Introduction
Universal Studios Hollywood stands out as one of the nation’s most unique major theme parks, stemming from its renowned Studio Tour, a tram ride through Universal’s backlot that remains the park’s focal point. Unlike typical theme park rides, the 45-minute Studio Tour offers an immersive experience into the world of filmmaking, showcasing actual filming locations and sets.
Situated on the side of a mountain just minutes from downtown Los Angeles, California, Universal Studios Hollywood boasts an unconventional location compared to other theme parks. Here, movie production is not just a theme but a daily reality. Unlike traditional theme parks, Universal Studios Hollywood lacks nightly fireworks, parades, or traditional carnival rides. Instead, it offers an authentic cinematic experience, allowing visitors to explore the actual locations where Hollywood classics were filmed.
The park is divided into two main sections: the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot. Visitors typically begin their day with the Studio Tour, featuring the immersive King Kong 360: 3-D experience. Descending to the Lower Lot via a series of escalators, guests can enjoy attractions such as Jurassic Park and Revenge of the Mummy. Notably, the Mummy ride at Universal Studios Hollywood is shorter than its Orlando counterpart and skips the Brandon Fraser storyline.
Returning to the Upper Lot, visitors can experience The Simpsons Ride, Special Effects Stage, Shrek 4-D, Terminator 2: 3-D, and the acclaimed Waterworld show. Despite being based on the Kevin Costner movie, Waterworld surpasses its source material as a thrilling park attraction.
Universal Studios Hollywood offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for movie enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the magic of filmmaking, providing an authentic and unforgettable experience unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Park layout
Universal Studios Hollywood is split into two areas on different levels, connected by a series of escalators called the Starway. These areas are known as the Upper lot and Lower lot. Each lot features a collection of rides, shows, and attractions as well as food, beverage, and merchandise shops.
Upper lot
The Upper Lot at Universal Studios Hollywood offers a range of family-friendly attractions, shows, dining options, and merchandise shops, all conveniently located near the park’s entrance. Families can enjoy The Adventures of Curious George and The Simpsons Ride, while older guests can experience the year-round haunted house, Universal’s House of Horrors. This section also hosts exciting shows like The Blues Brothers Revue, the Special Effects Stage, Universal’s Animal Actors, and Waterworld: A Live Sea War Spectacular. Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in two 3-D films: Shrek 4-D and T2 3-D: Battle Across Time. Themed retail outlets, such as T-2 Gear & Supplies and the Kwik-E-Mart, offer merchandise near their respective rides. Doc Brown’s Chicken shop pays homage to Back to the Future: The Ride. Recently added attractions include the immersive King Kong 3-D experience, part of the Tram Tour|Access Hollywood. Universal Studios Hollywood provides an unforgettable vacation experience for all.
Lower lot
The Lower lot is the smaller of the two lots. It is home to Jurassic Park: The Ride, The NBC Universal Experience, Revenge of the Mummy (where E.T. Adventure once stood), and became the home to Transformers: The Ride. Similar to other Universal theme parks around the world, where duplicates of Jurassic Park: The Ride exist, the area surrounding the ride features a Jurassic Park merchandise shop named Jurassic Outfitters and a dining facility named Jurassic Café. Similarly, a Revenge of the Mummy gift shop, called Tomb Treasures, greets guests as they exit that ride. Contact us placeforvacations.com