Photo by Meg von Haartman on Unsplash
Universal Studios Hollywood
The Studio Tour is unlike anything else at Universal Studios Hollywood and it's not something you can replicate anywhere else in the world. You are riding through an actual working movie studio. The King Kong 360 3D sequence is legitimately spectacular and Jaws lake still runs. Give it the 60 minutes it asks for — this is a must-do, not just a filler.
We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Thrill
Low
Typical Wait
~30 min
Lightning Lane
Express Pass
Height
No requirement
Ideal For
—
Thrill
Low
Typical Wait
~30 min
Lightning Lane
Express Pass
Height
No requirement
Ideal For
—
Sarah's Verdict
Sarah "Screamscape" Jenkins · Universal & Coaster Expert
Sarah's Verdict
Universal & Coaster Expert
I know the Studio Tour sounds like a thing you do when you've run out of rides. It is not.
Pros
—
Worth it if…
—
Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge is the most technically impressive mild-thrill ride I've ever been on, and I say that as someone who thinks screen rides are usually a cop-out. The AR headset and physical set design work together in a way that genuinely surprises. Bring your competitive instincts — there is an actual score and you will want to beat everyone in your kart.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is the right choice for families with kids who aren't yet tall enough for the bigger rides. The theming is genuinely charming and the Minion dance party at the end is the kind of thing young kids will talk about for weeks. Adults with motion sensitivity should sit this one out — it is gentler than Simpsons but not gentle.
The Simpsons Ride has the best writing of any ride in the park — the queue videos alone are funnier than most actual comedy attractions. The bad news: it is also one of the most effective motion sickness machines in any park, anywhere. The dome screen combined with the aggressive simulator motion is relentless. Know what you're signing up for.
Crowd tips, ride strategy, and ticket deals — straight to your inbox.
