10 Summer Fun Experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood

The Entertainment Capital of L.A. Universal Studios Hollywood offers multiple themed immersive lands that transport guests to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Here are 10 newer experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood:

  1. “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” features a lively Hogsmeade village and two thrill rides “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff”. In the evening starting at 8:50 p.m., crowds gather to witness “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” illuminate the summertime sky. There are three awe-inspiring shows each evening starting at 8:50 p.m., and the last show at 10 p.m.  The state-of-the-art light display showcases the four houses of Hogwarts: Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin. Beams of lights, special effects projection and fireworks are accompanied by a special musical arrangement created by Academy Award-winning composer John Williams. The music is based on his original scores composed for the film, and is conducted by arranger William Ross and recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra in London. Night falls on Hogsmeade village, “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” shines from June 24 – August 19 and September 1-3.  

  2. Be sure to visit the wand shop to see who gets selected for a custom wand and be sure to buy a unique Butterbeer beverage only available in this area.IMG_6887
  3. See Pinocchio in the box office ticket booth at the newly constructed DreamWorks Theatre. Inspired by Mission revival architecture reminiscent of the Golden Age of Hollywood’s Art Deco period of the 1920s, walk up to the ticket seller booth, to see this life size character featured in the DreamWorks classic Shrek, asleep on the job. With one eye slightly open, he periodically talks to guests throughout the day. 

  4. Go inside the DreamWorks Theatre to experience “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.” This new immersive theatre attraction opens with a series of 36 movie posters that pay homage to DreamWorks Animation films. Within the lobby, a selection of over 20 award statuettes are showcased representing a sampling of Golden Globe, Emmy, People’s Choice, Critic’s Choice, National Board of Review and Annie awards DreamWorks Animation has amassed from 2008 to 2015. There is also a collection of original sculpted maquettes of the “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.”IMG_6909
  5.  Still in the lobby guests meet an array of DreamWorks characters who kick-off the attraction’s narrative. As guests enter the main theatre, they take a seat in the new ultra-plush, fully articulated seats that pivot and swivel in tandem with the 180-degree action. As the lights dim, the first-ever integration of interior projection mapping engulfs guests in an immersive adventure. Developed by the innovative team at Universal Creative, visually dynamic scenic designs are coupled with seven Christie 4K Boxer Cinema Projectors and 360 degree surround sound audio with the original score by composer Germaine Franco. Guests experience physical effects with their seat movement, as well as water and wind enhancing this adrenaline-spiked adventure from raging rapids, river pirates, awesome magic and Kung Fu.IMG_E8172
  6. Afterwards meet Po and Tigress within the park’s Universal Plaza.  A replica of Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop, as featured in Kung Fu Panda, is set up for guests to enjoy his authentic Asian fare and a selection of hot and cold Asian beverages. 

  7. Learn more about America’s favorite TV Simpson family at “Super Silly Fun Land.” Stroll through “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons Ride.” Grab a bite at Krusty Burger, Duff and Lard Lad Donuts. 

  8. Go down to the lower lot for your last chance to experience “Jurassic Park—The Ride” at Universal Studios Hollywood before it goes extinct on September 3, 2018. After Labor Day the theme park readies for the all-new Jurassic World ride in 2019. Before or after experiencing the theme park, visit the adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex. See a colossal 3-ton Tyrannosaurus rex towering 13’ tall and 36’ wide dominating CityWalk adjacent to the Universal Cinema. This is a fun photo opportunity. Nearby is a life-sized Gyrosphere – an original movie prop from Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. This movie is screening at Universal Cinema Theatre, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theaters. 

  9. Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom fans can visit Voodoo Doughnut across the way to take a bite and enjoy the all-new Raptor claw-inspired doughnut, available through July 7.IMG_6827
  10. Get your photo taken with #WhatLiftsYou angel wings. Artist Kelsey Montague painted beautiful wings with Hollywood motion picture symbols and iconic Los Angeles architecture on each wing. To learn more go to www.universalstudioshollywood.com.

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