Universal Studios vs Hollywood Studios: Which One Is Better?

If you are not someone that is constantly researching and traveling (like me! LOL), you may find the Orlando area theme parks a bit overwhelming. Orlando is a huge hub for a number of theme parks for your family to enjoy, and keeping all of the names and brands in order can be a lot.

One of the biggest confusions that people seem to encounter is the difference between Universal Studios and Hollywood Studios.

The big question comes about… is Universal Studios the same as Hollywood Studios?

You hear about both parks, and many aren’t aware that they are actually two completely separate and totally unrelated theme parks. Just to add another layer to this confusion, Universal’s theme parks in California are known as Universal Studios Hollywood. Hence, if you are not fully versed in the differences, it is easy to assume that all the parks are related somehow.

Look no further for an explanation of Universal Studios vs Hollywood Studios!

Today we will break down everything you need to know about Universal Studios vs. Hollywood Studios parks in Orlando, and by the end of this guide, you will fully understand the difference and be able to use this information to make an educated decision on which park (or both) that you may want to visit with your friends and family.

Over here, we explain the difference between the two US Universal Parks – Universal Studios Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood in California

This post is part of our Orlando family travel series

Similar Names, Different Experiences

While Universal Studios and Hollywood Studios have similar names, they are two completely unique experiences. Universal Studios Orlando is owned by the Universal Studios brand, while Hollywood Studios is a part of the Walt Disney World Company.

Both are great parks and a fun experience to be had, but there are distinguishable differences, and if you only have the time to visit one or the other, you will want to ensure that you choose the park that will best suit your idea of fun. Both parks feature hit movies from their franchises, so it depends on your interests.

Here are a few things to consider when making your choice between which park you would like to visit:

Interests: At Hollywood Studios, you will find rides and attractions that feature many hit films from the Disney franchise, including Star Wars films and Disney/Pixar films such as Toy Story. Comparatively, Universal Studios features a large variety of films, including kids’ movies such as Shrek and Despicable Me, but there are also rides and attractions that feature some of the biggest films for adults as well, including The Terminator, Men in Black, the Fast & Furious Franchise, and so much more. A visit to either park will be a treat for movie enthusiasts!

Age: While both parks can be a good time for people of all ages, Hollywood Studios is a part of the Disney franchise and tends to be looked at more for kids/young teens compared to Universal Studios with more of a focus on tween and teens through to adults. Both parks feature rides and attractions that vary from calm and relaxed to thrilling and exciting, so you can find something for everyone with either park.

Cost: Cost is another factor you may want to consider when deciding between each park. Both Hollywood Studios and Universal Orlando have varying admission prices based on seasons and availability. Estimated Costs are as follows:
- Hollywood Studios: $109-$189 USD per ticket per day
- Universal Orlando: Single Park Tickets – $109+ USD per ticket, per day
  Park to Park Ticket – $164+ USD per ticket, per day

A Deeper Look into Each Park

Hollywood Studios

As we mentioned above, Hollywood Studios has a variety of rides featuring a number of famous films from the Disney brand as well as other key topics in Hollywood, including music.

Rides and Attractions

Popular rides and attractions at Hollywood Studios Include:

Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run – Based on the Star Wars films, in this ride, you will board the Millennium Falcon and embark on a mission with other riders and the Star Wars crew. Depending on where you are placed, you will be assigned a vital role in the mission’s success.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – In this attraction, you will have a seat inside an old-style haunted elevator lift as you enter the Twilight Zone. You will plunge up and down as the ride takes you through scenes from the TV Series.

Slinky Dog Dash – This one is a more recent addition to the Hollywood Studios lineup, and it has been a big hit! You will climb aboard Slink, everyone’s favorite dog from Toy Story, and he will race you through Andy’s backyard as you see toys, fun activities, and more!

OG Universal Studios vs Hollywood Studios - Hollywood Studios

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith – See! I told you that Hollywood Studios isn’t just Disney. The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster attraction allows you to hop into your very own limousine as you race through the streets of New York City in order to get Aerosmith to their concert. You’ll have a blast as you zip through the streets and rock out to Aerosmith Rock ‘n’ Roll classic tunes! Note: Currently Closed for Refurbishment

Toy Story Mania! – Toy Story Mania is one of the most well-known and popular attractions at Hollywood Studios. It is a spinning 3-D experience where riders will climb into their ride car and ride through Andy’s room as you use your laser to shoot down targets.

Live Entertainment

While there is a large variety of rides and attractions at Hollywood Studios, when it comes to Live Entertainment, it is primarily focused on Disney characters that, in my opinion, are geared more toward younger kids. Some popular live attractions include:

Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage – Enjoy a live Broadway-style version of the Disney classic film Beauty and the Beast! This show is entertaining, a great way to see a new version of a Disney favorite, and a great way to spend some time out of the warm weather and relax.

For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – Frozen has had a huge impact on the World of Disney, making this live Frozen celebration a popular attraction at Hollywood Studios. During this hour-long spectacular, you will enjoy Frozen-themed stories, songs, and more!

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular – If you’re looking for some action, you won’t want to miss out on the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! During this show, you will see a number of exciting action stunts as Indiana Jones goes on a dangerous mission.

Dining

There are approximately 30 dining options at Hollywood Studios, including snacks, casual quick-service dining, and table service. Some of the most popular dining options include:

Backlot Express (Quick Service, American Cuisine)
Docking Bay 7 Food & Cargo (Quick Service, American Cuisine)
Rosie’s All American Cafe (Quick Service, American Cuisine)
Hollywood & Vine (Buffet Style, American Cuisine)
Mama Melrose’s Ristorante (Table Service, Italian Cuisine)
The Hollywood Brown Derby (Fine Dining, American Cuisine)