How to Get to Universal Studios from Union Station [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

How to Get to Universal Studios from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]

Find out how to get from Union Station Los Angeles to Universal Studios Hollywood in 2025–2026. Compare Metro Red Line, bus, taxi, Uber/Lyft, shuttle, and walking with travel times and costs.

If you’re arriving in Los Angeles at Union Station and planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood, you’ll be happy to know the theme park is only about 8 miles northwest. The journey is easy, with multiple options like Metro rail, bus, taxi, rideshare, and shuttle services. This guide breaks down every option so you can choose the best one for your budget and schedule.

🚇 Option 1: Metro B Line (Red Line) – Best Value & Most Reliable

The Metro B Line (Red Line) is the most popular and affordable way to reach Universal Studios from Union Station.

  • From Union Station, board the Metro B Line (Red Line) toward North Hollywood.

  • Get off at Universal/Studio City Station.

  • Exit the station and take the free Universal Studios Shuttle (runs every 10–15 minutes) or walk up the hill (~10 minutes).

  • Time: 25–30 minutes total

  • Cost: $1.75 one-way with TAP card or contactless payment

  • Best for: Budget travelers, families, and tourists who want a traffic-free route.

🚌 Option 2: Metro Bus – Longer but Budget-Friendly

While not as fast as the Metro Red Line, buses can also connect Union Station to Universal Studios.

  • From Union Station, take a Metro Local bus toward Hollywood or the Valley.

  • Transfer to a bus that stops near Lankershim Boulevard & Universal Hollywood Drive, next to Universal Studios.

  • Time: 45–60 minutes depending on traffic

  • Cost: $1.75 per ride

  • Best for: Travelers who prefer surface routes or are already using buses for other destinations.

🚖 Option 3: Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – Quickest Door-to-Door

If you prefer direct service without transfers, a taxi or rideshare is the fastest option.

  • Distance: About 8 miles from Union Station to Universal Studios.

  • In light traffic, travel takes 15–20 minutes.

  • During peak LA traffic, expect 30–40 minutes.

  • Rideshare apps drop you directly at Universal’s main entrance.

  • Time: 15–30 minutes

  • Cost: $20–35 depending on traffic and surge pricing

  • Best for: Families, groups, or visitors carrying luggage who want maximum convenience.

🚐 Option 4: Shuttle Services – Great for Tourists

Some private shuttle companies and tour operators offer direct service from Union Station to Universal Studios.

  • These can be pre-booked online or arranged through hotels.

  • Shuttles are especially convenient for large groups or tourists with kids.

  • Time: 20–40 minutes depending on stops and traffic

  • Cost: $15–25 per person

  • Best for: Organized group travel or tourists who prefer pre-arranged rides.

🚶 Option 5: Walking or Biking – Not Practical

Unlike some other LA attractions, walking from Union Station to Universal Studios is not recommended.

  • The distance is nearly 8 miles along busy streets and freeways.

  • Biking is possible but requires navigating traffic-heavy routes.

  • Time: Walking 2.5–3 hours / Biking 45–60 minutes

  • Cost: Free or $1.75+ (bike share)

  • Best for: Adventurous travelers only.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Option Route Time Cost Best For
🚇 Metro Red Line Union Station → Universal/Studio City → Free Shuttle 25–30 mins $1.75 Best value & reliable
🚌 Metro Bus Union Station → Hollywood/Valley buses → Universal 45–60 mins $1.75 Budget surface travel
🚖 Taxi/Uber/Lyft Direct via US-101 15–30 mins $20–35 Fastest & convenient
🚐 Shuttle Service Pre-booked group shuttles 20–40 mins $15–25 Tourists & groups
🚶 Walk/Bike Union Station → Universal (8 miles) 45–180+ mins Free/$1.75+ Not practical

❓ FAQs: How to Get to Universal Studios from Union Station

1. What’s the fastest way to get to Universal Studios from Union Station?
A taxi or Uber/Lyft takes about 15–20 minutes in light traffic.

2. What’s the cheapest way to reach Universal Studios from Union Station?
The Metro Red Line (B Line) at $1.75 per ride is the cheapest and most reliable option.

3. How far is Universal Studios from Union Station?
It’s about 8 miles northwest of Union Station.

4. How do I get from the Metro station to Universal Studios?
Take the free shuttle bus outside Universal/Studio City Station or walk 10 minutes uphill.

5. Are there shuttle buses from Union Station to Universal Studios?
Yes. In addition to the Metro connection, private shuttles and tours operate between Union Station and Universal.

6. How much does an Uber cost from Union Station to Universal Studios?
Expect to pay $20–35 depending on traffic and time of day.

7. Can I walk to Universal Studios from Union Station?
It’s possible but not practical—it’s an 8-mile walk and takes over 2.5 hours.

✅ With this guide, you now know all the best ways to get from Union Station Los Angeles to Universal Studios Hollywood in 2025–2026, whether you prefer the fast Metro, a cheap bus, or the convenience of Uber.

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