Visiting Universal Studios During the Thanksgiving Holidays

Universal Studios Thanksgiving Adventure featuring festive decorations and holiday fun, perfect before returning to Australia. #ThanksgivingAdventure

We regretfully (with hindsight) visited Universal Studios during the Thanksgiving holiday, just before our return flight to Australia. Did you know that more than 21 million people visit Universal Studios parks globally each year? With an increasing number of Australians seeking international experiences during festive periods, this adventure presented an exceptional opportunity to explore one of the world’s most renowned theme parks. In this post, we’ll share our firsthand experience, offering useful tips for those planning a similar trip.

Why Visit Universal Studios During Thanksgiving?

November offers a unique holiday atmosphere at Universal Studios. The park is adorned with stunning festive decorations, providing a magical experience. While it can be a busy time, with the right planning, you’ll enjoy spectacular shows, festive parades, and exclusive holiday treats. Be sure to check event schedules on the Universal Studios Holidays page to ensure you don’t miss any special activities.

Pre-Visit Planning Essentials

  • Book Tickets in Advance: We found that purchasing tickets online saved us a great deal of time, avoiding long queues at the entrance.
  • Accommodations Nearby: Staying close to the park is convenient. We used Expedia to find a hotel within walking distance.
  • Park Hours and Map: Familiarize yourself with park hours and download a map to plan your day efficiently. Access the official park map here.

Must-See Attractions

Universal Studios Hollywood is known for its spellbinding attractions. Here’s a list of the top must-see places we thoroughly enjoyed:

  1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: A magical experience where we wandered through Hogsmeade Village and rode on the Forbidden Journey.
  2. Studio Tour: Providing a behind-the-scenes look at real movie sets, this was a highlight of our visit.
  3. Jurassic World – The Ride: An exhilarating water ride that can’t be missed!

Dining and Shopping

Amidst the thrill of rides and attractions, hunger strikes! Universal Studios offers an array of dining options. We enjoyed a delightful feast at the Three Broomsticks, relishing the signature Butterbeer. For souvenirs, head to Universal CityWalk, where diverse shops offer everything from film memorabilia to unique gifts. Make sure to visit CityWalk before leaving.

Transport and Return Travel to Australia

If you’re concerned about transportation, rest assured that getting to and from the park is straightforward. We utilized ride-sharing services for convenience. For those flying back to Australia, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about an hour’s drive from the park. Check traffic updates on Google Maps to plan your journey efficiently, ensuring a smooth departure.


Visiting Universal Studios during the Thanksgiving holiday was an unforgettable experience filled with excitement and festivity, just before we flew back to Australia. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or a movie enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. With some advanced planning, you can avoid crowds and make the most of your visit. We hope our story inspires and aids in creating your own magical holiday adventure! Safe travels!

 


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