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Ultimate Guide: Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood

The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is in my opinion one of the best attractions at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

The World-Famous Studio Tour is a one-hour tour around the backlot at Universal. This is a real working movie studio, as such you’ll see sets from your favourite shows and movies as well as some of Hollywood’s most legendary filming locations.

This tour is suitable for the whole family (I recently did it with my wife and our 14-month-old little boy) and features two cinematic ride experiences; Fast & The Furious: Supercharged & King Kong 3D.

What Is The Universal Studio Tour?

The World-Famous Studio Tour takes you behind the scenes of a real film studio which has been the home to a number of movie and television shows since its inception over 50 years ago.

The tour is hosted by comedian Jimmy Fallon alongside a live guide who provides commentary throughout the duration of the tour.

Highlights Of The Studio Tour

During the tour, you will travel through different past various sound stages, and through movie sets. Throughout this time you’ll experience a variety of attractions including;

Bates Motel

This is perhaps the scariest part of the tour.

Here you’ll pull up to the Bates Motel from the epic thriller film Psycho just as Norman Bates himself is carrying a body from a room to place in the back of his truck.

As he does so, he spots you, a witness.

universal studios hollywood full tour

In an aim to cover his tracks, Norman will come towards you with a fake knife. Thankfully, the driver will begin to pull away just in time.

Norman gets closest to the back two carriages of the tram. As such I highly recommend sitting in the carriages closest to the front if you’re travelling with young children.

Plane Crash Wreckage

After escaping Norman Bates, you’ll enter the plane crash wreckage area of the tour. This features a commercial 747 aircraft which was purchased by the production company behind the hit 2005 film War of the Worlds, directed by Steven Spielberg.

universal studios hollywood full tour

The plane was chopped into pieces and transported to Universal where the full set has been left fully dressed as it was during filming.

Obviously, given how realistic this all is, it can be scary for younger guests.

Jupiter’s Claim

This new area of the backlot tour opened on July 22, 2022 (timed to open the same day as Jordan Peele’s movie Nope).

This is a drive-through area which has been rebuilt at Falls Lake (previously occupied by the Log Cabin) and features select theme park sets used in the sci-fi horror film.

Flash Flood Simulator

As you drive through the Mexcian Village, you’ll experience one of two flooding simulators that feature within the Universal Studios backlot tour.

This is one of the oldest parts of the backlot tour (in operation since 1968) and has appeared in countless films including Big Fat Liar and Fletch Lives.

In my opinion, this isn’t as scary as the other flash flood simulator which takes place as part of Earthquake: The Big One!

Earthquake: The Big One!

Earthquake: The Big One is the only split-level sound stage in the world, and has been in operation at Universal since 1969.

As the tram pulls into the subway area, an 8.4 Richter-level earthquake hits, causing a subway train to come off the tracks as it pulls into the station and flooding from the streets above to pour down into the underground.

Various scenes have been shot here including; Beverly Hills Cop III and Season 5, Episode 15 of the TV show Bones.

The Jaws portion of the Studio Tour dates back to 1967 and subsequently is one of the most nostalgic parts for long-time visitors.

universal studios hollywood full tour

As the tram approaches the water, the tension builds as the tour guide narrates the scene. Suddenly the giant animatronic shark jumps out of the water, jaws wide open.

King Kong 360 3-D

King Kong 360 3-D is one of two simulator-based rides on the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour.

This simulator was created by Peter Jackson himself and is the world’s largest 3-D experience.

The film lasts just a couple of minutes and see’s you caught in the middle of a terrifying struggle between a 35-foot T-Rex and the 8th wonder of the world – King Kong.

Fast & The Furious Supercharged

This is another simulator-based ride situated on the back lot tour.

Once again you’ll put on your 3D glasses and experience a high-speed chase alongside Dom and the gang. This is far from my favourite part of the tour, but sadly it’s not optional. Thankfully, it only lasts a couple of minutes.

Where Is The Universal Studios Tour Located?

The World Famous Studio Tour is located in a dedicated lower lot area of Universal Studios Hollywood which can be accessed from Springfield, home of The Simpsons via a number of escalators.

This dedicated lower lot area is not to be confused with the lower lot escalators down to Jurassic World & Super Nintendo World.

If you’re unsure as to where to go for the Studio Tour be sure to ask one of the Universal Studios team members situated around the park, or the Universal Studios mobile app which features a map with GPS.

How Long Is The Universal Studio Tour?

The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood lasts between 40 minutes and one hour. During the ride, there are no stops and no toilet breaks.

While the ride itself is between 40 minutes and an hour, the standby wait line for the ride can be another hour (give or take) depending on how busy the park is during your visit.

This ride is eligible for the Universal Express Pass so, if you are upgrading to the Universal Express Pass then you will be able to skip the line here. We did this during our most recent visit and we walked straight on (the standby line at the time was around 20 mins – February 2022).

How Much Does The Universal Studio Tour Cost?

The Universal Studios Tour is free.

However, to go on the tour you will need a Universal Studios Hollywood park ticket.

Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are sold using a dynamic pricing model based on estimated demand.

As such quieter days or times of year often have lower ticket prices, while more popular days and seasons (Christmas, Halloween, Spring Break, Summer etc.) have higher ticket prices.

This dynamic pricing model also applies to Universal Express Pass tickets and tickets for the VIP Experience.

Do You Have To Book The Universal Studio Tour?

Sadly, you can not book your tour of the Universal Studios backlot in advance. Instead, spaces on each tram are on a first-come, first-served basis. Each tram roughly holds between 100 and 150 people split across 6 or so carriages.

How Long Is The Wait For The Universal Studios Tour?

The wait time for the World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood can vary depending on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and season.

During quieter times at the park, you can wait as little as 10 or 20 minutes to board the tram. However, during peak periods such as holidays or weekends, wait times can be in excess of one hour.

Can You Use A Universal Express Ticket For The Universal Studio Tour?

A Universal Express ticket at Universal Studios Hollywood can be used for the Studio Tour, as well as for many of the other popular attractions and rides in the park.

The Universal Express ticket gives guests priority access to select attractions, allowing them to bypass the regular standby line and experience the attraction with a shorter wait time.

Best Time To Go On The Universal Studios Tour?

Generally, speaking the best time to go on the tour is in the morning when the park first opens.

During this time the crowds are typically smaller and the lines are shorter, allowing visitors to enjoy the tour with minimal wait times.

On the flip side, the worst time to go on the tour is usually in the early afternoon, just after lunchtime as most people get to this area of the park at this time of day.

Is The Universal Studios Tour Scary?

Certain areas and attractions within the World-Famous Universal Studio Tour may be scary to younger children. However, none of them last long (maximum of four minutes).

If you’re looking for thrill rides then this tour isn’t it!

Is The Universal Studios Tour Suitable For Babies & Toddlers?

The Universal Studios Tour is suitable for babies and toddlers.

However, you will be on the tram ride for up to an hour so be sure to bring any supplies you may need for that duration of time with you.

It’s also worth noting that children must remain seated throughout the duration of the tour for health and safety reasons. So if you have a restless little one consider bringing a book, toy or iPad.

universal studios hollywood full tour

There is an extensive stroller parking lot available in the Lower Lot area from where the tour departs, this is covered so if it does start raining while you’re out on the tour then your stroller should be protected.

Are There Any Height Or Weight Restrictions For The Studio Tour?

Unlike other rides at Universal Studios Hollywood there are no weight or height restrictions on the World-Famous Studio Tour.

Can You Take Photographs & Videos During The Studio Tour?

Visitors are permitted to take photographs and videos during The World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood.

However, flash photography is not permitted during the tours 3D cinema experiences (King Kong 360 & Fast and Furious: Supercharged).

Is The Studio Tour At Universal Studios Hollywood Worth It?

While going on the Studio Tour takes up a significant portion of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood park. I believe it’s a worthwhile time investment.

This tour provides a unique insight into how scenes from your favourite movies and TV shows are made while the expert tour guide provides some incredible Hollywood secrets.

Can You See Celebrities On The Universal Studios Hollywood Tour?

There is always the possibility of seeing celebrities on the World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, as the tour takes visitors through active movie and television sets where productions are often being filmed.

However, there is no guarantee.

I’ve been on this tour more than ten times over the past couple of years, and the only person I’ve seen is Mario Lopez who was filming at the entrance of the theme park.

Does Universal Studios Orlando Have A Backlot Tour?

Sadly, Universal Studios in Orlando does not have a backlot tour since it is a dedicated theme park, rather than a film studio.

The Universal Orlando Resort does, however, have a VIP Experience (which is also available at Universal Studios Hollywood).

The VIP Experience is a full-day tour of the Universal Studios park with a dedicated Universal guide. The ratio of guests to guide is roughly 8:1 so it’s a very personal experience in which you’ll skip the line on every ride in the park, go behind the scenes and learn park secrets.

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How the World-Famous Studio Tour Helped Shape Entertainment History

An old photo of a red and white striped tram traversing the "Little Europe" section of the Universal backlot.

The World-Famous Studio Tour celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, and Universal Studios Hollywood is pumped to celebrate. After six decades of taking guests around the iconic Universal backlot — and in the process, transforming themed entertainment forever — you’d better believe we have a lot to celebrate. From a limited-time chance to hop off the tram for photo ops to adorable merch to delightful retro-inspired treats, the theme park has a whole lot of fun planned from April 26 to August 11, 2024 . But you know what’s even more fun than Glamor Tram sugar cookies? Reading up on your history. Yes, kids, that’s right!

After 60 years running, the Studio Tour has entertained more than 200 million guests. It’s tough to imagine the themed entertainment world without it. It’s become one of the top things to do at Universal Studios Hollywood , and is an absolute must for any Universal Studios Hollywood itinerary . But in its early days there was no guarantee the Studio Tour would last — let alone give way to the modern theme park. To get a sense for its impact, we dug into the Universal archives to look back at the history of the Studio Tour. You know, before it was world-famous. So let’s hop in the time machine for a quick Universal history lesson, shall we? 

An Open Door Tradition 

A long empty road in California, with a billboard reading "VISIT UNIVERSAL CITY STUDIOS."

Universal has a long tradition of welcoming the public on set. In 1915, Universal Pictures founder Carl Laemmle opened the doors to spectators during filming. Guests paid 25 cents, took a seat in the bleachers, and watched as a show was filmed in front of them. 

“You could literally watch movies get made,” says John Murdy, a Universal Studios Hollywood creative director who oversaw the refurbishment of the Studio Tour in 2000. Murdy actually got his start at Universal as a Studio Tour guide in 1989. Back in the 1910s, the tour was far less structured than it is today. “It’s kind of crazy,” says Murdy, referring to archival photos of the early audiences. “They just seem to be roaming around the property, walking around, checking stuff out.”

Sounds distracting, sure. But one crucial difference between 1915 and today? Films were silent. Audiences could watch a scene being filmed like it was a stage play, and react audibly without interfering with the filmmaking process itself.  With the dawn of the talkies in the 1920s, Universal had to close its doors to guests, so as not to drive the sound guys up a wall. 

A Little Side Project

A black and white photo of an old house used in various Universal projects.

Fast-forward to 1964. Hollywood had changed quite a bit from the silent movie days. Not only did film have sound and color, but it had become a massive industry full of glitz and glamour. “It’s a weird era of Hollywood history,” says Murdy. “You’re coming out of the studio system days, and television is starting to impact the movie business.” With television competing for viewers’ attention, studios had to keep income coming in — and do so creatively. 

It turns out, the studio execs just had to trust their guts. Or, rather — trust tourists’ guts. Prior to Universal’s own Studio Tour, third-party Hollywood tours would come onto the lot, take a swing around the sets, and stop for lunch at the Studio Commissary. With those tourist trips came a big uptick in lunch sales. How could they keep those lunch sales coming?  

“That was literally the impetus for the Studio Tour,” says Murdy. “ How can we sell more lunches in the studio commissary? ” 

A young executive named Jay Stein was tasked to manage this newfangled vessel for lunch sales. Stein recruited Barry Upson, a designer of the 1964 Seattle World’s Fair, to realize Universal’s own backlot tour. Hollywood legend Harper Goff, responsible for the looks of several iconic 20th century, was brought on as the art director. Goff designed the now legendary candy-striped tour vehicles that criss-crossed the Universal backlot: the “GlamorTrams.” 

A wide shot of the main plaza during the early days of the Studio Tour.

In its inaugural year, guests would pay $2.50 (or $1.25 for kids), then hop aboard GlamorTrams to tour the Universal backlot. The two-hour tour included a look at outdoor film sets, a makeup demonstration, a costume display by legendary designer Edith Head and a two-man stunt show. Compared to the whole theme park we know and love today, the Universal Studio Tour was modest to say the least. “It was literally a booth on a trailer on Lankershim Boulevard,” says Murdy, who remembers visiting the Universal backlot as a kid in the early 1970s.  

We might take it for granted now, but regular folks getting to step foot on a movie set was a big deal at the time. Up to then, studios were shrouded in mystery and mystique. In a way, the Studio Tour democratized the moviemaking process — or at least, pulled back the curtain. As LA Times film critic Philip K. Scheuer wrote in 1964:

“You can now visit a bona fide movie and television studio…without having to contact a VIP who happens to be the relative of a bigger VIP, without presenting a letter from your hometown exhibitor or without, heaven be praised, making a last-ditch pitch to the motion picture editor of your favorite newspaper.” 

What was once reserved for the well-connected was now a mass-market product. By its third year, Universal reported 8,000 guests per day. 

An Opportunity For Innovation 

A red and white striped tram in front of the "Runaway Train" attraction on the Studio Tour.

Per his 2023 interview with the LA Times , Stein quickly realized two things in the early days of the Studio Tour. First, you couldn’t bank on the guests seeing an actor on the tour. They were unpredictable and at work. And some actors would even head for the hills at the sight of a GlamorTram. (Though, lots of them loved the tour. As Murdy remembers from his childhood visits to Universal, “We would always see Al Lewis, who played Grandpa Munster. Like, all the time. Whenever we came to Universal, he was just hanging out.”)  

Secondly, Stein realized that studios aren’t inherently entertaining places. Sure, they’re where entertainment is created , but movie sets involve a lot of not-so-dazzling work in between shots. It was from these two observations that Stein realized that in order to survive, Universal needed to guarantee excitement on every tour. They needed to create illusions that would be (from production’s point of view) predictable, repeatable, and above all, entertaining. Guests, of course, must experience it as thrilling and un predictable, duh. 

A black and white photo of a Universal Studio Tour tram half-submerged in the "Red Sea" attraction.

Throughout the following years, the tour expanded. It wasn’t just a peek behind the curtain anymore. It included a stunt show, an animal actors show, and a screen test comedy theater. A 1967 visitors pamphlet held in the Universal Archives advertised giant sound stages, a visit to a star’s dressing room, man-made lakes and waterfalls, a visit to the prop department, and exterior sets of New York, Europe, Hong Kong and the Old West. Over at the Visitors Center, guests would be treated to demonstrations by professional makeup artists, a showcase of film costumes, “push-button storms” on the Snow Set and the Rain Set, a peek inside the Munster laboratory (and the opportunity to “touch the button to bring Herman to ‘life’”), and more. 

A black and white photo of King Kong visiting a Universal Studio Tour tram.

The Studio Tour had evolved from guests visiting a movie set to guests experiencing movie magic in real time. Universal pushed the limits of interactive entertainment further and further. In the ‘70s, they expanded the studio tour, with the additions of heart-pumping attractions like “Flash Flood,” “Parting of the Red Sea,” and “Jaws Lake” to the itinerary. In the ‘80s, they premiered “Earthquake,” a scarily realistic simulation of an 8.3 seismic tremor. 

And what we now know as the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park came to life in the ‘90s, with attraction additions including “E.T. Adventure,” “Back to the Future: The Ride” and “Jurassic Park—The Ride.” Thanks to the Studio Tour, Universal found itself leading the industry in a whole new kind of fun. 

A 21st Century Tour

A head-on shot of a new electric Studio Tour tram.

In 2000, the Studio Tour underwent a refurbishment to bring it into the new millennium. As the creative director on that project (and a former tour guide himself), Murdy made it his mission to bring the history of the Studio Tour to life on the tour itself. “The main thing I wanted to do was to connect the dots for the guests between the sets they were looking at and the movies they’d seen,” says Murdy. That’s when screens were added to the Studio Tour. Guests could now look out at a set on the Universal backlot, then immediately see a clip of how it had been utilized in a film or show. Murdy had a team whose job it was to watch movies and TV shows to find specific shots of the backlot they needed for the Studio Tour. “I’d be like, ‘I’m pretty sure they walk down Brownstone Street in this ‘50s movie. Can you find that shot?’” In doing so, the Studio Tour became a vehicle (pun intended) for bringing movie history to life — as it remains today. 

Over the past 60 years, Universal Studios Hollywood has gone from entertaining guests with makeup tutorials, to natural disasters caused by movie magic, to adrenaline-pumping thrill rides. Attractions have come and gone, but what remains is the storied past of a studio that brings the screen to real life. And it all began with the Studio Tour. Giving the average movie fan a peek behind the curtain birthed a series of innovations that have changed entertainment forever. 

What’s your favorite part of the World-Famous Studio Tour? Let us know in the comments below!

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Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates 60th Anniversary in Style With Revamped Studio Tour

The iconic backstage attraction has been redesigned for a special limited experience.

The Big Picture

  • The return of Glamor Trams on Universal's Studio Tour offers a blend of Hollywood nostalgia and direct access to movie sets for an authentic experience.
  • New photo opportunities include a giant King Kong backdrop, a hanging Jaws shark, and a replica of the Hollywood Sign.
  • Renovations to attractions like the Earthquake—The Big One, Runaway Train, and the Jurassic Park dinosaur display promise an immersive experience for visitors.

As Universal Studios Hollywood approaches its momentous 60-year milestone, the iconic theme park is set to reissue its famous red and white candy-striped Glamor Trams , inviting visitors to celebrate in style from April 26 through August 11 . The landmark anniversary promises an unparalleled fusion of new and nostalgic enhancements that will captivate guests and immerse them in the magic of filmmaking like never before.

The return of the iconic Glamor Trams is a nod to the park's storied past, offering guests a unique blend of Hollywood nostalgia and behind-the-scenes access. For the first time, visitors will have the chance to step off the tram and directly onto a legendary movie set. This exceptional experience is highlighted by an original, fully restored 1964 vintage Glamor Tram, providing an authentic slice of Hollywood history.

In celebration of such a special anniversary, Universal Studios Hollywood is also introducing several new photo opportunities that are sure to delight film enthusiasts and Instagrammers alike. Guests can strike a pose against a giant King Kong backdrop, stand beneath the park's original hanging Jaws shark, and marvel at the first-ever original replica of the Hollywood Sign, erected on the backlot in honor of the sign's centennial. These unique settings offer the perfect backdrop for capturing memories that will last a lifetime.

What Attractions Are Changing?

"Earthquake— The Big One ," a classic attraction that simulates an 8.3 magnitude quake, has been reimagined with cutting-edge technology and aesthetics. The renovation promises to deliver a more immersive and realistic experience, making it feel as if the ground beneath your feet is truly shaking.

The nostalgia continues with the return of the Runaway Train , complete with warning bells and sirens, and a new, colossal Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur display adjacent to a paddock of wild dinosaurs. These additions, alongside the behemoth dimensional dinosaur display, promise to transport guests straight into the thrilling world of Jurassic Park .

Fans of the Back to the Future series will be delighted to find Courthouse Square transformed into a nostalgic haven of Hill Valley reborn. An original DeLorean time machine will be on display, and guests might even encounter the beloved Doc Brown character roaming the area. The immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to step into the shoes of Marty McFly and relive the magic of the movies.

Universal Studios Hollywood's 60th-anniversary celebration promises to be an unforgettable journey through the heart of Hollywood's filmmaking history. With the return of the Glamor Trams, newly enhanced attractions, and immersive movie set experiences, visitors of all ages are in for a treat. Mark your calendars for April 26 through August 11 and prepare to step into a world where movie magic comes to life. Grab your park tickets below.

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Universal studios, universal studios | universal studios hollywood brings ‘fall guy’ pre-show to ‘waterworld’ stuntacular, the limited-time 'fall guy stuntacular pre-show' runs for three weeks from april 27 to may 19..

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The stunt team behind “John Wick” and “Deadpool” will bring a new pre-show to the “Waterworld” stuntacular at Universal Studios Hollywood based on the $125 million Universal Pictures film “The Fall Guy” coming to theaters next month.

The limited-time “Fall Guy Stuntacular Pre-Show” will run for three weeks from April 27 to May 19 as an introduction to the three-decade-old “Waterworld” stunt show on Universal’s upper lot.

SEE ALSO: Universal Studios Hollywood celebrates 60th anniversary with retro Studio Tour

The “Waterworld” pre-show serves as a movie tie-in to “The Fall Guy” theatrical release on May 3 starring Ryan Gosling (“Barbie”), Emily Blunt (“Oppenheimer”), Hannah Waddingham (“Ted Lasso”), Stephanie Hsu (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Winston Duke (“Black Panther”) and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (“Bullet Train”).

“The Fall Guy” movie, inspired by the 1980s television series, follows the exploits of former stuntman Colt Seavers (Gosling) who springs back into service when a blockbuster film star suddenly disappears.

The “Fall Guy Stuntacular Pre-Show” pulls back the curtain on how movie stunt performances are designed and brought to life with an original storyline created for the Universal live-action stunt show set in an aquatic amphitheater.

The “Fall Guy” pre-show is being produced by the 87North production company behind the Gosling/Blunt star vehicle and other stunt-heavy action films like “John Wick,” “Deadpool 2,” “Nobody” and “Violent Night.”

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Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour Anniversary Celebration- NEW Ride Scenes

Glamor Tram Universal Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Studio Tour this summer with the return of classic attractions from the tour, like the iconic earthquake scene, along with the return of a several iconic red and white candy-striped Glamor Trams.

Universal Studios Hollywood will feature other exciting additions to the Studio Tour throughout the summer including the chance for historic photo op moments with the original hanging Jaws shark and more.

The Studio Tram is an essential part of Universal Studios Hollywood history, keep reading for the full overview of this new celebration including dates and offerings for this new event.

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Studio Tour 60th Anniversary Celebration Dates

The Studio Tour is being transformed to celebrate the 60th anniversary and this celebration is being called an “experimental program” by Universal Studios Hollywood . This indicates we might see these changes extended past the celebration date or at least some of these new elements remaining a permanent addition.

The Studio Tour celebration takes place from  April 26th 2024 through August 11th, 2024.

Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour Celebrates 60 Years

The Studio Tour is a huge part of Universal Studios Hollywood history as this is the attraction that started it all. In 1964, Universal City Studios began inviting tourists to see Hollywood sets in person on the iconic red and white Glamor Trams.

The Studio Tour has spanned 60 years and has undergone many different transformations and has always remained an essential part of a day at Universal Studios Hollywood. We always recommend guests prioritize experiencing the Studio Tour as this attraction is uniquely Universal Studios Hollywood!

In honor of the Studio Tour's 60th anniversary, the attraction is undergoing some temporary changes (and likely some permanent additions..!) to showcase this incredible history.

The queue itself will be transformed as the monitors in this area will play archival images and videos of the tour's history along with a new all-original augmented reality (AR) Studio Tour trivia challenge.

Universal is also bringing back several iconic red and white candy-striped Glamor Trams as part of the Studio Tour celebration. Let's get into all the new changes coming to the Studio Tour for this celebration!

Enhanced Earthquake Scene Returns

There will be multiple changes to the Studio Tour to honor this iconic attraction's 60th anniversary.

One of the biggest highlights is the return of the “Earthquake—The Big One” attraction which debuted on the Studio Tour in 1989. This element of Studio Tour included a realistic 8.3 magnitude earthquake. The simulated earthquake attraction has undergone a “top to bottom renovation” and will debut as part of the tour once more with new technology and aesthetics.

This is one aspect of the Studio Tour from this special celebration that will become a permanent addition to the tour as this is really just a returning element after its long refurbishment which started in June 2023 when the scene was removed from tour to undergo these new changes.

Runaway Train Cameo

The Studio Tour will also feature the temporary return of the 1976 Runaway Train from the attraction which will make a cameo appearance on the tour. Warning bells and sirens will alarm and guests will be able to view clips of the former Studio Tour attractions on the tram's monitors.

Historic Universal Props & Attraction Elements

The Studio Tour will feature a variety of historical Universal props from the studio's history for guests to see up close!

Universal is bringing back several iconic red and white candy-striped Glamor Trams as part of the Studio Tour celebration. There will also be an opportunity for guests to step off the tram and onto a legendary movie set where an original, fully restored 1964 vintage Glamor Tram will be available to view. Once guests step off the tram in this area, they will also be able to see the theme park's original hanging Jaws shark and a giant King Kong backdrop.

Studio Tram Tour

Another stop on the Studio Tour will include a visit to Courthouse Square where scenes from Back to the Future movies were filmed. This area will include an original time machine picture car on display along with a nearby Doc Brown character interaction.

The historic movie props don't stop there with the addition of a “behemoth dimensional Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur display” that was used in the promotion of the Jurassic World movie. This giant, growling dinosaur will be located next to a locked paddock of dinosaurs that can be heard screeching and trying to escape.

Finally, guests will also have the chance to be among the first to see the new officially sanctioned Hollywood Sign replica which was the result of a collaboration with Universal and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. This large scale reproduction was created from the Sign's historic records and stands at 10 feet tall.

I anticipate high demand for the Studio Tour this summer and purchasing Express Pass can be a great way to avoid long wait times during this celebration.

Universal Announces Conversion of Trams to Electric

The Studio Tour is also in the midst of improvements that help reduce carbon emissions and improve guest experience. Universal Studios Hollywood is currently in the midst of converting its fleet of 21 diesel-hydraulic engines to electric trams.

This change helps reduce carbon emissions and improves guest experience by reducing the noise that is associated with the diesel engine.

Studio Tour 60th Anniversary Celebration Food

The Studio Tour 60th anniversary celebration will also feature retro themed food along with opportunity to purchase a dining pass.

The Dining Pass will allow guests to choose six eligible menu items: a choice of two entrees, plus a choice of four snacks, sides, desserts or beverages at participating restaurants or food carts. Select in-park venues and food carts are excluded, and the Dining Pass is valid only on the day of purchase.

Hollywood & Dine, located on the Upper Lot of the theme park, will feature BBQ Brisket Sandwich, BBQ Cheeseburger, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Summer Strawberry Salad, BBQ Corn Dog and Film Reel Cookie Sandwich.

Burger and fries

Mel’s Diner, also located on the Upper Lot, will feature Mel’s Classic Burger, Beyond Meat BBQ Cheeseburger, Chili Cheese Dog, Tuna Melt, Chicken Caeser Salad. This location will also include two mid-century TV dinner style platters: the Meatloaf Combo and Fried Chicken Combo.

Studio Scoops ice-cream parlor on the Lower Lot will also offer themed desserts.

Assortment of pretzels and donuts

But the best part is the City Snack Shop outdoor food cart, located on the Upper Lot, will be transformed into a Glamor Tram serving themed food like the Glam Tram Cookie, Film Reel Cookie Sandwich, Giant 60th Pretzel, 60th Celebration Cookies and Banana Breath Popcorn.

Studio Tour 60th Anniversary Merchandise

The Studio Tour 60th anniversary merchandise will feature a pop corn bucket shaped like a Glamor Tram along with a variety of retro-themed souvenirs all highlighting the iconic Glamor Tram. This popcorn bucket (featured above) is so cute, this is a must for those that collect theme park popcorn buckets.

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Classic film lovers: See James Dean’s apartment and more on new TCM tour at Warner Bros.

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In 2021, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour created new interactive exhibits focused on the company’s recent history, unveiling areas dedicated to the DC Comics universe and the “Harry Potter” franchise.

This week, the popular Studio Tour in Burbank is doubling down on its more distant past.

Warner Bros. is now offering a Turner Classic Movies-branded version of its studio tour that will bring guests to previously off-limit areas of the lot, including vintage animation buildings, a mini rose garden and an apartment that once housed James Dean. The 90-minute tram portion of the jaunt — about 30 minutes longer than the studio’s standard tram excursion — will allow guides to go deeper into the history of the studio’s catalog to deliver factoids related to such films as “Casablanca,” “My Fair Lady,” “Rebel Without a Cause,” “Auntie Mame” and many more.

“We’re off the leash,” says Brad Taylor, a 15-year tour guide veteran with Warner Bros., noting that the TCM excursion will include time for guides to chat with visitors about their favorite films.

The TCM hosts are seen on on the Warner Bros. backlot.

“We get to talk to the guests and really hang out with people who have the same passion that we do,” Taylor says. “I find that ‘classics’ guests are less about behind-the-scenes and more, ‘I can’t believe this is where we are.’ It’s just the look on their faces when they realize ‘Casablanca’ filmed here, or James Dean stood right here.”

The launch of the TCM tour arrives during the network’s 30th anniversary and close to 12 months after classic film fans were given a scare. In June, Warner Bros. announced that layoffs would hit TCM, including some of the network’s top executives, prompting concern from prestige directors such as Steven Spielberg, Paul Thomas Anderson and Martin Scorsese. After garnering national attention, key cuts were reversed and Warner Bros. sought to assure fans that TCM would continue to be handled with care.

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TCM network hosts — Eddie Muller, Jacqueline Stewart, Ben Mankiewicz, Alicia Malone and Dave Karger — recorded new video segments for the outing. The tour will take guests into the lot’s Property House, an area not visited by the standard tour. Here, visitors can get glimpses of materials for a full set, including items for a complete Oval Office setting, but expect guides to highlight vintage items, such as a throne from the Errol Flynn pirate film “Captain Blood.”

Danny Kahn, vice president-general manager of the studio tour, says there have been numerous requests over the years from guests to delve a little deeper into the studio’s animation history. That’s why the TCM tour will for the first time take visitors to an area of the lot once known as “Termite Terrace,” which from 1955 to 1964, says Taylor, housed the animation department, a building with a sloped roof designed to capture sunlight. Animation legend Chuck Jones, says Kahn, had an office in the Termite Terrace area in the 1990s despite Warner’s moving animation production elsewhere.

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Another unique tour locale is the exterior of the Dean apartment. When Dean resided there during filming of “East of Eden,” it was actually across the street from the lot, the apartment nesting above a pharmacy. But gradual studio expansion has led to the area now being on Warner Bros. property.

“That was an actual drugstore with apartments, and the studio rented it for him,” Kahn says. “I think it was to keep an eye on him and keep him on a short leash.”

The tour will also give tram riders a look at executive life at the studio, allowing them to briefly walk around a rose garden. The manicured spaces once held a tennis court as well as offices and personal screening rooms for the likes of studio mogul Jack Warner, with many of the structures dating to the 1920s. “It’s a really historic area of the lot that hasn’t really changed a lot in all these years,” says Kahn, noting the area is still in use by studio principals. “Jack Warner, when he ran the studio, privatized the first floor. That was a massage parlor that he had beneath his office.”

TCM Classic Films Tour

Where: The Warner Bros. Studio, 3400 Warner Blvd., Burbank 91505

When: Most days, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Cost: $95 for adults; $82 for children. A SoCal resident discount is available for $75

Info: (818) 977-8687 or wbstudiotour.com

Staples of the tour, such as a journey around the backlot city streets, a visit to the “Friends” set and cafe and recent additions highlighting the studio’s modern franchise films are included in the TCM trek, as is a pre-tour reception with beverages and pastries. All told, expect the tour to last about 3½ hours. A tour spokesperson says the first TCM-branded outing is scheduled for Wednesday, with trams expected to depart daily after that date. Adult tickets are $95, but there is a Southern California resident discount available for $75.

“It feels so good to have TCM here,” Kahn says. “People understand that the TCM brand is synonymous with classic film.”

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Universal Studios Hollywood Is Being Sued After Guests Got Stuck On A Harry Potter Ride, And It Sounds Like Hell

Guests are suing for injuries they claim they sustained on a Harry Potter ride.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Jpurney promo art with Daniel Radcliffe

Theme park attractions break down and that often leads to frustrated guests who either can’t experience certain rides, or get stuck on the ride that has broken down. It’s annoying, but there is usually no harm done. However, in one recent case, four people are claiming harm and are now suing Universal Studios Hollywood after they got stuck on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and honestly, I get it.

The incident took place in April 2022, when a power outage at Universal Studios Hollywood , froze both the Harry Potter ride and the Transformers ride. EW got a look at the lawsuit in which four guests who were on the ride at the time. Debra Biane, Gerald Scott Biane, Josh Taylorson, and Sami-Joh Goldberg are suing Universal Studios Hollywood for liability, negligence, and the infliction of emotional distress. 

According to the complaint, the four were on the attraction at Universal Hollywood’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter when the ride vehicle stopped in its tracks. The guests were stuck in the air at an angle that left them “tilted backward and to the right” for approximately an hour. The ride vehicle then moved enough to get the group upright, but they remained stuck in the vehicle for an additional 30 minutes before they were able to be evacuated.

This is literally my nightmare. Not because I have an issue with getting stuck on a theme park ride, I’ve been on enough rides that I’ve experienced my share of breakdowns, but Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is not my favorite attraction in the world when it is working properly-- never mind when it breaks down. The ride vehicle swings you at all sorts of unnatural angles and it gives me more motion sickness issues than most roller coasters. 

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Some people may have nightmares of getting stuck on It’s a Small World and hearing the song for an hour while they wait to be rescued, but I’d much rather do that than be stuck on Forbidden Journey. At this point, I only go on it when I start to wonder if maybe it’s not as bad as I remember. It is. It always is.

While the vast majority of people ride theme park attractions without incident, when you consider the millions who go on popular rides every year, there are going to be the occasional issues. We’ve seen ride breakdowns go viral on social media before and lawsuits certainly do happen when people claim injury on a theme park resort property. We rarely hear about these issues after the initial lawsuit filing, indicating that most often settlements are reached or cases are dismissed before they ever reach courtrooms.

Two years ago a California grandmother also sued Universal Studios Hollywood over the same Harry Potter attractio n, though in that case the woman was injured while in the queue, not on the ride itself.

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CinemaBlend’s resident theme park junkie and amateur Disney historian, Dirk began writing for CinemaBlend as a freelancer in 2015 before joining the site full-time in 2018. He has previously held positions as a Staff Writer and Games Editor, but has more recently transformed his true passion into his job as the head of the site's Theme Park section. He has previously done freelance work for various gaming and technology sites. Prior to starting his second career as a writer he worked for 12 years in sales for various companies within the consumer electronics industry. He has a degree in political science from the University of California, Davis.  Is an armchair Imagineer, Epcot Stan, Future Club 33 Member.

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Universal Orlando Kick Starts Halloween Horror Nights Earlier Than Ever in 2024

The scary season gets an extra few weeks this year at Universal Studios Orlando when Halloween Horror Nights kicks off earlier than ever!

A scare actor dressed as the Bride of Frankenstein with their hand stretched out to the camera.

Usually, when the weather starts to turn and brown leaves start to alight on the wind, Halloween season is near. But for the first time ever at Universal Studios Orlando, the Florida heat will still be blazing as the scares come out to play. 

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Because of the enormous demand from visitors around the world and its international standing as one of the best Halloween attractions in the US, Universal Orlando’s  Halloween Horror Nights returns this year earlier than ever opening on select nights from August 30 through November 3. That gives visitors 48 nights this fall to savor the scares in all parts of the resort!

What's new at this year's Halloween Horror Nights in Orlando?

A scare actor dressed as a skeleton creature in the middle of a crowd at Halloween Horror Nights.

While the specifics of this year's haunted houses and scare zones have yet to be announced, Universal Studios Orlando promises "10 all-new movie-quality haunted houses inspired by cinematic greats and eerie original stories...and five scare zones filled with hundreds of menacing creatures who will reign the streets of Universal Studios Florida." As always, the scare ideas come from the minds of Universal’s Entertainment team , who look to both classic horror and contemporary titles as their inspirations. 

There will also be a new lineup of HHN's food, merchandise and themed popcorn buckets for visitors to partake in between the screams. 

Where can visitors book tickets or packages?

Halloween Horror Nights Dr Oddfellows Collection Of Horror

Per Universal Studios Resort, single-night event tickets and Express Passes for Halloween Horror Nights are available for purchase now . Guests can also stay, scream and save up to $200 (based on a seven-night stay) with a special vacation package that includes one-night admission to the event and accommodations at a Universal hotel located just minutes from the haunts. This package also includes admission to all three Universal Orlando theme parks to enjoy some of the most innovative rides and attractions ever created during the day, before facing the chills of Halloween Horror Nights at night. Plus, hotel guests receive exclusive benefits including access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights gate for faster entry into the event, Early Park Admission to the theme parks during the day, complimentary resort transportation, and more.

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Are there V.I.P. tickets for Halloween Horror Nights 2024?

An Actor during Halloween Horror Nights 69 Summer Of Blood

Absolutely! Halloween Horror Nights upgrades are also available for purchase now, including the guided, nighttime R.I.P. Tour experience where guests receive priority V.I.P. access to the haunted houses; and the Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour that offers a glimpse into how the scares are brought to life via a daytime, lights-on journey through select haunted houses. For guests who can’t wait to peek at what’s in-store this year, there’s also a limited, three-house Behind The Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour available for purchase for select days starting Aug. 11.

To find out all of the Halloween Horror Nights event dates or to buy tickets, check out the website . 

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  4. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD TOUR RIDE

  5. 2023 UNIVERSAL STUDIO HOLLYWOOD RIDES IN 4K

  6. Universal Studios Florida 2019 Tour and Overview

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  1. Universal Studios Hollywood

    This is a full walking tour of Universal Studios in 2022, capturing every area of the park, including attraction ride-throughs, shops, restaurants, shows and...

  2. Universal Studios Hollywood

    Experience the Studio Tour, the ultimate Hollywood movie adventure. See how movies are made, ride with your favorite characters, and explore iconic sets.

  3. Universal Studios Hollywood

    Step Off the Tram and Onto the Studio Backlot. Starting April 26 Join the 60th Anniversary celebration of the world-famous Studio Tour. Don't miss the all-new experience that lets you step off the classic tram and onto the studio backlot.

  4. Full STUDIO TOUR at Universal Studios Hollywood

    Recorded on January 2, 2023. FULL Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood. Completely uncut, unedited.Highlights on this tour included active filming for ...

  5. Ultimate Guide: Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood

    King Kong 360 3-D is one of two simulator-based rides on the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour. This simulator was created by Peter Jackson himself and is the world's largest 3-D experience. The film lasts just a couple of minutes and see's you caught in the middle of a terrifying struggle between a 35-foot T-Rex and the 8th wonder of ...

  6. 4K FULL Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood reopening ...

    A full tram ride on the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour on the park's official reopening day of Friday, April 16, 2021.

  7. Universal Studios Hollywood

    Discover the magic of movie making on the Studio Tour, the signature attraction of Universal Studios Hollywood. See the sets, props, and effects of your favorite films and TV shows, and experience the thrill of riding along with King Kong, Fast & Furious, and Jaws. Don't miss this unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of Hollywood's most famous studio.

  8. What to Know About Universal Studios Hollywood's Studio Tour

    In Universal Studios Hollywood's studio backlot and front lot, there are about 30 film sets and 35 working sound stages where hundreds of famous movies and TV shows have been filmed. In fact, these sets comprise most of the tour. Some of the most notable films made on the lot include "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," "Back to the Future," "Jaws ...

  9. Studio Tour

    The world-famous Universal Studio Tour - the very heart and soul of Universal Studios Hollywood. Witness how a full-fledged movie studio operates and get the chance to see actual sets from your favorite movies and television shows. Take a tour of the world-famous Universal Studios backlot - one of the world's biggest and busiest ...

  10. Universal Studios Hollywood

    Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place: thrilling Theme Park rides and shows, a real working movie studio, and Los Angeles' best shops, restaurants and cinemas at CityWalk. Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique experience that's fun for the whole family. Parking and Directions to Universal Studios Hollywood

  11. Guide to the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary Celebration

    Attractions, Events. Guide to the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary Celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood. April 2, 2024. Happy 60th Anniversary to the World-Famous Studio Tour! This beloved attraction isn't just a fan favorite; it kicked off a series of innovations that completely reshaped the themed entertainment industry.

  12. How To Spend One Day at Universal Studios Hollywood

    The Traditional English Breakfast here is my favorite first meal of the day at Universal. It comes complete with eggs, sausage, baked beans, baked tomato, bacon, ham, potatoes, a butter croissant and black pudding, plus coffee or juice, you'll feel geared up to meet a Hippogriff on Flight of the Hippogriff. Afterwards, bop around Hogsmeade ...

  13. How the Universal Studio Tour Helped Shape Entertainment History

    How the World-Famous Studio Tour Helped Shape Entertainment History. April 18, 2024. The World-Famous Studio Tour celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, and Universal Studios Hollywood is pumped to celebrate. After six decades of taking guests around the iconic Universal backlot — and in the process, transforming themed entertainment ...

  14. LA City Tour, Sightseeing & Tours

    All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Tour Reservations: Guests are required to make reservations forty-eight (48) hours prior to tour start date. Upon receipt of your E-Travel Document, please call 818-538-6287 or email [email protected] to confirm your tour information and discuss pick up procedures.

  15. FULL Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood. Reopened ...

    [4K] A full tram ride on the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

  16. Universal Studios Hollywood Tour!

    Explore Universal Studios. Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place: Universal Studios Hollywood. With thrilling park rides and shows, a real working movie studio, and LA's best shops, restaurants, and cinemas at CityWalk, Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique experience that's fun for the whole family.

  17. Universal Studios Hollywood

    Universal Studios Hollywood is a film studio and theme park in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles County, ... It was initially created to offer tours of the real Universal Studios sets and is the first of many full-fledged Universal Studios Theme Parks located across the world. ... The tour of the Universal Studios back lot, which ...

  18. Universal Studios Celebrates 60th Anniversary With Revamped Studio Tour

    Universal Studios Hollywood's 60th-anniversary celebration promises to be an unforgettable journey through the heart of Hollywood's filmmaking history. With the return of the Glamor Trams, newly ...

  19. PHOTOS, VIDEO: Take a Full Tour of Super Nintendo World at Universal

    Super Nintendo World is open for technical rehearsals at Universal Studios Hollywood and will have its grand opening on February 17, 2023. Let's take a full tour of this new themed land and see what awaits us through the Warp Pipe entrance. Entrance The entrance to Super Nintendo World is

  20. Tour the Sheraton Universal Hotel at Universal Studios Hollywood

    Sheraton Universal Hotel. The hotel is located right by the theme park. It's about a 5-10 minute walk from Universal Studios Hollywood. The best way to walk to the park is by taking the outdoor elevators up to the Hilton and crossing the bridge to the entrance of the park. The above photo was taken from the top of the elevators on the same ...

  21. Universal Studios Hollywood brings 'Fall Guy' pre-show to 'Waterworld

    The stunt team behind "John Wick" and "Deadpool" will bring a new pre-show to the "Waterworld" stuntacular at Universal Studios Hollywood based on the $125 million Universal Pictures ...

  22. Calendar and Hours

    World-Famous Studio Tour. VIP Experience. Special Offers. BUY TICKETS AND PASSES. Calendar and Hours. Home; Calendar and Hours; Today: April 18, 2024. Universal Studios Hollywood. ... Download the Official Universal Studios Hollywood App Today! Everything you need in the palm of your hand. Maps, wait times, show times, plus free WiFi. Get Details.

  23. Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour Anniversary Celebration- NEW

    Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour Celebrates 60 Years. The Studio Tour is a huge part of Universal Studios Hollywood history as this is the attraction that started it all. In 1964, Universal City Studios began inviting tourists to see Hollywood sets in person on the iconic red and white Glamor Trams.

  24. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD: Full Backlot Studio Tour [4K]

    The Studio Tour (also known as The Backlot Tour) is a ride attraction at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park in the Los Angeles area of Universal City...

  25. What to expect on the new TCM tour at Warner Bros. Studios

    Info: (818) 977-8687 or wbstudiotour.com. Staples of the tour, such as a journey around the backlot city streets, a visit to the "Friends" set and cafe and recent additions highlighting the ...

  26. PHOTOS, VIDEO: Tour the New Universal Studios Hollywood Visa Lounge

    The new Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature Card comes with several perks, including access to an exclusive Visa Lounge. Universal Rewards Plus card holders will be able to access a lounge at both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood. The lounge is not open in Orlando yet, but the one located in Hollywood is now available ...

  27. Universal Studios Hollywood Is Being Sued After Guests Got Stuck On A

    Universal Studios Hollywood Is Being Sued After Guests Got Stuck On A Harry Potter Ride, And It Sounds Like Hell ... The 60th Anniversary Of The Studio Tour. Universal Studio's New Trams Are A ...

  28. 'Jaws' Amity Island Gifts Closing Permanently at Universal Studios

    The full ride is an expanded version of the "Jaws" section of the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, which has been part of the attraction since 1976. For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT.

  29. When is Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights 2024 Scheduled?

    By Tara Bennett Apr 10, 2024, 5:26 PM ET. The Bride of Frankenstein is seen during the opening night of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles, California on Sept. 7 ...