Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most exciting trips to make for families who love TV, film and video games. The park has something for everyone, including kids of all ages. If you're debating on whether or not your small kids would like Universal Studios, we hope you read our article about How to do Universal Studios Hollywood with Babies and Toddlers. We love gathering the best tips for the tiniest tots, along with their older siblings, cousins and friends.

Right here we’ve put together our top tips on how to do Universal Studios Hollywood with kids, plus a quick video to get everyone excited about your upcoming Southern California vacation.

Where to Stay with kids Near Universal Hollywood

When taking a child or two to Universal Studios Hollywood, we always recommend that you stay as close by as possible. Here are two of our favorite and closest hotels near Universal that are perfect for families:

The Garland is one of our favorites in the area. A gorgeous pool area with dive-in movies during the summer, lush grounds and comfortable, sleek guestrooms are a few of the reasons families love The Garland. They also offer complimentary scheduled shuttle service to Universal Studios Hollywood.
The Holiday Inn Express North Hollywood is a few miles from Universal Studios Hollywood. You'll love their rooftop pool with views of the Hollywood sign, free hot breakfast buffet each morning, and a microwave and fridge in each room.

Image Courtest of The Garland

Best Rides and Attractions for Kids at Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood is an incredible theme park with thrilling attractions that completely immerse you in the movies and TV shows that you love. There are plenty of intense rides for older kids and lots of things younger kids can do, too.

Top Rides and Attractions for Younger Kids

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
DinoPlay for Kids
DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda
Flight of the Hippogriff™
Silly Swirly
Super Silly Fun Land
The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

We’ve listed out the synopsis and height requirements for this list of rides in our Universal Studios Hollywood with toddlers article if you need more details.

Also note that the Studio Tour is open for everyone, but some elements might be scary for younger riders. Interestingly, sometimes it is not the earthquake simulation, King Kong, or Fast & the Furious car chase that scares kids. It might be when Jaws jumps out of the water towards you. If you decide your kids can handle it, we recommend having them sit in the middle of the row, not on the edge where sharks can startle them. You might also leave off the 3D glasses to make things a little less realistic.

Top Rides and Attractions for Older Kids

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Jurassic World - The Ride
Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge
The Simpsons Ride™
Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride
TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D

We also love watching WaterWorld in the upper lot, it’s a great stunt show filled with tons of action your older kids will love. Keep reading for more shows and activities to explore during your visit.

Best Shows and More for Kids at Universal Studios

Need a break from rides? There’s plenty to do at Universal Studios Hollywood for families with kids. Our team recommends:

15+ different wand magic locations where visitors can cast their own spells
Night lights at Hogwarts Castle during spring and summer
Despicable Me Carnival Games
Power-Up Band challenges in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Universal Studios Hollywood Child Switch

If you have a group of children including some who are too small or unwilling to go on a particular ride that you want to experience, you can use the “child switch” program.

Each ride and attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood has a family room where one member of your party can wait with the little ones while the rest of your party rides. Once they are finished, switch places so whoever rode can stay with the kids, and the adult(s) who sat out can enjoy the ride.

This means you can still enjoy some of your favorite thrill rides like Transformers: The Ride, Jurassic World - The Ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and more!

Universal Studios Hollywood Kids Meals

With so much to see, ride and places to play we don’t want to forget the delicious food and snacks everyone loves at Universal Studios Hollywood. Kids and adults alike will love these eats.

Lard Lad's Donuts

Lard Lad's has a variety of delicious flavors, and more importantly, they have giant donuts that are perfect for sharing. There is something about this humongous that makes it irresistible!

Minion Cafe

Minion Cafe is an awesome place to grab lunch and feel like you're in the movies. They serve grilled cheese, chicken bacon ranch Mac n Cheese, Nutella™ banana pudding and more favorites.

Toadstool Cafe

Inside the Toad House is Toadstool Cafe. They will love the clever kid meals and watching Chef Toad and playful scenery of the Mushroom Kingdom through the windows.

Book Your Universal Studios Hollywood Vacation

There is so much to do at Universal Studios Hollywood for everyone! If you're planning a Southern California vacation or visiting Disneyland, we recommend adding a day at Universal Studios Hollywood to your adventure. It's only about 45 minutes away, and sure to leave you with memories you'll cherish forever. Or, make it a quick away with your family. Either way, everyone from the youngest to the oldest will love Universal Studios Hollywood! Book online or call our vacation experts at 855-GET-AWAY.

How to do Universal Studios Hollywood with Kids || Get Away Today