Planning to try every ride, restaurant, store, and more will leave you with no time to spend on a Universal Studios Hollywood parking spot hunt. So, let’s get that sorted before you head to the Valley. Here’s all you need to know about parking at “The Entertainment Capital of LA.”
Universal Studios Hollywood barely needs an introduction. It should be on your bucket list, whether you live in Los Angeles or not. And one visit doesn’t cut it if you want to properly explore everything at this legendary film studio and theme park. Apart from the exciting rides, character sightings, and studio tours, it is also home to a shopping and dining hub – the Universal CityWalk. At the same time, the 18-plex Universal Cinema with IMAX promises the ultimate movie experience. Scheduling your visit during seasonal events and attractions like Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood are also worth the hustle and bustle.
No prizes for guessing how crowded it can get during a weekend or the holidays! Fortunately, finding parking won’t be too hard if you plan to drive yourself to Universal Studios Hollywood. On-site parking is available at multiple garages within the complex, but of course, at a price. Wouldn’t you rather splurge on souvenir shopping and dining? Affordable parking near Universal Studios Hollywood isn’t a myth – all you need is a smartphone and a parking app like Way.
But before you make a choice, here’s all you need to know about Universal Studios Hollywood parking.
How much is parking at Universal Studios Hollywood?
General parking costs $28 per day, but after 5 pm, the rate goes down to $10. However, general parking spots are subject to availability. Preferred parking is the safer option but will cost you more – $40 per day. After 5 pm, you’ll need to pay only half the daily rate. However, these discounted rates for the evening aren’t applicable during special events like Halloween Horror Nights. Convenient front gate parking spots are also available for $60 a day. Valet parking is currently available at the Universal Studios Hollywood garages, starting at $25 for the first two hours and $45 after that. Universal CityWalk’s full-service restaurants offer validation for valet parking.
Is there any free parking around Universal Studios Hollywood?
Theme parks are expensive, and anything free comes with a catch. It’s no different at Universal Studios Hollywood. Spend a few $100 on an annual pass, and you can enjoy free parking plus other perks for about 175 days a year. Only Gold and Platinum pass holders get free parking. And, of course, if you are up for the Universal VIP experience, free valet parking and meals are all part of the deal.
Preferred parking vs. General parking – the better deal?
It might be tempting to go for the cheapest option – General Parking. But be aware that this comes with a fair bit of walking from the garage to the park entrance. It will take you only a few minutes lesser than parking outside the Universal Studios complex for a cheaper rate.
Preferred parking is no better in terms of the walking involved. You can probably save five minutes – depending on the garage designated to you. Saving a 5-minute walk for an extra $10 is not an interesting deal. The only positive is that you’ll be walking through Universal CityWalk. So, you might as well pay lesser and take a long walk.
Where can you find cheaper Universal Studios Hollywood parking?
There’s cheaper parking near Universal Studios? Yes, especially if you were ready to settle for general parking at the on-site lots. The most convenient option is the Metro Station lots that are only a 15-minute walk away. That’s only a couple of minutes more than the walk from General Parking. But you’ll have to get there early to find a parking spot. There’s a bit of risk when you depend on this last-minute parking spot. To avoid that, consider pre-booking a parking lot or garage space in the neighborhood. 3241 Cahuenga Boulevard West Parking lot is an affordable option. You’ll find secure all-day parking spots for as low as $22. Find and pre-book the best Los Angeles parking spots here.
When you park off-site, you can cut down on your walking time by taking the free shuttle from the Universal Studios front entrance on Universal Center Drive and Lankershim Boulevard.
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