Universal Studios – just like Disney – has resorts on both coasts. Universal Hollywood is comprised of one park, two hotels, and CityWalk, which is the shopping and dining district adjacent to the park. Universal Orlando is comprised of two parks, one water park, 8 hotels, and CityWalk.

Unlike Universal Orlando Resort, which has two theme parks and a water park, Universal Studios Hollywood consists of only one theme park. However, that single park is uniquely divided into two distinct sections: the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot, connected by a massive series of escalators known as the "StarWay." The Upper Lot contains the majority of the family attractions, including Springfield (The Simpsons), The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the iconic World-Famous Studio Tour entrance. The Lower Lot is home to the more intense thrill rides, such as Jurassic World – The Ride, Revenge of the Mummy, and the highly popular Super Nintendo World, which opened in 2023. While it is just one park, the Studio Tour itself is a 60-minute experience that takes you through the actual working movie backlot, which many guests feel is equivalent to a "second park" experience. In 2026, there are ongoing rumors about potential expansions, but for now, Universal Hollywood remains a high-density, one-day destination that is significantly more compact than its Florida counterpart.