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Guide to the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary Celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood

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. To honor this game-changing tram tour, Universal Studio Hollywood has a whole bunch of vintage-inspired fun in store from April 26 to August 11, 2024 .

A (very) quick history lesson: The Studio Tour began in 1964 as Universal Studios’ humble effort to get tourists onto the lot to pay for lunch at the commissary. Guests paid $2.50, hopped aboard a candy-striped “GlamorTram,” and got to peek at film sets, a stunt show, a makeup demonstration and a costume show. In doing so, Universal effectively demystified the movie-making process, as film sets had until then been largely closed off to the public. But beyond that, the Universal Studio Tour birthed a series of innovations that changed entertainment forever. Showcasing practical effects on the Studio Tour led to creating thrill rides based on beloved movies, which led to…well, what Universal Studios Hollywood is today. 

Six decades and over 200 million guests later, the Studio Tour basically invented the modern theme park. So how could Universal not throw a party for it? Here’s everything you need to know about the celebrations for the 60 th Anniversary of the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood .

A Special Edition Studio Tour 

Even if you’ve been on the Studio Tour before, you’ve definitely never experienced what the 60 th Anniversary of the Studio Tour has to offer. Naturally, the biggest Studio Tour celebrations are happening on the attraction itself. The whole tour is getting a makeover for its anniversary, including updated decor, new scripts for the tour guides, and new media content (featuring new celebrity cameos) you’ll watch on the tour.

The trams themselves are getting in on the fun, too: several will be made up to look like old school, candy-striped Glamor Trams, just like those from the 1960s. Plus, new (and oh-so quiet) electric trams will take guests cruising through the past in modern style. 

Step Onto an Iconic Movie Set 

The 60th Anniversary Studio Tour is so much more than a makeover. For the first time in decades, guests will get to step off the Studio Tour trams and experience the studio backlot by foot! Once the tram reaches a certain well-known movie set, you’ll get to deboard for some extra special photo ops. Not only will you get an opportunity to get up close and personal with an old-school Glamor Tram, but you’ll get unique photo ops inspired by some of Universal’s most adored blockbusters. Some of those include special, cinematic AR filters, but we’ll keep that as a fun surprise. 

And, just a heads up, you are on one of the creepiest sets in movie history. Keep an eye out for a certain someone lurking around the set. He just might be amenable to a selfie — if you’re lucky. 

Experience Historic Studio Tour Moments

The World-Famous Studio Tour is always a fun history lesson, but this special version will really relish in the legacy of this iconic attraction. Several iterations of the Studio Tour have traversed the studio backlot. That means celebrated experiences have come and gone, including the Parting of the Red Sea, the Ice Tunnel, and so many more. This year’s gussied-up tour will give you a taste of those retired moments: as you pass the location of an erstwhile Studio Tour moment, the tram screens will display what Classic Moment used to be there. For history nerds like me, this is huge.

Even better, though: one of those Classic Moments is returning to the World-Famous Studio Tour for this celebratory event! The Runaway Train , which originally ran from 1974-1985, will be in the backlot for the 60 th Anniversary of the Studio Tour. (An archival photo of the original is shown above.) If you want to see an old-school attraction up close, you’ll definitely need to take a spin on the Studio Tour this summer. 

A New Look For a Beloved Classic 

One beloved Studio Tour moment has a whole new look for 2024. “Earthquake – The Big One” which replicates an 8.3 Richter scale seismic shift inside a 1989 San Francisco BART station, has been revamped as a modern subway stop, complete with electric bikes and sleek white tiles. Don’t worry, “Earthquake – The Big One” hasn’t lost any of the thrills its namesake promises. Complete with a fire, a ceiling crashing in, a gas tank sliding into the station, a flood — all fabricated with practical effects, of course – the 21st century spin on the crowd favorite won’t disappoint. 

Celebratory Food and Beverage Offerings

What’s a celebration without party food, right? Throughout the festivities, Universal will have special, retro-inspired eats, drinks and desserts available throughout the park. Here’s what you can expect on the food and beverage front:

Special Edition Popcorn Bucket

Great news for collectors: for the 60 th Anniversary of the Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood is rolling out one of its more adorable popcorn buckets ever. Classic Universal cartoon character Woody Woodpecker helms the Studio Tour on this delightful snack vessel. Woody might not actually drive the Glamor Tram in real life, but let us dream, OK?

Festive Drinks

The park has two celebratory drinks on tap to honor the 60th. And they are both, in a word, extra — in the very best way. First is the non-alcoholic Lava Lamp , a swirl of Sprite, alcohol-free blue Curaçao, grenadine and sparkling cranberry juice, topped with blue raspberry Pop Rocks. 

For the 21+ crowd, there’s the Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend , a vodka hibiscus lemonade; the Shark Bite , a tequila-based drink with tropical vibes and a shark lollipop; the Old Hollywood , with whiskey, a root beer liqueur and cream soda; and the rum-based Kong Tiki which, appropriately, uses banana and other fruit flavors. When I said extra , I meant it. 

Celebratory Snacks

Guests can enjoy 60th Anniversary snacks on-the-go, too. City Snack Shop , a to-go stand flanking Production Plaza on the Upper Lot, is offering giant pretzels shaped like the number 60, special edition Banana Breath Popcorn (that’s caramel + banana chips), and a whole lineup of commemorative sugar cookies — including one shaped like a candy-striped Glamor Tram. Just don’t forget to Instagram it before you take a bite!

Nostalgic Meals

You’ll find the bulk of the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary offerings at Hollywood & Dine and Mel’s , two eateries located on the Upper Lot. Hollywood & Dine will boast a drool-worthy slate of sandwiches — smoked brisket, BBQ cheeseburger, BBQ pulled pork, and BBQ grilled chicken — all on adorable Woody Woodpecker buns. Over at Mel’s, guests will nosh on fried chicken and meatloaf served on throwback combo trays. It’s just so charmingly ‘60s, isn’t it? 

Delightful Desserts

If you’re a can’t-skip-dessert person like me, you’ll be particularly amped for the Studio Tour 60th anniversary. Over at Hollywood & Dine, guests can dig into sweets inspired by Woody Woodpecker’s pal Chilly Willy: the Chilly Willy Funnel Cake, and the Chilly Willy snowball. Film Reel Cookie Sandwich, which is a sugar cookie with cream filling shaped, yes, like a film reel. Lights! Camera! Dig in! 

Down on the Lower Lot, Studio Scoop has whipped up some throwback treats for the festivities, too. You might need a buddy to dig into Kong’s Ice Cream Sundae, a gigantic banana split topped with strawberry, chocolate, waffle cone chunks, candy bananas, whipped cream, banana chips and a 60th Anniversary cookie. If you don’t have a Kong-sized appetite, try the Glam Tram Cone: vanilla soft serve with a strawberry flavor swirl, also topped with a 60th Anniversary cookie. 

And don’t miss out on the big daddy of ‘em all: the 60th Donut. It’s technically two donuts covered in blue icing and candy pearls, because we’re just that serious about celebrating. 

PRO TIP: In-between sundaes and donuts, keep your eyes peeled for blue signs reading HERE BACK THEN all throughout the theme park. When you scan the QR code, you’ll get a look at the retired attractions or shows that used to stand in that same spot. 

Limited-Edition Throwback Merch

The Studio Tour 60th aesthetic is looking cute . Inspired by the red and white stripes on the original Glamor Trams, these shirts, jackets, hats, mugs, cups and so much more will be available at Universal Studio Store at CityWalk , Universal Studio Store (inside the theme park) and Production Central (also inside the theme park) all celebration long. Because we all want a piece of history all to ourselves, right? 

That’s what’s on the docket for the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood! What’s your favorite part of the backlot tour? Let us know in the comments below. 

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

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14 comments.

The Studio Tour has always been mine and my husbands favorite ride! It’s so much fun, with so must nostalgia and love for the movies. I absolutely love the back lot tour, the king kong ride, the jaws drive-through, the old Western flooding sequence, and the war of the worlds set. The fact that you can get on with food and drinks too is such a great bonus! I hope they repurpose the fast and furious section (due to making it a ride in the park) into something else. I also which there was more to the “Nope” attraction. Overall – it’s always a highlight of our days in the park and a must-see ride everytime we’re there.

We love to hear about how much you enjoy The World-Famous Studio Tour, Elise! Can’t wait to see you again!

We’ve been to Universal Hollywood before, but I never went on the Studio Tour that time (I was in a different section of the park while the rest of my family went on it). I hope to check it out for the 1st time when we go there again in June. Of course I also hope the “Fast & Furious” section of the tour becomes something different by then.

Not to mention I’ll most likely buy one of the limited merchandise, considering that I’m a fan of Woody Woodpecker.

Awe we will be there April 25th and miss it by a day. Is there a chance the current studio tour will be closed at all in preparation for this event?

Does the special 60th tour come with the tram lot tour or is this an extra price?

Hi Jamie! The 60th Anniversary celebration is included with valid theme park admission.

Universal Studios is our, husband and my, favorite amusement park! We often have annual tickets. We always go on the tram tour. Each time it’s different. Each time it’s awesome. The most fun is bringing others along to enjoy what we love. Sharing is caring. I’m not going to miss this event. See you soon!

We can’t wait to see you!

That’s excellent as coming from Australia and when I got my tickets was yet to be announced. Something to look forward to that’s for sure. See you guys there from the 3rd of May. Will be my 8th visit.

We can’t wait to see you there, Brett!

I had a Celebrity Annual Pass for the tour every year starting around 1981 (I was eleven) when it was about fifteen bucks and went each spring & summer break over and over and over again — until I finally auditioned to be a guide in 1987, which started my entire career. So this stuff hits me in a very happy place.

I want one of those popcorn buckets — and I love that they’re adding video content of the tour history on-board. And the return of the Runaway Train!!!

The Popcorn Bucket is a must-purchase!

Can’t wait to see the new Earthquake!

Can’t wait to see you, Jennifer!

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Lights, Camera, Action: A VIP Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal studios hollywood with kids, by kristi marcelle, family-friendly attractions.

Universal Studios Hollywood (Courtesy Universal Studios Hollywood)

Hollywood attracts visitors from around the world fascinated by the movie industry and its star celebrities. For families visiting Los Angeles with kids, a day at Universal Studios Hollywood entertains all ages with theme park rides, action-packed shows and a tour of the largest working movie studio lot in the world. For the ultimate fan experience, the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience gives guests behind-the-scenes access and unlimited front-of-the-line priority on rides and shows accompanied by a private guide. There is no other experience like it in Hollywood!

( MORE: Insider Guide: Universal Orlando Resort )

The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience

Small Groups with a Private Guide

The VIP experience begins in the VIP lounge where guests check-in and meet their tour guide and enjoy light breakfast foods and snacks. The guides are handpicked for their expertise and their Hollywood knowledge is on display throughout the VIP Experience which begins with the studio tour on a private trolley. There is a maximum of 16 guests per guide.

The VIP Studio Tour Highlights

For movie buffs, the backlot studio tour is the highlight of the day at Universal Studios Hollywood. On the VIP tour guests get off the trolley to explore areas not open to the general public like the steps of city hall on the Back to the Future set or in front of one of the Desperate Housewives houses. Beyond the photo ops, guests visit a working sound stage and see how sets are created and adapted for movies and TV shows.

Next it’s on to the the props department which functions like a library where furniture, rugs, lamps and anything else needed for a set is tagged and ready for checkout and rental. A walk through the aisles is a trip down the memory lane of movie memorabilia and American history. Fun Fact: Universal’s props department is open to other studios and TV productions not only those filmed or produced by Universal Studios.

It’s important to remember that the tour has access only to areas where there is no live filming occurring which means the tour will vary depending on the daily filming schedule.

Lunch Like a Star

After the movie studio tour and maybe a ride or two, it’s time for lunch which is not average theme park fare. A gourmet hot and cold buffet offers selections that may include crab legs, lobster risotto, roast beef, a large variety of fresh fruits and salads and plenty of kid-friendly food. And don’t forget the desserts – there’s an entire table devoted to sweets and treats.

Priority Ride Access and Reserved Seating at Shows

After lunch, the guide escorts the group to a special front-of-the-line entrance for each ride that has no waiting and for shows like WaterWorld, reserved seating. With the VIP tour, guests can repeat rides as many times as they like. For parents, no lines or waiting is a huge amenity for kids, especially on hot Southern California summer days.

The VIP Experience is approximately $300 per person depending on the season.

( MORE: 5 Tips for a Family Day at Universal Studios Hollywood )

Where to Stay in Hollywood

The Garland (Courtesy The Garland)

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Why not make it a movie themed weekend with kids in Hollywood? The Garland is a find for parents looking for a family-friendly Hollywood hotel. Located on seven acres in North Hollywood, a five-minute drive from the entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood on the hotel’s free trolley, the location is convenient for sightseeing. A walk through the adjacent neighborhood passes the original Brady Bunch house and brings guests to the very quaint Tujunga Village where a star sighting is not unusual.

Built in 1972 and named in honor of Beverly Garland, most remembered for her role in My Three Sons, the hotel recently completed a $20 million renovation, refreshing rooms and social spaces including a new 300-seat movie theater. The new Garland evokes old Hollywood glamour with a twist of the Hollywood Hills and Palm Springs and exceptional service throughout.

The hotel excels at curating an environment where both adults and kids can find their own spaces. A foosball table on the patio, board games for check-out, movie nights by the pool and an adult and kid-favorite macramé class during summer are a few of the offerings. The restaurant, The Front Yard, is a locals-worthy neighborhood spot that serves seasonal dishes and family pleasing platters that feed a crowd. The Garland is a family-friendly hotel where everyone gets a vacation.

Kristi Marcelle, a San Francisco Bay Area freelance writer and family travel consultant, contributed this to MiniTime . She is a freelance travel writer and family vacation consultant.

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Universal Studios tram crashes, injuring 15 riders

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Rebecca Miller was prepared for a killer shark, King Kong and other make-believe frights when she joined the Universal Studios Hollywood backlot tour Saturday evening with her family — what she wasn’t expecting was the intrusion of some real-life drama.

Miller, her husband and two children got on one of the park’s last trams of the night and were behind a four-car tram that crashed and injured 15 people, who were taken to hospitals with non life-threatening injuries, authorities said. Her family’s tram, which they boarded close to 8:30 p.m., had passed the King Kong and T. rex attraction and had just made it to a display of famous movie vehicles when it suddenly stopped.

“We’re like, ‘Ok, maybe they are having technical difficulties,’” recalled Miller, 39, of Victorville, who was in the first car of her tram train along with park employees. “And then as it went on, it was like, this is a little odd. Then their radios started getting messages and we noticed a whole change in their demeanor.”

The Los Angeles County Fire Department received an emergency call from the park shortly after 9 p.m. and responded to the scene.

The last car on the tram ahead of Miller’s struck a rail when it was traveling down a hill near a parking structure, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Lt. Maria Abal said Saturday evening. “There was some type of issue with the brakes. We don’t exactly know what yet,” he said.

The park’s tram can hold more than 100 people, Abal said, but it was unclear how many were onboard at the time of the incident. The collision caused several passengers to fall out of the car, according to the Sheriff’s Department, which provides security at the park.

Universal Studios said Sunday that it understood from authorities that the injuries were minor and it was working with the California Highway Patrol and other agencies to review the accident. It said “safety remains a top priority” and it has resumed the tour with a “modified route” and the reinforcement of “operational and safety protocols.”

The Highway Patrol did not provide an update Sunday.

Miller said her family was at the park for an event that drew thousands of Girl Scouts from around the region who were top sellers of cookies in the Scouts’ fundraiser, including her 8-year-old daughter Alanna.

She said her family was stuck on the tram until about 10:15 p.m. and stayed at the park, which remained open for the Girls Scouts event.

A passenger on an earlier tram that evening said their vehicle was stopped about 8 p.m. because of smoke and a noxious odor apparently emanating from brake pads. The passengers were transferred to another tram, according to an email sent to The Times.

The Universal Studios tram tour, called the World-Famous Studio Tour, is a signature attraction at the theme park. The park is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the ride beginning next week.

The tour goes behind the scenes of movie sets, including those of “Jaws” and Jordan Peele’s “Nope,” and offers a look into the last 50 years of Universal films.

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15 people injured in Universal Studios Hollywood tour tram crash

At least one person reportedly sustained critical injuries.

Lester Fabian Brathwaite is a staff writer at Entertainment Weekly , where he covers breaking news, all things Real Housewives , and a rich cornucopia of popular culture. Formerly a senior editor at Out magazine, his work has appeared on NewNowNext , Queerty , Rolling Stone , and The New Yorker . He was also the first author signed to Phoebe Robinson's Tiny Reparations imprint. He met Oprah once.

15 people were injured in a tram crash at Universal Studios Hollywood Saturday evening.

According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the victims were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries. KTLA, however, reported at least one person sustained critical injuries.

According to a statement from the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department, "deputies responded to the lower parking lot of Universal Studios Hollywood regarding a tour tram collision. The collision caused several passengers to fall out of the vehicle."

The trams are used in the theme park's signature Studio Tour, transporting guests through iconic Hollywood film sets. It's unclear what caused the crash, or if any other vehicles were involved but LASD tells Entertainment Weekly that the "cause of the accident is still under investigation and there is no further information at this time."

The LACFD Public Information Office confirmed the incident in a tweet , writing "at 9:05 units were dispatched to a tram accident where 15 patients were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries. CHP will be the lead investigatory agency for all further inquiries."

“Saturday night on the Studio Tour, a tram collided with a guard rail while making a left turn," a spokesperson for Universal Studios said in a statement to Entertainment Weekly . "Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor."

The statement continued, "We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority. We have resumed Studio Tour operations with a modified route and are reinforcing our operational and safety protocols."

Earlier this month, Universal Studios Hollywood was hit with a lawsuit stemming from a 2022 incident in which passengers claim they were stranded while riding Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, an attraction that takes guests through notable locations in  J.K. Rowling 's Wizarding World, including the Great Hall, the grounds of Hogwarts, and the Quidditch pitch.

Want more movie news? Sign up for  Entertainment Weekly's  free newsletter  to get the latest trailers, celebrity interviews, film reviews, and more.

Related content:

• Passengers 'stranded' on Harry Potter ride for over an hour sue Universal Studios, claiming 'severe injuries'
• Videos from Universal Studios tour go viral amid L.A. floods from Tropical Storm Hilary
• Universal Orlando hides Kenan Thompson in concept art for new theme park land

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15 injured in tram accident at Universal Studios

A group of amusement park visitors were injured Saturday evening in a Universal Studios tram accident near Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department was dispatched shortly after 9 p.m. PT Saturday and transferred 15 patients to hospitals with minor injuries.

The California Highway Patrol said a tour was underway at the studio in Universal City and the tram was making a turn following the "Jurassic Park Cars" attraction.

"Due to unknown reasons, while negotiating the turn onto Avenue M, the last car of the tram collided with a metal guardrail on the right side of the roadway causing it to tilt and eject multiple passengers from the tram," the agency said.

The injuries were evaluated as "minor to moderate," the highway patrol said. Neither drugs nor alcohol are being considered as factors.

A spokesperson for Universal Studios Hollywood confirmed the accident in a statement and said a tram collided with a guard rail while it was turning left.

"Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor," the statement said. "We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority."

Universal said the Studio Tour has resumed "with a modified route" and the park is "reinforcing our operational and safety protocols."

Universal Studios is owned by NBC News’ parent company, NBCUniversal.

According to the park’s website, the tram tour is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary Friday.

The Universal Studios Tour offers park visitors a chance to ride a tram through behind-the-scenes locations of some of the studio's famed films while tour guides impart some of the history of the lot.

Many of the locations are still used for filming, so the locations may change. A consistently popular attraction includes re-creations of scenes such as a "Jaws"-style shark attack.

Doha Madani is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News. Pronouns: she/her.

Emilie Dorn is an NBC News assignment editor.

Urgent News: Universal Implements Removal of Ride Section After Devastating Crash

in Disney Parks , Walt Disney World

If you are a fan of the Universal Tram Tour, you may have heard the unfortunate news of the accident that injured 15 guests just a few days ago. Now, we have an update on the situation.

The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that a tram accident occurred on Universal Studios’ renowned backlot tour, resulting in fifteen individuals requiring hospitalization.

The incident unfolded around 9 p.m. on Saturday at the theme park located on the 3900 block of Lankershim Blvd in Studio City. According to LAFD’s social media update, fifteen individuals sustained “minor injuries” and were transported to nearby hospitals. The California Highway Patrol has assumed responsibility for investigating the cause of the tram accident.

CNN disclosed that the vehicle suffered a “mechanical failure,” resulting in several individuals falling out of the tram.

“There was a tram incident at the theme park [Saturday] that resulted in multiple minor injuries, confirmed by the LA County Fire Dept,” Universal Studios said in a statement. “We are working to support our guests and understand the circumstances that led to the accident.”

The California Highway Patrol stated in a Sunday news release that the collision resulted in the vehicle tilting and “ejecting multiple passengers.”

Footage from above revealed several individuals receiving medical attention from paramedics, with at least one person being transported on a stretcher. The investigation into the crash continues, with the California Highway Patrol confirming that alcohol and drugs did not contribute to the incident.

TikTok account L.A. Nightcrawler shared KCAL News footage, which you can check out below.

@la.nightcrawler Fifteen people were injured after a tram at Universal Studios Hollywood crashed on Saturday night. Authorities responded to the theme park at around 9:13 p.m., according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Emergency crews found 15 people injured at the scene after a crash involving a studio tour tram. Most were found with minor injuries while at least one person was found with critical injuries, authorities said. They were all transported to a local hospital for treatment. It’s unclear what caused the tram’s collision or if any other vehicles were involved. #fyp #news #universalstudios #damn #tram #injured #ouch #thoughts #repost ccaliforniafforyouccitywalk22024rrepostingsshareppraya #accident ♬ original sound – LA NIGHTCRAWLER 🌙

Now, The Universal Studios Tram Tour has actually closed off the section of the road where the tram incident took place. Universal High shared the news. The Studio Tour 60th Anniversary is currently in technical rehearsals. The tram’s route does skip the Jurassic Park section at this time.

Universal Studios has closed off the section of road where the tram accident took place on Saturday night @UniStudios https://t.co/o5MagVn3VY — Universal HIGH🌎 (@HighUniversal) April 22, 2024

At the moment, there is no further information on the status of the injured guests on the tram tour, but it does appear that, thankfully, no injuries were fatal.

The accident comes at a tragic time, as the 60th anniversary of the attraction is about to begin . The celebratory event is scheduled to run from April 26 to August 11, 2024.

Launched in 1964, the Studio Tour has been taking guests behind the scenes of Hollywood for decades, showcasing famous sets and sound stages used in Universal Pictures’ productions. From blockbusters like Jaws and Psycho to Jurassic Park and Back to the Future, the tram ride offers an immersive experience into the world of filmmaking.

To commemorate this milestone, the Studio Tour is adding exciting new features for a limited time. Guests can grab a rare photo opportunity in front of a life-sized replica of the Hollywood Sign, something not typically allowed on the tram tour. Remember those classic red and white candy-striped trams? They’re making a comeback for the anniversary, offering a nostalgic touch alongside a fully restored 1964 vintage tram perfect for photos.

The celebration extends beyond the tram itself. Capture memories with additional photo ops featuring the original Jaws shark, a massive King Kong backdrop, and even Doc Brown strolling through Courthouse Square alongside the iconic Back to the Future time machine car. A colossal T. rex display adds to the excitement. Fans of the classic Earthquake—The Big One attraction can rejoice in its complete overhaul with modern technology and a fresh look. And for a dose of thrills, the 1976 Runaway Train returns with its signature warning bells and sirens.

Universal Orlando Resort also recently shared two hospitalized injuries that took place on multiple rides. As we shared , at Universal, “an altered state of consciousness” was reported from a 56-year-old male after experiencing Doctor Doom’s Fearfall, a drop ride at Islands of Adventure, and from a 38-year-old male after Transformers: The Ride — 3D, a motion-simulation attraction at Universal Studios. Both occurred in March.”

Are you planning on riding the Tram Tour at Universal Hollywood this year before the celebration ends? 

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15 people injured when tram collides with guardrail at Universal Studios theme park near Los Angeles

FILE - The Universal Studios Hollywood officially reopens to the public at 25% capacity with COVID-19 protocols in place in Los Angeles, on April 16, 2021. A tram accident at Universal Studios in Los Angeles injured multiple people Saturday night, April 20, 2024, authorities and the company said. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

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UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. (AP) — More than a dozen people suffered mostly minor injuries when a tram used for tours crashed into a railing at Universal Studios Hollywood near Los Angeles, authorities and the company said.

Los Angeles County Fire Department units responded shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday to the theme park in Universal City, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of downtown LA, the agency said in a social media post.

The California Highway Patrol said that while the tram was negotiating a turn, its last car collided with a metal guardrail, “causing it to tilt and eject multiple passengers.”

The fire department said 15 people were taken to hospitals with minor injuries. The highway patrol’s statement on Sunday said some of the injuries were moderate, but didn’t specify a number.

Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement Sunday afternoon that tours have resumed with a modified route.

“Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor. We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority,” the statement said.

The highway patrol, which is leading the investigation, said alcohol and drugs were not considered a factor.

The tram circuit, called the World-Famous Studio Tour, offers a glimpse behind the scenes of Universal movies including “Jaws” and Jordan Peele’s “Nope.” The theme park will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the tour starting Friday.

Dream Island: Moscow’s multi-brand, mega indoor theme park

Words:  Owen Ralph

| 10 min read

Dream Island offers rides and attractions , alongside a large shopping mall, multiplex cinema, concert hall, restaurants and more

After the launch of a new Hotel Transylvania attraction this spring, Europe’s largest indoor theme park , Dream Island in Moscow, is almost complete.

The presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of the park’s launch ceremony last February signalled the cultural importance of this privately backed, $1.5 billion project. However, it traded for just 18 days before a COVID-19 enforced closure. The park reopened last July with limited capacity and now Dream Island’s operators are planning future expansions.

The ambitious project was realised by businessman Amiran Mutsoev . Chairman of the board at Dream Island, he made his money in shopping malls and real estate with the Regions Group. But these are both crowded markets, especially in Russia. So Mutsoev set out to find another sector in which he could develop a niche.

To find out more about Dream Island, we speak to the park’s Technical Director, Ivan Scholl .

Entertainment, retail and more

Dream Island offers more than just a theme park. Beneath its seven glass domes, the 300,000 square metre building also houses a large shopping mall, multiplex cinema, concert hall, restaurants and cafés. The split is roughly 50:50 between entertainment and retail . In addition, the wider 100-hectare site features an outdoor promenade with family recreation zones.

A 4-star hotel, children’s yacht school, plus some more teen-friendly attractions are on the way in phase two.

One feature of Dream Island is a striking castle-like facade. According to the UK-based architects that designed it, Chapman Taylor, the look is based loosely on historic Kremlin architecture found in various Russian cities. It is also inspired by imposing Gothic buildings of Western Europe.

Bringing themed entertainment to Russia

“The market here is empty,” says Scholl. “There is no concept of a theme park in the minds of most [Russian] people. Some travel to Spain, to PortAventura. Maybe some travel to Disneyland Paris . But it’s not more than 5% of the people from our area.”

Now, Dream Island aims to change this.

Mutsoev was previously quoted as saying Dream Island, “Opens an entirely new chapter in the history of entertainment and commercial real estate market. Not only in Russia but the whole world!” Meanwhile, “Russia gets its Disneyland,” was how The New York Times described the park’s opening.

International IP and style guides

Dream Island has its fair share of intellectual property. After abandoning earlier plans to build a DreamWorks theme park in St Petersburg, Mutsoev turned his attentions to the Russian capital instead and adopted a multi-brand approach to IP. But his earlier efforts in St Petersburg had not all been in vain:

“Once we’d we signed the agreement with DreamWorks, it opened the doors to other IPs,” says Scholl. “They saw that if we were working with DreamWorks, we were serious.”

Dream Island offers visitors nine themed zones. Four of them are dedicated to globally recognised brands: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Hello Kitty, The Smurfs and Sony Pictures’ Hotel Transylvania . Other areas include the Snow Queen and Dream Race.

Then there’s Mowgli in Dino Land, which combines a Russian telling of the Jungle Book with a tried and tested Jurassic theme. Guests can also encounter Buratino, a local twist on the tales of Pinocchio.

“There were many cartoons made in Soviet times,” says Scholl, “but they are very abstract and there are no style guides. For the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, we received a very bold album of pictures and stories from ViacomCBS. It explained why the characters are like this, who are their enemies, how the place should look. With this, it’s much easier to create a good place that really feels like you are in their world.”

Dream Island – not just another shopping mall

Moscow, of course, is known for its harsh winters. In fact, says Scholl, “It is relatively cold most of the year. And it is raining quite often; more and more I would say as the planet changes .”

Whatever the weather, recreation and retail are available 12 months a year at Dream Island. Guests can also stroll through its wide aisles unencumbered by bulky outdoor clothing thanks to what is claimed to be the largest coat check in the world.

Before they get to the theme park, visitors must pass through the shopping mall at the front of the building. The architectural facades, including replicas of the Colosseum in Rome and Gaudi’s ‘House of Bones’ in Barcelona, were also inspired by two mixed-use developments in Los Angeles, The Grove and Americana at Brand.

“The idea was not to do another shopping mall, because we are full of shopping malls [in Moscow],” says Scholl. “We wanted to create streets replicating different areas of the world. All under the glass roof so, regardless of the time of year, people can enjoy natural light.”

Urban regeneration and a new era of entertainment 

Walking distance from the Tekhnopark metro station and 10 minutes drive from the Kremlin, Dream Island is located inside Moscow’s third ring road, set on a bend of the Moskva River.

“The location is very good,” says Scholl, who began his career in the amusement industry at the Russian ride manufacturer Pax back in 2007. “When we were selecting the site, southeast of the centre, Universal Studios Moscow was announced, located on the same route but further out of the city.”

The Universal project seems unlikely to happen any time soon. The capital does already have some family entertainment centres and small outdoor amusement parks. Yet nothing on the world-class scale strived for at Dream Island. Themed projects are still few and far between in Russia, says Scholl. He cites Sochi Park, built for the Winter Olympics in 2014, as one of the few exceptions.

A strong vision for Dream Island

Phil Taylor from Team Leisure worked with the development team at Dream Island during the project’s early days:

“From the beginning, they had a strong vision to create a unique indoor park anchored by a range of international movie-based IP,” he says. “Given the complex licensing negotiations required to deliver that vision, it’s great that they’ve been able to pull it off, in such difficult market conditions.”

The theme park at the heart of Dream Island was designed by Cuningham in the USA, whose previous credits include projects for Disney and Universal. Land Milano provided landscaping, whilst guest throughput was calculated by the Italian company MIC (Mobility In Chain). Theming was provided by Russian companies including Iolla and Art Berendeevo Studio.

In total, Dream Island features around 35, rides, shows and attractions. Thrill-seekers can get their coaster fix on Shred The Sewers from Intamin , as seen in action above. This 559m long and 25m high LSM launch coaster features four inversions and reaches a top speed of 80km/h as it races through a New York City landscape inspired by the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie franchise.

Also featured in this area of the park are Baxter Stockman’s Hammer of Doom (SBF/Visa swing ride) and Kraang Prime’s Abyss (Fabbri freefall tower).

Dream Island’s rides and attractions

A second roller coaster is located in the Dream Race area. Named Race Of The Future, the spinning ‘mouse’ style ride by Fabbri features added VR content. Close by, Dream Grand Prix features 20 drivable cars by SB International.

One of the largest concentration of rides is within Mowgli In Dino Land. The selection here includes a Suspended Top Spin ( Huss Park Attractions ), Sky Fly (Gerstlauer), Cobra ( Zamperla Disk’O), City of Monkeys (Zamperla Magic Bikes) and Lianas ( Sunkid interactive tower).

Opening soon will be a flying theatre called On The Wings of the Wind. This will feature a 72-seat Movie Base XS system from Huss, supported by AV from Kraftwerk Living Technologies (KLT).

KLT was also responsible for the 4D theatre Snow Queens Library. Twirling its passengers over the same area of the park is the Ice Carousel (wave swinger) by Preston & Barbieri. The Italian manufacturer also supplied a teacup style ride called Sweet Carousel. This is located in the Hello Kitty area, together with a children’s beauty parlour.

In Smurfs Village, families can walk between colourful giant toadstools as they seek out attractions including a custom-themed Polyp from Gerstlauer and Gargamel’s Tower – as seen above. Based on the evil wizard of the same name, this features an enclosed Drop ’n’ Twist tower ride from SBF/Visa with added interactive elements from Lagotronics Projects .

Dark ride and holographic shows

Opened this spring, Hotel Transylvania is the first large scale dark ride of its kind in Russia. The attraction had been due to debut along with the rest of Dream Island last year but was ultimately delayed by the pandemic.

Unable to enter Russia for several months, representatives of ETF Ride Systems and animatronic specialist Heimotion had to commission the ride under remote supervision. The results are worth the wait, says Scholl, and it’s quickly become one of the park’s most popular attractions. 

“There’s no height limit, anyone can do this. We wanted to create not only a ride but a story, starting from the moment you enter the castle. There is continuously something happening around you, immersing you into the haunted theme. The ride itself lasts about three minutes. But together with the pre-show, you receive something like 10 minutes of entertainment.”

Holographics are used in two of the park’s shows, featuring the characters Buratino and Mowgli respectively.

Dream Island’s attendance goals

In addition to the theming, lighting, colour and sound provide each area of the theme park with its own ambience.

When repeat visitors to the theme park, shopping mall and supporting facilities are taken into account – and the pandemic has subsided – Dream Island is expected to generate as many as 70 million visits a year. Or 7.5 million for the theme park alone.

Daily capacity is currently capped at under 50%, but attendance has come close on several occasions. Helping swell the numbers were the roughly 300,000 medical workers who have enjoyed free park admission over the past year.

“We were doing relatively good numbers until the second [COVID] wave came,” says Scholl. “Now we are recovering quite well. I am not sure about attendance by the end of the year. What we can say is we will not be the top in Europe, but we will appear in some charts.”

Tweaking the ticketing

In February, the park introduced a new pricing system. This replaced the previous fixed price model, which worked out at around $150 for a family of four. “They were not ready to spend this money without knowing the product,” says Scholl.

Now guests can choose from an all-day ticket, a premium fast pass option, or an entrance ticket/card, on which can they pay for rides or upgrade as they go. The system was provided by Infomatika, which provides metro/subway ticketing in various Russian cities and also worked on the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

The entrance card is available for just 500 rubles ($6.85), or 700 rubles ($9.50) at weekends. This has significantly increased footfall inside the park. Buyers of these tickets do not do as many rides as those who buy the all-day option. But they do come back.

“We are learning,” says Scholl – and so are his guests. “This market is not like the UK, Germany or France. “They are not used to queues , and they do not understand rides in ‘boxes’. They are used to flat rides, where you can first see the experience and then pay for it.”

Dream Island’s expansion plans

Scholl describes Dream Island’s overall ride offering as “family thrill ”. To address a lack of attractions for those between 0.9 and 1.1 metres in height, management has already begun adding rides. This includes an evergreen that was missing from the line-up at launch: bumper cars.

Scholl won’t give a firm date for the expansion of the park’s outdoor area. However, it would be understandable if plans were derailed somewhat by the pandemic.

“At the moment we are in pre-masterplan, working with our art director to define the rides and spaces. We see the necessity to build demand during warmer periods. We would like to offer more thrilling attractions to widen the audience to teenagers and young adults.”

What about Amiran Mutsoev’s plans, reported elsewhere, to develop further theme parks and entertainment facilities elsewhere in Russia? “Let us first build this expansion,” says Scholl.

Images courtesy of Dream Island, Intamin and Lagotronics Projects

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Universal Studios tram ejects ‘multiple passengers’ after crashing into guardrail; 15 people taken to hospital with minor injuries

More than a dozen people suffered mostly minor injuries when a tram used for tours crashed into a railing at Universal Studios Hollywood near Los Angeles, authorities and the company said.

Los Angeles County Fire Department units responded shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday to the theme park in Universal City, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of downtown LA, the agency said in a social media post.

The California Highway Patrol said that while the tram was negotiating a turn, its last car collided with a metal guardrail, “causing it to tilt and eject .”

The fire department said 15 people were taken to hospitals with minor injuries. The highway patrol’s statement on Sunday said some of the injuries were moderate, but didn’t specify a number.

A Universal Studios Hollywood spokesperson confirmed in an email to The Associated Press that there were “multiple minor injuries” but didn’t provide details on the accident.

Sheriff’s Lt. Maria Abal said the four-car tram used for movie studio backlot tours might have experienced an issue with its brakes.

The highway patrol is leading the investigation. The agency said alcohol and drugs were not considered a factor.

The tram circuit, called the World-Famous Studio Tour, offers a glimpse behind the scenes of Universal movies including “Jaws” and Jordan Peele’s “Nope.” The theme park will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the tour starting Friday.

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