Guides and Tips

Guide to Universal CityWalk at Universal Studios Hollywood

February 23, 2024
A street view of CityWalk with King Kong in the center.

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. 

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 at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

A sign promoting valet services.

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 If you come to CityWalk for a sit-down dinner, 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 

Street view of the Universal Cinema and 5 Towers Stage at Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

Universal Cinema

This cineplex has 18 movie theaters, including an IMAX theater and a brand-new AMC PRIME theater — plus (and perhaps most importantly) reclining seats that make Universal Cinema one of the coziest in 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.) 

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!

iFLY

Ready for thrills before you even hit the theme park? Tap into your inner daredevil at iFLY, an indoor skydiving experience at CityWalk. The vertical wind tunnel lets you experience the sensation of flight — no airplane necessary. Plus, it’s safe for all folks ages three-and-up. 

FULL DINING SERVICE at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

A line up of Toothsome's milkshakes.

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 Pork Belly Sliders with chocolate-dipped bacon, to the Coffee and Chocolate Stout Chicken Wings to the Chocolate Almond Bread, the sweet stuff finds its way into 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 Red Velvet, Cookie Jar, Confetti, and much 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. 

If you’d like to take a taste of Toothsome home with you, pop over to Candy Smith, just to your right upon entering the main door. There, you can find specialty chocolates, truffles, macarons, and more. 

NBC Sports Grill & Brew

Photo of a beer, burger, and fries.

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 

A chef pouring olive oil on a pizza.

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 

Carnita tacos with rice and beans.

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

A man and woman smiling at each other.

The vibes? Tropical. The drinks? Blended. The music? Jimmy Buffett, of course! 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 Island Kabobs, Crispy Coconut Shrimp, the Bikini Wrap, 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. (Only if you’re 21+, of course.) 

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. 

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. 

Dongpo Kitchen

This modern Sichuanese spot is another good spot for a crowd. From Pork Buns to Pot-stickers, from Dan Dan Noodles to Fried Rice, from Kung Pao Chicken to Sautéed Scallops, the extensive menu at Dongpo Kitchen has something for everyone. 

Johnny Rockets

Street view of Johnny Rockets.

Step into mid-century Americana as this retro-themed diner. Johnny Rockets serves up the kind of fare we like to imagine everyone ate in the 1950s: burgers, fries, and of course, shakes and malts. 

Wasabi

Hop across the Pacific Ocean for dinner at Wasabi. This Japanese spot features an impressive sushi menu, including an array of rolls, nigiri and sashimi, as well as teriyaki, tempura, and BBQ short ribs. Its drink menu features Japanese flavors like sake, plum wine, yuzu, lychee, and more. 

CITYFOOD at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

City Food neon sign.

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, or directly from the second floor of Jurassic Parking. Here’s what you can find there.  

KFC Express/Pizza Hut Express

Pizza hut and Kfc signage.

Want chicken? Want pizza? Want both? Want ‘em now? That’s why the gods invented the KFC Express/Pizza Hut Express. 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. 

Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs

Pink's storefront.

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.  

Taco Bell

You’ll find all your favorite Mexican-inspired comfort foods at Taco Bell, from Chalupas to Crunchwraps. 

Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs building.

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.

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

A colorful drink in front of a neon sign.

Chick Chick Chicken

Craving chicken? As the name might suggest, Chick Chick Chicken is your spot. Nashville hot ‘n’ spicy chicken? Check. Crispy puffed rice chicken? Check. Hand-breaded chicken tenders? Check. 

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. 

mini monster

mini monster, a small-batch boba tea spot, offers a tasty lineup of Asian-inspired milk teas, refreshing lemonades, and coffees served in adorable, reusable jars. 

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. 

DESSERTS AND TREATS at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

A box of colorful Voodoo Doughnuts.

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 Double 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 with eye-popping sweets. 

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

Ben & Jerry's storefront. Car in a sign.

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.

Sparky’s Mini Donuts and Chocolates

A bucket of donuts.

The best thing about mini donuts? Sharing them with your friends. Satisfy your sweet tooth with an order of bite-sized pastries and homemade confections  at Sparky’s Mini Donuts and Chocolates

The Crêpe Café

You might not be able to jet-set to France this very second, but you can take a taste of Parisian indulgence at CityWalk. Watch as sugary, paper-thin pancakes are prepared right in front of you at The Crêpe Café.

Popcornopolis

If you crave a little more than salt and butter out of your popcorn, look no further than Popcornopolis. This gourmet popcorn purveyor sells an array of sweet and savory flavors, including chocolate, caramel, cheese, sweet, spicy, and more. Don’t sleep on the Zebra popcorn: caramel popcorn drizzled in white and dark confectioner’s chocolates. 

Wetzel’s Pretzels 

A hand holding up a pretzel.

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. 

SHOPPING at UNIVERSAL CITYWALK HOLLYWOOD

Universal Studio Store

Universal Studios Store street view.

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 UNIVERS, which features a specialty apparel line based on beloved Universal movies. 

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD STORE on CityWalk

Mario and Luigi plushies.

The newest 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 — just don’t skip this one!

Cartooniversal

Jaws and E.T. backpacks.

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.

Production Central

Production Central storefront streetview.

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.

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. 

Things From Another World

Your one-stop-shop for everything comic book. This shop has a range of comic books, including classic collections, art books and new releases, as well as action figures, statues, apparel, and more collectables. Whether you’re into anime, horror, video games, or superheroes, Things From Another World has you covered. 

Dodgers Clubhouse Store

Dodgers neon sign storefront.

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. 

Abercrombie & Fitch

Shop comfortable, stylish apparel for men, women and children at the CityWalk Abercrombie and Fitch. Whether you’re looking for work clothes or back-to-school fashion, A&F can help you out.

Billabong

You know what’s awesome about Southern California? You can surf, skate, and snowboard all in the same day. Billabong is dedicated to these much-beloved California pastimes. You can find bikinis, boardshorts, and whatever else you might need for a day of shredding. 

Francesca’s 

To add one-of-a-kind flair to your wardrobe, look no further than Francesca’s. Find stylish clothes, jewelry, shoes and accessories at this Bohemian-style shop.

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

Lids storefront street view.

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 Bath Treats

The pastry-shaped soaps at this store look delicious enough to eat — but don’t be fooled! Nectar Bath Treats 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

Sock Market storefront street view.

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. 

The Raider Image

Sure, we’re in Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean you can’t cheer on the Las Vegas Raiders. Visit The Raider Image for apparel, accessories, decor, and everything else silver and black you might need. 

Tillys

Tilly's street view.

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. 

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

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