What airport is closest to Universal Studios Hollywood? This is a common question among travelers planning a visit to this iconic theme park. Location plays a crucial role when organizing your trip, especially if you want to minimize travel time and maximize your fun. Choosing the closest airport to Universal Studios can save time, reduce stress, and help you get to the action faster. It’s important to note that many visitors mix up Universal Studios Hollywood, located in California, with Universal Studios Florida, based in Orlando. Since both parks are popular tourist destinations, this guide will help you understand which airport close to Universal Studios is best whether you’re heading to Hollywood or Orlando. Let’s break it down so your journey starts off on the right runway.
Closest Airports to Universal Studios, Hollywood
Best Airport Near Universal Studios
The Universal Studios nearest airport is Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR). It’s only about 6 miles from Universal Studios Hollywood, making it the closest and most convenient option for travelers.
How Far is Burbank Airport from Universal?
It takes roughly fifteen to twenty minutes to drive from BUR to Universal Studios. It’s a quick trip by Uber, Lyft, rental car, or even shuttle service. BUR is a smaller airport, so getting through security and baggage claim is usually faster.
LAX: A Bigger Airport, But Farther Away
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about 25 miles away from Universal Studios. Depending on traffic, the drive can take 45 minutes to over an hour. LAX is a major hub for international flights, so it’s useful for global travelers, but not the most convenient airport near Universal Studios.
Which Airport is Easier?
- Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
Only 6 miles from the park
15–20 min drive
Less crowded, faster check-in - Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
25 miles from the park
45+ min drive (traffic varies)
Large airport with more flight options
Important Airports for Universal Studios, Hollywood
When planning your trip, it’s good to know that there are several other airports besides Burbank that you can use to reach Universal Studios Hollywood. While Hollywood Burbank Airport is the closest airport to Universal Studios, the following airports also serve the Los Angeles area and might suit your travel needs.
LAX – Los Angeles International Airport
One of the largest airports in the United States is LAX. and a major international hub. It offers the widest range of flights, including many international and cross-country options. However, it’s located about 25 miles from Universal Studios, so it’s not the airport close to Universal Studios if you’re looking for convenience. The drive can take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Great for international and long-haul travelers
- Offers plenty of ground transportation: Uber, shuttles, rental cars
- Prepare for congested terminals and extended wait times.
Long Beach Airport (LGB)
Compared to LAX, Long Beach Airport is smaller and less congested. It’s about 30 miles from Universal Studios Hollywood and takes around 45 minutes to an hour to reach by car. Though not the closest airport to Universal Studios, it’s a smooth experience for those flying from selected U.S. cities.
- Shorter lines and quick security
- Limited but efficient domestic flight options
- Easy car rentals and ride-share access
Ontario International Airport (ONT)
Located about 40 miles from Universal Studios, Ontario International Airport is another option for domestic travelers, especially those coming from the western U.S. The drive to Universal typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.
- Great for regional travelers
- Less congestion than LAX
- Ground transportation available but less frequent
Which Airport Should You Choose?
If your goal is to get to Universal Studios quickly, Hollywood Burbank Airport is still the closest airport to Universal Studios. But if you need a specific airline or international flight, LAX offers more options. For a less hectic experience, Long Beach and Ontario airports are good alternatives, even though they’re not the airport close to Universal Studios.
You may read about How Far Is Miami Airport To The Cruise Port?
International Airports Near Universal Studios Florida
Selecting the appropriate airport is crucial for a seamless arrival at Universal Orlando Resort in Florida. This section focuses specifically on the Florida location, not Universal Studios in Hollywood, California.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) – The Closest and Most Convenient
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary airport close to Universal Studios Florida. Located just 17 miles away, MCO is the closest airport to Universal Studios and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international travelers.
- Offers nonstop flights from Europe, South America, Canada, and more
- Only about 20–30 minutes from Universal by Uber, shuttle, or rental car
- Well-equipped with restaurants, lounges, and multiple transportation services
Because of its size and location, MCO is the most popular airport close to Universal Studios and is ideal for travelers who want a quick and easy connection to the resort.
Sanford International Airport (SFB) – A Smaller Alternative
Another airport near Universal Studios is Sanford International Airport (SFB), located around 35 miles away from the resort. Though smaller than MCO, SFB also handles some international traffic, especially from Europe via charter or low-cost carriers.
- Great for select international and regional flights
- By automobile, it takes between 45 to 55 minutes to get to Universal Orlando.
- Ground transportation includes shuttles, rental cars, and ride-shares
While not the closest airport to Universal Studios, SFB can be a good option for travelers looking for a less crowded airport or budget-friendly flights. For airport transfer services contact no other than Signature Luxury Transportation.
Local Airports Near Universal Studios Florida
If you’re traveling within the U.S. and looking for regional or smaller airport options, there are a few additional choices beyond the main international hubs. While these aren’t the closest airport to Universal Studios, they can offer benefits like less traffic, lower airfare, or access for private flights.
Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) – Closest Private Option
Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) is located just 12 miles from Universal Orlando Resort. Though it doesn’t handle commercial flights, it’s a popular airport near Universal Studios for private jets, corporate charters, and business travelers.
- Ideal for private or chartered aircraft
- Only about 15–20 minutes to Universal Studios
- Quick access to downtown Orlando and luxury ground transportation
If you’re flying privately, this is the airport close to Universal Studios that offers the most direct and luxurious access.
Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) – A Regional Option
Located approximately 60 miles northeast of Universal Orlando, Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) is a small regional airport that offers limited domestic flights.
- Serves a few major U.S. cities via airlines like American or Delta
- Travel time to Universal Studios is about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
- May offer cost-saving deals compared to larger airports
Though it’s not the closest airport to Universal Studios, it can be a practical alternative if you’re coming from nearby southeastern U.S. states.
Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) – Another Nearby Choice
Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) is located about 75 miles southeast of Universal Studios Florida. It serves select U.S. cities and is steadily growing in popularity due to affordable fares and lighter traffic.
- Limited but growing domestic airline service
- Driving time is about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic
- Good for travelers looking to avoid major airport crowds
MLB isn’t the airport close to Universal Studios, but it’s still a manageable option for certain routes or budget-conscious travelers.
Which Local Airport is Best?
- ORL – Closest for private flights, only 12 miles away
- DAB – Smaller, relaxed airport about 1 hour out
- MLB – Farther, but potentially cheaper for some flights
While Orlando International Airport (MCO) remains the best airport near Universal Studios for most travelers, these local airports can serve specific needs, especially for private flights or cost-saving alternatives.
Final Thoughts
For the best travel experience, choose Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) for Universal Studios Hollywood it’s the closest airport to Universal Studios in California. For Universal Studios Florida, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the top airport near Universal Studios, offering the most flight options and shortest travel time. While LAX, SFB, DAB, and MLB are alternative choices, BUR and MCO remain the most convenient. Always plan your transportation early for a smooth arrival. If you want any black luxury car service from the airport to Universal Studios, contact Signature Luxury Transportation.
FAQs
Q1: What Airport Is Closest To Universal Studios Hollywood?
A: The closest airport to Universal Studios Hollywood is Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), located just about 6 miles away from the theme park.
Q2: How Long Does It Take To Get From Burbank Airport To Universal Studios Hollywood?
A: It usually takes 15 to 20 minutes by car, depending on traffic. You can use Uber, Lyft, shuttles, or rent a car.
Q3: Is Lax A Good Option For Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood?
A: Yes, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a major hub and works well for international travelers, but it’s about 25 miles away, and the drive can take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Q4: Are There Shuttles From Airports To Universal Studios Hollywood?
A: Yes, there are several shuttle services, ride-shares, and luxury car options available from both BUR and LAX to Universal Studios Hollywood.
Q5: Which Airport Should I Choose If I Want The Fastest Route To Universal Studios Hollywood?
A: Choose Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) for the quickest and most convenient access to Universal Studios Hollywood.
