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Universal Studios Hollywood ticket discounts are among the most common requests from people booking Los Angeles hotels through my agency. That’s why my team and I regularly compare pricing on our authorized ticket site with promo codes, coupons, and other advertised discounts to identify which options offer the best overall value for each trip.
We’ve helped readers purchase nearly 76,000 Universal Studios Hollywood tickets to date. For most visitors, the best value is the option I personally use, highlighted in the summary box below. If your plans include multiple L.A. attractions, a sightseeing pass like Go City may save you up to 50%, and I cover those options further down.
This guide curates the cheapest verified ticket options, based on current pricing from authorized sellers. And the Southern California resident deal is live!
Understanding Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket Pricing
Universal Studios Hollywood is a working movie studio that has evolved into a theme park with headline rides and shows, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
The World-Famous Studio Tour remains a must-do and is included with all standard admission tickets.
Gate Ticket Prices (Why the Gate Is the Most Expensive Option)
Universal Studios Hollywood uses date-based pricing online, meaning ticket prices increase on weekends, holidays, and peak seasons. Gate prices are fixed at the highest tier, which is why buying at the entrance costs more.
| Ticket Type | Gate Price (ages 10+) |
| 1-Day General Admission | $159 |
| Universal Express™ Including 1-Day General Admission | $329 |
| VIP Experience Including 1-Day General Admission | $519 |
| 2-Day General Admission | $194 |
Key Things to Know Before You Buy
- Date-Specific Tickets Are Required: You must choose a visit date, unless you are using a sightseeing pass (such as Go City).
- Non-Refundable Tickets: Most tickets can’t be canceled or refunded. Review the terms and conditions.
- Children Under 3: Free (ages 0-2).
- Park Hours Vary: Always check the official online calendar for hours.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Add-Ons (Optional)
Regardless of where you buy your admission tickets, two add-ons can significantly enhance your visit to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Both are purchased separately.
- Early Access Ticket (Recommended): $20–$30 per person. One hour early entry to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and early Studio Tour access before 11 a.m.
- Power-Up Band: An optional interactive band sold inside the park that tracks game progress via the Universal Studios app.
Which Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket Is Right for You?
Here’s my travel advisor logic to help you choose the right theme park ticket.
1. Best Discounted Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets for Most Visitors
Best Deal For: Visitors who want the lowest legitimate price and simple, straight-to-the-gate entry.
This is the option most travelers choose. Tickets are sold through aRes Travel, an authorized Universal Studios Hollywood seller based in San Diego that I’ve worked with for years. Pricing is consistently lower than buying direct, with clear terms and no surprise fees.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Early Access can be purchased directly from Universal for the same date and works alongside these tickets.
1-Day General Admission – SoCal Residents Offer!
Purchase now–March 18, 2026, visit January 15–March 25, 2026. Must buy 7 days in advance.
Discounted price: from $93/ages 3+
1-Day General Admission
Admission including rides and attractions for one day.
Discounted price: from $101/ages 10+ and $91/ages 3-9
Universal Express Including 1-Day General Admission
Skip the regular lines with one-time express access to each ride and attraction. Includes priority seating at select shows.
Discounted price: from $175/ages 3+
VIP Experience Including 1-Day General Admission
Enjoy a full day of the VIP Experience, including an expert tour guide with exclusive access to locations closed to the general public, unlimited express across each ride, gourmet lunch and refreshments in the exclusive VIP dining room, and more!
Discounted price: from $339/ages 5+
2-Day General Admission Kids Tickets Starting at $54.50 Per Day
Both park visits must occur within a ninety (90)-day period. Ticket valid until Dec 31, 2025.
Discounted price: from $138/ages 10+ and $109/ages 3-9
Universal Fan Fest Nights General Admission & 2 PM Day/Night Tickets
Save up to $13-66 on select nights April 23-May 16, 2026.
Discounted price: from $71/ages 10+ and $168/ages 3-9
2. Go City Los Angeles Sightseeing Pass
Best Deal For: Travelers visiting multiple Southern California theme parks
The benefits of a Go City Los Angeles pass include up to 50% off admission to more than 40 top attractions, tours, and theme parks in Los Angeles and Southern California, including Universal Studios Hollywood.
Use it when you plan 2–3+ major attractions on the same trip. The park is only included on the All Inclusive Plus pass, which also covers these theme parks:
- Knott’s Berry Farm
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- LEGOLAND California and San Diego Zoo
How it works: buy online → add to the Go City app → reserve if required → show at participating attractions.
Note: Same-day reservations are required to visit Universal Studios. Don’t forget to use my special discount. I use Go City when I travel.
Exclusive Go City Los Angeles Promo Code
Explore more and spend less with the Go City Los Angeles Pass while saving up to 50% on admission. For an extra 5% off all sale rates, use promo code GOLA5LJM,
(Pass has limited value for families in San Diego during Kids Free October — we recommend individual tickets instead during this timeframe. See promotional terms and conditions.)
See also: 9 Benefits of the Go City Los Angeles Pass
3. Los Angeles CityPASS
Best Deal For: Travelers wanting sightseeing specifically in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles CityPASS can be a good value if you plan to visit Universal Studios Hollywood and several other paid attractions on the same trip. It advertises savings of up to 48%, but actual savings depend on your dates and choices.
You need to choose one or both of the headline attractions at the time of purchase:
- Universal Studios Hollywood (1-Day general admission)
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Then, also get one-time admission to three of the following attractions (you can choose these later):
- GRAMMY Museum
- La Brea Tar Pits and Museum (I always enjoy this)
- Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
- Madame Tussauds Hollywood
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
- SoFi Stadium Tours
- Starline Tours
Reservations are required for Universal Studios Hollywood, Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, and Starline Tours. Instructions for doing this are included with your pass.
Los Angeles CityPASS vs Go City Los Angeles
4. Create Your Own Combo Tickets
Best Deal For: Travelers wanting more control over multi-attraction trips
If you are not opting for the Go Los Angeles sightseeing pass, the best way to save on multiple parks is to add them to your cart individually. They are all discounted!
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Disneyland (not on Go City Los Angeles – promo code SAVEMORE works on non-promo multi-day tickets)
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park (use promo code lajollamom to save $8 on 1-Day tickets)
- San Diego Zoo (use promo code lajollamom to save $8 on 1-Day tickets)
- Legoland California (promo code SAVEMORE will save on most tickets)
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
Six Flags Magic Mountain hasn’t been participating in sightseeing passes or combo tickets lately, so you’ll need to purchase tickets to this theme park separately. Knott’s Berry Farm participates in Go City sightseeing passes.
5. Universal Studios Hollywood Vacation Packages: Hotels in All Price Ranges + Discounted Tickets
Best Deal For: Travelers wanting Universal Studios Hollywood vacation packages
I offer a way for people to combine discounted admission with hotel bookings on our ticket site. Bundle cheap tickets with a vacation package that includes 71 hotels, ranging from budget to luxury. Choosing nearby hotels has many benefits, including (hopefully) skipping notorious L.A. traffic.
Tip: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and other famous attractions are within a short distance of Universal City. As a travel agent, I can also view pricing and build packages through Universal Parks & Recreation, giving me insight into the best deals.
6. Luxury Hotels with VIP Programs + Discounted Tickets
Best Deal For: Travelers wanting discount Universal Hollywood tickets who like to stay in really nice hotels
It’s not an official vacation package, but by combining our discounted tickets with stays at Los Angeles luxury hotels that offer VIP benefits, you’ll get significantly better value than booking each one individually.
7. Discounted California Resident Tickets and Passes
Best Deal For: Locals who plan to visit twice or more in a year
California residents sometimes receive limited-time 1-day offers and a resident Neighbor Pass (details on this are in our annual pass section).
The availability changes throughout the year, but it does appear during off-peak seasons. We’ll keep an eye on these tickets and let you know when they’re available again!
8. Military Discounts
Best Deal For: Travelers who are active or retired U.S. military personnel
Year-round discount options are available to all active and retired U.S. military personnel. These military tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood must be purchased in advance at participating MWR/ITT offices throughout the United States. They are unavailable at the gate.
Alternatively, military members can access discounts online through Universal’s website by verifying their affiliation with ID.me. Offers include savings on 1-Day General Admission, Universal Express tickets, and select annual passes.
9. Costco Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets & Season Pass
Best Deal For: Costco members who will visit twice or more
Costco sells a $169.99 annual pass with what appear to be the exact blockout dates (there are many) as the California Neighbor Pass. You don’t need to show you live in California, but some restrictions exist.
You’ll also need to register for your first visit. Registration for your first visit can close up to 7 days in advance. If you are visiting within the next week, please don’t buy this pass unless you’ve confirmed that registration is still open for your date.
Note: For the most up-to-date information on Universal Studios Hollywood tickets from Costco, please check the details.
10. Discounted AAA Universal Studios Tickets
Best Deal For: Travelers who have AAA memberships
If you’re a member, you can benefit from AAA’s discount Universal Studios Hollywood ticket prices online through the club’s portal. Savings and available products vary by club and date, but you’ll typically see 1-Day General Admission, Universal Express, and VIP Experience at a member rate.
How to compare (quickly):
- Sign in to your club site and review your zip-code-based offers.
- Compare the final total (after taxes/fees) to the Cheapest Tickets section above. On many dates, my authorized deal matches or beats AAA.
- Review refund/change terms before you pay; some AAA tickets are non-refundable.
What to bring on the day: A photo ID that matches the name on the ticket (standard Universal policy).
11. Group Discounts
Best Deal For: Parties, school trips, or large family vacations
Universal Studios Hollywood discount tickets are available for groups of 10 or more people by calling 1-800-959-9688 (Universal Group Sales).
12. College Student Discounts
Best Deal For: College students, primarily for colleges in SoCal
Universal Studios Hollywood partners with numerous colleges, primarily in California, to offer discounted student tickets starting at $99. Go to the College Discounts page. Verify your student status there.
See if you can save on 1-Day, California Neighbor, and Universal Express tickets. You can also pre-pay for parking, but the price remains the regular rate.
13. AARP Discount for Seniors
Best Deal For: Seniors ages 50+ who are AARP members
If you are an AARP member, you can save about 10% on Universal tickets. Our discount is better, but this is another legitimate way to save.
14. Groupon Deals on Universal Tickets
Best Deal For: People who like to use Groupon, but this isn’t the best price.
Yes, Groupon sells tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood. They are not currently priced lower than our discounted tickets.
You can check whether there are Groupon deals. At the time of this writing, there are none worth drawing your attention to.
15. Universal Annual Passes (Gold, Silver, Platinum)
Best Deal For: Southern California residents who plan to visit the park multiple times a year
One of the most significant differences among the choices is the Pass Member blackout dates, which include holidays and some weekends.
- Quick rule: An Annual Pass can cost less than two single-day tickets on many date patterns.
- Best for Locals or repeat visitors, especially during peak weekends/holidays when day-ticket prices spike.
- What to check: Your dates vs. blackout calendar; whether parking and merchandise discounts tip the math.
- Where to buy/compare: Check the pass price vs. your planned day-ticket total. If you only need one day, see Cheapest Tickets above. You can buy annual passes through Universal.
California Neighbor Pass
- Price: $179
- Valid for 9 months with over 150 days of access, including more than 15 weekends.
- Benefits include special event invitations, discounts on general admission tickets for friends and family, opportunities to participate in sweepstakes, discounted Halloween Horror Nights tickets, and 10-15% off at participating CityWalk locations.
Silver Annual Pass
- Price: $219
- Valid for 15 months with over 370 days of access, including more than 75 weekends.
- It includes all the benefits of the California Neighbor Pass with fewer blackout dates.
- 10-15% off at participating CityWalk locations.
- Discounted Halloween Horror Nights tickets
Gold Annual Pass
- Price: $299 online
- Valid for 15 months with over 370 days of access, including over 105 weekends
- 10-15% off at participating CityWalk locations.
- Discounted Halloween Horror Nights tickets..
- You’ll receive a 15% discount on in-park food, beverages, merchandise, free general parking (entry before 6 p.m.), and the benefits offered in the Silver Annual Pass.
Platinum Annual Pass
- Price: $599 online
- Valid for 12 months with no blackout dates.
- This pass includes all the benefits of the Gold Annual Pass, plus Universal Express access to participating rides and attractions after 3 p.m., a free Halloween Horror Nights ticket, and additional special event invitations.
Universal Studios Hollywood Parking Tips
Tip: I use the Universal Studios Hollywood app to set a parking reminder. This way, I don’t forget where my car is parked.
| Parking Type | Before 5 PM | After 5 PM | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Parking | $40 | $10 | Prices may be higher during Halloween Horror Nights. |
| Preferred Parking | $55 | $20 | Close to the entrance. |
| Front Gate Parking | $75 | $75 | Closest to the entrance. |
| Valet Parking | $25 (first 2 hours) | $60 (after 2 hours) | Convenient drop-off service. |
If you stay at the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City or Sheraton Universal Hotel, you won’t need to move your car. The hotels share a shuttle to the park, or you can walk.
Fun Things to Do During Your Visit
Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
- World Famous Studio Tour
- Super Nintendo World
- Live Entertainment
- Universal CityWalk
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Super Silly Fun Land
- Shopping to grab exclusive merch
- Holiday events like Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve
See also: My Tips for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood
FAQs About Universal Studios Hollywood Discount Tickets and More
After many years of selling these tickets, I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that I continue to receive.
Do I need a reservation for Universal Studios Hollywood?
You don’t need to make a reservation for Universal Studios Hollywood, but your ticket is issued for a specific date. You must visit on the date selected on your ticket.
Reservations are required if you use the Los Angeles CityPASS or Go City Los Angeles.
Where is Universal Studios California located?
Most of the theme park is located in Universal City, California, while part of it extends into the city limits of Los Angeles.
If you’re looking for hotels near Universal Studios, many are adjacent to Studio City or Hollywood.
What other Universal Studios Hollywood discounts are available?
Bring your Visa card to the park! Visa is an official partner, so you can use your card for dining discounts at the park and at CityWalk. Visa unveiled a Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature Card, giving card members extra perks at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood.
Note: American Express used to be the credit card partner, and there was an AMEX Lounge. It’s now closed.
Is there a friends and family discount at Universal Studios Hollywood?
If you have a Platinum, Gold, or Silver Season Pass, one of the many perks included is discounts on general admission for friends and family. The discount can be as low as $95 per ticket, while one-day general admission tickets typically range from $99 to $149. If you are a season pass holder, this is an opportunity you won’t want to pass up!
How much do Universal Studios Hollywood fast passes cost?
A Universal Studios Hollywood fast pass is basically the Universal Express ticket upgrade. It gives you one-time express access to participating rides, shows, and attractions, but does not include park admission (unless you buy a combo ticket that includes it).
Universal Express is added to your ticket once and applies automatically to every eligible attraction, so you can enter the express access queue when ready. The price depends on where you purchase it and the time of year.
How do I get the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience?
The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience is very easy to book. It grants exclusive backstage access to The Lot, where you can enjoy a special trolley tour and even get off to walk around. You also receive access to VIP lounges and express line privileges to rides and attractions to avoid crowds.
You need a VIP Experience ticket for everyone ages 5 and up in your group (younger kids can’t come). You must make reservations.
Can you experience the whole park in one day?
It depends. The 415-acre park, with its Upper Lot and Lower Lot (you’ll ride long escalators to access the latter), has a lot to see. Your ability to cover all the highlights in one day may depend on the pass you purchase, how early you arrive, and how crowded the park is during your visit.
If you get the Universal Express ticket, you’ll pass through lines faster. Most people can see the park in one day, but a two-day ticket lets you tour more slowly.
Is the World-Famous Studio Tour included with park admission?
Yes. Universal Studios Hollywood tickets include The World-Famous Studio Tour. You should definitely experience it.
The tour takes you around the backlot, which is basically Hollywood’s largest set. You’ll go behind the scenes of your favorite Hollywood movies and TV shows. You’ll see the sets from classics, such as Jaws and Frankenstein. The tour also takes you through a few 3-D experiences, where you’ll ride along in the Fast & Furious—Supercharged grand finale and venture through King Kong’s jungle.
How can you get free parking?
Platinum and Gold Annual Pass holders receive free parking before 6 p.m. All other guests are usually required to pay for parking.
Tip: All parking rates are reduced if you arrive after 5 p.m.
How do I get tickets to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?
Theme park guests don’t need additional tickets to enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Your Universal Studios Hollywood ticket will get you into this popular attraction.
Here, you can shop for plenty of merchandise, ride Flight of the Hippogriff and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, buy a wand at Ollivanders, eat at The Leaky Cauldron, and much more.
Can I upgrade my ticket to include Universal Express?
You can upgrade your ticket at the Universal Box Office inside the park, subject to availability (I haven’t heard of it not being available lately). Usually, people do this to add Universal Express or to change to an annual pass.
Tip: If you have a Platinum Annual Pass, you get one express ride per day on each eligible attraction.
Is the Universal Express Pass worth the money?
I highly recommend the Universal Express Pass on busy days (weekends, holidays, summer) to avoid long lines. Prices start from $175 through our partner, saving you up to $154 on gate prices. On quiet, off-season weekdays, it may not be necessary.
What are the best things to do at this Universal Studios?
The World-Famous Studio Tour is one of the top attractions in the park. Other popular attractions include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can tour the famous Hogwarts castle, buy interactive wands, and practice casting spells with your favorite Harry Potter characters.
You can also meet and greet favorite characters, play carnival games, watch performances, and enjoy the best Universal Studios rides. These include a ride through Hagrid’s pumpkin patch on the Flight of the Hippogriff™ and facing dinosaurs on Jurassic World—The Ride. Join your favorite TV family on The Simpson Ride™ or tour ancient Egypt on The Revenge of the Mummy, which is my favorite thrill ride. And, you can also engage with Optimus Prime during Transformers: The Ride-3D and laugh with minions during Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem. And now there’s Mario Kart!
Don’t forget about the shows. The WaterWorld stunt and special effects show is the most popular.
Do I need separate tickets for Halloween Horror Nights?
Yes. Halloween Horror Nights tickets are sold separately from regular admission. You can purchase tickets for Halloween Horror Nights directly through Universal Studios and through our ticket site. The 2 p.m. ticket includes late afternoon daytime general admission and early event access.
It’s an incredibly popular seasonal event, and admission does sell out. At night, the park features monsters, mazes, and scary interactive experiences. The event occurs rain or shine, and no costume masks are allowed.
Are Universal Studios Hollywood tickets refundable?
No, they are generally not refundable. Reading the terms and conditions before purchasing tickets is essential.
Can I skip dining lines with the Universal Express Pass?
No. Universal Express pass privileges do not apply to food and retail locations.
Are the discount tickets from La Jolla Mom legitimate?
Yes, the tickets are 100% legitimate. We are an official partner of aRes Travel, a San Diego-based, authorized ticket seller for major California attractions. We have helped facilitate the sale of over 75,000 tickets to our readers. The tickets are delivered electronically and scanned directly from your phone at the park entrance.
How do you buy Universal Studios Hollywood discount tickets?
Learn also how to find the best prices for:
- Disneyland tickets
- Knott’s Berry Farm tickets
- Six Flags Magic Mountain tickets
- San Diego Zoo tickets
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets
- LEGOLAND California tickets
- SeaWorld San Diego tickets
- Universal Studios Orlando tickets
- Walt Disney World tickets
- Six Flags Discovery Kingdom tickets
- SeaWorld Orlando tickets
Reviews of Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood:
All Universal Studios Hollywood posts:
Katie Dillon
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