Originally Posted by
MaryCalifornia
Universal Studios Hollywood is excellent. It is small compared to Disneyland (Anaheim), there are only about 10 attractions, total. The staff is very friendly, and the place is very clean and first rate.
The Studio Tour lasts about 40 minutes and you get to see all of the sound stages and bungalow offices where they're actually working. Also 3D King Kong fighting a tyrannosaurus, Jaws shark, Psycho sets, etc...They were filming a tv show as we drove by, and you could see the crew at the craft services table. It is a working lot.
I saw Maria Menounos coming from a taping of Extra - very pretty. They are filming Extra right on site now - fans can just walk up and watch the taping.
The best part was there is a new ride called Despicable Me Minion Mayhem - it is not actually a ride, it is a "virtual rollercoaster" - you are in a seat in a theater that doesn't go anywhere, but in 3D, boy, does it feel like you're going somewhere! The ride isn't officially open yet, they are still testing it, and we got to do it four times yesterday - no lines. Wen't back to do it again today, and it was closed, getting ready for the grand opening. The Simpsons ride is similar - 3D and scary/fun.
This place is expensive - $139 for a Front of the Line ticket, $84 for regular. Definitely worth it if you go to Hollywood, though. The views of the Hollywood Hills, Burbank and and the Warner Bros lot are fantastic. There is a VIP tour that is very behind the scenes that I think would be great for adults who are interested in seeing the real thing.