Sanabel Middle Eastern Restaurant

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Universal Studios Hollywood in Universal City is a combination working movie studio and theme park that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

The park opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m., most of the year. Admission prices are about $95 for adults and $85 for children ages 3 to 9.

Three must-see attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood
Studio Tour: This is a movie studio, after all, and the tram takes visitors past everything from the "Psycho" house to Wisteria Lane from "Desperate Housewives."

Transformers—The Ride 3D: Visitors must fight off Decepticons on this intense and interactive, high-tech motion simulator. It's thrilling, but not so much for young children or those prone to motion sickness.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Younger visitors will enjoy this fun and funny 3D motion simulator in which riders travel through Gru's laboratory. Even the wait in line is enjoyable.

Where to stay near Universal Studios Hollywood
There are three hotels within walking distance: the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City (rates start at around $250 per night); Sheraton Universal (about $200); and the Tilt Hotel Universal/Hollywood (about $160).

Expect the prices to go up from June through August.

Best and worst time to go to Universal Studios Hollywood
The best time to go is in late September, when most tourists have gone home and more shows are in production. The worst time is August, when the temperatures in the San Fernando Valley soar and crowds swell.

Discounts at Universal Studios Hollywood
Visitors can save about $10 on the admission price by purchasing tickets in advance.

Food at Universal Studios Hollywood
There are more than 20 places to grab a meal or snack. Not surprisingly, many of them are TV or movie themed. "Simpsons" fans can enjoy a sandwich at Krusty Burger (prices range from about $10 to $25). Two eateries are based on "Despicable Me:" Gru's Lab Café (around $8 to $30) and Despicable Delights (about $5 to $10), which serves frozen treats.

Universal Citywalk, just outside the entrance to the theme park, also has more than 30 dining options.

Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood
There is a large parking structure, where the fee varies from about $15 to $30, depending on how far visitors park from the entrance. After 3 p.m., the fees are reduced by about $5.

Transportation Alternatives at Universal Studios Hollywood
It's easy (and less expensive than driving) to get here by taking the Metro Red Line Subway to the Universal City station. Across the street from the station, a free shuttle takes visitors right up to the park's main entrance.

Author's bio: Laura Goldman is a freelance writer, lifelong Angeleno and longtime "Simpsons" fan. Follow her on Twitter and visit her blog, i Still Love Dogs.

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