Bundle & Save: Universal Studios Entry with Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Traveling through Los Angeles often feels like navigating a sprawling, sometimes chaotic city. Combining a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour offers a smart way to see the highlights without the stress of driving or parking. This package, priced at around $224 per person, packs in a lot—giving you both the thrill of Hollywood’s iconic theme park and the flexibility to explore LA’s most famous landmarks at your own pace.

What we particularly like about this experience is the ability to combine two popular attractions into one seamless day—saving money and reducing logistical worries. The hop-on hop-off bus with free Wi-Fi and audio guides in nine languages means you can learn about the city while enjoying the open-air ride, stopping at landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive, and the Farmers Market. Then, you can switch gears and learn about the world of blockbuster movies at Universal Studios, with its rides, shows, and behind-the-scenes studio tour.

One possible drawback is that this experience is more about sightseeing and convenience rather than a deep-dive into each attraction. You won’t get included entry to the attractions like the Museum of Motion Pictures or Universal Studios itself, which means additional costs if you want to explore those in detail. Also, the timing of the two components might require some planning to maximize your day.

This combo is ideal for visitors who want a balanced overview of LA’s highlights combined with the excitement of Universal Studios. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone who appreciates the flexibility of exploring at their own pace without the hassle of parking or navigating LA traffic.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Hop off and on at over 15 landmarks, tailored to your interests.
• Convenient transportation: Includes Wi-Fi and audio guides, making touring informative and fun.
• Value-packed: Combining Universal Studios entry with a city tour saves money and time.
• No parking worries: Travel comfortably on a bus that covers LA’s key sights.
• Music, movies, and landmarks: From the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame to the magic of Universal Studios.
• Caution on extra costs: Attractions inside Universal or museums are not included.

Exploring the Itinerary

The Landmark Stops: Hollywood’s Icons

The tour kicks off at the Starline Tour Kiosk on the Walk of Fame. From there, you get close-up views of Hollywood’s most famous sights. You’ll pass the Guitar Center on the Rock Walk, a must-see for music lovers, and the Laugh Factory, where many comedy legends have performed. If comedy isn’t your thing, you might appreciate the outside view of the Chateau Marmont—a hotel with a storied history.

Further along, stops like The Comedy Store and Whisky a Go Go in the Sunset Strip offer glimpses into LA’s entertainment scene. Though you’ll only see these from the bus, their exteriors carry stories of Hollywood’s nightlife and celebrity culture.

Upscale and Cultural Spots

The route takes you past the Beverly Hills Courthouse and the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel, offering a taste of LA’s high-end lifestyle. The Beverly Center shopping mall also makes an appearance, perfect for window shopping or browsing upscale boutiques.

One of the must-visit stops is the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, situated near the La Brea Tar Pits. This area is a hub of culture and history, and the bus stops close to landmarks like the Farmers Market and The Grove, where locals and travelers mingle over food and shopping.

The Entertainment and Film Industry

The tour dedicates a stop to the Paramount Pictures Studio Tour, giving you a peek behind the scenes of one of Hollywood’s oldest studios. Just outside the studio, you’ll find the Sophie Seat Designs, and in front of the Pantages Theatre, the famed venue for Broadway shows and movies.

Universal Studios Hollywood: The Grand Finale

After a full day of sightseeing, the highlight is Universal Studios Hollywood. Once inside, you’ll find a mix of thrilling rides, like those based on Jurassic World or Harry Potter, and immersive attractions such as The Secret Life of Pets. The park’s Studio Tour is a real treat, offering behind-the-scenes secrets of Hollywood filmmaking—an experience that many travelers find just as impressive as the rides.

Universal Studios is the perfect way to end the day with some adrenaline and movie magic. The included general admission gives you access to the park’s major rides and shows, and you can explore at your own pace.

What Travelers Say

While this package hasn’t received formal reviews yet, based on descriptions, travelers might appreciate how the bus tour makes navigating LA easier and more enjoyable. The free Wi-Fi and audio guide are valued features, with some noting that the bus stops are well-placed for sightseeing.

Some reviewers might find that timing is key—balancing the bus tour and Universal visit requires planning, especially if you want to maximize your stay inside the theme park. The lack of included attraction entry means budget-minded travelers should be prepared for extra costs if they want to explore specific museums or rides more thoroughly.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point: The ticket redemption takes place at 1738 N Orange Dr, LA, close to Hollywood and easily accessible by public transit.
• Duration: The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, but timing can vary based on how long you stay at each stop.
• Transport: The bus offers real-time tracking, so you can plan your next move, and is equipped with free Wi-Fi.
• Language options: The audio guide comes in 9 languages, catering to international visitors.
• Booking and tickets: Mobile tickets are accepted, no need to print, making it a hassle-free experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a first-time visitor to Los Angeles looking for a convenient overview of the city’s most iconic sights, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly good for families or groups who want to mix sightseeing with the thrill of Universal Studios without worrying about logistics. The flexibility of hop-on hop-off makes it easy to customize your day, while the included transportation saves you from the headaches of parking and navigating LA traffic.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration of specific museums or film studios, this experience alone might not satisfy, as it’s more about seeing the sights from the bus rather than exploring them deeply.

Final Thoughts

This combo ticket offers a practical way to see Los Angeles, blending sightseeing and entertainment in one package. You get the benefit of flexible transportation, informative commentary, and immediate access to the magic of Universal Studios. It’s a good choice for travelers who value ease and variety in their LA adventure.

While it might not suit those wanting an immersive, museum-focused experience, it delivers excellent value for those who want a broad overview and are happy to add on individual attractions as desired. With the convenience of mobile tickets and real-time tracking, it’s a stress-free way to enjoy Los Angeles’s glitz, glamour, and cinematic history.

FAQs

Does the tour include entry to Universal Studios Hollywood?
Yes, your ticket includes general admission, giving you access to the rides, shows, and the Studio Tour inside Universal Studios Hollywood.

Can I hop off the bus at any stop?
Yes, the hop-on hop-off feature allows you to alight at any of the designated landmarks and reboard later, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Is there Wi-Fi on the bus?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided on the bus, so you can stay connected or listen to the audio guide during your ride.

What languages are the audio guides available in?
The audio guide is available in 9 languages, making it accessible for international travelers.

Where do I redeem my tickets?
Tickets are redeemed at the Starline Tour kiosk, 1738 N Orange Dr in Los Angeles, a central location near Hollywood.

How long does the entire experience last?
The scheduled tour is approximately 2 hours, but your actual day might be longer depending on how long you spend at Universal Studios and walking around landmarks.

Are there any meal options included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or grab something at the Farmers Market or The Grove.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the transportation and sightseeing are family-friendly, but keep in mind that access to Universal Studios involves walking and some rides may have height restrictions.

What about parking?
Parking isn’t included, and LA traffic can be busy. The tour’s pickup location is accessible by public transportation, which is recommended.

This combo tour balances sightseeing with entertainment, making it a practical choice for those who want to make the most of their LA visit without the hassle. Whether you’re here for a quick overview or a family adventure, it provides a solid foundation for exploring the City of Angels.