Universal Studios Hollywood is one of Southern California’s most iconic attractions, combining a working film studio, world-famous rides, live entertainment, shopping, and dining into a single destination. Millions of visitors travel here each year to experience movie-themed attractions, behind-the-scenes studio tours, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Unlike many major theme parks, Universal Studios Hollywood is exceptionally easy to reach by train. Amtrak passengers can arrive at Los Angeles Union Station before transferring directly to the Los Angeles Metro B Line (Red Line), which stops at Universal City/Studio City Station only minutes from the park.
Because of this seamless rail connection, visitors can avoid Los Angeles traffic, expensive parking fees, and the stress of driving through one of America’s busiest metropolitan areas.
This guide explains everything you need to know about traveling to Universal Studios Hollywood by train, including the nearest Amtrak station, recommended routes from different parts of the United States, Metro connections, nearby hotels, and expert travel tips.
Can You Get to Universal Studios Hollywood by Train?
Yes. Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the easiest major attractions in California to reach using public transportation.
Although Amtrak trains do not stop directly at the theme park, travelers can easily transfer from Amtrak to the Los Angeles Metro network.
| Nearest Amtrak Station | Los Angeles Union Station |
| Metro Connection | Metro B Line (Red Line) |
| Metro Stop | Universal City / Studio City |
| Travel Time from Union Station | Approximately 15 minutes |
| Primary Amtrak Routes | Pacific Surfliner, Coast Starlight, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, Texas Eagle |
After arriving at Universal City/Studio City Station, visitors can take the free Universal Studios shuttle or enjoy a short uphill walk to the entrance.
Where is Universal Studios Hollywood?
Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Universal City, just northwest of Downtown Los Angeles.
The resort includes:
- Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park
- The World-Famous Studio Tour
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Super Nintendo World
- Universal CityWalk Hollywood
- Restaurants and entertainment venues
Its central location makes it easy to combine with visits to Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Observatory, and other famous Los Angeles attractions.
Nearest Amtrak Station to Universal Studios Hollywood
Los Angeles Union Station is the closest major Amtrak station serving Universal Studios Hollywood.
Union Station is one of the busiest rail terminals in the western United States and serves multiple Amtrak routes along with Metrolink commuter rail and the Los Angeles Metro system.
Station facilities include:
- Indoor waiting areas
- Ticket counters
- Restaurants and cafés
- Accessible boarding
- Metro rail connections
- Taxi and rideshare services
- Rental car facilities nearby
- Baggage services (where available)
Because Union Station connects directly to the Metro B Line, it is the preferred arrival point for nearly all visitors traveling to Universal Studios Hollywood by train.
Best Amtrak Routes to Universal Studios Hollywood
The best route depends on your starting location, but nearly every itinerary passes through Los Angeles Union Station.
| Starting Region | Recommended Route | Transfer Required |
|---|---|---|
| Southern California | Pacific Surfliner | Metro B Line |
| Northern California | Coast Starlight | Metro B Line |
| Arizona & New Mexico | Southwest Chief | Metro B Line |
| Texas | Texas Eagle or Sunset Limited | Metro B Line |
| Midwest | Southwest Chief | Metro B Line |
| East Coast | Multiple Amtrak Connections | Metro B Line |
Traveling from Southern California
Travelers already in Southern California can simply board the Pacific Surfliner to Los Angeles Union Station before transferring to the Metro.
Popular departure stations include:
- San Diego Santa Fe Depot
- Solana Beach Station
- Oceanside Transit Center
- Irvine Station
- Fullerton Transportation Center
- Anaheim ARTIC
Most visitors can reach Universal Studios Hollywood in just a few hours without needing to drive anywhere in Los Angeles.
Traveling from Northern California
Passengers departing from Sacramento, Emeryville, Oakland, San Jose, Salinas, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, or other cities along California’s coast can board the Coast Starlight.
After arriving at Los Angeles Union Station, simply transfer to the Metro B Line for a quick ride to Universal City.
The Coast Starlight is widely regarded as one of the most scenic train journeys in North America, making it an excellent way to begin a Southern California vacation.
How to Get to Universal Studios Hollywood by Train
Universal Studios Hollywood is one of Southern California’s most iconic attractions, combining a working film studio, world-famous rides, live entertainment, shopping, and dining into a single destination. Millions of visitors travel here each year to experience movie-themed attractions, behind-the-scenes studio tours, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Unlike many major theme parks, Universal Studios Hollywood is exceptionally easy to reach by train. Amtrak passengers can arrive at Los Angeles Union Station before transferring directly to the Los Angeles Metro B Line (Red Line), which stops at Universal City/Studio City Station only minutes from the park.
Because of this seamless rail connection, visitors can avoid Los Angeles traffic, expensive parking fees, and the stress of driving through one of America’s busiest metropolitan areas.
This guide explains everything you need to know about traveling to Universal Studios Hollywood by train, including the nearest Amtrak station, recommended routes from different parts of the United States, Metro connections, nearby hotels, and expert travel tips.
Can You Get to Universal Studios Hollywood by Train?
Yes. Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the easiest major attractions in California to reach using public transportation.
Although Amtrak trains do not stop directly at the theme park, travelers can easily transfer from Amtrak to the Los Angeles Metro network.
| Nearest Amtrak Station | Los Angeles Union Station |
| Metro Connection | Metro B Line (Red Line) |
| Metro Stop | Universal City / Studio City |
| Travel Time from Union Station | Approximately 15 minutes |
| Primary Amtrak Routes | Pacific Surfliner, Coast Starlight, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, Texas Eagle |
After arriving at Universal City/Studio City Station, visitors can take the free Universal Studios shuttle or enjoy a short uphill walk to the entrance.
Where is Universal Studios Hollywood?
Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Universal City, just northwest of Downtown Los Angeles.
The resort includes:
- Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park
- The World-Famous Studio Tour
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Super Nintendo World
- Universal CityWalk Hollywood
- Restaurants and entertainment venues
Its central location makes it easy to combine with visits to Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Observatory, and other famous Los Angeles attractions.
Nearest Amtrak Station to Universal Studios Hollywood
Los Angeles Union Station is the closest major Amtrak station serving Universal Studios Hollywood.
Union Station is one of the busiest rail terminals in the western United States and serves multiple Amtrak routes along with Metrolink commuter rail and the Los Angeles Metro system.
Station facilities include:
- Indoor waiting areas
- Ticket counters
- Restaurants and cafés
- Accessible boarding
- Metro rail connections
- Taxi and rideshare services
- Rental car facilities nearby
- Baggage services (where available)
Because Union Station connects directly to the Metro B Line, it is the preferred arrival point for nearly all visitors traveling to Universal Studios Hollywood by train.
Best Amtrak Routes to Universal Studios Hollywood
The best route depends on your starting location, but nearly every itinerary passes through Los Angeles Union Station.
| Starting Region | Recommended Route | Transfer Required |
|---|---|---|
| Southern California | Pacific Surfliner | Metro B Line |
| Northern California | Coast Starlight | Metro B Line |
| Arizona & New Mexico | Southwest Chief | Metro B Line |
| Texas | Texas Eagle or Sunset Limited | Metro B Line |
| Midwest | Southwest Chief | Metro B Line |
| East Coast | Multiple Amtrak Connections | Metro B Line |
Traveling from Southern California
Travelers already in Southern California can simply board the Pacific Surfliner to Los Angeles Union Station before transferring to the Metro.
Popular departure stations include:
- San Diego Santa Fe Depot
- Solana Beach Station
- Oceanside Transit Center
- Irvine Station
- Fullerton Transportation Center
- Anaheim ARTIC
Most visitors can reach Universal Studios Hollywood in just a few hours without needing to drive anywhere in Los Angeles.
Traveling from Northern California
Passengers departing from Sacramento, Emeryville, Oakland, San Jose, Salinas, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, or other cities along California’s coast can board the Coast Starlight.
After arriving at Los Angeles Union Station, simply transfer to the Metro B Line for a quick ride to Universal City.
The Coast Starlight is widely regarded as one of the most scenic train journeys in North America, making it an excellent way to begin a Southern California vacation.
Traveling from the Midwest
Visitors from Chicago and other Midwestern cities can reach Universal Studios Hollywood using one of Amtrak’s most iconic long-distance routes—the Southwest Chief.
The Southwest Chief travels across Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona before arriving at Los Angeles Union Station.
Typical journey:
- Board the Southwest Chief.
- Arrive at Los Angeles Union Station.
- Transfer to the Metro B Line (Red Line).
- Exit at Universal City/Studio City Station.
- Take the complimentary Universal Studios shuttle to the entrance.
This route is ideal for travelers planning a cross-country rail vacation before exploring Southern California.
Traveling from Texas
Passengers from Texas can reach Universal Studios Hollywood using the Texas Eagle or Sunset Limited, depending on their departure city and travel dates.
Popular departure cities include:
- Dallas
- Fort Worth
- Austin
- San Antonio
- El Paso
Most itineraries arrive at Los Angeles Union Station, where passengers simply transfer to the Metro B Line for Universal City.
Traveling from the East Coast
Visitors traveling from New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, DC, and other East Coast cities can reach Universal Studios Hollywood using Amtrak’s nationwide rail network.
A typical itinerary includes:
- Northeast Regional or Acela
- Connection through Chicago
- Southwest Chief to Los Angeles
- Metro B Line to Universal City
Although this journey spans several days, many rail enthusiasts combine it with sightseeing stops in Chicago, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, or other destinations along the route.
Traveling from the Pacific Northwest
Travelers from Seattle, Tacoma, Portland, Eugene, and other Pacific Northwest cities can board the Coast Starlight.
The train travels through Washington, Oregon, and California before arriving at Los Angeles Union Station, offering spectacular coastal and mountain scenery along the way.
Getting from Union Station to Universal Studios Hollywood
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Universal Studios Hollywood by train is the easy Metro connection from Union Station.
The journey typically takes around 15 minutes and requires no additional train transfers.
Step 1: Arrive at Los Angeles Union Station
After leaving your Amtrak train, follow signs for the Los Angeles Metro Rail system located within Union Station.
Step 2: Take the Metro B Line (Red Line)
Board a Metro B Line train toward North Hollywood.
The ride to Universal City/Studio City Station usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 3: Exit at Universal City/Studio City
Leave the Metro station and follow clearly marked signs for Universal Studios Hollywood.
Most visitors use the complimentary Universal Studios shuttle, which operates regularly between the station and the park entrance.
Universal Studios Shuttle
The free Universal Studios shuttle is the easiest way to reach the park after exiting the Metro station.
Benefits include:
- No additional transportation cost.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
- Suitable for families with children.
- Convenient for visitors carrying luggage or backpacks.
Can You Walk to Universal Studios?
Yes. It is possible to walk from Universal City/Studio City Station to Universal Studios Hollywood.
The walk takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes and includes an uphill section with pedestrian walkways and escalators.
Many visitors choose to walk after leaving the park, while others prefer using the complimentary shuttle in both directions.
Transportation Comparison
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro + Free Shuttle | 15–20 minutes | Low | Most visitors |
| Metro + Walk | 20–25 minutes | Low | Budget travelers |
| Taxi | 20–30 minutes | Higher | Families |
| Uber / Lyft | 20–30 minutes | Moderate | Convenience |
Nearby Hotels
Many visitors stay near Universal Studios Hollywood to maximize their time in the park.
Popular hotel options include:
- Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City
- Sheraton Universal Hotel
- The Garland
- BLVD Hotel & Studios
- Nite Inn at Universal City
- Loews Hollywood Hotel
Several of these hotels are within walking distance or offer convenient shuttle services to the park.
Nearby Attractions
Universal Studios Hollywood is surrounded by many of Los Angeles’ most famous attractions.
- Universal CityWalk Hollywood
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Hollywood Bowl
- Griffith Observatory
- Hollywood Sign viewpoints
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour
- The Getty Center
- Santa Monica Pier
- Beverly Hills
- Griffith Park
Suggested One-Day Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Arrive at Los Angeles Union Station |
| 8:20 AM | Metro B Line to Universal City |
| 8:45 AM | Free shuttle to Universal Studios |
| 9:00 AM | Enter the park at opening |
| Morning | Studio Tour & Lower Lot attractions |
| Afternoon | Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Super Nintendo World |
| Evening | Dinner and shopping at Universal CityWalk |
| Night | Metro back to Union Station or overnight stay |
Plan Your Universal Studios Hollywood Trip
These Railway.Guide resources will help you plan every stage of your California rail vacation.
🚆 Best Train Routes
🚉 Major Station Guides
- Los Angeles Union Station
- Anaheim ARTIC
- Fullerton Transportation Center
- Oceanside Transit Center
- San Diego Santa Fe Depot