universal studios walking tour

The Complete Walking Guide to Universal Studios Orlando

Walking seems like the worst way to get around a giant resort, especially when that resort is Universal Orlando . As the biggest Universal Resort in the world, Universal Orlando is home to 3 theme parks, 8 property hotels and the CityWalk shopping and dining district. Walking can, however, be a convenience when you need it.

Our guide mostly focuses on walking to and from property hotels and their pathways but it also explores hotels that are close by as well as walking to and from the parking garage and LYFT/Uber drop off area.

We’re keeping this short and simple as we know most of you are interested in other transportation means that the resort offers.

Walking From Universal Orlando Resort Hotels To Islands of Adventure & Universal Studios Theme Parks

Walking from Universal Orlando Resort hotels to Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios is possible and can be a convenient option for guests. Here’s some information about walking routes from the on-site hotels to the theme parks:

• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Hard Rock Hotel : These two hotels are connected to the theme parks via a dedicated walking path known as the Garden Walkway. The Garden Walkway provides a scenic and direct route from the hotels to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. It typically takes around 10-15 minutes to walk from these hotels to the park entrances.
• Loews Royal Pacific Hotel : Sitting opposite of Portofino Bay and Hard Rock Hotel the Loews Royal Pacific Resort is closest to Islands of Adventure. Guests can use a direct walking path from the back of the hotel to CityWalk and essentially the entrance to Islands of Adventure. It typically takes 5-10 minutes to walk from this hotel to the park entrances.
• Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort : Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is located slightly farther from the theme parks, and there isn’t a direct walking path from the hotel to the parks. However, guests can still walk to the parks by using the designated sidewalks and crosswalks. The walking distance from Cabana Bay Beach Resort to the park entrances is approximately 20-25 minutes.

All “roads” lead to CityWalk so if you use any of these paths you will end up at or right by CityWalk.

Walking from Loews Sapphire Falls Hotel To The Theme Parks & CityWalk

Walking from Loews Sapphire Falls Resort to Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk is a viable and convenient option for guests. The path to the theme parks is the same to CityWalk. Guests will go through security and into CityWalk near the theme park entrances.

• Islands of Adventure/Universal Studios: Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is located in close proximity to Islands of Adventure. Guests can reach the park by following a dedicated walking path known as the Sapphire Falls Pathway. The pathway is well-marked and offers a pleasant walk through the resort grounds and scenic areas. The walking distance from Loews Sapphire Falls Resort to the entrance of Islands of Adventure is typically around 10-15 minutes. Add an additional 3-5 minutes to get over to Universal Studios theme park.
• Universal CityWalk: Universal CityWalk is also easily accessible from Loews Sapphire Falls Resort by foot. Guests can follow the same Sapphire Falls Pathway to reach CityWalk. The walking distance from Loews Sapphire Falls Resort to Universal CityWalk is generally around 10-15 minutes.

Walking From Aventura Hotel to the Theme Parks & CityWalk

Guests can walk from the Aventura Hotel to Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios and CityWalk if they follow a specific path via Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.

You’ll need to walk over to the Sapphire Falls Hotel, enter the lobby and head straight with a slight right to the staircase just after the Planning Desk but before the restaurant/bar. Take the stairs down to the bottom floor and head past Amatista Cookhouse to go outside. This is where the walking path starts to the parks and CityWalk.

Technically you could also jump onto the boat transportation from here but you’re on a mission to walk so resist the temptation!

TIP: Upon checking in to your hotel, it’s recommended to check with guest services for the most up-to-date information and guidance regarding walking routes, travel times, and any potential changes or updates to these walking paths.

Walking from Universal’s Dockside Inn and Surfside Inn Hotels

It is not possible at this time to walk from Universal’s Dockside Inn or Surfside Inn Hotels to the theme parks or CityWalk. Guests staying at these resort hotels must take the provided SuperStar Shuttle or a LYFT/Uber.

Universal has not yet announced any intentions of connecting these hotels to the rest of the property via walking paths.

Walking from the Parking Area to CityWalk and Theme Parks

Walking from the Universal Orlando parking areas to the theme parks is a common option for guests who have parked their vehicles been dropped off by a LYFT or Uber or taken the SuperStar Shuttle from their hotel:

• General Parking: Universal Orlando Resort offers general parking areas where guests can park their vehicles. The parking garages and lots are conveniently located near the theme parks. Once parked, guests can follow the signage and designated walkways to the theme park entrances.
• Preferred Parking: Preferred parking is also available for an additional fee. Preferred parking areas are typically closer to the theme park entrances, reducing the walking distance compared to general parking. Follow the signs and directions for preferred parking, and then use the designated walkways to reach the theme parks.
• Walkways and Signage: Universal Orlando Resort has well-marked and clearly labeled walkways that guide guests from the parking areas to the theme park entrances. Follow the directional signage, which often includes symbols and arrows to indicate the path to the respective theme park.
• Security Checks: Before entering the theme parks, guests will need to pass through security checks. Be prepared to have your bags and belongings inspected as part of the security procedures.

The walking distance from the parking areas to the theme park entrances may vary depending on the specific parking location and the chosen park. Generally, it takes approximately 5-15 minutes to walk from the parking areas to the entrances. This timeline can change based on when you are trying to head in. Theme Park guests in the morning can make this walk over 20 minutes mostly due to security.

Walking from off-property Hotels to Universal Orlando

There are several off-property hotels near Universal Orlando Resort that are within walking distance of the theme parks. Here are some hotels you can consider:

• Hyatt Place Orlando/Universal: Located on Major Boulevard, Hyatt Place Orlando/Universal is within a 10-15 minute walk to Universal Orlando Resort.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando: Situated on Major Boulevard, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is a short 10-15 minute walk from Universal Orlando Resort.
• Holiday Inn & Suites Across from Universal Orlando: This hotel is located on Major Boulevard, directly across from Universal Orlando Resort. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk away from the parks.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Near Universal Orlando: Positioned on Major Boulevard, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is within walking distance of Universal Orlando Resort. Typically takes around 20 minutes.
• Rosen Inn Closest to Universal: Located on International Drive, Rosen Inn is within walking distance of Universal Orlando Resort. While it may be a slightly longer walk compared to other options, it is still a feasible distance for those who prefer to walk.

Why Walk at Universal Orlando?

As we said before, walking isn’t the best sounding option but there are certain cases where walking can actually be better than taking resort transportation. Here are a few scenarios:

• Resort Shuttles : Sometimes the line are long for these shuttles so it may take you a few times to get on one. When you do, the shuttles drop you off at the main security area for ALL guests who are coming in via shuttle, parking garage and LYFT/Uber. The security lines here can get really long. Add in the walk through CityWalk and you’re at a guaranteed 25 minutes+.
• Water Taxis : These are really fun to take but they only hold a limited number of guests and there can be 10+ minutes between the departing boat and the next arriving boat. The drop off location for water taxis is also a little inconvenient as you have to walk around the lake to get to either theme park entrance.
• Security : Walking can also give you a much shorter security line compared to the main garage and shuttle area. Wait times are typically 0-5 minutes at the walking path entrances from hotels to the theme parks. During the day time there is typically no line.
• Scenery : The walking paths around Universal Orlando offer some great views of the resort. Somethings, like around the river areas, cannot be seen unless you take the walking paths. Our favorite is the walk from CityWalk to Sapphire Falls Resort. Nice quiet walk with lots of cools things to look at along the way.

Overall walking can provide you with more flexibility and a “sure” timing unlink the water taxis and resort shuttles where several factors can through them off.

Walking Around the Universal Orlando Resort

While walking can be a convenient option, it’s essential to consider factors such as weather conditions, physical abilities, and personal preferences. Here are a few additional points to keep in mind:

• Comfortable Footwear: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking for a considerable distance.
• Safety: Follow designated paths and use crosswalks when walking. Be mindful of traffic and follow traffic signals.
• Accessibility: If you have mobility needs or require assistance , it’s advisable to contact Universal Orlando Resort or your hotel in advance to discuss any accommodations or alternative transportation options that may be available.
• Weather Considerations: Keep in mind that weather conditions in Orlando can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and consider taking breaks if needed. On rainy days, the shuttle or water taxi may be a better option if you aren’t prepared for the rain very well.

We always like to look at walking as a “we’re already doing it all day in the parks, what’s a little more?” kind of scenario. You can also use it as an excuse to get that dessert after you meal because you’ll “walk it off later.”

Overall though, walking around Universal Orlando Resort isn’t too crazy and can offer you some quiet time, great exercise and some flexibility.

So if you’re ready to get your walking on be sure to book your next vacation with a specialist and be sure to tell them you’re a Universal Walking Pro!

The World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood – The Ultimate Guide

The World Famous Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s best attraction. This one-hour tram tour takes you around the backlot of one of the oldest active movie studios in the world .

This is a real, working movie studio. As such, you’ll see some of Hollywood’s most famous filming locations and sets from your favourite shows and movies. This also means you could see celebrities while on the Studio Tour .

However, to temper expectations, I’ve been on the Studio Tour several times and never seen a celebrity. However, I did see Mario Lopez at the theme park entrance once.

The Universal Studio Tour is suitable for the whole family . There are no height restrictions. In fact, I recently went on the tour with my 14-month-old son.

The tour is hosted by Jimmy Fallon and a live guide who provides commentary throughout. Y ou will remain on the tram for the duration of the tour , during which time you will see and experience:

• Fast & The Furious: Supercharged
• King Kong 3D
• Bates Motel
• War of the Worlds Plane
• Jupiter’s Claim
• Flash Flood Simulator
• Earthquake: The Big One!

Some of these experiences can be scary for young children. However, you can not opt out of any experience. Instead, you will remain on the tram throughout.

If you are travelling with small children or those with sensitivities, I recommend sitting on the left of the tram at the very front or the very back . Jaws and Norman Bates are the scariest experiences and they aim for the middle of the tram on the right.

Studio Tours at Universal Studios Hollywood are also available in Spanish . However, these tours are only at pre-set times.

On my most recent visit to Universal Studios Hollywood these times were: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm, and 6:15pm. Meanwhile, Studio Tours in English are available non-stop throughout the day.

You are permitted to take photos and videos throughout the Studio Tour . However, flash photography is prohibited during 3-D experiences (King Kong and Fast & Furious).

Where Is the Studio Tour?

The Studio Tour is located in a dedicated lower lot area of Universal Studios Hollywood . To get to this part of the theme park, head straight from the entrance towards Springfield.

Once inside Springfield, continue heading straight until you get to The Simpsons Ride. You then want to turn right. At this point, you should see a sign overhead with ‘Studio Tour’ plus the wait time.

Be sure to turn right and not left at The Simpsons Ride. The dedicated Studio Tour, lower lot area, is separate from the general Lower Lot.

To get to the Studio Tour entrance, you’ll need to take an escalator. However, a lift is also available off to the right-hand side.

Wait times for the Studio Tour vary significantly depending on the time of year. In the off-season, I walked straight onto a tram. However, in peak season, I’ve waited for up to one hour.

Top Tips for the Universal Studio Tour

There are no toilet breaks during the Studio Tour . If you need the toilet, you’ll find them off to the right as you come down the escalators.

You can not take strollers on the Studio Tour , but there is a large stroller parking area located next to the attraction’s entrance.

You can use a Universal Express Pass on the Studio Tour . The line for Universal Express Pass ticket holders is at the ride entrance. I used a Universal Express Pass on a recent visit. Using the pass, I walked straight onto a tram while the standby line was at 20 minutes.

The Studio Tour is free with admission to Universal Studios Hollywood . However, you can purchase a Universal VIP Experience ticket for a more in-depth Studio Tour and other benefits.

You do not have to book a slot on the Studio Tour . Instead, each tour is done on a first-come, first-served basis. Each tram roughly holds 100 – 150 people, split across six carriages.

Generally speaking, the best time to go on the Studio Tour is in the morning when the theme park first opens . The lines are smaller during this time, so you should be able to go straight out onto the tour.

However, the Studio Tour is not the most popular ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, and it has a really large capacity. So, I suggest going to popular rides such as Mario Kart first.

That being said, I recommend avoiding the Studio Tour around lunchtime . This is when it’s most popular, and the wait time is often the longest.

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Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood

Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood is an exciting and fun experience, but there's plenty to know while planning your trip.

May 02, 2023

You’ve dreamt of this moment for years, and now the time has finally come: you’re going to Universal Studios Hollywood, one of the most famous attractions the Golden State has to offer. Receiving up to forty-thousand visitors in a single day, Universal Studios makes the list of the top ten most visited parks in the USA. And with amazing attractions such as the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride and a Jurassic World ride, it isn’t hard to see why. This movie park is truly an exciting place to be for children and adults alike. 

To top it off, the park received a thorough modernization in 2018, installing new rides and making the classics better than ever before. Of course, visiting Universal Studios Hollywood can seem somewhat daunting, given the huge crowds and the long list of rides. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the luxury of sheer choice, but fear not, as this guide will fill you in on all the need-to-know stuff so your visit to Universal Studios is as fun as can be. 

All About the Park

Much like many other American success stories, Universal Studios has humble beginnings. It began as Universal City, CA , a large studio city in the San Fernando Valley with its own mayor, police, and a working farm. At the time, only guided studio tours were available to the public, and it wouldn't be until 1964 that the modern iteration of Universal Studios opened its doors to the public. In the ensuing decades, the park flourished into a major attraction filled with multiple different rides based on the blockbuster films produced by Universal Studios. There are currently around twenty-two rides, shows, and attractions at the park. 

Getting Tickets

One important thing to know if you’re visiting Universal Studios Hollywood is that they have flexible ticket pricing. This means that entrance tickets tend to be cheaper on weekdays than on public holidays and weekends. Ticket prices will also vary by the season, with busy times such as Easter and Christmas being more expensive than off-season periods. If you play your cards right, your Universal Studios Hollywood ticket prices can end up being much lower than you might expect. Note that all entrance tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood are good for one entire day.   

General Admission

The standard entry ticket typically costs between $106 and $145 for adults and between $100 and $135 for kids ages ten and older. This assumes you are buying the tickets in advance, something we highly recommend doing if you plan on visiting Universal Studios Hollywood during the holidays. That means a visiting couple can spend as little as $212 to get in, and a family of four can get away with spending just $412 for entry, which is a decent deal, all things considered. 

Express Ticket

Of course, even with the entrance tickets, you are still going to be standing in line for all the rides, shows, and attractions. If you’d rather skip the line and buy time for a more fun-packed day, we recommend getting the Express Ticket. Of course, convenience comes at a cost, and Express Entry tickets range from $195 on regular days to $285 on the busiest days. So a couple paying the lowest price can get an express entry ticket for the entire park for just $390, whereas a family of four will pay $780. That means potentially hundreds of dollars in savings, to say nothing of the hours you’ll save as well. 

Transport Packages 

If you’d rather not deal with the hassle of figuring out your transportation arrangements, you can also buy travel packages that sort this out for you. Certain companies offer transport direct from your Los Angeles hotel to Universal Studios Hollywood, allowing for a seamless, worry-free holiday experience. Hiring a minivan typically costs between $140 and $200 for roundtrip service. 

VIP Tour Tickets

Possibly one of the most iconic studio tours Los Angeles has to offer, the VIP tour tickets are a must if you want to experience the full package of everything Universal Studios has to offer. With this ticket, you get exclusive access to behind-the-scenes where Universal’s classic blockbusters were created and where new flicks are being filmed every day. You get to see Universal Studios Gate 1 and take a peek behind the scenes where your favorite Universal films were made. If you’re a film buff, this is the ultimate Universal Studios Los Angeles for you. Tickets start at $362 per person, and on top of the tour, you also get unlimited express entry to all rides, attractions, and shows, a gourmet meal, and access to the VIP lounge. 

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Top Attractions 

Jurrasic World: The Ride

Originally known as Jurrasic Park: The Ride, this iconic attraction at Universal Studios first opened its doors in 1996 and was closed in 2013 for a major overhaul. Today, the modernized attraction remains the centerpiece of the park and easily tops the ranked list of rides at Universal Studios . This is in part thanks to its advanced visual effects and lifelike animatronics that make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

This is a water ride, so guests board a boat that takes them on an exhilarating roller coaster ride that will leave them soaked. As you glide through the lush tropical setting, your boat takes you through a wild land where scary yet majestic dinosaurs try to eat you. When it comes to sheer wow factor and grandeur, this ride trumps all others and is a must for anyone visiting Universal Studios Hollywood.   

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

This is one of the newest rides on the Universal Studios Hollywood map, but it has quickly become one of the most popular since its soft opening in 2016. This attraction features two main rides. One of these is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a dark ride that transports you through the magical world of the Harry Potter universe, complete with authentic props from the movie, a Quidditch match, Dementors, and a life-sized replica of Hogwarts itself. The other ride is Flight of the Hippogriff, Harry Potter-themed outdoor rollercoaster. 

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Ever since the first installation was released in 2010, Despicable Me has become widely popular with kids and adults alike thanks to its whimsical story and, of course, comedic Minions. These little yellow guys have been a true hit, so much so that they even got their origin story film in 2015. Minion Mayhem takes things to a whole new level by using virtual reality to “turn the riders into minions” before taking them on a fast-paced adventure. There are a few more exciting ways to have a true Minions experience. 

Top Food and Refreshments

There are way too many gourmet dining options at Universal Studios Hollywood to list here, so we’ll stick to the highlights. We highly recommend using the park’s free WiFi to download the Universal Hollywood App to your phone, as it features detailed information on all the dining options Universal Studios has to offer. The app also has detailed info on Universal Studios Hollywood hours and wait times, which is quite handy for navigating this massive place. It’s also a great idea to bring plenty of water because you’ll need it after a hot day of walking around the park. 

Springfield, USA

That’s right, the iconic Simpsons city of Springfield is at Universal Studios Hollywood, and it just happens to be one of the best places for food in the entire park. As you might expect, the dining options here offer classic American fare but with a Simpsons twist. That means you can get the classic pink donuts that are Homer’s favorite treat, but also delectable fried chicken and biscuits from Cletus’ Chicken Shack. You can even enjoy nonalcoholic Flaming Moes at Moe’s Tavern with Barney.

With all the hustle and bustle of the park, you might opt for food on the go so you can explore as you enjoy a snack to keep going. For that, there are few better spots at Universal Studios than the Palace Deli & Market. Located in the upper lot, this place features to-go classics such as deluxe sandwiches, hardy turkey legs, sushi, and cheesy quiches. 

Jurassic Cafe 

Since you definitely will visit Jurassic World at least once, you’ll be glad to know that this section of the park also includes the Jurassic Cafe, a delightful Costa-Rican-style eatery. Here you can enjoy Central American classics such as citrus glazed chicken, tropical roasted chicken salad, juicy pork, and so much more. The food is delicious here, and it makes a refreshing change from standard amusement park cuisine.

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Planning a Trip to Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood Introduction

It wasn't that long ago that you could find everything you needed know about Universal Studios Hollywood on just one web page. People who visited back then often think they've seen it all and don't need to go back again. They would be wrong.

Over the past few years, Universal has produced some of the most exciting theme park experiences in California. It takes several pages just to cover everything you can see and do there, and if you haven't visited lately, it's time to think about going back.

Is Universal Studios Hollywood Right for You?

Universal wows its visitors with innovative, thrilling rides, but it's not for everyone. If you enjoy (and can tolerate) fast-paced thrill rides and don't mind if they're the motion simulator type, you'll probably love it.

If you have physical issues that prevent you from going on fast rides - or if you prefer your rides slow and steady, you may not find enough to do to justify the cost of a ticket. Small people (less than 40 inches tall) and big people (whose body shape may prevent safety restraints from fastening) may also discover that they can only go on a limited number of rides.

To find out more about what the park is like, and to see it all -without leaving your chair, check out the Universal Studios slideshow .

Universal Studios Hollywood Planner

These resources are everything you need to get started planning your Universal Studios experience. Allow a full day, and you can enjoy everything they have to offer.

• Universal Studios Complete Ride Guide : Detailed descriptions and tips for every ride and attraction, with height and size restrictions.
• How to Get Universal Studios Tickets : The box office is the worst way to go. Find out how to get them ahead of time, how to get a discount - and learn about a ticketing loophole that could save you money.
• What's New - and What's Coming - at Universal Studios Hollywood : Not only what's next, but what's been done in the past few years.
• Tips for a Perfect Day at Universal : You'll have more fun, stress less, and amaze your companions with how much you know if you follow even half of these tips.
• Hotels Near Universal Studios : You can do Universal in a day, but you might be too tired to drive home afterward - or you may want to visit other attractions in the area. This guide highlights some of the nicest places to stay nearby.

When to Go to Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal is crowded during summer and long school holidays like spring and winter break. They get even crazier around Christmas when you may encounter the longest lines of the year.

In the summer, it gets really hot at midday, but the hours are longer. You'll have few worries about getting rained out during California's rainy winter season because most of the fun rides are indoors.

Annual Events at Universal Studios Hollywood

Halloween Horror Nights : Every October, Universal puts on a special event, featuring some of their scariest slasher villains. Even the "chainsaw guys" who go around terrorizing people have to try out for their jobs. You'll have to buy a separate ticket or an all-day package to enjoy the park and this bloody scare-fest on the same day.

Harry Potter Christmas and Grinchmas :  The Grinch stole Christmas, but then he brought it back - and it's a good thing he did because the holiday celebration at Wizarding World is excellent. You don't need a separate ticket for these.

What's Nearby

Universal CityWalk , just outside the park entrance is a lively shopping and dining complex open to the public. It's a good place to eat dinner or to do a little shopping, or even go to a movie after a day at Universal Studios Hollywood.

If the Universal studio tour got you interested in how movies are made, Warner Bros Studios is just up the street, and they have a great public tour.

Getting To Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608 Universal Studios website

The Metro Red Line also stops near the park, and you can catch a shuttle bus from there to the entrance. The Metro system covers much of the LA area. Find out more information about the Metro Red Line here.

Universal offers a shuttle from lots of Los Angeles hotels with a one-day admission ticket. Get details on their website .

Some tour companies offer admission and transportation packages from San Diego. They can cost as much as $40 per person over full ticket price with no chance for discounts, and they limit your time at the park. Consider this option only if you have no others.

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Check Out the Updated “Earthquake—The Big One” Studio Tour Attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood

“Earthquake—The Big One” has long been one of my favorite attractions on the World-Famous Studio Tour . Here’s how it goes: the tram rolls into Soundstage 50, which looks just like a San Francisco subway station. We roll up under the guise that we’re getting a special, behind-the-scenes look at a movie currently in production. It’s a “hot set,” we’re told — there are movie cameras, makeup and wardrobe, craft services — but the crew is on break. All very exciting in its own right, isn’t it? 

But then the real fun starts. 

It begins with a flicker of the lights. We feel a tremor, nothing crazy for Southern California, but quickly, the shaking becomes so intense that this could only be… The Big One. The ground cracks open. The ceiling of the transit station splits open, too — a gas tank truck slides through it, then catches fire. Sparks fly at all angles. A train comes careening into the station. And then —  uh-oh — here comes the flooding. For a thrilling two minutes, guests experience a massive simulated earthquake.

“Earthquake—The Big One” embodies what I love so much about the Studio Tour: it showcases the impressive practical effects while creating an absolute thrill for guests. If your heart isn’t pounding as that flash flood comes cascading into the transit station — whew , you’re certainly braver than I. “Earthquake” has been a beloved stop on the Studio Tour since 1989, and now, in tandem with the attraction’s 60th anniversary celebration , it’s gotten an update. “Earthquake—The Big One,” welcome to the 21st century!

“Welcome to 2024,” says Jon Corfino, vice president for Universal Creative. “Fresh audio, fresh systems, fresh everything!”

Discover Universal got a behind-the-scenes look at the attraction in its final days before it was unveiled to the public, courtesy of Corfino. From fall 2023 to spring 2024, the attraction was closed for about six months for a revamp. Not a gut job — the main story beats of the experience have remained largely the same. Just a refurbishment. “We wanted to refresh the look and say, what if this earthquake were to happen today? ” Corfino says. “Between the art direction and just the years, it needed some TLC.”

A lot of that work came in updating the aesthetics of the “Universal Mass Transit” station itself. The color scheme went from an oh-so-’80s beige, green, red and yellow, to a more modern blue and white one complete with white subway tiling. A bubbly “Welcome to San Francisco” lines the subway tile in explosive color. Corfino’s team added ticketing machines and e-bikes, too. The truck that crushes in through the ceiling has gotten a 21st century makeover, too — it’s now a clean burning hydrogen tank. The fonts on the station signage was updated to a sleeker, more modern looking sans serif. And the “film set” got modernized, too, with film cameras going digital. In short: guests no longer feel like they’re going back in time when their tram rolls into “Earthquake—The Big One.” 

But the “Earthquake” refurbishment is more than just an aesthetic shift. “I think 60% of any experience is really the audio,” says Corfino. For the executive producer, the majority of the weight, depth and magnitude in an attraction — or, what makes it actually, fully immersive — is the audio. Updating the attraction’s look gave Corfino’s team the opportunity to install new amps and a completely modern sound system, which provides an even more immersive and intense experience than was possible in the 1980s. 

The posters lining the station walls, which advertise made-up movies, were also given a more modern look. But they also gave the Universal Creative team a chance to put their own little signatures on the project, so to speak. Every poster you see on the wall is a completely original product of the project team — 100 percent original designs. If you look off the left side of the tram, near the lockers, you’ll see a poster reading: “THE UNIVERSAL CITY EARTHQUAKE REHAB,” starring the names of the folks who worked on the project. A poster for the (fictional) Tremor Bar reads, “Where drinks are better SHAKEN!”Another poster advertises earthquake insurance, which — too late. 

Similarly, a map of downtown San Francisco would be of no use to a lost tourist. If you look closely, you’ll see streets (re)named for people who built the original “Earthquake” attraction back in the 1980s. “We felt like it was important to honor the past,” says Corfino. “Not try to change what people love, but rather, try to make it look current and give it the attention that it needed.” 

“The most popular things on the backlot are the most physically immersive,” says Corfino. The “Earthquake” attraction has long remained popular for this very reason. But modernizing the look of the attraction makes the whole thing feel even more real . Sure, guests roll into a soundstage and are told they’re on a film set. But once the 8.3 earthquake starts, you feel completely transported to this San Francisco train stop. Without the logical jump of, “We’re in the 1980s,” the whole experience feels more immediate and urgent. 

If you love “Earthquake—The Big One” as much as I do, you’ll love to see it in the 21st century. This updated attraction is a permanent addition to the World-Famous Studio Tour, but its debut comes as part of the special 60 th anniversary celebration . From now through August 11, 2024, guests have the rare opportunity to step off the Studio Tour at certain designated areas and get up-close-and-personal with some iconic movie set pieces. So hop over to the Universal Studios backlot to get in on the celebratory fun!

What’s your favorite part of the World-Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood? Let us know in the comments below. 

Universal Destinations & Experiences

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Grace Perry

Senior Editor, Universal Studios Hollywood. Lisa sun, Smithers rising, Disco Stu moon.

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Your guide to summer fun at Universal Orlando with Shrek, Trolls, Kung Fu Panda

A s the Florida sun ramps up its intensity, so does the excitement at Universal Orlando Resort . Summer 2024 brings a fresh array of new attractions, shows and culinary delights that promise to entertain park goers. 

“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” said Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “These new experiences, coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks, will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable.”

Here's a sneak peek into what's new at Universal Orlando this summer.

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DreamWorks Land

This new themed area at Universal Studios Florida features interactive play areas, character meet-and-greets, and attractions based on popular DreamWorks Animation franchises like “Shrek,” “Trolls” and “Kung Fu Panda.” The area includes an indoor live show, perfect for cooling off from the summer heat. Highlights include Shrek’s Swamp, the Trolls Trollercoaster, and Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp and DreamWorks Imagination Celebration, along with unique snacks and merchandise.

‘Walking right into the movie’: Exclusive peek at Universal Orlando’s new DreamWorks Land

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CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular

This new nighttime show at Universal Studios Florida's lagoon combines advanced technology with beloved film scores. Featuring 228 fountains that reach heights of 131 feet, 4K projection mapping, an original score, and over 600 drones, the show highlights iconic moments from popular films including the “Harry Potter” franchise, “Jurassic World,” “Jaws,” “Ghostbusters,” “Trolls” and “Back to the Future.”

Hogwarts Always

On select nights at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure, this new projection show on Hogwarts Castle takes guests through a magical journey of a school year at Hogwarts. The show features four different endings celebrating each Hogwarts house and includes a pyrotechnic finale.

Universal Mega Movie Parade

Starting July 3, this new daytime parade at Universal Orlando will be the largest in the park's history. It will include 13 brand-new floats and nearly 100 performers, including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more. The parade will showcase characters from films like “E.T.,” “Back to the Future,” “Jaws,” “Ghostbusters,” “Jurassic World,” “Minions” and “Trolls.” Special effects and live performances will bring these classic movies to life. Keep an eye out for a 16-foot tall Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man, and for the grand finale, an awesome Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Summer tribute store

Rediscover your favorite movie memories from "Ghostbusters," "Back to the Future," "E.T. The Extra Terrestrial," "Jaws" and "Shrek" at the 1980s mall-themed tribute store, located in the Hollywood area of the park. While you shop, you'll also find three immersive "mega" rooms themed as a retro video store, an arcade and a theater, as well as photo opportunities inspired by the films. New for this summer are interactive bubble wands that activate with other wands throughout the park and certain parade floats.

Universal Orlando Resort is pulling out all the stops this summer to make sure every visitor experiences the magic, thrills and unforgettable moments the parks are famous for. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a Potterhead or a family with little ones, Universal Orlando’s summer 2024 lineup promises something special for everyone. 

For more about the new experiences opening at Universal Orlando Resort this summer, visit universalorlando.com/newfor2024 .

Whether you're interested in music, theater, festivals or other local entertainment, FLORIDA TODAY has got you covered. Support local journalism by subscribing at  Special Offers - USAToday Network .

Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at  facebook.com/christinalafortune  or send her an email at  [email protected] .

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Your guide to summer fun at Universal Orlando with Shrek, Trolls, Kung Fu Panda