Best Hotels Near Universal Studios Hollywood

This pet-friendly hotel is the best choice if you want nicer amenities and an easy walking distance to Universal Studios Hollywood—but there’s also a free shuttle that will take you back and forth to the park, too, so it's very accessible. Two restaurants, including one outside by the pool, plus a lounge and a coffee shop will keep you well-fed. The Hilton Los Angeles / Universal City is also close to a Metro stop if you’d rather not drive. Higher floors either have a view of the city or the park.

If you’re looking for a hotel with Old Hollywood vibes and history to match, the Hollywood Roosevelt is your choice. The hotel opened in 1927 and counts Marilyn Monroe as one of its longtime residents. Now, its location on the Hollywood Walk of Fame close to the iconic Chinese Theater attracts people looking to be a part of that history. It’s even rumored that hotel guests have witnessed Marilyn’s ghost right on the property. Several dining options on-site are run by Michelin-starred chef Nancy Silverton, one of Los Angeles’ most in-demand culinary talents. A speakeasy with a bowling alley and board games, plus a pool with reservable lounge chairs, will keep the whole family entertained.

A more budget-friendly option that’s also walkable to Universal Studios is BLVD Hotel & Suites, which has a partnership with the park to sell tickets right at the hotel. A restaurant and lounge provide quick bites, and there is a small outdoor pool that’s perfect on those warm days in Los Angeles. The hotel does offer suites with full kitchens, which can make up for the mediocre views (mostly of the parking lot or the freeway).

From the moment you walk into the art-filled lobby at this hotel, you know you’re somewhere special. The Kimpton Everly is located in the center of Hollywood, with views of the Capitol Records building from the lobby bar. Upstairs, a rooftop pool features sweeping city views and an attached lounge area.

The W Hollywood encapsulates the Hollywood experience: There’s always something lively happening, but up on the roof, the chill vibes are as easy to access as the California sun. Its location, right on Hollywood and Vine above the Hollywood Walk of Fame, allows for easy walking to local restaurants and bars. The hotel itself has two restaurants, so it's easy to plan a night right on the property. Rooms on higher floors have full views of the Hollywood Hills (where the Hollywood sign is located) or of the city skyline. Stylish suites have fun themes—and one even has a recording studio built in.

There’s dog-friendly, and then there’s “give your dog a check-in gift” dog-friendly. If you’re staying with pets, the Garland provides a dog toy, a dog mat, and a water bowl–with bottled water, of course. The property has a dedicated off-leash green space for pets as well.

For humans, the retro theming has a distinct 1960s vibe in the best way possible (think vintage design elements) and a highly rated restaurant. A free trolley provides transportation to Universal Studios and the Universal Metro stop.

There is no hotel more in the center of the action than Loews Hollywood, which is in the Hollywood Highland Center, an outdoor shopping and dining area adjacent to the Walk of Fame and the storied Chinese and Egyptian theaters. Loews has a heated rooftop pool with stellar views and three great restaurants and cafés on the property. Since parking can be pricey, it's best to just forget the car while staying in this walkable location.