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Sheraton Universal Hotel Review: Staying Next Door to Universal Studios Hollywood
- Elijah
- 2 days ago
- 11 min read
We stayed at the Sheraton Universal Hotel during a December weekend trip centered around Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk’s Christmas lights. Since our plan was to spend nearly all our time at the park, convenience was the top priority—and the Sheraton sits just up the hill from Universal with both a free shuttle and a walkable path to the entrance. We paid $456.30 total for two nights, which came out to about $228 per night before taxes and fees. For a hotel located next to Universal Studios Hollywood, that’s fairly standard for early December, especially during popular seasons like Grinchmas or Halloween Horror Nights. Parking was $45 per night during our stay. Nearby hotels vary slightly
The Sheraton Universal sits directly across from the theme park and offers a mix of comfort, accessibility, and brand reliability under the Marriott Bonvoy name. It’s one of only two hotels within walking distance of Universal Studios, making it a popular choice for families, theme park fans, and visitors who prefer to skip LA traffic altogether.
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Sheraton Universal Hotel Details and Location:
The Sheraton Universal Hotel is one of the most conveniently located properties for visitors to Universal Studios Hollywood, sitting at 333 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, CA 91608. Check-in begins at 4:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM.
The hotel is positioned across from Universal Studios on the hillside, making it easy to access the park by foot or via the free hotel shuttle that runs between the Sheraton lobby and the Universal City entrance throughout the day.
Nearby attractions include:
Universal Studios Hollywood – 2-minute drive
Universal CityWalk Hollywood – 3-minute drive
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood – 7-minute drive
Hollywood Bowl – 8-minute drive
Hollywood Walk of Fame – 10-minute drive
Griffith Observatory – 18-minute drive
The Getty Center – 20-minute drive
Downtown Los Angeles – 20-minute drive
Santa Monica Pier – 30-minute drive
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – 40-minute drive
The area feels safe and central, though signage around the property can be confusing and some of the older hallways show wear. It’s directly across from the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, which makes for an easy side-by-side comparison.
Parking rates:
Self-parking: $45 per night
Valet parking: $55 per night + tax
Cost: Sheraton Universal Hotel vs. Nearby Options
We paid $456.30 total for two nights in early December, which came out to roughly $228 per night before taxes and fees. For its location right next to Universal Studios Hollywood, that’s about average for this area, especially during the holiday season or special events like Grinchmas and Halloween Horror Nights.
Parking was $45 per night at the Sheraton, though nearby hotels sometimes vary slightly. For example, the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, located directly across the street, charged $40 per night during the same weekend.
Prices at both hotels fluctuate based on park events and demand:
Low season (January–March): ~$190–$220 per night
Peak summer or holidays: ~$280–$400 per night
Event weekends (Halloween Horror Nights, Christmas): ~$250–$350 per night
Check current rates at Sheraton Universal Hotel for the dates you are interest in visiting!
Our Verdict on Cost
The price difference between the Sheraton and Hilton is usually small, so choosing between the two often comes down to loyalty membership and availability. If you’re a Marriott Bonvoy member, the Sheraton makes more sense, while Hilton Honors members will find better perks next door.
We’ve noticed that both hotels frequently sell out during big Universal events, so checking which one still has rooms (and at what tier) often decides it for you. If the Hilton is full or running higher, the Sheraton is typically the more affordable backup with nearly identical convenience and amenities.
If you want to read a full review of the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, you are in luck!
Getting to the Sheraton Universal Hotel: Airports, Shuttles & Parking Info
From Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
Distance: 6 miles | Drive time: 15–20 minutes
Transportation Options
Ride-share (Uber/Lyft): $35–$50 depending on traffic.
Taxi: Similar pricing, though metered fares may vary.
Rental Car: About $500 for five days (not including insurance).
Parking fees: $45 per night (self), $55 per night (valet).
Public Transit:
Take the Metrolink from BUR RITC to Downtown Burbank Station ($2).
Then transfer to the Burbank Bus Pink Line to Universal City ($1).
Total cost: ~$3 per person, though the trip takes longer than driving.
From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Distance: 15–30 miles | Drive time: 45–60 minutes
Transportation Options
Ride-share (Uber/Lyft): $65–$100 depending on time of day.
Taxi: Around $80 on average, plus potential airport surcharges.
Shuttle Services: Fixed-rate LAX Airport Shuttle (~$85 for one passenger, +$10 for each additional).
Rental Car: $500 for five days (not including insurance); hotel parking applies.
Public Transit: About two hours with multiple transfers; check Metro.net for updated route details.
From John Wayne Airport (SNA – Orange County)
Distance: 50 miles | Drive time: 1.5–2 hours
Transportation Options
Ride-share (Uber/Lyft): $100–$150
Rental Car: Recommended for flexibility (~$500 for five days)
From Ontario International Airport (ONT – Inland Empire)
Distance: 55 miles | Drive time: 1.5–2 hours
Transportation Options
Ride-share (Uber/Lyft): $90–$130
Rental Car: Recommended (~$500 for five days)
From San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Distance: 135 miles | Drive time: 2.5–3 hours
Transportation Options
Drive: Take I-5 North to US-101 North (~2.5–3 hours).
Train:
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner → Union Station (~3 hours, $40–$60).
Metro B Line (Red) → Universal City (~25 minutes, $1.75).
Total: ~3.5 hours, $50–$70 per person.
Parking at the Sheraton Universal Hotel
If you’re driving in, parking is available on-site for $45 per night for self-parking or $55 per night plus tax for valet. The parking structure connects directly to the hotel lobby, making it convenient for unloading luggage. However, the entry ramp can get congested during check-in hours (around 3–5 PM) when shuttles and rideshares arrive at the same time. We parked for the duration of our stay and had no issues with overnight access, the gates remain open to hotel guests 24/7 with your room key.
Check-In Experience at the Sheraton Universal Hotel
Check-in at the Sheraton Universal Hotel officially begins at 4:00 PM, but we arrived closer to 11:00 PM and were still greeted by a full front-desk staff. Despite the late hour, the lobby was surprisingly busy, likely due to late-night arrivals from Universal Studios or LAX, yet the process was smooth and well-organized.
There were three to five attendants assisting guests, which kept the line moving quickly. The staff were friendly, efficient, and clear about parking and shuttle details, making the process feel more welcoming than rushed. If you’re arriving after a long flight or late-night drive, it’s reassuring to know the front desk is staffed 24 hours, and check-in runs just as smoothly as it would during the day.
Rooms & Comfort at the Sheraton Universal Hotel
Room Layout & Design
The rooms at the Sheraton Universal Hotel are clean and comfortable, though the décor leans more traditional than modern. Standard rooms include either a king bed or two doubles, a desk area, and large windows overlooking the Hollywood Hills or Universal Studios. Our room had a partial park view with plenty of natural light during the day. The blackout curtains worked well, blocking light from nearby Universal City at night. The air conditioning ran quietly and kept the room cool without fluctuation, something we appreciated after long park days.
Beds, Noise & Sleep Quality
The beds were firm but supportive, with soft, freshly laundered linens. We slept comfortably both nights, though hallway noise and elevator sounds were noticeable during peak evening hours. If you’re a light sleeper, request a higher floor or corner room to minimize noise. Because many guests are families visiting Universal Studios, the hotel has more hallway activity than a boutique property, but it’s rarely disruptive once inside the room.
Bathroom & Cleanliness
The bathroom was bright and functional, with good lighting, strong water pressure, and consistent hot water even during the morning rush. Counter space around the vanity was generous and well-lit, making it easy to get ready before heading to the park.
Housekeeping came daily and was thorough, but one unexpected issue stood out, the towels had a strong vinegar smell, almost like pickles, and felt stiff and rough to the touch. They didn’t dry well, and it was noticeable enough that we commented on it after the first night. It didn’t ruin the stay, but it’s something the hotel could improve easily.
In-Room Amenities
Rooms come with a mini fridge, coffee maker, safe, ironing set, and flat-screen TV. There’s also a comfortable sofa to relax after a long day or get some work done, though Wi-Fi speed varied during our stay. Standard Wi-Fi is free; faster connections require an upgrade. The layout of the property can be confusing at first, especially when finding the gym or elevators on the lower floors. A printed map from the front desk helps, but clear signage would make navigation easier.
Our Verdict on Comfort
Overall, the rooms at the Sheraton Universal are exactly what most travelers expect, clean, practical, and reliable for short visits. The hotel’s biggest selling point is still its location next to Universal Studios Hollywood, not cutting-edge design or luxury features. If you value convenience and consistency, the Sheraton gets the job done. But if you prefer newer interiors or slightly more upscale touches, the Hilton across the street might be the better pick.
Amenities & Dining Options at the Sheraton Universal Hotel
Dining Options
Although we didn’t eat at the hotel during our stay, the Sheraton Universal Hotel has two on-site dining options plus a grab-and-go area:
The California’s Restaurant – Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on California-style cuisine.
In the Mix Lounge – Located near the lobby, offering cocktails and light bites in the evening.
Grab & Go Market – Open 24 hours with snacks, coffee, and drinks, convenient if you’re arriving late or leaving early for Universal Studios.
If you’re looking for more variety, Universal CityWalk is only a few minutes away and offers plenty of restaurants, from quick eats like Blaze Pizza and Panda Express to sit-down spots like Antojitos Cocina Mexicana and Vivo Italian Kitchen.
Pool Area
When we visited, the pool and surrounding deck area were under construction, which made the entire section of the hotel somewhat confusing to navigate. There were no clear signs explaining detours or closures, and the main pathways that would normally lead to the pool were partially blocked by barriers. Despite the construction, the pool itself appeared well-maintained and modernized, with lounge chairs stacked nearby and lighting indicating an active renovation rather than neglect. Under normal operation, this space includes a heated outdoor pool, cabanas, and a sundeck, ideal for relaxing between park visits. If you’re staying soon, it’s worth checking with the hotel in advance to confirm whether construction is complete.
Fitness Center
The fitness center was open during our visit but extremely difficult to find. The posted signs actually led us through part of the construction zone surrounding the pool area. We eventually found our way by cutting back through that same section, but there was no clear signage indicating that route was allowed. Once inside, the gym was clean and equipped with standard cardio machines, free weights, and a few resistance stations, but the layout and lack of direction made getting there more complicated than it should have been. For a large, otherwise organized property, the poor navigation stood out as one of the more frustrating aspects of the stay.
Other Amenities
Shuttle Service: Complimentary shuttle to Universal Studios Hollywood runs regularly throughout the day (although it is often faster to walk when staying this close)
Wi-Fi: Standard Wi-Fi included; faster speeds available for a daily upgrade.
Laundry Services: Available upon request through guest services.
Business Center: Computers and printers available in the lobby area.
Our Verdict on Amenities
The amenities at the Sheraton Universal Hotel are what you’d expect from a full-service Marriott property, practical and complete, but not flashy. The shuttle service and grab-and-go market add real convenience for theme park guests, though navigation and signage throughout the building could be improved. For visitors spending most of their time at Universal Studios Hollywood, the amenities cover everything you’ll realistically need for a short or family-focused stay (as long as you can find the gym)
Walking Distance & Shuttle to Universal Studios Hollywood
How to Walk to Universal Studios
Even though the Sheraton Universal Hotel is located right below Universal Studios Hollywood, the walk isn’t as straightforward as it looks on a map. From the hotel entrance, you’ll follow the main driveway through the parking lot and then take an elevator up the hill toward the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City.
Once at the top, follow the Hilton’s posted walkway signs that point toward the park entrance. It’s a short, mostly uphill walk that takes about 8-10 minutes depending on your pace. The route is safe, well-lit, and pedestrian-friendly, though it can feel longer if you’re carrying bags or visiting during the summer heat. We’ve walked it several times and found that it’s easiest in the morning before crowds build up at CityWalk. In the evening, it’s slightly slower due to departing park guests, but still manageable.
Using the Shuttle Service
The Sheraton Universal Hotel offers a complimentary shuttle that runs continuously between the hotel and Universal Studios. Trips run roughly every 10-15 minutes, depending on park traffic, and drop guests off near the Universal CityWalk entrance. The shuttle is the best option if you’re traveling with kids, dealing with heavy bags, or visiting after dark. It’s also convenient if you’re visiting during special events like Halloween Horror Nights or Grinchmas, when the uphill walk can feel longer due to large crowds.
Pro Tip: Missed the Shuttle?
If you happen to miss the Sheraton shuttle, there’s a good chance you can catch the Hilton shuttle instead, it stops at nearly the same area, and the Hilton is right next door. Drivers sometimes verify which hotel you’re staying at, but many will still let you ride the short distance downhill. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s a convenient backup when you’re tired from the park or don’t want to wait another 15 minutes.
Final Thoughts: Is the Sheraton Universal Hotel Worth Your Wallet?
The Sheraton Universal Hotel delivers exactly what most travelers expect from a well-located, full-service property beside Universal Studios Hollywood, clean, reliable rooms, friendly staff, and unbeatable convenience. It’s not a luxury stay, but it doesn’t try to be. What you get is a comfortable base steps from the park and CityWalk, which is often what matters most for a Universal trip.
During our visit, construction around the pool and fitness center made getting around confusing, and the property’s age shows in small details like signage and bathroom towels. But those issues aside, the hotel functioned smoothly: check-in was quick even at 11 PM, the staff were efficient, and our room was quiet and well-kept. The 24-hour shuttle, reliable housekeeping, and peaceful atmosphere after long park days helped balance out the rough edges.
From a value perspective, this is where the Sheraton holds its ground. We paid $456.30 total for two nights, which felt fair for a major theme-park location in Los Angeles. Parking costs $45 per night, which is average for the area. The nearby Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City typically charges about the same, though it can fluctuate depending on demand.
Our Verdict
If your trip revolves around Universal Studios Hollywood or you want quick access to CityWalk, the Sheraton Universal is worth your wallet. You’re paying for location, consistency, and brand-level comfort, not luxury design. For Marriott Bonvoy members, it’s the obvious pick. If you’re part of Hilton Honors, you may want to check next door! Once renovations are complete, the Sheraton should feel more cohesive and polished, but even now, it’s a reliable, no-nonsense choice for travelers who value convenience and comfort on their Universal Studios vacation.
If you are planning your trip around Universal Studios Hollywood, checkout our full review which includes special events like the Grinchmas!