Looking for the best family hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood, CA? Somewhere within walking distance or a quick ride via public transport? Perhaps you’ve spent all your money on the VIP or Express Passes, so now you’re just after hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood – cheap options, that is!
Whatever your needs or budget- this guide has you covered. This guide covers all the good hotels near Universal Studios, CA from the nearest hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood to the very best cheap hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood, California for those families on a super tight budget.
I know some families visiting Universal Studios might have driven from out of town or will rent a car to get around town, so I’ve also included the best hotels Universal Studios Hollywood CA has that have onsite parking. And then, for those without cars and wondering what is the closest hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood – I’ve included those within walking distance or with free shuttles.
So there is no need to spend hours and hours searching the internet. I’ve done all the research for you and have included all the information you need to choose the best family hotel near Universal Studios Hollywood.
So, let’s get started and find you one of the top family friendly hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood.
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Best Family Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood, CA Map
Below is a map where you can see the location of all the best hotels for Universal Studios Hollywood, which are covered in this guide. Zoom in and out for a closer view.
Best Family Hotel Near Universal Studios Hollywood Table
Below is a super quick overview of all the best hotels for families near Universal Studios Hollywood, which are reviewed in this guide. You can use this guide to quickly determine if the accommodation is right for you and your family.
For a more comprehensive review, keep reading below.
| Hotel | Distance to Universal Studios | Parking | Room Amenities | Hotel Faciltities | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sheraton  | 0.3m / 0.5km | Yes (extra) | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee | Pool Restaurant Free shuttle to Universal | Check Price |
Hilton  | 0.2m / 0.3km | Yes (extra) | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee | Pool Restaurant Free shuttle to Universal | Check Price |
BLVD Hotel  | 0.7m / 1.1km | Yes (extra) | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee Microwave | Pool Restaurant Day Spa Cafe Bar | Check Price |
Tilt Hotel | 0.6m / 1km | Yes (extra) | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee Microwave | Pool Free breakfast Laundry | Check Price |
Hotel Mariposa | 4.9m / 7.9km | Yes (extra) | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee | Restaurant Bar | Check Price |
Mikado Hotel | 4.9m / 7.9km | Yes (extra) | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee | Pool | Check Price |
Adler Hotel | 3.2m / 5.1km | Yes - free | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee Microwave | Pool Restaurant Bar | Check Price |
Loews Hotel | 3.3m / 5.3km | Yes (extra) | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee | Pool Restaurant Bar | Check Price |
The Dixie  | 4m / 6.4km | Yes - free | 2 Queen beds Tea & Coffee Microwave | Pool | Check Price |
Value Inn  | 4.4m / 7.1km | Yes - free | NA | NA | Check Price |
What is the Closest Hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood?
If you’re just coming to town to visit the park, it makes sense to book one of the closest hotels to Universal Studios Hollywood. In terms of the hotel closest to Universal Studios Hollywood, that’s the Sheraton or the Hilton. These hotels are right next to each other and you can easily walk to the park from both (although it is up a reasonably steep hill) or they also have a free shuttle bus.
However, if you’re after cheap hotels in Universal Studios Hollywood, you will need to stay a little further away. Although let’s say from the start – there really aren’t any “cheap” hotels close to Universal Studios, Hollywood. The cheapest you’ll find is in Hollywood.
There are a few hotels around the residential areas of Universal Studios just a short drive away. However, for a super cheap hotel close to Universal Studios Hollywood, you’re better off staying in Hollywood itself. There are a few hotels with free parking, so you can drive to Universal Studios or it’s just a quick drive with a rideshare or around 30 minutes via train. Read our full guide to Hollywood hotels here.
The nearest train station to Universal Studios is Universal / Studio City, and from there, you can either walk to the park (up a very steep hill) or there is a free shuttle that comes every 10 to 15 minutes throughout the day. The free shuttle will take you straight to the front gates of Universal Studios.
Good Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood CA for Families
After hours and hours of research trying to find the best cheap hotel near Universal Studios Hollywood for our own trip, I’ve shortlisted 10 hotels for you to consider. All of these hotels are among the best affordable family hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood, as well as in a good location to get to the park easily.
Okay, let’s get into and find you one of the top kid friendly hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood.
Sheraton Universal Hotel
The Sheraton Universal Hotel is one of the hotels closest to Universal Studios Hollywood. From here, you can easily walk to the theme park and Universal CityWalk, which has a range of great family friendly restaurants and shops.
The hotel is just a short 8 to 10 minute walk to Universal Studios – however, it is up a very steep hill, so you may well be better off taking the free hotel shuttle that will take you to the park’s front gates. If you want to visit other attractions around Los Angeles, you’re also just a short 5 minute walk to the Universal / Studio City Metro Station.
The Sheraton hotel comes well recommended by families as the best hotel Universal Studios Hollywood offers. The hotel is modern and features a lovely outdoor swimming pool. Other hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, gym and parking for an additional fee.
Family rooms come with two queen beds and offer fantastic views of either Universal Studios or the Hollywood Hills. Other room features include a coffee maker with Starbucks coffee and a small fridge. Interconnecting rooms are available for larger families.
What’s to love
The location is one of the main reasons for choosing this hotel – perfect for families wanting one of the hotels walking distance to Universal Studios Hollywood.
What’s not to love
The best hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood LA don’t come cheap, and the Sheraton is one of the more expensive hotels in this guide. But if the location is a priority, then you can’t go wrong with this choice.
Summary
The Sheraton is a great option for families who want the best hotel near Universal Studios in Los Angeles where they can easily walk to and from the park. It’s certainly not one of the cheapest hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood – but it offers lovely modern family rooms, a swimming pool and a free shuttle for those with little ones with tired legs.
Click here for more information and to check the current price
Hilton Los Angeles – University City
The Hilton Los Angeles is one of two hotels next to Universal Studios Hollywood (the other being the Sheraton, details above). And if you love the Hilton brand, you will find this one of the best hotels near Universal Hollywood – it’s only a 4 minute walk!
If the walk is too long for little legs, the free shuttle can drive you the 0.2 miles to Universal – you will basically jump on and then off, one of the perks of staying in the closest hotel to Universal Studios California. To head into Hollywood, it’s only 21 minutes by train or 13 minutes by car, so you’re not too far from the hustle and bustle of LA.
The Hilton is grand and contemporary, with the stunning Atrium Lounge available for snacks, beverages and live piano music in the evening. For daily American Buffet Breakfast, there is a cafe on site, or to grab a quick coffee and pastry, the ‘Coffee Corner’ is available. There is also sophisticated outdoor dining or casual meals at the ‘Pool Bar & Grill’.
If there’s a Pool Bar & Grill, it means there’s a pool – and the Hilton doesn’t disappoint with a large outdoor pool to splash around after a day at Universal Studios. Other facilities include a gym, room service, and if you have your pet, there are pet friendly rooms available. With all these onsite facilities and dining options, it really does make the Hilton one of the best places to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood.
Rooms can accommodate a family of four in two queen beds. There are tea/coffee facilities and a small fridge. If you want to upgrade you can stay in rooms with views of Universal.
What’s to love
Location! If you’re wondering where to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood, you really can’t go past the hotel next to Universal Studios Hollywood! The closest hotel in this guide and one of the few hotels within walking distance to Universal Studios Hollywood – if location is a priority for you, don’t look past the Hilton!
What’s not to love
Expensive! If you’re looking for cheap hotels by Universal Studios CA, unfortunately the Hilton is not it. However, you get what you pay for, so it’s worth weighing up the location and amenities against the cheap hotels Universal Studios Hollywood offers in this guide.
Summary
For the contemporary grandeur of the Hilton, plus the ultimate convenience in location, it is worth checking out the Hilton, which we would have to say is one of the best hotels to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood – it just comes with the price tag to match!
Click here for more information and to check the current price
BLVD Hotel & Spa
The BLVD Hotel & Spa is one of the nice hotels near Universal Studios Theme Park. It is a boutique design hotel located around a 15 minute walk to Universal Studios or a 6 minute walk to the Metro station, where you can jump on the free shuttle.
To get into the centre of Hollywood, it’s a 15 minute drive, and as the BLVD is located on Ventura Blvd, you can easily access the freeways – just remember, traffic can get busy in LA!
Onsite facilities include a bar, cafe with pastries and fresh sandwiches – which are great to grab and go if you’re heading over to Universal Studios. There is also a 24/7 small fitness room and a small indoor pool for a quick fresh dip.
Rooms are spacious and modern, accommodating families of four in two queen beds. There is a microwave, mini fridge and tea/coffee facilities. This is great for prepping simple snacks and meals for families or storing leftovers.
What’s to love
Room amenities – not many of these hotels come equipped with microwaves. The BLVD having a microwave in the room means you can prepare basic meals for the kids, saving some budget for splurging elsewhere.
What’s not to love
Being on a busy road can have its drawbacks with the noise, although it is convenient to get to places.
Summary
If you’re looking for great room amenities and a convenient location, the BLVD would be the best hotel to stay at for Universal Studios Hollywood. Plus, for what you’re paying, it is one of the more affordable hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood.
Click here for more information and to check the current price
Tilt Hotel
The Tilt Hotel is one of few family suite hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood. It is around a 13 minute walk to Universal Studios or 10 minutes by bus – so while it’s not the closest hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood, it’s only a little further out.
Hollywood / Highland (the hub of Hollywood) is around a 10 minute drive from the Tilt Hotel or 30 minutes via train. And if you are driving, the Tilt Hotel is located on Cahuenga Blvd, making the freeway easy to access – plus there are a couple of gas stations just across the road so you can ensure you are fuelled up and ready to go!
Standard rooms can sleep families of four in two queen beds. Alternatively, for larger families, the family suites can accommodate groups of up to six in two rooms containing a king bed and two queen beds… plus two bathrooms. The rooms also have microwaves, fridges, tea/coffee facilities and free WiFi.
Onsite facilities include a small indoor heated pool, paid laundry to refresh your travel luggage, and a free ‘Grab n Go Breakfast’ – perfect if you’re running out the door to Universal Studios!
What’s to love
Larger families will love the family suites at the Tilt Hotel, along with the free breakfast and room facilities to prepare simple meals for the kids. And this is one of the few hotels with a laundry.
What’s not to love
Being on a busy road can have its drawbacks with the noise, although it is convenient to get places.
Summary
If you’re travelling with a larger group, the Tilt Hotel is the best place to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood. The family suites provide that extra space and privacy, and the fridge/microwave and free breakfast will all help to stretch your budget… especially relevant if travelling with a big group!
Click here for more information and to check the current price
Hotel Mariposa
Hotel Mariposa is an upscale boutique hotel offering chic and eco-friendly amenities. One of the furthest hotels to Universal Studios in this guide, it is 4.6 miles or around a 5 minute drive, 30 minutes by bus.
Located around a 10 minute drive into the centre of Hollywood, or 40 minutes by bus/train. As Mariposa is located near Ventura Boulevard, you can access the neighbourhood’s cute shops, eateries and hip vibe.
Rooms can accommodate families of four in two double beds. Room amenities include a small fridge and tea/coffee facilities.
Onsite facilities include an outdoor hot tub, fireplace, and a cafe offering freshly baked pastries and tea/coffee (and Mimosas on Thu – Sun). And there is a 24/7 fitness centre.
There is convenient onsite parking (at a charge), and the great thing is if you’re driving an electric vehicle (EV), there are onsite EV charging stations. Alternatively, if you need to refuel, there are a couple of petrol stations a block over.
What’s to love
If you’re wondering where to stay for Universal Studios Hollywood, and after somewhere a little different, Hotel Mariposa could be just the place! Located in a funky neighbourhood with chic vibes, it’s a little unique.
What’s not to love
As one of only two properties in this guide without a pool, if you prefer to freshen up after a day’s sightseeing by having a splash, then you would have to do without at Hotel Mariposa.
Summary
If being a little further out from Universal doesn’t bother you, but being in a funky neighbourhood and chic hotel is more your thing – then the Hotel Mariposa would be one of the best hotels to stay at for Universal Studios Hollywood for your family.
Click here for more information and to check the current price
Mikado Hotel
Mikado Hotel is one of the cheap hotels around Universal Studios Hollywood. It is a traditional American hotel, with no fuss, no fan-fare, but clean and comfortable rooms to lay your head at night. Along with Hotel Mariposa (above), this is one of the furthest hotels to Universal Studios in this guide; it is 4.9 miles or around a 10 minute drive, 30 minutes by bus.
To get into the centre of Hollywood, it’s around a 10 minute drive or 40 minutes by bus/train. The Mikado Hotel backs onto the Ventura Freeway, making the major roads easily accessible.
Rooms are clean and comfortable, accommodating families of four in two double beds. Conveniently, rooms also contain a microwave, mini fridge and tea/coffee facilities – so you can heat simple meals for the kids and store leftovers.
Onsite facilities include a 24/7 front desk, perfect for any late night or early morning arrivals, and an outdoor pool.
What’s to love
This is one of the inexpensive hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood in this guide.
What’s not to love
Backing onto a freeway may create some extra noise pollution, however it is one of the cheap hotel rooms near Universal Studios Hollywood – so this is worth weighing up.
Summary
For a decent hotel that won’t break the bank, the Mikado is one of the good hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood for a family stay.
Click here for more information and to check the current price
The Adler a Hollywood Hotel
The eclecticAdler a Hollywood Hotel is a relatively cheap hotel by Universal Studios Hollywood, around a 10 minute drive or 30 minutes by train and you’ll be at the studios.
If you want to head into Hollywood you are around a 4 minute drive from the Dolby Theatre and Hollywood Walk of Fame or a 13 minute bus ride to Hollywood/Highland. And if you’re after some traditional American fare nearby, there are pizza, burger and donut eateries only a minute’s walk away.
Rooms accommodate families of four in two double beds and the in-room amenities are great when travelling with kids. A kitchenette including a microwave, fridge and tea/coffee facilities is perfect for prepping and storing simple meals.
Alternatively, if you want to eat out, there is an onsite restaurant, Clarks Street Diner, with reasonably priced meals available for breakfast and lunch – along with bar service. It’s not only food your eyes will devour; the Diner is also frequented by celebrities and used as a backdrop for movies, TV shows and music videos… so keep those eyes peeled.
The outdoor pool has a sun deck and loungers to relax (if the kids let you), there is free parking onsite, free WiFi and a fitness centre.
All in all a decent hotel, reasonably priced with some cost-saving amenities available.
What’s to love
Having any type of kitchen facilities in a hotel can help stretch the budget as you’re not having to eat out for every meal.
What’s not to love
A little bit further afield from Universal Studios than other hotels in this guide, however there is free parking or buses available to get you where you need to go.
Summary
The Adler a Hollywood Hotel is an art deco hotel with some old school Hollywood vibes. Stay here if you’re looking for somewhere reasonably priced with good kitchen amenities.
Click here for more information and to check the current price
Loews Hollywood Hotel
If you want to be centrally located in Hollywood, the Loews Hollywood Hotel is amongst the action. Only a minute or so walk to Ovation Hollywood (previously named Hollywood & Highland mall), adjacent to the Dolby and TCL Chinese Theatres and a minute stroll to the Walk of Fame.
However, it is 3.3 miles or a 10 minute drive (20 minutes by train) to Universal Studios. So if you’re looking for close proximity, this may not be one of the best hotels near Hollywood Universal Studios for your family.
Being practically next door to Ovation means you’ve got loads of eateries at your fingertips, from pizza and burgers to ramen and sushi to desserts… there is something for every tastebud and budget.
Families of four will be accommodated at the Lowes in two double beds. Rooms are luxurious and modern, and if views are your thing, you can upgrade to the Hollywood sign or city view rooms. Conveniences in the room include tea/coffee facilities, a mini fridge and iPod docking stations. Complimentary amenities on call include PlayStation, Xbox, Wii, cots and baby bath amenities… did someone say ‘family friendly’!
Onsite amenities are where Loews really take it to the next level. With a heated pool serviced by a pool bar, multiple restaurants including in-room dining, babysitting (at a charge), business centre, gym, free WiFi, parking (at a cost) and if you want to doll yourselves up and tap down the street – book in for a free shoe shine.
While Loews Hollywood Hotel is not one of the cheap hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood CA, it has the convenience of plentiful amenities and is so close to the main hub of everything. Loews is where to stay in Hollywood without a car.
What’s to love
Loews is right in the centre of Hollywood, which is super convenient. Plus, it is easy to access by train to Universal Studios.
What’s not to love
It is one of the more expensive hotels in this guide. This isn’t it if you’re looking for budget hotels near Universal Studios.
Summary
While the location doesn’t make Loews the best place to stay for Universal Studios Hollywood if you want to be centrally located and are happy to splurge, Loews is where to stay when visiting Hollywood. While it is a little pricier, you will be saving dollars on transport as you can walk everywhere, plus the onsite facilities make this hotel ultra convenient.
Click here for more information and to check the current price
The Dixie Hollywood
Located smack bang on Hollywood Blvd, The Dixie Hollywood hotel is only one block from the Hollywood-Western Metro Station – and if you jump on the train, it’s just over 20 minutes to Universal Studios. Alternatively, if you drive, it’s around 10 minutes. To get into the Centre of Hollywood is around a six minute train ride, or again 10 minutes by car.
The Dixie is also conveniently located between two pharmacies, which is peace of mind when travelling with kids. And for eateries nearby, you are spoilt for choice if you enjoy Thai cuisine, as The Dixie is located in Thai Town, so there are a variety of Thai restaurants within easy walking distance (and I should know – I’ve just stayed in Thai Town and the food is delicious!).
Rooms are simple yet modern, with two double beds accommodating families of four. The fridge, microwave and coffee maker ensure you can store and prepare simple meals to help stretch the budget.
The outdoor pool, sundeck and poolside seating at The Dixie let you take a breather after a day of sightseeing. And if you are driving, the parking is free!
What’s to love
Another one of our budget hotels in our guide, The Dixie Hollywood, is a well priced option for families looking to stretch their travel budgets.
What’s not to love
While some travellers like to be located on the main thoroughfare, you may find being situated on Hollywood Blvd a bit too busy for your liking.
Summary
The Dixie Hollywood is a decent hotel that is well priced. The pool and kitchen facilities make this a great choice for families with young kids. So if price and facilities are important to you, the Dixie could be one of the best hotels near Universal Studios California for your family.
Click here for more information and to check the current price
Value Inn Hollywood
The Value Inn Hollywood is true to its name; it is one of the best value discount hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood within this guide, however it is further afield from Universal Studios. Either a 10 minute drive or over 30 minutes by train. To get into the centre of Hollywood is around a 10 minute drive or almost 4km (2.4miles) if driving/walking.
Located on Sunset Blvd, there are local pizza parlours and bakeries surrounding the Value Inn that would suit a cheap family breakfast or dinner.
The rooms are basic and can sleep families of up to four in two double beds. A mini fridge in the rooms is handy to store snacks or keep water bottles chilled.
The 24/7 reception at the Value Inn ensures you have access to someone onsite whenever you arrive. And the free parking is a bonus as you are slightly further away from the main attractions. Free WiFi rounds out the offering at the Value Inn.
What’s to love
As the cheapest hotel in our guide, the Value Inn is great for families looking at stretching every dollar.
What’s not to love
This is a super basic hotel with minimal amenities.
Summary
If you are looking for the bare minimum, you’ve found it at the Value Inn. While we wouldn’t recommend anywhere we wouldn’t stay ourselves; you have to be mindful that you are getting what you pay for here. On the other hand, if you’re happy to be further out of the centre of town and the lack of facilities doesn’t bother you – then this could be the best hotel for Universal Studios Hollywood for your family… think about what you’ll splurge on with all the money you save!
Click here for more information and to check the current price
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I hope you found this guide on where to stay for Universal Studios helpful. We have plenty more guides to help plan your family vacation in Los Angeles. Read our things to do in Hollywood here or our things to do in Los Angeles here. If you’re considering central accommodation in Hollywood, check out this guide or we also have a guide on where to stay in Los Angeles.