Summer 2015 Guide To Universal Studios Hollywood
While the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is still a year away from its Universal Studios Hollywood debut, two other massive franchises are making the beloved theme park one of the hottest destinations of the summer. If you're planning a trip to Universal here's a preview of what to expect and tips for making the most of your visit.
Universal Studios Hollywood
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
(800) 864-8377
www.universalstudioshollywood.com
Fast & Furious Supercharged
The Universal Studios tour turns 50 this year and the inclusion of the Fast & Furious Supercharged to the tour's itinerary serves as the perfect anniversary gift. Supercharged, which concludes the tram tour through Universal's iconic sets, shares in the park's tradition of creating a fully immersive film experience. Much Like popular tram stop King Kong 360 3D, Supercharged puts you right in the action, with massive movie screens and 3D technology allowing you to feel like you're traveling 120 mph with the Fast & Furious crew.
The newly revamped Tram Tour is sure to be one of the most popular rides this summer. If you're planning to beat the lines and arrive at the park when it opens, I would suggest putting it second on your itinerary behind Minion Mayhem or the Simpsons Ride (because the tram ride is so long it's best to experience another ride on the upper lot first). Otherwise, wait until the late afternoon when the lines die down.
Springfield
A stroll through the recently opened Springfield expansion to the popular Simpsons The Ride is sure to elicit a "woo hoo!" from fans of the beloved animated series. Springfield essentially serves as the park's food court, with Simpsons-themed offerings including Krusty Burger, Cletus' Chicken Shack, and Bumblebee Man's Taco Truck. Not surprisingly things get crowded during prime lunch time so try to eat early or during the late afternoon if you want to avoid the crowds. While taking your food on the go may be tempting, don't miss an opportunity to Krusty burger and a pint of Duff (or Duff Lite or even Duff Dry) at Moe's Tavern.
Manage Your Wait Times
Waits at popular Universal attractions during peak summer hours can extend well over an hour, so you'll want to come up with a game plan before visiting the park. Be sure to check when the park opens on the day of your visit and arrive as early as possible. Keep in mind that the walk from the lower lot (which features Transformers, Jurassic Park, and Revenge of the Mummy) to the upper lot (The Simpsons, Minion Mayhem, and the Tram Tour) is about 10 minutes so try to conquer one lot at a time.
Wait times for rides are posted throughout the park and are updated on the Universal Studios website. If you want to avoid the weekend crush, it might be worth splurging on a front of the line ticket which gives you one-time front of the line access to all of the park's rides and shows.
Ride a Movie, Watch a Movie
If Minion Mayhem and Jurassic Park The Ride leave you wanting more, consider taking a break from the park and checking out Minions and Jurassic World at Universal City Walk's AMC theater. Not only can you avoid the park's early afternoon mayhem, you'll also receive validation for $5 parking.
Come Out at Night
If you can't make it to Universal Studios early in the morning, you might be better off arriving late afternoon to avoid a stressful experience. If you get to the park after 3pm, you'll be rewarded with cheaper parking and shorter lines. As an added incentive, a special Nighttime Studio Tour will be featured on select dates through September 7.
