Most people stay in one of the hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood because they’d like to visit the park over multiple days, want the convenience of being able to go back and forth to a hotel room (which families traveling with small kids like), or prefer the often lower hotel rates than might be available in other parts of Los Angeles.
Where you stay really depends on how you want to get to the park. Some hotels are within walking distance, others run free shuttles, and several popular Hollywood hotels connect to Universal via the Metro B Line in under 10 minutes, no car or parking fees needed.
No matter what hotel class you’re looking for, from luxury to budget-friendly, we’ll tell you what they’re like based on personal experience and feedback from readers.
And don’t forget that you can also save money with discounted Universal Studios Hollywood tickets.
We independently select featured hotels and may earn a commission if you book through the links below.
How to Get to Universal Studios Hollywood from Your Hotel
Getting to Universal is easier than most people expect, but the best approach depends on where you’re staying.
Walking: The Sheraton and Hilton in Universal City are the closest options. Both are within a few minutes’ walk and are also served by a free shuttle loop that stops at both hotels, Universal Studios, and Universal CityWalk.
Free hotel shuttles: Several hotels a couple of miles away, like The Garland and Coast Anabelle, run complimentary shuttle service directly to the park.
Metro B Line: This option is often overlooked by visitors. The Metro B Line (formerly the Red Line) connects Hollywood to the Universal City station, where a free tram takes you up to CityWalk and the park entrance. If you’re staying near Hollywood & Highland or Hollywood & Vine, you’re one stop away. It takes about 5 minutes on the train and roughly 15-20 minutes from the door to the gate. No parking fees, no LA traffic. This is actually why many of my clients prefer to stay in Hollywood and just take the Metro over.
Driving or rideshare: Any hotel within a few miles is a quick Uber or Lyft ride away. Just keep in mind that LA traffic can turn a short distance into a longer trip, especially during rush hour. Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood starts at $30.
Walking Distance to Universal Studios Hollywood
These are the most convenient hotels if you want to be steps from the park without relying on a car, shuttle, or transit.
1. Sheraton Universal Hotel
Location: Universal City | Distance: 0.3 miles | Shuttle: Yes, free
My top pick for hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood is the Sheraton Universal Hotel. Its classic Hollywood decor gives you a sense of place the moment you walk into the lobby. This Universal City hotel has hosted a long list of famous actors (Universal Studios is still a working studio).
It’s a large hotel but still feels intimate, and the rooms are nicely appointed. We’ve enjoyed comfortable stays here. Room service is excellent, and we’ve had decent breakfasts at California Kitchen + Cocktails before action-packed days.
Some rooms have views of Universal Studios through floor-to-ceiling windows. For more space, choose a Junior or Executive suite.
A free shuttle runs in a loop between Sheraton Universal, Hilton Universal City, Universal Studios, and Universal CityWalk.
2. Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City
Location: Universal City | Distance: 1 block | Shuttle: Yes, free
Hilton Universal City is the closest hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood at only one block away. It also has access to the same complimentary shuttle that stops at the Sheraton.
We’ve stayed at this property recently. Rooms are spacious and comfortable and can have views of the theme park or CityWalk. Each guest room has high-speed WiFi, luxurious beds, and a refrigerator and coffee maker.
You can start each day with the large breakfast buffet at Cafe Sierra, which also offers all-day dining. Guests can rent a poolside cabana and use the fitness room.
If you’re going with one of the brand-name hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood, the Hilton is the largest property with the most amenities and a good pick for Hilton Honors members.
Between the Sheraton and the Hilton, I’d choose based on price and which one you prefer. They’re both great, and the Hilton isn’t materially closer to the park.
Tip: The Executive Corner Rooms feature a king bed and a queen-size sofa bed, a convenient option for families of four. Hilton Honors member rates are usually the best way to book.
3. BLVD Hotel & Studios
Location: Studio City | Distance: 0.5 miles (~10-minute walk) | Metro: 5 min to Universal City/Studio City station
BLVD Hotel & Studios (part of Choice Hotels’ Ascend Collection) is a popular hotel within about a 10-minute walk to Universal Studios Hollywood. It’s also about five minutes from the Metro B Line Universal City/Studio City station.
Rooms are straightforward with mini-fridges, coffee makers, and microwaves. There’s an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness room, and the BLVD Cafe with sandwiches, pastries, and to-go options. The Backdrop Lounge is popular for daily happy hour. Complimentary WiFi is included.
For more space, consider the double-queen suite with a living room. It’s not fully walled off, but it does provide extra room, making the BLVD a solid choice for families.
4. Tilt Hotel Universal/Hollywood
Location: Studio City | Distance: 0.6 miles (~15-minute walk) | Budget-friendly
The eclectic and wallet-friendly Tilt Hotel (also Ascend Collection) is about a 15-minute walk to Universal Studios Hollywood. It’s a good option if you want to be close to the park without paying brand-name hotel prices.
Many guest rooms include a hot tub for two, and all have a coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, and free WiFi. There’s a heated indoor pool and a hot tub on the grounds. A complimentary continental breakfast is included, which is a nice bonus at this price point.
They also have family suites with one king bedroom that connects to a two-queen bedroom, basically guaranteed connecting rooms.
Free Shuttle to Universal Studios Hollywood
These hotels are a short drive from the park, but make it easy with complimentary shuttle service.
5. The Garland
Location: North Hollywood | Distance: 2 miles | Shuttle: Free trolley to Universal Studios
The Garland is one of the most popular hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood, and for good reason. It has a complimentary trolley shuttle to and from the park, a resort-like feel on seven lush acres, and a range of room types from deluxe rooms to full family suites with bunk beds.
Named after actress Beverly Garland, whose husband built the property in the 1970s, it’s been updated over the years but still has a retro LA feel. Some suites offer views of Universal Studios. All rooms have complimentary WiFi.
If you want to keep up your workout routine, they even have fitness suites with adjustable weights and a Peloton Bike.
With both Front Yard restaurant and the Lobby Bar, you’re never far from food and drinks. You can also grab a picnic-style meal to take to attractions near the hotel. Other perks include dive-in movies, poolside classes, board games in the Courtyard, and complimentary Urban Walks to the original Brady Bunch House.
The Garland is also a Universal Studios Hollywood Preferred Hotel Partner.
6. Coast Anabelle Hotel
Location: Burbank | Distance: 3.5 miles | Shuttle: Free (with reservation) to Universal Studios, Warner Bros., and Burbank Airport
Business travelers and families often choose the Coast Anabelle Hotel when they’re in town to visit Universal Studios. A big reason is the complimentary shuttle between the hotel and Burbank Airport, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood (you just need a reservation).
Rooms are comfortable, with king- or queen-sized beds and a spacious shower. Some suites come with a wet bar. Olive’s Bistro & Lounge onsite has all-day dining, including happy hour.
7. Safari Inn, a Coast Hotel
Location: Burbank | Distance: 3.5 miles | Shuttle: Free (with reservation) to Universal Studios, Warner Bros., and Burbank Airport
Safari Inn is where history meets Hollywood. Its iconic neon sign has been glowing since 1955, and the hotel has been a filming location for True Romance, Apollo 13, and The Partridge Family. It’s right next door to the Coast Anabelle and shares the same complimentary shuttle service.
Each suite includes a full kitchen and comfortable beds. The outdoor pool is a great spot to cool off at the end of the day. For dining, you’ll head next door to Olive’s Bistro. Free WiFi is included.
If you’re choosing between Coast Anabelle and Safari Inn, the Safari Inn tends to be the more budget-friendly option with more retro character, while Coast Anabelle is a bit more polished.
8. Hotel Amarano Burbank
Location: Burbank | Distance: 2.5 miles | Near Burbank Airport
For a fun, recently refreshed boutique hotel near Universal Studios, Burbank Airport, and the train station, take a look at Hotel Amarano.
It’s both upscale and affordable. Stylish rooms and suites (mostly kings, plus suites with a king bed and queen-sized sofa bed) are outfitted in chic California style. You’ll pay an amenity fee, but valet parking is included.
FYC Bar+Kitchen has modern California cuisine and craft cocktails in an Old Hollywood setting. There’s an outdoor heated saltwater pool, and complimentary bike rentals let you ride over to Griffith Park.
This is also a pet-friendly hotel, so the whole family can come along.
Stay in Hollywood, Take the Metro to Universal
These hotels put you right in the middle of Hollywood’s best attractions while keeping Universal Studios Hollywood easily accessible via the Metro B Line. From the Hollywood & Highland or Hollywood & Vine stations, it’s one stop to Universal City, where a free tram takes you up to CityWalk and the park entrance. The whole trip takes about 15-20 minutes, with no parking fees or traffic to deal with.
For many visitors, this is the best of both worlds: the full Hollywood experience at your doorstep and easy access to Universal Studios.
9. Loews Hollywood Hotel
Location: Hollywood & Highland | Distance: 3 miles | Metro: Hollywood/Highland station (one stop to Universal City)
Base your Los Angeles vacation at the bustling corner of Hollywood and Highland in one of Loews Hollywood Hotel’s 628 rooms and suites. The Metro B Line station is right below the hotel, making Universal Studios Hollywood one quick stop away.
You’ll also be within a short walk of TCL Chinese Theatre, El Capitan Theatre, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Hollywood Wax Museum. This hotel is right in the middle of everything, and it feels like it (we have stayed here).
The heated rooftop pool has food and cocktails with views of the LA skyline. WiFi is free, and they can even put game consoles and board games in the room to entertain kids (or you). Loews is also a Universal Studios Hollywood Partner Hotel.
10. Hollywood Roosevelt
Location: Hollywood Blvd | Distance: 3 miles | Metro: Hollywood/Highland station (one stop to Universal City)
Staying at the Hollywood Roosevelt is always a treat. Opened in 1927, it’s the oldest continuously operating hotel in Los Angeles and a Historic-Cultural Monument. Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, and Clark Gable all stayed here, and the first Academy Awards were presented in the hotel’s Blossom Ballroom.
The hotel has a late-night burger restaurant, a bowling alley and game parlor, a prohibition-era-style cocktail lounge, and the famous Tropicana Pool & Cafe with poolside day beds. There’s also a Massage Garden if you need to unwind after a long day at the park.
The Hollywood Roosevelt is a member of the Preferred Hotels and Resorts group of independent hotels.
11. Kimpton Everly Hotel
Location: Hollywood Hills | Distance: 2.8 miles | Metro: Hollywood/Vine station (one stop to Universal City)
The Kimpton Everly is a stylish Hollywood Hills hotel that’s close to Universal Studios Hollywood and pretty much everything else. You’re blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Pantages Theater, the TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Hollywood Bowl.
The rooftop pool has food, cocktails, and sweeping views of the Los Angeles skyline. Every guest room and suite has either a city view or a view of the Hollywood sign, which never gets old.
Luxury Hotels in LA Worth the Drive
These hotels aren’t the closest to Universal Studios Hollywood, but they offer an elevated Los Angeles experience. If you’re planning to explore more of the city beyond the park, they’re excellent bases. I regularly book clients into both properties for Universal trips.
12. Andaz West Hollywood
Location: West Hollywood (Sunset Strip) | Distance: 5 miles | Getting to Universal: ~20 min by car/rideshare
Andaz West Hollywood was the first hotel on the Sunset Strip, and guests stay in rooms once frequented by top musicians from the 1960s. Whether you book a room or a suite, you’ll get complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and snacks for the whole family.
The rooftop pool bar is the highest in Los Angeles, and the Riot House Restaurant serves seasonal dishes in a chic setting. There’s also plenty of nightlife right on the Sunset Strip.
You have access to Hyatt Prive amenities here that include:
- $100 USD Property Credit
- Room Upgrade*
- Breakfast for Two
- Welcome Amenity
- Guest Welcome Letter
- Early Check-In*
- Connecting Rooms*
- Free Wifi
* Subject to forecasted occupancy
Also Worth Considering
Sunset Tower Hotel (West Hollywood, 5 miles) is another historic Hollywood gem on the Sunset Strip, where Marilyn Monroe and Howard Hughes once lived. It’s a luxury boutique hotel with 81 rooms and suites offering stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows. I can book this with Virtuoso amenities that include a room upgrade on arrival, complimentary breakfast daily, and a $100 food and beverage credit.
FAQs About Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood
I help families plan Southern California theme park vacations. These are the questions that come up the most when people are figuring out where to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood.
Where should I stay when visiting Universal Studios Hollywood?
The two closest hotels are Hilton Universal City and Sheraton Universal Hotel, both top-rated options and ones that guests within driving distance (say, from San Diego) choose so they don’t have to rush their visit.
While there are no official Universal Studios Hollywood hotels, if there were, these two would be it.
That said, many people opt for Hollywood hotels and take the Metro B Line to Universal, which is one stop from Hollywood & Highland or Hollywood & Vine. This way, you can enjoy the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Sign, and Hollywood Boulevard while still getting to the park in about 15 minutes.
Just remember that LA traffic can turn a 7-mile drive into an hour-long experience. The best hotel is the one that works for you, your family, and your itinerary, not necessarily the closest one to the park.
Which hotel is closest to Universal Studios Hollywood?
Hilton Universal City is the closest hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood, one block away. You can also hop on the complimentary shuttle that runs between the Hilton, the Sheraton, and the park.
Can you take the Metro to Universal Studios Hollywood?
Yes. The Metro B Line stops at Universal City Station, and from there, a free tram takes you up to CityWalk and the park entrance. This is a great option if you’re staying in Hollywood. From the Hollywood & Highland station (near Loews Hollywood Hotel and Hollywood Roosevelt), it’s just one stop. The train takes about 5 minutes, and the whole trip from the hotel to the park gate is roughly 15-20 minutes.
How many days do I need at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Unless you’re a Harry Potter mega-fan or want to spend a lot of time in Super Nintendo World, one full day is usually enough to experience the best of the park.
It’s not uncommon for families with smaller children to split a visit into two more relaxed days, which is when staying near Universal Studios Hollywood really comes in handy.
How far is LAX from Universal Studios Hollywood?
Plan on about 25 miles of freeway driving. How long it takes depends entirely on LA traffic. If you’re flying into the area mainly for Universal Studios, consider Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) instead. It’s much closer to the park and to several of the hotels on this list.
How can I get discount Universal Studios Hollywood tickets?
You can save up to $170 off gate prices through authorized resellers. See our complete guide to discount Universal Studios Hollywood tickets for the best prices available.
See also: Best Luxury Hotels in Los Angeles and Benefits of the Go Los Angeles Sightseeing Pass
Katie Dillon
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