Things To Do at Universal CityWalk Hollywood: A Complete Guide

Universal CityWalk Hollywood is unlike anywhere in Los Angeles. Why? Because it’s an entertainment district right on the doorstep of Universal Studios Hollywood. At CityWalk, you can catch a film just steps away from a working production studio; shop for one-of-a-kind movie memorabilia; get your hands on some coveted SUPER NINTENDO WORLD merch; dig into immersive, themed dining experiences, and do so much more. Whether you’re extending your day at the theme park or just craving a taste of the Universal fun, Universal CityWalk Hollywood has you covered. 

Here’s what you need to know before heading to Universal CityWalk Hollywood: 

• Universal CityWalk Hollywood has a wide variety of dining options; including several full-service, sit-down restaurants, including VIVO Italian Kitchen and Antojito’s Cocina Mexicana, and over 10 quick service food options. 

• The entertainment choices on CityWalk range from viewing movies on an IMAX screen at the Universal Cinema to solving puzzles at Escapology. These activities are able accommodate large groups and entertain a wide range of ages. 

• On CityWalk, you can shop merchandise for your favorite Universal Studios Hollywood lands and characters before even stepping into the theme park. You will find a wide array of offerings from such franchises as Sanrio, Harry Potter, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and more.  

In fact, the destination is so jam-packed with entertainment, restaurants, and shops that it can be hard to keep track of all the options. No biggie — we’ve whipped up a comprehensive guide just for you. Here’s everything you need to know about Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

PARKING | ENTERTAINMENT | FULL-SERVICE DINING | CITYFOOD | QUICK-SERVICE DINING | DESSERTS & TREATS | SHOPPING

PARKING at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

You’re not a true Angeleno until you’re planning your parking strategy days in advance. Luckily, Universal CityWalk Hollywood makes parking a breeze — and an affordable one at that. Here’s what you need to know about parking at CityWalk and Universal Studios Hollywood ahead of your visit. 

• $10 parking after 5 p.m. Did you hear that? If you come to CityWalk after 5 p.m., parking is just $10. All the more reason to make it a night on the town. 
• $5 Cinema parking If you’re catching a flick, General Parking costs just five bucks. We recommend purchasing your movie ticket and parking ahead online or through the AMC Theatres app. That way, you’ll get a barcode you can show at the gate on your way into the garage. Otherwise, you can pay for General Parking when you arrive, then bring your receipt to the box office to receive a rebate. 
• $10 valet for full-service restaurants or certain entertainment offerings: If you come to CityWalk for a sit-down dinner or to experience our many entertainment offerings, you can park like a VIP starting for just ten bucks (with validation). Just follow the signs for valet parking in the Jurassic Parking garage and get your parking ticket validated at the restaurant. 

Complete parking details, as well as electric vehicle charging information, can be found right here. 

ENTERTAINMENT at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD 

Universal Cinema

This cineplex has 18 movie theaters, including an IMAX theater, an XL at AMC screen, and a PRIME at AMC theater, which includes reclining and heated seats, making Universal Cinema one of the coziest theaters in all of Los Angeles. Before your show, grab a drink at the Director’s Lounge (if you’re 21 or older), whose playful menu is inspired by the shows and movies featured at Universal Studios Hollywood. It’s like having a taste of theme park magic in a glass. (Just note: you can only consume alcohol on the second floor of the cinema.) You can also keep the theme park vibes going by picking up an exclusive movie themed popcorn bucket to enjoy your movie snack in and then take home as a souvenir.  

Want to learn more about what to expect at the Universal Cinema, check out There’s No Movie Theater in LA Like Universal Cinema at CityWalk. 

5 Towers Stage 

Situated right outside Universal Cinema, 5 Towers Stage is a state-of-the-art, open air concert venue with over 5,000 LED lights. With a rotating lineup of local acts, you never know who might be performing at Universal CityWalk Hollywood!

PRO TIP: If you’re an annual pass member make sure you’re also taking advantage of all the CityWalk discounts that come with your pass! 

Street Performers 

Up and down CityWalk you may also get to experience street performers, giving you a nice cozy atmosphere for dining, shopping, or grooving. These intimate performances, featuring up and coming local musicians, can take place near the patio of Starbucks coffee or outside of NBC Sport Grill & Brew. To see if street performers will be occurring during your visit check out the Universal Studios App.

Escapology

So, you have a knack for cracking clues and solving puzzles? At Escapology, you can choose from over 10 different, highly immersive escape rooms. Your mission? Try to find a way out before your hour’s up. Grab your friends and family and put on your thinking hats. Who knew problem solving could been this much fun? Escapology also offers a kid mode ensuring all family members can participate, no matter their age. 

FULL-SERVICE DINING at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, Universal CityWalk Hollywood is here to satisfy your dream of eating chocolate for dinner. Well, sort of. The entire menu at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is based around chocolate: from the Brisket Sliders with chocolate-dipped bacon, to their Red Hot Chocolate Wings with hot chocolate sauce, the sweet stuff finds its way onto much of the savory menu.  

And then there’s the dessert foundry. Toothsome has an amazing menu of decadent milkshakes, which come in flavors including Carnival Key Lime, Cookie Jar, a Neopolitan Shake, and many more. They’re topped with whole treats unto themselves; you definitely can’t skip out on a Toothsome dessert. Plus, you can order a milkshake to-go from the foundry. Not in the mood for a milkshake? Toothsome also offers an array of desserts from ice cream sundaes to chocolate creme brulee. 

Did you know dining reservations are now available for some of your favorite Universal CityWalk food spots? Use our Universal Studios Hollywood App or website now to check current availability and book your table, whether you’re planning or already here! 

NBC Sports Grill & Brew

If you’re trying to catch the game, you can bet it’s on here. NBC Sports Grill & Brew has everything you want from a good sports bar: high-definition TVs, 20 rotating draft beers on tap (for the 21-and-up crowd only), and a menu full of dippable appetizers. With wings, jalapeño poppers, gigantic soft pretzels, chili, and a whole slate of burgers, this spot is shareable comfort food heaven. There’s no better place to catch the Olympic Games than the bar named for their broadcasting network. 

VIVO Italian Kitchen 

Nothing hits the spot like handmade Italian cooking. The menu at VIVO Italian Kitchen is brimming with Italian-American favorites, including a host of pizzas, panini, and pastas. With a sleek interior, an extensive wine list and an enticing lineup of craft cocktails, VIVO makes for a great date spot. Oh, and also: tiramisu. You’re welcome. 

Antojitos Cocina Mexicana 

Southern California isn’t lacking in excellent Mexican fare, and neither is Universal CityWalk Hollywood. Antojitos Cocina Mexicana serves up all the classics of this beloved cuisine: tacos, enchiladas, burritos, nachos and so much more. It also boasts an impressive tequila and mezcal list with over 100 spirits and curated Tequila Flights. 

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville

The vibes? Tropical. The drinks? Blended. The music? Jimmy Buffett, duh! It’s always 5 o’clock at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. The eatery is synonymous with taking a load off. The tasty menu is reminiscent of hot summer beach barbecues, with items including Caribbean Blackened Salmon, Crispy Coconut Shrimp and barbecue items, including the infamous Cheeseburger in Paradise. And, because of course there’s a robust margarita menu, order a Margarita Flight to taste a few at once.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

The “Forrest Gump” inspired restaurant has an outpost at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. The menu at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. features, as you might expect, a whole lot of seafood, but there are all kinds of Southern American eats to choose from. Food is not the only thing Bubba Gump has to offer, it is also attached to a fun merch shop with fun T-shirts, mugs, and a photo booth! 

Wasabi

Wasabi is a full service Japanese restaurant home to classic sushi and fish dishes that also offers fun Hollywood twists. If you want to play it safe you can get traditional rolls, like spicy tuna or salmon, or try something new like a Marilyn Mon Roll. A great place to come with friends to mix and match different sushi rolls to make sure you’re able to try them all! 

Buca di Beppo

Are you dining with the kind of crowd that likes to eat off each others’ plates? Look no further than Buca di Beppo. The Italian-American eatery has an expansive menu designed to be eaten family-style. You can’t go wrong with a menu chock-full of pizzas, pastas, salads, fried calamari, meatballs, and so much more. 

CITYFOOD at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

On the second story of Universal CityWalk Hollywood you’ll find CityFood, a selection of quick-service restaurants for when you’re on-the-go. Guests can access CityFoods from the escalators opposite the Universal Cinema. Here’s what you can find there.  

CityFood is also a great place to take a break and rest your feet. For other break spots throughout Universal, check out Where to Take a Break at Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk.

KFC/Pizza Hut

Want chicken? Want pizza? Want both? Want ‘em now? That’s why the gods invented the KFC/Pizza Hut. Find it on the second story of CityWalk, up the escalator across from the cinema. 

Panda Express

The Panda Express menu includes all your favorite Chinese-American dishes, from Orange Chicken to Broccoli Beef to Veggie Spring Rolls. There’s also a location inside the theme park itself, on the Lower Lot. 

Find out about all of the dining options on the Lower Lot by checking out our Complete Dining Guide to the Lower Lot at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs

If “taste an iconic LA food” is on your weekend bucket list, look no further than Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs. The legendary Fairfax District hot dog stand has been in business for over 80 years, and its Universal CityWalk Hollywood outpost serves up the same snappy sausages that make Pink’s iconic. You can’t go wrong with the classic Chilli Dog, but Hollywood-inspired orders like The Mulholland Drive Dog and The Betty White Naked Dog are always a trip.  There’s even a veggie beyond dog option for the vegetarians!

Pink’s has also recently unveiled a new breakfast menu, which includes French Toast Sticks, a Breakfast Burrito, a Breakfast Sandwich, and even a Breakfast Burger. While you’re at it, check out all the spots at CityWalk and Universal Studios Hollywood where you can grab breakfast.  

Taco Bell

You’ll find all your favorite Mexican-inspired comfort foods at Taco Bell, from Chalupas to Crunchwraps. A Baja Blast is the perfect compliment to a day at CityWalk. 

Firehouse Subs

This to-go spot dishes up toasted submarine sandwiches, stuffed with stacks of premium meats and cheeses. Choose from Firehouse Subs’ curated menu or build your own. 

Uncle Sharkii Poke Bar

One of Universal CityWalk Hollywood’s newest establishments, Uncle Sharkii Poke Bar serves up Hawaiian poke bowls and boba teas. Their bowls are totally customizable, and packed with your choice of fresh fish, tofu, and chicken, with a selection of vegetables, and tangy sauces. This is also the spot to get a sweet and fresh dole soft serve in either a mango or strawberry flavor.  

The Habit Burger Grill

This California-based chain serves an array of grilled Charburgers, as well as Chardogs and veggie burgers. The Habit Burger Grill is located on the second story of CityWalk, across from the Universal Cinema. 

MORE QUICK-SERVICE DINING at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers

You may be wondering what’s so good about a restaurant that only sells chicken fingers? My answer: everything! Raising Cane’s serves nothing but fresh, made to order chicken tenders. Try it alongside their signature crinkle-cut fries, Texas Toast and Cane’s Sauce. It’s chicken heaven! Raising Cane’s is located on the first floor of CityWalk right across from the Universal Cinema. 

Slice House by tony Gemignani

Meet your new favorite pizza place. At Slice House by Tony Gemignani, they know that making pizzas is more than just combining dough, sauce and cheese: it’s an artform. Choose from their New York style, Sicilian style, Grandma style and Detroit style slices, all made from authentic, original recipes. Don’t forget to get yourself a cannoli, too, as it’s the perfect compliment to any slice, pasta, or salad.  

Jamba

It’s never a bad idea to load up on fruit before heading into a day at the theme park. At Jamba, you’ll find an array of fruit-sense smoothies to keep your energy high for a fun excursion. 

Starbucks Coffee

Whether you’re just starting off a day in the theme park or need an afternoon pick-me-up before hitting the cinema, the Starbucks Coffee at CityWalk sure can be a lifesaver. Come for a java fix, stay for the exclusive Universal Studios Hollywood mugs available for purchase. There are also two Starbucks located in the theme park: one on the Upper Lot, and one on the Lower Lot.  

DESSERTS AND TREATS at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

CityWalk Pop

For the popcorn bucket collector in all of us, CityWalk Pop is your go-to destination. Not only can you purchase popcorn buckets and collectible souvenir sipper cups, but you can also buy popcorn to your heart’s content. Plain, cheese, or caramel, buy a cup or purchase a popcorn bucket for discounted refills all day on CityWalk or in the theme park! Just make sure you keep your receipt for proof of purchase. 

Hello Kitty & Friends Cafe

There are many great ways to celebrate Sanrio characters at Universal Studios Hollywood and one of them is stopping by Hello Kitty & Friends Cafe on CityWalk! This walk-up cafe is home to many cute cakes and specialty drinks themed after Hello Kitty and her friends. It’s in the name, after all.  

Voodoo Doughnut

This conveyor of breakfast pastries has a cult following for a good reason. At Voodoo Doughnut, choose from dozens of off-the-wall doughnut flavors, like the Bacon Maple Bar, the Voodoo Bubble, the PB&J, and many more, including a lengthy vegan doughnut menu. The shop also features seasonal doughnuts throughout the year, celebrating everything from Valentine’s Day to Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) with eye-popping sweets.  

If you’re looking for something else to be your first meal of the day, check out Where to Eat Breakfast at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

With over 100 rotating frozen yogurt flavors and 50 rotating toppings, there are seemingly infinite permutations of desserts at Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt. You could visit hundreds of times and never eat the same thing twice.

Ben & Jerry’s

Whether it’s Chunky Monkey, Phish Food or Cherry Garcia, everyone has their favorite Ben & Jerry’s flavor. Visit the beloved Vermont-based ice creamery at Universal CityWalk Hollywood for yours.  

Cinnabon

Is there anything quite like the smell of a hot, fresh cinnamon bun? Follow your nose to Cinnabon, with a menu packed with sticky-sweet treats sure to hit the spot.

Wetzel’s Pretzels 

Nothing quite says “theme park” like a soft pretzel, right? Take a bite out of the Universal Studios Hollywood experience right on CityWalk at Wetzel’s Pretzels. Their menu boasts a variety of sweet, savory, dippable and shareable soft pretzels. 

IT’SUGAR

You’re about to feel like a kid in a candy shop. Literally. A delightfully over-the-top sweets emporium, IT’SUGAR isn’t just a great place to find sour gummies, but an awesome place to find novelty gifts, too.  

If you’re wondering where to find the best treats in the park, check out Where to Find the Best Treats at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

SHOPPING at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

Universal Studio Store

Whether you’re heading into the theme park, leaving the theme park, or just visiting CityWalk, no visit is complete without a stop in the Universal Studio Store. This is an emporium of all things Universal Studios Hollywood: from dinosaur gear to wizarding robes to iconic monster tees, you can find all kinds of apparel, toys and souvenirs at this massive shop. Merchandise rotates in and out of stock, so never miss a chance to swing in and see what’s new. The Universal Studio Store also includes an entire section dedicated to “Wicked” and “Wicked: For Good” to help you discover if you’re a good witch or a bad witch.  

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD STORE on CityWalk

This land in Universal Studios Hollywood is so epic, it has its own store at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. The SUPER NINTENDO WORLD STORE on CityWalk features all kinds of apparel, plushies, toys, bags, and more, all inspired by SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and the Mushroom Kingdom. Grab matching Mario and Luigi shirts for you and your bestie, a Toad plushie for your little ones, or a Bowser shell backpack for the back-to-school crowd! 

Cartooniversal

This family-friendly shop carries toys, plushies, souvenirs and clothes based on Universal Studios Hollywood’s kid-centric properties. Here, you’ll find “Minions,” “The Secret Life of Pets” and “Trolls” gear — and even not-so-scary dinosaurs and sharks, too. While Cartooniversal might be geared toward kids, there are plenty of adorable souvenirs grown-ups will love, too.

Sanrio Smile Shop

Located right next door to the Hello Kitty & Friends Cafe, the Sanrio Smile Shop has everything you could want in a cute souvenir shop. On the shelves you can find everything from plushies to hats to mugs of your favorite Sanrio character. While shopping make you stop by the cute and colorful photo op with the Hello Kitty and Friends mural.  

Production Central

This rotating storefront is where you can find limited-time-only Universal Studios Hollywood apparel, merchandise and souvenirs. Its theme changes every few months-ish, so make sure you check out the latest goods at Production Central whenever you’re at Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

Universal Bazar

Want a hip new look while repping your favorite fandoms? Look no further than Universal Bazar, which features the fan- and fashion-forward, apparel line, UNIVERS. It also features a selection of blind boxes: small packages with a surprise collectible figurine inside.  

As you walk up and down CityWalk, make sure you take in all the neon signs. To learn more about them check out our article, Shining a Light on the Neon Collection at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. 

POP MART

This toy company is most notably known for their character Labubu, as well as their themed blind boxes. Hopefully your favorite pick is inside your blind box — if not, you can always get another one!

LINE FRIENDS SQUARE

LINE FRIENDS SQUARE sells cute plushies, toys, apparel and accessories for K-pop lovers and theme park enthusiasts alike. Check out their exclusive Universal + LINE FRIENDS collabs, original LINE FRIENDS characters and much more! 

Want to learn more about LINE FRIENDS SQUARE? Check out LINE FRIENDS SQUARE at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. 

NBA Store

The only official NBA Store on the West Coast is here on CityWalk! Find all kinds of NBA and WNBA merch and apparel, from authentic NBA jerseys to autographed memorabilia. This place is a must-visit for all basketball fanatics.

Celebrity Authentics

Ever wish you could take your trip to Hollywood home with you? Thanks to Celebrity Authentics, you can. Situated directly across from the Universal Cinema, this shop has a vast selection of posters, photos, toys, and props signed by beloved actors — no joke. Celebrity Authentics validates every single item it sells, so you can be confident your signed product is the real deal. 

Dodgers Clubhouse Store

It’s always baseball season at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. Swing by the Dodgers Clubhouse Store for everything you need to root for the Boys in Blue — bobbleheads, foam fingers, jerseys, you name it, it’s always a homerun.  

Hot Topic

Some people love pop culture so much, they just have to wear it on their sleeve. And that’s who Hot Topic is for. Find clothes and accessories inspired by your favorite movies, bands, comics and shows at this unique outfitter. 

Lids

If you want to sport your favorite team’s logo, Lids is the shop for you. With a wide collection of snapbacks, beanies, bucket hats and more, this store is committed to covering your dome. 

Locker Room by Lids

Get your favorite squad’s hat at Lids, then pop over to Locker Room by Lids for the rest of the getup. You can find jerseys, tees, shorts, and more official pro sports apparel here. 

Karma and Luck 

With an array of jewelry, gemstones, crystals and more spiritually-minded decor, Karma and Luck is unlike any other shop on CityWalk. Bring home something that’ll add good vibes to your living space. 

Nectar Life

The pastry-shaped soaps at this store look delicious enough to eat — but don’t be fooled! Nectar Life sells bath bombs, scrubs and body butters that will nourish and soften your skin. 

Sephora

Find all of your makeup, skincare, haircare and fragrance needs under one roof at Sephora. You can even book a Beauty Lesson, where you’ll get a personalized tutorial from one of Sephora’s Beauty Advisors. 

Shoe Palace 

Sneakerheads, look no further than this footwear outlet. Shoe Palace boasts a wide array of kicks from popular brands like Nike, Vans, New Balance and more. 

Sunsations

It’s seemingly always sunny in SoCal — protect your eyes and stay stylish all at once at Sunsations. This sunglasses shop sells all the brands you know and love, and is conveniently located near the theme park’s entrance. 

The Los Angeles Sock Market

This quirky boutique has nearly every funky-patterned sock you can imagine. Check out The Los Angeles Sock Market to find an A+ birthday gift.  

Tillys

This California-based clothing brand sells surf, skate, and streetwear for folks of all ages. Whether it’s bikinis in the summer or knit sweaters in the winter, Tillys has you covered for every SoCal season. 

BONUS: Photo Spot 

WhatLiftsYou Wings Mural 

This purple winged mural is the perfect last minute photo op before you head to your car. The WhatLiftsYou wings mural was created by artist Kelsey Montague. It serves as a perfect addition to your social media post showing off your unforgettable day at CityWalk.  

EDITOR’S NOTE: Venues are subject to change. This article is updated periodically to reflect the most current offerings at Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

Wondering where else to get the best photo at Universal Studios Hollywood, check out Top Photo Spots at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

What’s your favorite spot to grab a bite or shop for gear in Universal CityWalk Hollywood? Let us know in the comments below.