As a Southern California native, I consider any rainy day a pretty big deal. I love it when the skies turn gray, the temperature goes down and the rain begins to pour. As a born and raised Angelino, low-60s constitute parka, scarf and beanie weather for me. And just because the weather’s gloomy doesn’t mean you have to be! Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on a rainy day can be a lot of fun.
- There is plenty to do at Universal Studios Hollywood on a rainy day in LA. Lots of the theme park’s most popular attractions are indoor, including Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and more.
- There are several places at Universal Studios Hollywood to purchase rain gear in case you need it. We recommend stopping by the Universal Studio Store on Universal CityWalk or the Universal Studio Store just inside the theme park for an umbrella or poncho.
- Depending on the severity of the weather, some Universal attractions may be closed on rainy days. We recommend downloading the Universal Studios Hollywood App to get the most up-to-date information on which rides are open.
So, grab your umbrellas! Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on a rainy day.
Prepare for the Weather
We’ll start off with the obvious here: You’re going to get wet. I’d recommend bringing an umbrella, a light jacket, a hat or a hoodie to help keep dry. I’d also recommend bringing an extra pair of socks for those days when the rain gets heavy, and you find yourself having to walk through the occasional puddle. Be sure to check your preferred weather app to help you better prepare.
Forgot to check the weather before you left? No worries. If you’re already on your way to the theme park and in need of some extra coverage, check out the Universal Studio Store located on CityWalk. The Universal Studio Store has got it all: from sweaters and umbrellas to ponchos and hats, you can emerge fully decked out wearing the iconic Universal Studios Hollywood logo or some cool designs from your favorite Universal characters. You can also find ponchos in the Universal Studio Store inside the theme park, and at Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Want to know more about shopping in Hogsmeade village? Check out our guide to souvenirs and merch in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Rent a Locker
I’d recommend renting a locker for the day to ensure your valuables stay dry. No need to lug expensive cameras or large backpacks around in the rain! There are lockers conveniently located in the Upper Lot, across the street from the Universal Studio Store. You can rent them all day.
Hit the Indoor Attractions
The great thing about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on a rainy day is that most of the rides are indoors, so you really won’t miss much. Here’s a list of attractions that you can enjoy, rain free.
Indoor Attractions on the Upper Lot
- DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda
- The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash
- Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Ollivanders
- The Simpsons Ride
Indoor Attractions on the Lower Lot
- Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride
- Transformers: THE RIDE 3D
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
Outdoor Attractions, Anyone?
- The World-Famous Studio Tour: takes place on a covered tram, so you shouldn’t get too wet.
- WaterWorld: there will be a roof over your head but watch out for the splash zone (green benches).
- Flight of the Hippogriff: reduces its capacity in the rain.
PRO TIP: Universal Studios Hollywood operates rain or shine. However, if a thunderstorm is in the weather forecast for the day, be advised a lot of indoor and outdoor attractions might shut down due to the inclement weather, so plan your trip accordingly. Check the Universal Studios Hollywood app the day of your visit to see what rides are open that day.
Rainy Day Meet and Greets
Keep in mind that meet-and-greets with your favorite characters might also be affected by the rain. Most characters tend to appear during a light sprinkling or until the rain has stopped altogether. For up-to-date information on character appearances, be sure to ask the nearest Team Member.
Dine Somewhere Dry
Whether it’s lunchtime or you’re just looking for a nice, dry seating area to sip on a hot coffee, here’s a list of restaurants with indoor dining areas.
Upper Lot
- Mel’s Diner
- French Street Bistro
- Three Broomsticks
- Krusty Burger
- Cletus’ Chicken Shack
Lower Lot
Get Cozy at CityWalk
After you’ve enjoyed your time inside the theme park, head out to Universal CityWalk Hollywood and end your day the cozy way. And yes, I’m talking about watching a movie at the Universal Cinema. Lounge on a premium recliner seat with a large popcorn and enjoy a movie. It’s a movie lover’s dream! Click here if you’d like to read more on why this movie theater is amazing.
Once the movie is over, dine at any of CityWalk’s indoor restaurants including:
- Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen
- NBC Sports Grill & Brew
- VIVO Italian Kitchen
- Antojitos Cocina Mexicana
- Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
- Buca di Beppo
- KFC/Pizza Hut
- Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs
- Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
- Slice House by Tony Gemignani
- Voodoo Doughnut
- Wasabi
Universal Studios Hollywood is the perfect place to have a great day, rain or shine. Just remember to have fun and try and stay dry (or don’t, you do you).
What’s your favorite thing to do when visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on a rainy day?
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