What you'll see

Universal Studios Hollywood! Really, you’re going to see the entire backlot that is Universal Studios Hollywood. This is the attraction that started it all and it continues to operate to this very day.

Generally speaking, it’s hard to predict what you’ll see since it varies amongst each individual day. There’s never a set route. Things are planned accordingly to fit the needs to filmmakers who work on the Universal lot as a living. So as you might imagine - filming is considered their first and foremost priority, while the tour is considered their second, even third. Suffice to say, that doesn’t mean you’ll get a bad tour, but don’t be surprised if you encounter a few quiet areas or miss out on a few attractions on the way.

Having said that, you’re probably going to experience a man eating shark, a giant gorilla, an earthquake, flash flood dancing cars and perhaps a collapsing bridge – all on a good day. You’ll also probably witness Europe, France, Skull Island, some soundstages, Little Mexico, Wisteria Lane, the Bates Motel and Whoville.

They’re not kidding when they claim they can recreate any place on earth on the Universal backlot.

So how is it?

Gee wiz, allow me to gloat because this is my personal favorite attraction at Universal Studios. Like I mentioned above, this is what started the park. Without it, there probably wouldn’t have been Universal Studios Hollywood, let alone Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Japan, so you get a feel at how much gravitas this attraction holds among fans.

So how can I describe it? I believe the best analogy I could relate to would be a sampling of dishes at the Sushi bar. Like traditional Sushi, the tour features different experiences that allow you see a wide variety of attractions and demonstrations that you would otherwise not get with rides designed around one central theme. It’s like a mishmash of sorts – in a good way.

So how is the tour itself? Fantastic. It’s everything a movie buff could crave. Unlike other movie studio theme parks which happen to build production centers on the side just to be classified as such, Universal Studios Hollywood is the real, authentic deal. Yes, there is a working backlot and studio, and yes, it’s actually being used to house productions. This is Hollywood folks, and you’re going to get a glimpse of it. It’s an opportunity to see where some of Hollywood’s most famous artisans practice their trade each and every day and it’s a great way to visit fond movies of the past and present.

It’s the key of Universal Studios Hollywood and I definitely wouldn’t recommend a day without it.

Tips and Tricks

Before the tour

Because it’s considered one of Universal’s flagship attractions, wait time can vary widely depending the day. On any given day at the park, the wait time can extend from 10 minutes up to 30. However, during peak seasons, it’s not surprising to see the queue extend all the way up the front entrance, resulting in a wait time of up to 2 hours. So while keeping this in mind, I always suggest starting your day here first before heading off to other attractions. This is a good idea for two reasons – A) it’s a great way to get acquainted with the park B) the tour is an hour long. When it backs up, it’s not a pretty sight to behold. So start your day early and start it here.

Oh, and did I mention it’s an hour long? So be sure to use the restroom located to the left of the entrance. Once you get on, you can’t get off, so please keep that in mind while entering.

And for those who have any carry on belongings, food or strollers – carry on belongings are fine if you can store them, food and drinks are allowed as long as you’re willing to carry them throughout the whole tour, and stroller parking is located right underneath the escalator.

One last thing for those interested in meeting a star: if possible (though definitely not a deal killer), try to attend the tour on a weekend. Production crews are usually off by this time, allowing you to see the sets without any restrictions. The downside to that is you’ll probably cut your chances of seeing someone famous from slim to nil…but you never know.

Seating

The seating is rather self explanatory, though it’s easy to get mixed up on your first visit. First of all, there are seven rows of six and one row of five with a total of four trams. As you enter the queuing system to board the tram, be sure to stand on a star. Each star corresponds with a seat on the tram. If you’re standing on a star, you should be guaranteed a seat – so keep that in mind if someone beside you isn’t paying attention. Universal also suggests having smaller children sitting towards the center of the tram for obvious reasons.

As for the seating arrangement itself, I’ve always preferred sitting on the edge and if possible – sitting on the front on either side of the tram. This allows you to have a clear view of the sets without having someone get in the way. In the graphic below, I’ve marked red areas my most desirable seats while green areas are marked as a preferred seat. Sitting in the center for me is a bit uncomfortable and you get a blocked view of either direction.

Another important note - If you’re sensitive to fumes, avoid the second tram. While it has certainly gotten better over the years with recent improvements, it’s still located right behind the motor which not only spews smoke, but is also loud and obstructive.

During the tour

Take as many photographs and video as you like, since there’s absolutely no restrictions placed upon guests. Just be aware of any water effects that may come your way. This is especially true to those sitting on the edges of the tram.

In terms of general riding tips, don’t place personal belongings on the floor unless you are positively sure you can get them secured. They stand a chance of getting wet and getting lost.

After the tour

If you can’t wait to use the restroom, there are always restrooms located near Universal’s Animal Actors and WaterWorld – permitted that you don’t arrive back when those shows are just about to end.

Parents

I don’t suggest riding with anyone under the age of 7 or 8. Despite being a relatively calm tour, it does include rapid movement, fire effects and loud noises.

However, I have seen children sleep all this away, so always use your best judgment.

Photographs & Discussions

You can view photos of the Studio Tour and the backlot over at our Photo Album. We also have a discussion forum dedicated to the Studio Tour for any questions or comments you may have.