There are two Universal Studios in the U.S.; Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Orlando.
But which Universal Studios is better?
The answer isn’t really as straightforward as one might like.
The “better” park really depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for.
Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Florida – despite coming from the same company – each offer something different.
Here’s a quick guide to both parks to help you figure out which one you’d probably enjoy more.
Universal Studios Hollywood: A Look Behind the Scenes
Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Los Angeles, California.
Between the two parks, this one is smaller.
It doubles as a real film studio, and its biggest attraction is its Studio Tour.
On this tour, you get to ride through real movie sets and see how movies are made.
There’s also the WaterWorld stunt show, which features actors, fire, and big water effects.
Super Nintendo World is another highlight.
You can ride popular rides like Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and explore fun, interactive areas modeled after the game.
Universal Studios Hollywood is quite compact, so you can actually see everything in one day if you arrive early and plan ahead.
So if you like movies and want a behind-the-scenes experience of movie magic, this park would be the best pick for you.
Universal Studios Florida: Classic Theme Park Thrills
Universal Studios Florida is part of the Universal Orlando Resort.
This resort is quite a lot larger than Universal Hollywood, and it includes three areas: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.
That means more rides, more space, more features, and more to do.
One of the biggest draws is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — a section of the theme park dedicated exclusively to the Harry Potter franchise.
In Universal Florida, you’ll get to experience areas designed to look exactly like Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
You can even ride the famous Hogwarts Express train between them.
Beyond Harry Potter World, you’ll also find thrilling rides based on popular movies, like Revenge of the Mummy and Men in Black: Alien Attack.
Rest assured, Universal Studios Florida has more live shows and themed lands.
This makes it a better choice for you if you’re planning a longer visit or you’re traveling with family and would like more variety.
Which Universal Studio Park is Bigger?
Which Universal Studios is better doesn’t necessarily depend on which one is bigger.
As mentioned earlier, Universal Studios Orlando is a lot bigger than its Hollywood counterpart.
It’s a 415-acre resort with two main parks, a water park, and multiple hotels.
In comparison, Universal Studios Hollywood is smaller and built into the hills of Los Angeles.
If you want more rides, more attractions, and lots of space, Universal Orlando definitely has more to offer.
But if you want a smaller, more intimate park that isn’t so overwhelming, Universal Hollywood would be a better choice.
Unique Features in Universal Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood has some one-of-a-kind experiences.
The Studio Tour, for instance, lets you see real sets and sound stages.
The Jurassic World ride and the Kung Fu Panda show are also unique, mixing interactions with beloved characters with classic theme park thrills.
Hollywood also has Super Nintendo World, which is a haven for fans of the game (and video game fans in general).
Plus, the park’s compact size makes it easier to walk around and enjoy in a single day.
Exclusive Attractions in Florida
Universal Studios Florida also has its own exclusive rides and shows that you won’t find in Hollywood.
These include:
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- The Bourne Stuntacular
- Men in Black: Alien Attack
- E.T. Adventure
- Animal Actors on Location
Universal Florida is more theatrical as well.
It features more live shows and big productions like the Horror Makeup Show and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees.
Which Park Is Better for Kids?
If you’re planning a trip with family, it’s best to know which Universal Studios is better for kids.
But truth be told, both parks – Hollywood and Florida – are great for kids.
The best choice would depend on their age.
Universal Florida is better for older kids who enjoy thrill rides and don’t mind huge crowds.
Universal Hollywood has a more relaxed pace and shorter lines.
If your kids love movies and want to see real film sets, the Hollywood park would be a fun choice.
But if they’re into Harry Potter, Super Smash Bros, and/or intense roller coasters, Universal Studio Florida would be better for you.
Guest Reviews: Florida vs. Hollywood
Guests say Universal Studios Florida offers more bang for your buck.
It’s a full theme park experience with lots of variety.
People love the Harry Potter areas, live shows, and bigger rides.
Meanwhile, Universal Hollywood wins praise for its Studio Tour and more intimate size.
Visitors say it feels more like a working movie set, which is great for film fans.
Comparing Shows and Entertainment
Objectively speaking, it’s difficult to say which Universal Studios is better in terms of entertainment.
Universal Florida has more live shows overall.
From musical acts to stunt shows, there’s always something happening.
Hollywood, on the other hand, focuses more on film-related experiences.
In fact, the WaterWorld show in Hollywood is a fan favorite.
Both parks offer special nighttime events and seasonal celebrations.
So the better park for entertainment would depend on what you’re after.
Which Universal Park Should You Choose?
Choose Universal Studios Hollywood if:
- You want a shorter visit.
- You love movies and behind-the-scenes tours.
- You’re visiting Los Angeles and want a day of theme park fun.
Choose Universal Studios Florida if:
- You want a longer vacation.
- You’re a thrill-seeker or Harry Potter fan.
- You want more rides and entertainment.
Ready to Book Your Next Universal Studios Trip?
So, which Universal Studios is better for you?
It depends on what you want to experience.
At Team Thompson Travel, we can help families choose the right Universal park based on their personal preferences and preferred itinerary.
Whether you’re heading to California or Florida, we’ll help you plan every step.
We’ll help you compare parks, book your trip, and get the best deals.
We stay updated on the latest rides, hotel deals, and park events so that you get the most up-to-date info.
And we don’t charge any planning fees—our partners pay us, not you.
We take care of the hard stuff.
All you need to do is focus on having fun.
Contact Team Thompson Travel today!