Universal Studios Hollywood#Backlot fires
{{Short description|Film studio and theme park in the US}}
{{pp-pc1}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2012}}
{{use American English|date=May 2023}}
{{Infobox amusement park
| name = Universal Studios Hollywood
| logo = Universal Studios Hollywood 2023 logo.png
| image = Universal_archway_2019.jpg
| image_size = 285px
| status = Operating
| caption = Entrance to the theme park
| location = Universal City, California
| coordinates = {{Coord|34.136518|-118.356051|scale:7500|display=title,inline}}
| mapframe = yes
| theme = Show business
| homepage = {{official website|https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com}}
| owner = NBCUniversal
(Comcast)
| operator = Universal Destinations & Experiences
| opening_date = {{Start date|1912|04|30}} (as a movie studio)
{{Start date|1915|03|15}} (L.A. studio lot)
{{Start date|1964|07|15}} (as a theme park)
| rides = 10
| coasters = 2 (1 to open in 2026)
| slogan = The Entertainment Capital of LA{{cite web|url=https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/about-us/|title=About Us|work=Universal Studios Hollywood|access-date=January 29, 2017|archive-date=February 3, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170203180544/http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/about-us/|url-status=live}}
| public_transit = {{rint|losangeles|lacmta}} {{rint|losangeles|B}} Universal City/Studio City
}}
File:Universal Studios Hollywood aerial shot 2.jpg
Universal Studios Hollywood is a film studio and theme park located in Universal City, California, near Hollywood, Los Angeles. It is one of the oldest and most famous Hollywood film studios still in use. Its official marketing headline is "The Entertainment Capital of LA". It was initially created to offer tours of the real Universal Studios sets and is the first of many full-fledged Universal Studios theme park resorts located across the world.
Outside the theme park, a facility near the Universal Pictures backlot was built in an effort to merge all of NBCUniversal's West Coast operations into one area. As a result, the current home for KNBC, KVEA and NBC News with {{Lang|es|Noticias Telemundo|italic=no}} Los Angeles Bureaus with on the Universal lot formerly occupied by Technicolor. Universal City includes hotels Universal Hilton & Towers, the Sheraton Universal Hotel, and Universal CityWalk, which offers a collection of shops, restaurants, an 18-screen Universal Cinema and a seven-story IMAX theater.{{Cite web |url = https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:us:13691780-8574-4346-89a1-7841afe1c597?viewer%21megaVerb=group-discover|title = TEA/AECOM 2023 Global Attractions Attendance Report |date = 2024 |access-date = 16 August 2024 }}
History
{{See also|Universal Studios Lot}}
=The first studio tour=
In 1914, German American immigrant Carl Laemmle bought the Taylor Ranch in the San Fernando Valley and founded Universal City as a gigantic studio with its own zoo, its own police and mayor and Native Americans living on the premises. On March 14, 1915, Laemmle opened Universal Studios in a two-day grand opening event with 10,000 attendees.{{Cite web |last=Carl-Laemmle-Exhibit |title=The Inventor of Hollywood |url=http://www.carl-laemmle-presents.de/ |access-date=2022-07-06 |website=www.carl-laemmle-presents.de}} He later invited the general public to see all the action for an admission fee of just five cents, which also included a boxed lunch with chicken. There was also a chance to buy fresh produce, since then-rural Universal City was still in part a working farm. This original tour was discontinued around 1930, due to the advent of sound films and the stages being not sufficiently soundproofed.{{cite web |title=Chronology & History of Universal Studios Hollywood|url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/chronology.shtml|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116234222/https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/chronology.php|archive-date=16 November 2021|publisher=The Studio Tour|access-date=July 9, 2010}}
=Backlot fires=
Universal Studios Hollywood's backlot has been damaged by fire nine times throughout its history.{{cite web |title=Backlot Fires |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fires.shtml |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 9, 2010 |archive-date=August 2, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100802064109/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fires.shtml |url-status=live }} The first was in 1932, when embers from a nearby brush fire were blown toward the back lot, causing four movie sets to be destroyed and resulting in over $100,000 damage.{{cite web |title=Actors Flee Blazing Movie Set |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1932.shtml |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 9, 2010 |archive-date=August 3, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100803072934/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1932.shtml |url-status=live }} Seventeen years later, in 1949, another brush fire caused the complete destruction of one building and damage to two others.{{cite news|title=Southland Fires Halted|url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1949.shtml|via=The Studio Tour|access-date=July 9, 2010|publisher=Long Beach Independent|date=June 22, 1949|archive-date=March 15, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100315070251/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1949.shtml|url-status=live}} In 1957, the New York street film studio set was destroyed by an arson fire, causing a half-million dollars in damage.{{cite web |title=1957 Backlot Fire |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1957.shtml |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 9, 2010 |archive-date=August 3, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100803072939/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1957.shtml |url-status=live }} Ten years later, in 1967, twice as much damage was done when the Little Europe area and part of Spartacus Square was destroyed. It also destroyed the European, Denver and Laramie street sets.{{cite web |title=1967 Backlot Fire |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1967.shtml |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 9, 2010 |archive-date=August 3, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100803072944/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1967.shtml |url-status=live }} In 1987, the remaining portion of Spartacus Square was destroyed along with street sets and other buildings. As with the 1957 fire, this was suspected to be the result of an arsonist.{{cite web |title=1987 Backlot Fire |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1987.shtml |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 9, 2010 |archive-date=August 3, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100803072950/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1987.shtml |url-status=live }} Just three years later, another fire was deliberately started in the back lot. The New York Street set, the Ben Hur set and the majority of Courthouse Square were destroyed.{{cite web|title=1990 Backlot Fire |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1990.shtml |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 9, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080412143620/https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1990.shtml |archive-date=April 12, 2008 }} In 1997, the seventh fire occurred at the back lot. A portion of Courthouse Square was again destroyed, though most survived.{{cite web |title=1997 Backlot Fire |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1997.shtml |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 9, 2010 |archive-date=August 2, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100802172109/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/backlot/fire_1997.shtml |url-status=live }}
==2008 fire==
{{main|2008 Universal Studios fire}}
The most damage was done on June 1, 2008 when a three alarm fire broke out on the back lot of Universal Studios.{{cite news |last=Rosen |first=Jody |title=The Day the Music Burned: It was the biggest disaster in the history of the music business — and almost nobody knew |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/11/magazine/universal-fire-master-recordings.html |date=June 11, 2019 |work=The New York Times |access-date=June 11, 2019 |archive-date=June 11, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190611110111/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/11/magazine/universal-fire-master-recordings.html |url-status=live }} The fire started when a worker was using a blowtorch to warm asphalt shingles being applied to a facade.{{cite web |title=USH 2008 Fire |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/wiki/index.php?title=USH_2008_Fire |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 9, 2010 |archive-date=August 3, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100803040317/http://www.thestudiotour.com/wiki/index.php?title=USH_2008_Fire |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=https://www.cnn.com/2008/US/06/01/studio.fire/index.html |title=Universal Studios blaze burns sets, video vault |access-date=2008-06-13 |work=CNN |date=June 1, 2008 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508112406/https://www.cnn.com/2008/US/06/01/studio.fire/index.html |url-status=live }} The Los Angeles County Fire Department had reported that Brownstone Street, New York Street, New England Street, the King Kong attraction, some structures that make up Courthouse Square, and the Video Vault had burned down (not to be confused with the actual Film Vault; the Video Vault contains duplicates of Universal's film library). Aerial news footage captured the Courthouse building surviving fire for the third time in its history, with only the west side of it being slightly charred. Over 516 firefighters from various local fire departments, as well as two helicopters dropping water, had responded to the fire. Fourteen firefighters and three Los Angeles County sheriffs' deputies sustained minor injuries. The fire was put out after twelve hours, during which time firefighters encountered low water pressure.
Destroyed were 40,000 to 50,000 archived digital video and film copies chronicling Universal's movie and television show history, dating back to the 1920s, including the films Knocked Up and Atonement, the NBC series Law & Order, The Office, and Miami Vice, and CBS's I Love Lucy.{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/01/us/01cnd-fire.html?ref=movies |title=Large Fire Strikes Universal Studio Lot |work=The New York Times |first=Michael |last=Cieply |date=June 1, 2008 |access-date=May 27, 2010 |archive-date=June 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130616094311/http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/01/us/01cnd-fire.html?ref=movies |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=https://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5ieKlEB60J43hDZ39AB9VmsPZ72sgD911MNN80 |first=Greg |last=Risling |via=Web Archive |title=Fire at Universal Studios destroys sets, videos |archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20080604141631/https://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5ieKlEB60J43hDZ39AB9VmsPZ72sgD911MNN80 |archive-date=June 4, 2008 |agency=Associated Press |access-date=April 13, 2015}}{{cite web|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-studio-fire,0,5322600.story |title=Universal studios fire may cost tens of millions |access-date=2008-06-13 |first=Ryan |last=Nakashima |publisher=Web Archive |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080605022828/https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-studio-fire%2C0%2C5322600.story |archive-date=June 5, 2008 |url-status=dead }}
Universal president Ron Meyer stated "Nothing irreplaceable was lost. We have duplicates of everything that was lost."{{cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/universal-studios-fire-engulfs-sets-video-vault-king-kong-exhibit-1.734612|title=Universal Studios fire engulfs sets, video vault, King Kong exhibit|website=CBC.ca|date=June 1, 2008|access-date=June 12, 2019|archive-date=June 14, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190614012249/https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/universal-studios-fire-engulfs-sets-video-vault-king-kong-exhibit-1.734612|url-status=live}}
Several days after the fire, it was reported that the King Kong attraction would not be rebuilt and would eventually be replaced by a new attraction that had yet to be announced.{{cite news |url=https://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/index.php/universal-studios-hollywood-to-replace-king-kong-with-new-attraction-1977 |title=Universal Studios Hollywood to replace 'King Kong' with new attraction |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=May 27, 2010 |archive-date=March 16, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090316123717/http://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/index.php/universal-studios-hollywood-to-replace-king-kong-with-new-attraction-1977/ |url-status=live }} In August 2008, Universal changed its position and announced plans to rebuild the King Kong attraction, basing the new attraction on the 2005 film adaptation.
It emerged only in June 2019, in an article published by The New York Times that the fire had totally destroyed Building 6197, a warehouse adjoining the King Kong attraction, which housed a video vault and, significantly, a huge archive of analog audio master tapes belonging to Universal Pictures' former division the Universal Music Group (UMG). The collection included the master tape catalogues of various labels acquired by Universal over the years, including Chess, Decca, MCA, Geffen, Interscope, A&M, Impulse, and a host of subsidiary labels. Estimates of the individual items lost range from 118,000 to 175,000 album and 45rpm single master tapes, gramophone master discs, lacquers and acetates, as well as all the documentation contained in the tape boxes. Many of the tapes destroyed contained unreleased recordings such as outtakes, alternate versions of released material, and instrumental 'submaster' multitracks created for subsequent dubbing and mixdown to the final master tape. Randy Aronson, who was manager of the vault at the time of the fire, estimates that as many as 500,000 individual song titles were lost.
Among the losses were all of Decca's masters from the 1930s to the 1950s and most of the original Chess masters which included artists such as Chuck Berry, Otis Redding, Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf, and most of the John Coltrane's master tapes from his later career on Impulse Records; the Chess, Coltrane and Impulse Records recordings were later confirmed to have survived. In a statement issued on June 11, 2019, UMG disputed The New York Times article saying it contained "numerous inaccuracies", as well as "fundamental misunderstandings of the scope of the incident and affected assets," but was unable to publicly disclose details due to "constraints".{{cite news|last=Aswad|first=Jem|url=https://variety.com/2019/music/news/universal-music-disputes-severity-2008-vault-fire-new-york-times-1203239661/|title=Universal Music Disputes Severity of 2008 Fire Cited in New York Times Article|work=Variety|date=June 11, 2019|access-date=June 11, 2019|archive-date=June 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190611211448/https://variety.com/2019/music/news/universal-music-disputes-severity-2008-vault-fire-new-york-times-1203239661/|url-status=live}}
Following the publication of the New York Times story, Questlove of The Roots confirmed that the master tapes for two of the band's albums, including unused material and multi-track recordings, were lost in the fire.{{cite web |title=Hole Say They Were Never Told About Lost Recordings in Warehouse Fire |url=https://pitchfork.com/news/hole-say-they-were-never-told-about-lost-recordings-in-warehouse-fire/ |website=Pitchfork |date=June 11, 2019 |access-date=12 June 2019 |language=en |archive-date=June 11, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190611234239/https://pitchfork.com/news/hole-say-they-were-never-told-about-lost-recordings-in-warehouse-fire/ |url-status=live }} Similarly, Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic said he believed the masters for the band's 1991 album Nevermind were "gone forever" as a result of the fire. Representatives for R.E.M. announced they would investigate the effects the fire may have had on the band's archival materials, while Hole, Steely Dan, Rosanne Cash and Geoff Downes made statements on their possible losses from the fire.{{cite web |last1=Holson |first1=Laura M. |title=Musicians Mourn the Fiery Destruction of Their Recordings: 'I Think They Are Gone Forever' |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/12/us/universal-music-fire-musician-reactions.html |website=The New York Times |access-date=12 June 2019 |date=12 June 2019 |archive-date=June 12, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190612213856/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/12/us/universal-music-fire-musician-reactions.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last1=Colburn |first1=Randall |title=Nirvana's Krist Novoselic believes Nevermind masters lost in Universal fire |url=https://www.avclub.com/nirvanas-krist-novoselic-believes-nevermind-masters-los-1835460110 |website=News |date=June 12, 2019 |access-date=12 June 2019 |archive-date=June 12, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190612221329/https://news.avclub.com/nirvanas-krist-novoselic-believes-nevermind-masters-los-1835460110 |url-status=live }}
A representative for Eminem confirmed that the rapper's master recordings were digitized months before the fire, but did not confirm whether the physical master reels of his recordings were affected.{{cite magazine |title=Eminem Master Tapes Were Digitally Backed Up Just Months Before Universal Fire: Report |url=https://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/record-labels/8515652/eminem-master-tapes-were-digitally-backed-up-just-months |magazine=Billboard |access-date=12 June 2019 |date=12 June 2019 |archive-date=June 12, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190612190650/https://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/record-labels/8515652/eminem-master-tapes-were-digitally-backed-up-just-months |url-status=live }} UMG archivist Patrick Kraus assured that the Impulse Records, John Coltrane, Muddy Waters, Ahmad Jamal, Nashboro Records, and Chess Records masters survived the fire and were still in Universal's archive.{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/8516256/umg-archivist-interview-universal-fire-masters-tapes-litigation|title=Universal Music Group Archivist: Vault Fire Damage 'Surprisingly Overstated,' But Any Loss Is 'Painful for Us'|magazine=Billboard|access-date=September 1, 2019|archive-date=October 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191007142546/https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/8516256/umg-archivist-interview-universal-fire-masters-tapes-litigation|url-status=live}}
=Park development=
Shortly after Music Corporation of America (MCA) took over Universal Pictures in 1962, accountants suggested a new tour in the studio commissary would increase profits. On July 15, 1964, the modern tour was established to include a series of dressing room walk-throughs, peeks at actual production, and later, staged events. This grew over the years into a full-blown theme park. The narrated tram tour (formerly "Glamor Trams"{{cite web|title=GlamourTrams|url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/studiotour/glamortrams.shtml|publisher=The Studio Tour|access-date=July 25, 2010|archive-date=August 3, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100803073300/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/studiotour/glamortrams.shtml|url-status=live}}) still runs through the studio's active backlot, but the staged events, stunt demonstrations and high-tech rides overshadow the motion-picture production that once brought fans to Universal Studios Hollywood.{{cite web |title=The Studio Tour |url=https://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/attractions/studiotour.shtml |publisher=The Studio Tour |access-date=July 25, 2010 |archive-date=August 3, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100803072828/http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/attractions/studiotour.shtml |url-status=live }}
In 1965, the War Lord Tower opened as one of the first attractions in the theme park. One of the early struggles for Universal was coming up with things for young children to do. The existing small Ma & Pa Kettle Petting Zoo was expanded into the Ark Park. This area encompassed the Mt. Ararat petting zoo with over 200 animals and birds representing 30 species and a Noah's Nursery and a Noah's Love Inn playhouse for children and animals.{{Cite book|title=JayBangs: How Jay Stein, MCA, and Universal invented the Modern Theme Park and Beat Disney at Its Own Game|last=Gennawey|first=Sam|publisher=Theme Park Press|year=2016|isbn=978-1683900252|location=United States of America|pages=21}} This was followed by the opening of the Animal Actors' School Stage in 1970. In 1968, the Screen Actors Guild enacted a rule prohibiting visitors from most soundstages. This new rule, coupled with more productions being shot on location, meant the backlot tram tour could not show visitors much in the way of real movie and television production. Jay Stein, President of the Recreation Division, championed the idea of creating exciting experiences for visitors in place of viewing actual production. Later that same year, the Flash Flood set was opened and this first special-effects attraction proved to be a hit. 20,000 gallons of water rushed 200 feet down a narrow Mexican village street, uprooting an old tree and threatening to engulf the tram. The Parting of the Red Sea attraction opened in 1973. In 1974, the Rockslide staged event was added to the Studio Tour. The following year, The Land of a Thousand Faces opened on the Upper Lot. In 1979, the Battle of Galactica replaced Rockslide as a staged event on the Studio Tour. In 1989's The Wizard, it was the site of the fictional Video Armageddon competition which gave way to the Nintendo World Championships held in 1990.
The Flintstones Show opened, replacing the Star Trek Adventure. In 1991, E.T. Adventure opened as the park's first "dark ride," an industry term for an attraction that uses ride vehicles to take passengers through an indoor show building. Around the same time, sister park Universal Studios Florida opened, which had its own, similar E.T. attraction. The Florida version was more of a conventional theme park and paved the way for the Hollywood park's evolution. In 1993, Back to the Future: The Ride replaced Battle of Galactica. In 1996, Jurassic Park: The Ride opened. In 1997, The Land Before Time show replaced Rocky and Bullwinkle Live only to be replaced with Coke Soak a year later, and Totally Nickelodeon replaced the Flintstones Show. In 1999, T2-3D: Battle Across Time and a Chicken Run Walkthrough opened on the Upper Lot, and Beetlejuice's Rock and Roll Graveyard Revue was closed.
In 2000, the Rugrats Magic Adventure replaced Totally Nickelodeon. In 2001, the Nickelodeon Blast Zone opened, and Animal Planet Live replaced the Animal Actors' School Stage. In 2003, E.T. Adventure was closed to make way for Revenge of the Mummy, which opened in 2004. This was the first roller coaster to open at the park. The following year, Fear Factor Live replaced Spider-Man Rocks. In 2007, Universal's House of Horrors replaced Van Helsing: Fortress Dracula. Both Back to the Future: The Ride and Lucy: A Tribute were closed, being replaced in 2008 by The Simpsons Ride and the Universal Story Museum respectively. Also in 2008, the Nickelodeon Blast Zone was re-branded to the Adventures of Curious George. In 2009, Creature from the Black Lagoon: The Musical replaced Fear Factor Live in the Upper Lot.
In 2010, the Special Effects Stages and Backdraft attractions were closed to make way for Transformers: The Ride – 3D, which was announced in 2008; Special Effects Stages moved to the former Creature From The Black Lagoon building and removed the last "s" from its name. King Kong 360 3-D also opened. On May 24, 2012, Transformers: The Ride – 3D opened on the Lower Lot.{{cite news |last=MacDonald |first=Brady |title=Universal Studios Hollywood plans Transformers ride for 2011 |url=https://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/index.php/universal-studios-ho-3068/ |access-date=October 7, 2010 |newspaper=Los Angeles Times |date=October 21, 2008 |archive-date=December 16, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101216062554/http://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/index.php/universal-studios-ho-3068/ |url-status=live }} On December 31, 2012, Universal Studios Hollywood closed T2-3D: Battle Across Time for Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, which opened in 2014.{{cite press release |title='Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem' Is Coming to Universal Hollywood! |website=Get Away Today |author=Universal Studios Hollywood |url=https://www.getawaytoday.com/travel-blog/despicable-me-minion-mayhem-coming-to-universal-st |access-date=June 11, 2019 |archive-date=October 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023122333/https://www.getawaytoday.com/travel-blog/despicable-me-minion-mayhem-coming-to-universal-st |url-status=live }}
In April 2014, the park announced Springfield, a new dining complex to be built around the Simpsons Ride. The new eateries feature "signature eateries from Krusty Burger to Luigi's Pizza and Phineas Q. Butterfat's 5,600 Flavors Ice Cream Parlor to iconic watering holes like Moe's Tavern and Duff's Brewery".{{cite web |last=Mirgoli |first=Nicholous |title=Universal Studios Hollywood announces Springfield Food Court and Fast & Furious Turbocharged opening in 2015 |url=https://www.themeparkoverload.net/2014/04/UniversalStudiosHollywoodAnnouncesSpringfieldFoodCourtFastAndFuriousTurbochargedNewRidesAttractions2015.html |work=www.ThemeParkOverload.net |date=April 2014 |access-date=April 13, 2014 |archive-date=April 14, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140414074630/http://www.themeparkoverload.net/2014/04/UniversalStudiosHollywoodAnnouncesSpringfieldFoodCourtFastAndFuriousTurbochargedNewRidesAttractions2015.html |url-status=live }} It opened on March 28, 2015.
On May 7, 2015, Universal Studios announced it formed a partnership with Nintendo to create attractions and merchandise based on Mario and other Nintendo characters.{{cite web | url=https://www.businessinsider.com/nintendo-partnered-with-universal-studios-2015-5 | title=Nintendo's huge new deal with Universal shows just how far it'll go to turn the ship around | work=Business Insider | date=May 7, 2015 | access-date=March 6, 2016 | last=Villas-Boas | first=Antonio | archive-date=March 6, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306191925/http://www.businessinsider.com/nintendo-partnered-with-universal-studios-2015-5 | url-status=live }} The following year, the area was called "Super Nintendo World", and was confirmed that it would come to Universal Studios Japan in 2020{{cite web | url=https://kotaku.com/first-details-on-the-nintendos-universal-studios-collab-1763022664 | title=First Details on Nintendo's Universal Studios Collaboration | publisher=Kotaku | date=March 5, 2016 | access-date=March 5, 2016 | last=Ashcraft | first=Biran | archive-date=March 6, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306101038/http://kotaku.com/first-details-on-the-nintendos-universal-studios-collab-1763022664 | url-status=live }} as well as Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood later on.{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2016/digital/games/nintendo-universal-parks-1201928781/ | title=Nintendo-Themed Areas Coming to Universal Parks | publisher=Variety | date=November 29, 2016 | access-date=May 2, 2017 | last=Spangler | first=Todd | archive-date=April 15, 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170415122012/http://variety.com/2016/digital/games/nintendo-universal-parks-1201928781/ | url-status=live }}
On August 13, 2017, Shrek 4-D closed after 14 years to make way for the DreamWorks Theatre. In 2018, Jurassic Park: The Ride was closed and refurbished into Jurassic World: The Ride, which opened in 2019.{{cite web |title=BREAKING NEWS: "Jurassic World—The Ride" Opens at Universal Studios Hollywood and It Just Got Real |url=https://www.nbcumv.com/news/breaking-news-%E2%80%9Cjurassic-world%E2%80%94-ride%E2%80%9D-opens-universal-studios-hollywood-and-it-just-got-real?network=33127 |website=NBCUniversal MediaVillage |access-date=12 July 2019}}
On April 10, 2019, the park announced The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!, an attraction based on The Secret Life of Pets.{{Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2019/film/news/universal-secret-life-of-pets-ride-universal-hollywood-1203185977/|title='Secret Life of Pets' Theme Park Ride Coming to Universal Studios Hollywood|last=McNary|first=Dave|date=2019-04-10|website=Variety|language=en|access-date=2019-04-13|archive-date=April 12, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190412115148/https://variety.com/2019/film/news/universal-secret-life-of-pets-ride-universal-hollywood-1203185977/|url-status=live}} The attraction was set to open on March 27, 2020, adjacent to the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction.{{Cite web|url=https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/amusement-parks/secret-life-of-pets-off-the-leash-ride-universal-studios-hollywood|title=The New 'Secret Life of Pets' Ride Will Turn You Into One of the Pups|last=Wisel|first=Carlye|date=2020-02-20|website=Travel + Leisure|language=en|access-date=2020-02-28|archive-date=February 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200228161835/https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/amusement-parks/secret-life-of-pets-off-the-leash-ride-universal-studios-hollywood|url-status=live}} However, Universal announced a temporary closure starting on March 14, 2020 to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/universal-studios-hollywood-closes-over-coronavirus-fears/2328004/|title=Universal Studios Hollywood Closes Over Coronavirus Fears|website=NBC Los Angeles|date=March 12, 2020 |language=en-US|access-date=2020-03-12|archive-date=April 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411004637/https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/universal-studios-hollywood-closes-over-coronavirus-fears/2328004/|url-status=live}} On March 5, 2021, it was announced that Universal Studios Hollywood could reopen with reduced capacity beginning April 1, 2021.{{cite news|url=https://www.ocregister.com/2021/03/05/disneyland-universal-and-other-california-theme-parks-can-reopen-april-1/|title=Disneyland, Universal and other California theme parks can reopen April 1|date=March 5, 2021|access-date=March 5, 2021|last=Macdonald|first=Brady|publisher=The Orange Country Register|archive-date=March 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305223801/https://www.ocregister.com/2021/03/05/disneyland-universal-and-other-california-theme-parks-can-reopen-april-1/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/disneyland-reopens-pandemic-1234922019/|title=California Theme Parks, Stadiums Can Reopen With Limited Capacity on April 1|last=Low|first=Elaine|website=Variety|date=March 5, 2021 |language=en-US|access-date=2021-03-05|archive-date=March 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305225210/https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/disneyland-reopens-pandemic-1234922019/|url-status=live}} At the end of March, it was announced that the park would reopen to California residents on April 16, 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2021/03/universal-studios-hollywood-theme-park-reopening-tickets-california-residents-1234724581/|title=Universal Studios Hollywood Will Reopen April 16 To California Residents – Tickets On Sale April 8|last=Goldsmith|first=Jill|website=Deadline Hollywood|date=March 30, 2021 |language=en-US|access-date=2021-03-31|archive-date=March 31, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210331000723/https://deadline.com/2021/03/universal-studios-hollywood-theme-park-reopening-tickets-california-residents-1234724581/|url-status=live}} Universal also announced that The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash! ride would be open to the public on that day, together with a new, fully articulated version of the Indominus Rex in Jurassic World: The Ride.{{Cite web|last=Whitten|first=Sarah|date=2021-03-30|title=Universal Studios Hollywood will reopen April 16 with new 'Secret Life of Pets' ride|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2021/03/30/universal-studios-hollywood-will-reopen-april-16-with-new-ride.html|access-date=2021-04-01|website=CNBC|language=en|archive-date=March 31, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210331112444/https://www.cnbc.com/2021/03/30/universal-studios-hollywood-will-reopen-april-16-with-new-ride.html|url-status=live}}
On March 10, 2022, Universal Studios Hollywood announced that its version of Super Nintendo World would open in 2023.{{Cite web |last=Thompson |first=Simon |title='Super Nintendo World' To Open At Universal Studios Hollywood In 2023 |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/simonthompson/2022/03/10/super-nintendo-world-to-open-at-universal-studios-hollywood-in-2023/ |access-date=2022-03-10 |website=Forbes |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Universal Hollywood Is Already Celebrating Super Nintendo World's 2023 Opening With The Appropriate Merch |work=CinemaBlend |date=2022-04-08 |url=https://www.cinemablend.com/theme-parks/universal-hollywood-is-already-celebrating-super-nintendo-worlds-2023-opening-with-the-appropriate-merch |language=en-GB |access-date=2022-04-24 |df=mdy-all }} On December 14, 2022, Universal officially announced that the land would open in Hollywood on February 17, 2023. The area soft-opened under technical rehearsals for reserved-guests on January 12, and officially opened as planned on February 17, about a month and a half before the release of Universal/Illumination's The Super Mario Bros. Movie.{{cite web |last1=Parker |first1=Ryan |title=Universal Studios Hollywood Announces Opening Date for Super Nintendo World |url=https://people.com/travel/super-nintendo-world-universal-studios-hollywood-opening-date/ |website=PEOPLE |publisher=Dotdash Meredith |access-date=14 December 2022 |date=14 December 2022}}
On July 12, 2023, it was announced that a Fast & Furious-themed roller coaster was being built.{{Cite web |last=White |first=Abbey |date=2023-07-13 |title=Universal Studios Hollywood to Get New 'Fast & Furious' Coaster |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/universal-studios-hollywood-fast-and-furious-coaster-1235534627/ |access-date=2023-07-14 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=New 'Fast & Furious' coaster coming to Universal Studios Hollywood |url=https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-07-13/new-fast-furious-coaster-coming-to-universal-studios-hollywood |access-date=3 October 2023 |website=Los Angeles Times|date=July 13, 2023 }}{{Cite web |title=Calling all speed demons: Fast & Furious roller coaster coming to Universal Studios |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/theme-parks/2023/07/12/universal-studios-hollywood-fast-and-furious-roller-coaster/70406380007/ |access-date=3 October 2023 |website=USA Today}} In May 2024, the coaster was revealed as Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, with an expected opening in 2026.{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2024/05/fast-and-furious-roller-coaster-universal-hollywood-1235903359/ |title=360-Degree Spinning "Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift" Roller Coaster Set For Universal Studios Hollywood |website=Deadline Hollywood |first=Tom |last=Tapp |date=May 3, 2024 |access-date=May 3, 2024}}
Areas and attractions
{{update section|date=September 2024}}
{{See also|List of former Universal Studios Hollywood attractions}}
Universal Studios Hollywood is split into two areas on different levels, connected by a series of escalators called the Starway. These areas are known as the Upper lot and Lower lot. As of 2021, Universal Studios Hollywood contains ten rides, seven shows, and two play areas. Each lot features a collection of rides, shows and attractions as well as food, beverage, and merchandise shops.{{Cite web|title=Rides and Attractions|url=https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us/search-results/filtered?attraction_experience=rides-attractions&attraction_location=all_K2ALLAttractionLocationLocationFilter,lower-lot,upper-lot,allparks,citywalk,on-site-entertainment&attraction_interest=|url-status=live|access-date=2021-04-11|website=Universal Studios Hollywood|archive-date=April 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411054913/https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us/search-results/filtered?attraction_experience=rides-attractions&attraction_location=all_K2ALLAttractionLocationLocationFilter,lower-lot,upper-lot,allparks,citywalk,on-site-entertainment&attraction_interest=}}{{cite web|title=Dining|url=https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/dining.html|publisher=Universal Studios Hollywood|access-date=July 9, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100706092433/https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/dining.html|archive-date=July 6, 2010|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}{{cite web|title=Shopping|url=https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/shopping.html|publisher=Universal Studios Hollywood|access-date=July 9, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100629063318/https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/shopping.html|archive-date=June 29, 2010|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}{{Cite web|title=Park Map|url=https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us/park-map?attraction_experience=rides-attractions&attraction_location=all_K2ALLAttractionLocationLocationFilter,lower-lot,upper-lot,allparks,citywalk,on-site-entertainment&attraction_interest=|url-status=live|access-date=2021-04-11|website=Universal Studios Hollywood|archive-date=April 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411054912/https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us/park-map?attraction_experience=rides-attractions&attraction_location=all_K2ALLAttractionLocationLocationFilter,lower-lot,upper-lot,allparks,citywalk,on-site-entertainment&attraction_interest=}}
=Upper Lot=
The Upper Lot consists of a variety of family-based attractions. The theming of the Upper Lot includes a Mission Revival entrance pathway, known as Universal Boulevard, that features the large Universal Plaza that opened in 2013. There are not as many fully themed lands as there are small environments linked together with a common Art Deco theme that reflects the glamour of Old Hollywood. Universal Boulevard is home to WaterWorld, and the DreamWorks Theatre, the latter which currently serves as the main location for Kung Fu Panda Adventure, a slightly modified version of Kung Fu Panda: Unstoppable Awesomeness from Motiongate Dubai.
In May of 2024, it was formally announced that a Fast & Furious themed roller coaster will open in 2026 as Universal Studios Hollywood's "first-ever high-speed outdoor roller coaster".{{Cite web |title=Universal Studios Hollywood's First High-Speed Outdoor Roller Coaster, "Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift", Set to Launch in 2026, Based on Universal Pictures' Fast & Furious Blockbuster Film Franchise |url=https://www.nbcuniversal.com/article/universal-studios-hollywoods-first-high-speed-outdoor-roller-coaster-fast-furious-hollywood-drift |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=NBCUNIVERSAL MEDIA |language=en}}
==The Wizarding World of Harry Potter==
{{Main|The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Universal Studios Hollywood)}}
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter soft-opened February 12, 2016, and officially opened April 7, 2016,{{Cite web |title=Wizarding World of Harry Potter officially open at Universal Studios Hollywood |url=https://attractionsmagazine.com/wizarding-world-harry-potter-officially-open-universal-studios-hollywood/ |access-date=10 July 2023 |website=Attractions Magazine|date=April 8, 2016 }}{{Cite news |title=A Peek Inside Harry Potter's New Hollywood World |work=The New York Times |date=March 19, 2016 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/03/11/business/media/harry-potter-wizzarding-world-universal-studios-hollywood.html |access-date=10 July 2023 |last1=Barnes |first1=Brooks }} and is the largest themed area in the Upper Lot, featuring the animatronic and screen-based thrill ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which is housed in a replica Hogwarts castle, featuring actual props from the films in the queue. In addition, this area includes the family-friendly roller coaster Flight of the Hippogriff, and the interactive Ollivander's Wand Show where a wand picks a witch or a wizard. Two live shows, Frog Choir and Triwizard Spirit Rally, are featured on the outdoor stage. In addition to attractions, the themed area features multiple shops, a Hogwarts Express train picture spot, The Three Broomsticks restaurant, and a variety of outdoor vending carts selling food and drink. Souvenirs and food based on the books and films are sold in the area too.{{Cite web|title=The Wizarding World of Harry Potter|url=https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us/things-to-do/rides-and-attractions/the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter#attractions|url-status=live|access-date=2021-04-11|website=Universal Studios Hollywood|archive-date=April 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411054902/https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us/things-to-do/rides-and-attractions/the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter#attractions}}
| class="wikitable sortable" |
| Attraction
!Attraction type !Description !Height requirements |
|---|
| Flight of the Hippogriff
| Roller Coaster | Learn the proper way to approach a Hippogriff before you take off on a family-friendly coaster that spirals and dives around the pumpkin patch, and swoops past Hagrid's hut.{{cite web|url=https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/harrypotter/ridesandattractions/|title=Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey|website=Universal Studios Hollywood|access-date=February 15, 2022|archive-date=June 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170623071203/http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/harrypotter/ridesandattractions|url-status=live}} | Minimum {{cvt|39|in|cm}}. Children between {{cvt|39 |
| 48|in|cm}} must be accompanied by a supervising companion. |
| Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
| Dark ride | Make your way through the classrooms of Hogwarts. Then soar above the castle grounds on a ground breaking new ride that lets you join Harry Potter and his friends on an unforgettable thrilling adventure. | Minimum {{cvt|48|in|cm}} |
| Ollivander’s Wand Show
| Interactive experience and gift shop | Step inside this small, dusty shop and choose from an array of Ollivanders wands, or purchase replicas of the Harry Potter film characters' wands, Collectible wand sets and more. | None |
| Frog Choir
| Live show | This outdoor live show features students of Hogwarts with their singing frogs. (Seasonal) | None |
| Triwizard Spirit Rally
| Live show | Sharing a stage with the Frog choir, this themed show features men performing martial arts moves and gymnastics with sticks. | None |
=Lower Lot=
The Lower Lot is the smaller of the two lots. There are five rides at this section of the park that each have height restrictions. It features Jurassic World: The Ride, Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride, Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and Transformers: The Ride – 3D.{{cite web |last=Angona|first=Dan |title=Universal Studios Hollywood |url=https://www.westcoaster.net/updates.php?updateCD=061210&page=8 |work=Photo Update |publisher=Westcoaster |access-date=July 10, 2010 |date=June 12, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100618022209/https://www.westcoaster.net/updates.php?updateCD=061210&page=8 |archive-date=June 18, 2010 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all}}
Jurassic World: The Ride, is a water adventure ride that takes visitors through the events of the film Jurassic World, ending with an {{cvt|84|ft|m|0}} drop. Outside the ride stands the Raptor Encounter, a show that happens throughout the day, and the Dino Play jungle gym area for children too small to ride. Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride is a high speed indoor roller coaster transporting guests through moments reminiscent of the 1999 Mummy franchise. Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge is an interactive dark ride attraction featuring augmented reality technology based on the Mario Kart franchise, which is located inside of Super Nintendo World. Transformers: The Ride – 3D uses high tech technology to simulate a battle between the Autobots and Decepticons with 4K-3D screens and flight simulator ride vehicles. The Lower Lot also features several gift shops and quick service restaurants.
Attendance
Annual events
= Halloween Horror Nights =
Halloween Horror Nights is a Halloween-themed annual event at multiple Universal Studios theme parks worldwide.{{Cite web |title=Halloween Horror Nights at Universal |url=https://www.hollywood.com/movies/halloween-horror-nights-at-universal-60832251 |access-date=9 October 2023 |website=Hollywood}}
Public transportation
File:Universal City-Studio City Station 1.JPG at Universal City/Studio City.]]
Universal Studios Hollywood can easily be accessed by public transportation at Universal City/Studio City. The Metro B line subway train runs between Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles, Westlake, Koreatown, East Hollywood, and Hollywood.
Passengers can also arrive at the entrance of the theme park entrance by several Metro bus routes. Metro Local lines 150, 155, 224, and 240 stop at Lankershim Blvd & Universal Center Drive (front entrance). Metro Local line 165 and Metro Shuttle line 656 Owl stop farther away from the entrance, at Ventura and Lankershim Boulevards. At the front entrance (Universal Center Dr. & Lankershim Blvd), there is a free shuttle tram which takes the passengers directly towards the theme park entrance.
{{Clear}}
Awards
In 2021, The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash! attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood won the award for 'Outstanding Attraction' at the Themed Entertainment Association's (TEA) Thea Awards.{{Cite web |title=Universal Attractions Beat Out Disney at Theme Park Awards |url=https://insidethemagic.net/2021/12/universal-theme-park-awards-ld1/ |access-date=12 September 2023 |website=Inside the Magic|date=December 6, 2021 }}{{Cite web |title=Universal Studios Theme Parks Win Thea and Brass Ring Awards at IAAPA Expo |url=https://wdwnt.com/2021/11/universal-studios-theme-parks-win-thea-and-brass-ring-awards-at-iaapa-expo/ |access-date=12 September 2023 |website=WDW News Today|date=November 16, 2021 }}
In 2023, Universal Studios Hollywood's attraction Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge received the 'Best New Family Attraction' at the Golden Ticket Awards.{{Cite web |title=2023 GTA Winners |url=https://goldenticketawards.com/2023-gta-winners/ |access-date=12 September 2023 |website=Golden Ticket Awards|date=September 7, 2023 }}
See also
{{Portal|Greater Los Angeles|Los Angeles|California}}
Notes
References
{{Reflist|30em}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
- {{Official website}}
- {{RCDB|5265}}
- {{Wikivoyage-inline}}
{{Adjacent communities
|Center = Universal Studios Hollywood
|North = Toluca Lake, Los Angeles & Lakeside Golf Club
|Northeast = Burbank
|East = Hollywood Hills & Griffith Park
|Southeast = Hollywood Hills
|South = Cahuenga Pass & I-101 in Hollywood Hills
|Southwest = Hollywood Hills
|West = Studio City & B Line
|Northwest = Studio City
}}
{{Universal Studios Hollywood}}
{{Universal Destinations & Experiences}}
{{NBCUniversal}}
{{Amusement parks in California}}
{{Authority control}}
Category:Universal City, California
Category:Amusement parks opened in 1964
Category:Television studios in the United States
Category:1964 establishments in California
Category:Tourist attractions in Los Angeles County, California
Category:Amusement parks in California
Category:Olympic International Broadcast Centres
Category:Universal Destinations & Experiences attractions by name