The Guide to L.A. Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood | Photo: prayitno, Flickr

Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the top attractions in Los Angeles. After all, the movie business is what put Hollywood on the map, and its lore continues to draw talent to Tinseltown. Since not everyone can be in pictures, the world famous Studio Tour is the next best thing. Here are some of the best Los Angeles hotels that are conveniently located three miles or less from Universal Studios Hollywood.

Great Hall | Photo courtesy of Sheraton Universal
Great Hall | Photo courtesy of Sheraton Universal

Sheraton Universal



Situated in the heart of Universal City, the Sheraton Universal is only 1/5 of a mile from Universal Studios Hollywood. It has 450 rooms, including 30 suites. At one time, the Sheraton and the neighboring Hilton were one property, and the two hotels remain semi-connected. The park sends its own enclosed, white shuttle bus to ferry guests to the theme park. It’s free and runs every 15 to 20 minutes during regular operating hours. Those who choose to hoof it can expect a 10-minute trek.

Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City



Also located in Universal City just one block from Universal Studios Hollywood, the 24-story Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City has 482 rooms, including eight suites. Many have views of the theme park, CityWalk, or the Hollywood Hills. The same complimentary shuttle that services the Sheraton also stops here. It runs every 15 to 20 minutes, in accordance with park hours. Otherwise, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the park entrance.

BLVD Hotel & Spa



A fusion of contemporary style and efficiency, The BLVD Hotel & Spa offers intimate appeal with personal customer service and a dizzying array of amenities. The BLVD is located on Ventura Boulevard less than a mile from Universal Studios Hollywood and a five-minute walk to the Metro Red Line Universal / Studio City station. Nearby dining and nightlife options range from the vegan friendly Sun Cafe to the famous Baked Potato jazz club.

The Garland



Named after actress Beverly Garland, whose husband built this property, the Beverly Garland has long been a popular spot for visiting families. There are 255 rooms, including 17 suites. Located less than two miles from Universal Studios Hollywood, a free shuttle runs daily, and typically mirrors the park’s operating hours. Departures from the hotel begin at 8:30 a.m., and leave every 30 minutes until 11 a.m. Service resumes at noon, with departures every hour on the hour until 10 p.m. Returns to the hotel from Universal take place throughout the day, with a departure time 15 minutes after the shuttle leaves the hotel.

Loews Hollywood Hotel



With Dave & Buster’s as well as the enormous candy shop Sweet mere steps from the hotel lobby, it’s no wonder kids give two thumbs up to the Loews Hollywood Hotel. Located off Highland less than three miles from Universal Studios Hollywood, the hotel boasts a fifth floor pool with dynamite views, suites with sofa beds, and plenty of shopping and dining at Hollywood & Highland. As part of their Loews Loves Kids program, the hotel maintains a selection of board games to lend to families, and the very youngest guests receive a coloring book and crayons upon check-in.

BLVD Hotel & Suites



The BLVD Hotel & Suites is a boutique hotel located near the iconic intersection of Hollywood and Highland. Stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, just minutes from The BLVD Hotel & Suites, and experience all of Hollywood’s most popular attractions. Universal Studios Hollywood is 2.5 miles away, and tickets are conveniently on sale at the hotel's front desk.

Best Western Hollywood Plaza Inn



Located just over two miles from Universal Studios Hollywood, the Best Western Hollywood Plaza Inn offers 82 elegantly styled rooms, on-site restaurant, sightseeing tours, free WiFi and more.

Best Western Plus Hollywood Hills Hotel



Located on Franklin Avenue less than three miles from Universal Studios Hollywood, the retro-style Best Western Plus Hollywood Hills features rooms designed for corporate and leisure traveler alike. The on-site 101 Coffee Shop is one of L.A.'s best late night diners, and the hotel's MiniBar is a hidden gem classic cocktail bar.

Hollywood Roosevelt lobby | Photo courtesy of demxx, Flickr

The Hollywood Roosevelt



You’re surrounded by Hollywood history from the moment you step into the Spanish Colonial style lobby of the landmark Hollywood Roosevelt, located three miles from Universal Studios Hollywood. The first Academy Awards were presented at a private dinner in the hotel’s Blossom Ballroom. Clark Gable and Carole Lombard carried on their infamous affair in the Penthouse, which cost $5 a night. Marilyn Monroe lived at the hotel for two years as her modeling career began to take off - she was staying in one of the vintage 1950s Cabanas at the time of her first professional magazine shoot, which took place at the famed Tropicana pool.

Dream Hollywood Hotel



For its Los Angeles debut, Dream Hotels introduces its west coast flagship to the palm-lined streets of Los Angeles. Located three miles from Universal Studios Hollywood at the corner of Selma Avenue and N. Cahuenga Boulevard, the spectacular Dream Hollywood boasts 178 playfully sophisticated guest rooms with subtle nods to the mid-century modern aesthetic iconic to Los Angeles. Designed by award-winning firm The Rockwell Group, Dream Hollywood unveils the most coveted playground in Los Angeles, featuring accommodations with unparalleled views, luxurious guest amenities such as complimentary Lincoln car service, and Tao Group’s opulent restaurants, including Tao, Beauty & Essex, and The Highlight Room, the property's swanky rooftop pool, lounge, and grill.