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No visit to Hollywood would be complete without a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood where you can ride the movies! This is the original home of many of your favorite movies and TV shows, from Murder She Wrote to Jaws, Psycho and The Munsters. There are plenty of neat things to see and do but if you’re traveling with young children your family flick could turn into a horror movie. Here are some tips that could save your trip.
Start with a virtual tour
Before you go, visit their website with your kids. You’ll be able to take a virtual tour and talk about what attractions you want to see and which ones won’t be appropriate for little sister.
Buy your tickets ahead of time
Nothing ruins a trip faster than a long wait in a line and you haven’t even entered the park yet.
Bring a change of clothes and a jacket
There are two Splash areas at Universal and your little ones will want to get wet. A change of clothes and a plastic bag will be a life-saver. Even if it’s the middle of summer bring a jacket for little ones. The studio sits on top of a big hill and at night it gets mighty chilly.
Start your tour at the tram if you can.
Forget all those cool attractions at the front of the park. Start at the tram entrance if it’s allowed (sometimes you’ll be given a time ticket). Trams fill up fast and they stop running at dusk, which will come faster than you could ever imagine.
Tram warnings
The tram ride is the best part of the park but it can be very scary for young children. King Kong is loud, hot and kids will think they’re falling off a high bridge. Earthquake is a realistic 9.0 quake, complete with raging fires, floods and a train that comes right at you. Even good old Jaws can be a scare for little ones. You may want to consider trading off babysitting duties with your spouse rather than force little ones to ride.
Don’t wait until the last minute
For bathroom and food stops. During the season these areas are very crowded and a long wait is customary. Off season the park closes many of the eateries so you’ll have fewer places to choose from. No one has fun when they’re hungry or need to use the facilities.
Use this attraction guideline to pick the best rides and events for you.
Over 12
Jurassic Park
Terminator
Backdraft
Over 9
Back to the Future
Waterworld (lots of explosions and guns which may disturb small children)
Wild West Show (shooting may disturb small children)
Safe at any age
Rugrats Show
Bullwinkle Show
ET
Animal Stunt Show (a real favorite with the younger set)
Take these tips and pack them in your back-pack. Now you’re ready to enjoy the magic of Hollywood at Universal Studios!
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