Universal City/Studio City Metro Station in Studio City, CA
Overview of Universal City/Studio City Metro Station
Universal City/Studio City Metro Station is a pivotal underground transit hub on LA Metro’s B Line, located beneath Lankershim Boulevard in vibrant Studio City, CA. This station offers seamless access to world-famous attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal CityWalk, and NBCUniversal’s media campus, as well as serving local commuters and tourists alike. With ample park-and-ride, bike share, and shuttle connections, it’s ideal for families exploring the Valley, professionals commuting to Hollywood, and tourists visiting theme parks. Its strategic location and connectivity make it uniquely important in the community. Click here.
History of Universal City/Studio City Metro Station
The station opened on June 24, 2000, as part of the LA Metro’s Red Line extension—now known as the B Line—stretching from Hollywood/Vine to North Hollywood, becoming one of only two rapid rail stops in the San Fernando Valley. Early planning proposed an elevated design, but local safety concerns prompted an underground construction. The station sits atop historic Campo de Cahuenga, preserved for its 1847 treaty that ended hostilities between Mexico and the U.S.. In April 2016, a pedestrian bridge funded by NBCUniversal and Metro was added to link directly to Universal CityWalk, enhancing safety and accessibility. Click here to read about Campo de Cahuenga, Studio City, CA.
Points of Interest
Underground Island Platform
The station features a modern underground island platform serving both directions on Metro’s B Line. Visitors will find ticket machines, turnstiles, and clear signage, making navigation intuitive for first-time users and daily commuters. The platform’s design fosters efficient boarding, while its depth under Lankershim provides insulation from surface noise and traffic, offering a calm boarding environment. The spacious layout accommodates families with strollers and accessibility needs, underlining Metro’s commitment to inclusive transit.
Pedestrian Bridge to CityWalk
A sleek pedestrian bridge, completed in April 2016, connects the station directly to entrances for Universal CityWalk and Universal Studios Hollywood. Funded in part by NBCUniversal at a cost of around $19.5 million, it provides a safe, elevated crossing over busy Lankershim Boulevard. This feature transforms the station into a seamless gateway for tourists heading to attractions, and reduces street-level congestion. With modern railings, lighting, and signage, the bridge enhances both safety and the guest experience.
Park‑and‑Ride and Bike Facilities
The station offers a substantial park-and-ride lot with over 550 spaces, serving commuters and occasional city visitors . This facility typically sees about 90% occupancy during peak hours (Urbanize LA). Additionally, Metro Bike Share racks and secure bike lockers are available to spatially connect riders arriving by two wheels. These amenities encourage multi-modal travel, reduce traffic on surface streets, and support environmentally conscious commuting habits in the San Fernando Valley.
Places to Eat Near Universal City/Studio City Metro Station
Joe’s Falafel
Joe’s Falafel offers fresh Mediterranean fare with vibrant flavors like tahini‑drizzled falafel wraps, freshly made hummus, and crisp Israeli salads. The casual, counter-service setup is ideal for families, office workers, or theme park visitors grabbing a quick, wholesome bite. With its focus on plant-based ingredients and generous portions, it appeals to vegetarians and health-conscious diners. The friendly, no‑frills environment encourages quick service and satisfying meals near public transit.
JINYA Ramen Bar
JINYA Ramen Bar is known for its rich, hand‑crafted ramen bowls like spicy tonkotsu and creamy miso, complemented by steamed buns and gyoza. The dimly lit, contemporary interior caters to young professionals, groups of friends, and foodies craving authentic Japanese noodles. Its communal seating and speedy service align well with transit schedules, making it a convenient stop before or after travel on the Metro.
The Front Yard
The Front Yard offers California‑style comfort food with seasonal flair, featuring dishes like avocado toast, vibrant grain bowls, and indulgent brunch cocktails. With indoor-outdoor dining, fire pits, and a warm ambiance, the restaurant draws a mixed crowd—from families to couples on a laid-back outing. It’s a popular choice for leisurely meals among locals and travelers, especially those looking for a relaxed dining experience before visiting nearby attractions.
Places to Visit near Universal City/Studio City Metro Station
Universal Studios Hollywood
Just steps from the station, Universal Studios Hollywood is the world-famous theme park and working film studio that brings cinematic magic to life. Visitors can take the iconic Studio Tour ride that lasts roughly 45–60 minutes, viewing live sets, special effects demonstrations, and guided by entertainers including Jimmy Fallon. Thrill-seekers also enjoy rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Its blend of rides, shows, and behind-the-scenes access resonates with families, film enthusiasts, and international travelers seeking Hollywood immersion.
Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk is an outdoor entertainment promenade adjacent to the station, featuring shops, restaurants, and an 18-screen cinema, plus a seven-story IMAX theater (Wikipedia). Visitors can enjoy lively nightlife, street performances, live music, and themed retail in a seamless environment just beyond the transit stop. Open day and night, it’s a magnet for diverse visitors: families arriving by Metro for a day at the theme park, commuters looking to dine, and tourists exploring LA’s entertainment offerings.
Campo de Cahuenga Heritage Site
Directly beneath the station lies Campo de Cahuenga, the historic adobe ranch site where the 1847 Treaty of Cahuenga formally ended the Mexican‑American War of Conquest in California. Today, modest park signage and markers commemorate its significance. Visitors can view the site while using the station or strolling nearby, adding a tangible piece of 19th‑century Los Angeles history amid modern transit infrastructure.
Practical Information
Address: 3901 Lankershim Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604
Official Website: Click here for official station details and service updates: https://www.metro.net/
Parking: Park‑and‑ride lot with roughly 584 spaces and a kiss-and-ride zone .
Accessibility: Fully accessible with elevators, island platform, bike share, and Metro Bike racks/lockers .
Connections: Metro B Line subway; multiple Metro bus routes—155, 222, 224, 240; Burbank Bus Pink; Universal City Shuttle free tram to CityWalk and theme park .
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Driving Directions
- Start at Universal City/Studio City Metro Station on Lankershim Boulevard.
- Head south on Lankershim Blvd toward Campo de Cahuenga.
- Turn left (east) onto Campo de Cahuenga, continue under the freeway toward Universal Plaza.
- Keep right onto Universal Hollywood Drive and cross via pedestrian bridge to CityWalk side.
- Continue east to the intersection with Valleyheart Drive.
- Turn right onto Valleyheart Drive and proceed to 1 Degree Construction headquarters located just south of Universal City Plaza offices.
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