you’re a Platinum or Gold Annual Passholder.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations at Universal Studios Hollywood
On arrival at Universal Studios Hollywood, you are directed to a specific garage and for those parking at Universal Studios Hollywood with an electric vehicle.
You can rest assured that there are charging stations available in each garage at Universal Studios Hollywood.
- Frankenstein Garage: 4 ports (Level 2 and Level 7)
- Jurassic Parking Garage: 8 ports (Level 1 and B1M)
- ET Garage: 16 ports (Level B1)
- Woody Woodpecker Lot: 1 port (near Front Gate Parking)
- Curious George Garage: 2 ports (Level 1)
The cost to charge your car is $0.40/kWh; however, the prices subject to change without notice.
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Hotel Parking for Universal Studios Hollywood
If you’re staying at a hotel near Universal Studios Hollywood, you will have a variety of parking options, including self-parking and valet parking.
Self-parking is typically offered in a nearby parking structure, while valet parking is available at the hotel entrance.
The cost of hotel parking can vary depending on the parking option chosen and the duration of your stay.
I recommend that you check the specific parking rates for your chosen hotel before booking.
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City Parking Rates
- Self-parking: $49.50 per day
- Valet parking: $60.50 per day
Sheraton Universal Hotel
- Hourly Self-parking: $10
- Daily Self-parking: $39.60
- Valet parking: $55 per day
Hotel Parking for Non-hotel Guests
Parking at hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood is reserved for registered guests only.
Visitors who are not staying at the hotel are not permitted to park on the property.
If you’re visiting someone who is staying at the hotel, then you’ll have to pay the hourly rate.
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4 Easy Tips for Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood
Now that you know what to expect when it comes to parking at Universal Studios Hollywood, let me give you a few tips to make the most of your visit.
1. Look for Discounts
Make sure that you check for discounts if you are visiting CityWalk.
You’ll also want to take advantage of validated parking at a tablet service restaurant or the $5 park offer with a movie ticket.
2. Get an Early Start
Arrive early to Universal Studios Hollywood. The parking garages can fill up quickly during the peak season and parking is subjected to availability.
Plus, the earlier you arrive, the closer you will be located to the park entrance and you’ll be able to head straight to your favorite rides.
3. Splurge a Little Bit
Upgrade to Preferred Parking or Front Gate Parking if proximity to the park entrance is important to you.
4. Remember Where You Park Your Car
Take note of where you parked. It can be so easy to misplace your vehicle after a long park day amongst the busy crowds.
The best way to remember where you parked is to take a photo of your car’s location before you head into the park.
Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide
My Final Thoughts on Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood
And there you have the basics of parking at Universal Studios in California.
I have covered everything you need to prepare for parking at this awesome destination.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Steph is a UK-based freelance travel writer and theme park enthusiast.
She currently lives in England with her partner and son but is passionate about exploring the world.
(Original Article Date: May 26, 2023/Updated by Editor on March 3, 2024)