Review: Sheraton Universal Hotel Hollywood
Review: Sheraton Universal Hotel Hollywood
The Sheraton Universal Hotel is a large contemporary hotel located in Universal City and is definitely the best place to stay when visiting Universal Studios Hollywood. The location makes it easy to visit Universal Studios and the Universal CityWalk and the hotel itself will make you feel like a Hollywood star - with memorabilia and photos of Hollywood’s Golden Age sprinkled all throughout the hotel. You'll feel as if you are being transported to an era of Old Hollywood glamour.
What You Need to Know
Location
The best thing about the Sheraton Universal Hotel is its location, as it is just below Universal Studios Hollywood and is either a shuttle ride or short walk away from the park and Universal CityWalk.
The 21-story hotel has over 450 rooms and while the hotel may not be a destination itself, it offers a good-value stay for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood or if you have business to attend to nearby.
The lobby features memorabilia, celebrity photos and Hollywood glamour, but still retains a nice modern touch with its golden hued decor.
There is a complimentary shuttle that runs between the two hotels every fifteen minutes throughout the day, but you could also choose to walk to the front entrance as well. There is a little bit of an incline and steps to climb, but the walk is not very hard and will take you anywhere from 10-15 minutes to the park.
The easiest way to get to the front entrance of Universal Studios is to walk straight out of the Sheraton to the elevators directly in front nest to the parking garage that will take you up to the Hilton Universal. From there, walk down to the foot bridge that will take you across the street and into the security checkpoint area.
The recently renovated rooms feature a stylish, yet understated, decor with large windows and balconies (some with with views of Hollywood or the pool area).
You can be sure to rest well in the newly renovated rooms featuring the Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience.
All rooms include a coffee maker with Starbucks coffee, a mini-fridge and storage space for your luggage.
Dining
There are a few choices when it comes to dining at the hotel and include the following choices:
The California's is open for breakfast and lunch, serving American fare.
The Poolside Lounge is open seasonally and features cajun-inspired light bites and an extensive selection of cocktails.
The contemporary In the Mix, located just off the lobby, features a bar/restaurant and is perfect for grabbing a drink or for lounging around in.
If you want to venture out, Universal CityWalk is only a short walk away and features 30-plus eateries, including Wolfgang Puck Bistro, Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood, Margaritaville, Buca di Beppo, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Johnny Rockets and more!
Amenities
The Club Lounge on the ninth floor offers guests booking club level rooms or those with access via their Marriot Bonvoy Platinum status complimentary continental breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres.
The food selection we experienced was good and included eggs, bacon, pastries, fresh fruit, juice, and coffee and tea for breakfast. Evening hor d'oeuvres featured a hot item and other small bites.
Pool area with cabanas and bar
Relax after a long day at Universal Studios by taking a dip in the pool or lounging poolside with a drink in hand.
Tip: If you want to get to Universal Studios quick in the morning, be sure to request a room off of the pool area and not in the tower, as the elevators fill up fast in the morning and can take a while to get you down and on your way to the park.
Overall Impression
If you're planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood, I would highly recommend staying at the Sheraton Universal, as it is so close to the entrance and so convenient. It's also nice not having to deal with parking or Los Angeles traffic when you're trying to get to the park fast and beat the crowds. It's especially good for families with young kids as you can head back for a mid-day nap, relax and take dip in the pool or enjoy snacks in the club lounge.
We plan on being back the next time we visit Universal Studios Hollywood!
