universal studios hollywood vip tour 2023

I've done 4 VIP tours at Universal Studios and have another booked for $3,500. It's an incredible deal that comes with huge perks.

• I've visited Universal Studios parks for 30 years, and I think its VIP tours are worth it.
• I've done four VIP tours with Universal and already have another booked for $3,500.
• The special ride access and unlimited food alone make it worth the price, in my opinion. 

Many are aware of the VIP tours at Disney parks , but Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort also offer various levels of VIP tours daily.

These VIP tours are guided and allow for quick and private access to all attractions and unlimited food. There are a few types of VIP tours and price varies based on date and demand. Tours last around seven hours and you can choose between a fully private tour or a mix-in tour where you're paired with up to 20 other guests.

I've done four fully private tours, which guides customize based on your interests, and the price has usually been around $3,500 to $4,500. If you have a big group, this breaks down to a few hundred dollars a person. 

Here's what my most recent tour was like and why I think they're worth every penny. 

My most recent private VIP tour was at Universal Studios Hollywood.

My most recent private VIP tour was at Universal Studios Hollywood, which is the only way to gain special access to Super Nintendo World and its working back-lot studio.

We checked in at a private VIP lounge at the front of the park and were presented with a special lanyard we'd get to keep as a souvenir.

Theme-park food can be expensive, but guests on the VIP tour receive complimentary bites.

There were two meals included with our tour. We began at a VIP lounge where we checked in for the experience and were treated to a continental breakfast and expansive coffee bar.

Halfway through our tour, we enjoyed a robust gourmet lunch buffet that had many delicious options. This was hosted in another swanky VIP lounge that offered sweeping views of Los Angeles and even some mingling with characters, like Dracula.

After breakfast, we headed to Universal's back lot and got to walk around.

I've ridden the World-Famous Studio Tour tram that goes through Universal's filming back lot many times — it's my favorite attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood. But as a VIP, I got to walk on the lot for the first time.

The back lot is part of Universal City, a working film studio that's large enough to have its own fire station. Many popular movies and television shows of past and present, like Netflix's "Never Have I Ever" and cult-favorite "Desperate Housewives," film here at its many soundstages and practical sets.

This was a bucket-list experience for me.

As we explored, we were even able to visit the iconic courthouse and clock tower from "Back to the Future," a highlight for me.

We also walked along the cobblestone streets of the famous Little Europe back lot, a memorable filming location of "The Good Place" and Universal's classic monster films of the 1920s.

As we went behind the scenes, we also got to ride around on a special bus.

During the back-lot portion, we rode around to different parts of the studios on a specialty VIP motorcoach.

We also visited Universal's top-secret prop warehouse but weren't allowed to take photos. 

All in all, we spent around two hours exploring the sets.

I loved walking along the set of Jordan Peele's 2022 thriller "Nope." The theme park from the film, Jupiter's Claim, was relocated to the back lot and we had free access to roam around it. 

During the back-lot portion, we also experienced classic things regular guests experience from the World-Famous Studio Tour tram, like the set of "Jaws" and a 3D adventure on King Kong 360.

Walking through the sets was a huge highlight of our day. 

Next, we headed to Super Nintendo World and skipped lines.

After the back lot, our VIP tour arrived back at the theme park for lunch. Then, we made our way to the new Super Nintendo Nintendo World on foot.

Universal Studios Hollywood's VIP tour is the only way to enjoy special access to Super Nintendo World. This meant we were able to be escorted directly to the front of its headliner attraction, Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge, which had a 90-minute wait time during our visit.

Super Nintendo World has proved immensely popular since opening this year, and sometimes it's so crowded people must enter a virtual queue for a chance to enter the land. As a big fan of the immersive land, I'm glad my VIP status guaranteed me access to it.

After Nintendo, we were escorted directly onto some major attractions.

With our VIP-tour ride access, we were quickly whisked directly to the front of lines — usually via backstage shortcuts — and onto attractions.

Our tour guide took charge of our itinerary but guests are able to make requests if they desire. Ours included the indoor roller-coaster Revenge of the Mummy — The Ride.

He also mentioned guides have the ability to bring tour guests into special experiences, like the popular Ollivander's Wand Shop in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter , or attempt to get reservations at the new Toadstool Café inside Super Nintendo World.

Personalized details like this added even more value to my experience. 

After the tour, I used my unlimited Express Pass to enjoy more rides on my own.

I was surprised that VIP guests also received an unlimited Express Pass, valued at about $200 to $300, to enjoy after the tour.

After the tour, I used my pass to enjoy expedited access to attractions I wanted to ride again, like Secret Life of Pets: Off The Leash.

This pass was especially great because in-demand Universal Studios Hollywood attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey can garner lines of well over an hour on busy days. 

I highly recommend a Universal VIP tour.

I believe price alone is a reason to book a VIP, especially when comparing it to the cost of an Express Pass and all the additional perks we received. 

After all, tours include unlimited front-of-line access to all rides, shows, and attractions, along with valet parking and all-you-care-to-enjoy meals.

There wasn't just one highlight but many, and favorites included the special access to Super Nintendo World and the walking tour of the back lot. Our entire group felt like VIPs and loved the personalized attention we received. It felt like a truly special experience and a great value. The complimentary food was also surprisingly delicious.

The quick access to rides was amazing and allowed us to ride everything in a single day, which usually can't be done with a regular ticket.

Plus, our tour guide was funny and a wealth of knowledge. He was on hand to not only escort us to the front of attraction queues, but also to share insider info and park secrets .

I've already booked another VIP Tour — this time, for Halloween season.

As big fans of Universal's Halloween Horror Nights , my family was exploring options to gain quicker access to the haunted houses during the event, where wait times can sometimes be over 60 minutes.

After calling Universal's dedicated VIP phone line, we discovered that a 10-person fully private tour would cost $3,500 total on our desired date of visit, breaking down to $350 per person.

When comparing the price to an Express Pass, which can cost up to $200 per person during Halloween Horror Nights, it was a no-brainer for us to spend a little more and book the VIP tour.

Named the "RIP" tour during the Halloween season, this VIP package also includes a guide, food, private lounge access, and unlimited access to all attractions — including haunted houses.

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Guide to the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood

What’s better than being a guest at Universal Studios Hollywood ? Being a VIP guest at Universal Studios Hollywood. Don’t get us wrong , every day at Universal feels like magic. But the VIP Tour feels like…well, extra cushy magic.

So what, exactly, does it mean to be an A-lister at Universal Studios Hollywood? In the VIP Experience , you’ll explore the theme park with a super knowledgeable tour guide, in a maximum 13-person group. The tours last a minimum of five hours and include one (truly delicious) meal, an extended Studio Tour , unlimited Express Pass access, and — well, let’s just get into it, shall we? Here’s everything you need to know about the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood.

THE PRE-TOUR PERKS

When you hear the words “VIP,” it’s fair to assume you’re about to be peppered with sweet, sweet perks. The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood is no exception to the rule. And, lucky for you, those fun little bonuses begin the second you arrive at Universal. Here’s what you can expect before you even start the tour:

• Valet parking. This is a huge perk! Just roll up to the main entrance to the Jurassic Parking garage, hand your keys over to a Team Member, and they’ll take it from there. No fretting over losing your keys or forgetting where you parked — you’re a VIP now. 
• Complimentary refreshments. Enter the VIP lounge (just look for the red carpet to the right of the entry gates after security) for a comfortable, air-conditioned waiting area before your tour. There, you can enjoy a complimentary spread including bagels, coffee, and other light bites.
• Sun protectants. You’re about to spend a full day in a theme park — there’s no such thing as enough sunscreen! Guests have access to complimentary sunscreen ,lip balm, and ice water in the VIP Experience Center.

Once your group is assembled, fed and sunscreened up, it’s time to explore Universal Studios Hollywood — VIP style!

The tour guides are what make the VIP Experience truly one-of-a-kind. First, they’re perhaps the most knowledgeable folks you’ll ever meet about all things Universal. As your tour guide leads your small group through the theme park, they’ll hit you with factoid after factoid. It’s an inundation of anecdotes to use at your next cocktail party.

Do you know which other major studios you can see from the escalator on the way to the Studio Tour? Or what iconic 80s film the facade of Saul & Sons in the New York section of the theme park is based on? Or who dubbed Universal “the strangest city in the world”? Your VIP tour guide does.

Beyond a sky-high Universal IQ, the tour guides are there to help make your experience exactly what you want it to be. Each VIP Tour is different. Your Guide is given an allotted time to take your group to three things: the Studio Tour, the WaterWorld show, and lunch. Other than that, they have room to improvise. That means there’s lots of time for rides via Express Lanes. While you can’t completely tailor the experience to every little thing that you, personally, would like to do — you are on a group tour, after all — the guides are able to take your input into consideration.

THE STUDIO TOUR

The Studio Tour is your chance to see the ins and outs of how movies get made. But on the VIP Experience, the Studio Tour brings you just shy of straight-up making the movies yourself. While General Admission guests stay on the tram, VIP guests get to hop off and walk the sets. The exclusive access of movie and TV sets — plus certain luxe amenities — make this unlike any other Studio Tour you’ve experienced. In addition to all standard Studio Tour experience, VIP guests have access to:

• The VIP Trolley. Forget the tram, you’re a trolley rider now! Part of being very important means riding on a special trolley, complete with complementary ice water.
• Soundstage stop. Learn how movie magic comes to life inside one of Universal’s massive soundstages. You might walk through rooms that look totally real — until you learn all the walls are removable for lighting and camera access.
• Edith Head Costume and Prop department. Named for the legendary 20th century costume designer, this building homes hundreds of props used in iconic films throughout time. Just one rule: you break it, you buy it. So I’d keep my hands to myself. 
• Walk on a real set. VIP guests get to hop off and explore iconic movie sets on foot. It could be New York City, or Courthouse Square, or Colonial Street, but each tour is slightly different.

NOTE: These are all real, working sets! Therefore, all VIP Experience tours are subject to availability based on production schedules and other factors. Each tour is a little bit different.

VIPs? Wait in long lines? What a ridiculous concept! With your Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience comes an Unlimited Express Pass, meaning you get to use the Express Lanes on every ride in the theme park. That means less time waiting, and more time riding. We made it onto seven rides during my VIP Experience.

And the best part? The VIP Experience is the only way to bypass the general queue for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge . The regular Express Pass doesn’t come with that perk.

But the VIP Experience isn’t just about skipping lines, it’s about the little things. It’s all about removing friction from your day. Here are a couple examples of little luxuries on the rides:

• No Ride Locker Necessary. VIP guests can just hand their bag to their tour guide as they hop on a ride, who hands it back when you get off. Easy peasy. 
• WaterWorld Seats. Snagging seats for this crowd-pleaser is no sweat when you’ve got VIP seats waiting for you. 

PRO TIP: Your VIP lanyard functions as an Express Pass for the remainder of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood! If you’re a real thrill-seeker, snag a spot on an early tour — then hit the rides via Express Lane until the theme park closes. 

You’ve done everything at Universal Studios Hollywood, you claim? Bet you haven’t eaten at VIP Dining. If you haven’t already done the VIP Tour, you definitely haven’t. I mean, I hadn’t, and Iwork here.

VIP Dining, tucked in the Parisian (so you know it’s fancy) portion of the Upper Lot, is the VIP-only dining room. During your VIP Tour, you’ll enjoy a one-hour, all-you-can-eat experience here. And I do mean enjoy. VIP Dining has (arguably) the tastiest food available at the theme park and CityWalk. The whole buffet is delicious, but I especially recommend the mushroom risotto, the melon and prosciutto, the caprese salad, the asian cucumber salad — I could go on. And, you know what? I will: Don’t forget to save room for gelato, cheesecake and cookies.

The elevated menu, plus free phone charging stations and visits from Universal characters, makes VIP Dining the perfect oasis at which to refuel during a jam-packed day at the theme park.

THE DETAILS

Here are the nitty-gritty details you need to know:

• VIP Tours start at various times throughout the morning. The number of tours per day varies by season and day of the week.
• Tours are capped at 13 guests each.
• Tours run for a minimum of 5 hours.
• Children must be at least 5 years old to attend, and 17 years old to attend without an accompanying adult.
• Book your VIP Experience here.
• VIP Private Experience tours are also available. Call (818) 622-8477 to reserve yours.

THE SPOOKY VERSION

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the combination of two of the best parts of Universal Studios Hollywood: VIP + Halloween Horror Nights. It’s called the R.I.P. Tour. (Genius.)

The R.I.P. Tour differs slightly from the regular VIP Experience, but the bones (har-har) are the same. You’ll get a guided walking tour of the event, one-time express entry to each haunted house and available attractions, the Terror Tram backlot experience in a VIP trolley, and gourmet dining experience, and more. Check out the full details her e . But basically, it’s the VIP Experience, plus a whole lot of guts and gore and jump-scares. Hell really is a place on Earth.

THE VERDICT

So, should you splurge on the VIP Experience? The short answer: yes. But let’s break it down and see if it makes sense for you. The VIP Experience is awesome for…

• Universal superfans. If you want to soak up every last thing the theme park has to offer, the VIP Experience is an absolute must. As I mentioned, certain experiences, like VIP Dining and the up-close Studio Tour, are only available to VIP guests.
• Folks who want a cushier experience . Treat yourself! Theme park days can be long ones — make yours a truly relaxing visit with the VIP Experience.
• Entertainment buffs. Even the biggest film nerds can learn a thing or two from the brainiac VIP tour guides.
• Parents of young ones. Tired of planning every single little detail of the family vacation? Your VIP tour guide has got you covered. Parents will appreciate someone else taking the lead for a jam-packed day!

Overall? Going VIP totally elevates the Universal Studios Hollywood experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or have an Annual Pass, put this one on your bucket list.

What part of the VIP Experience are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments below.

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Grace Perry

Senior Editor, Universal Studios Hollywood. Lisa sun, Smithers rising, Disco Stu moon.

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24 comments.

I am thinking about doing the Vip experience on my own on Jan 19, 2024. Well I still have fun?

We think you’ll have the best time! 🤩

Hello, I booked a VIP tour for January 30, since WaterWorld will be closed what will the tour substitute?

Hi Naomi! We recommend reaching out to our VIP Team at (818) 622-8477 with any questions you may have regarding your specific tour!

We did it one time..WAS AMAZING.

was amazing , you really feel like a VIP

We’re so glad that you had a great time!

I spy Greg! He was our tour guide for RIP last year and was amazing. Looking forward to going again this year with fingers crossed we get him as our guide again!

We’re so happy to hear you had a great time on your tour, and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon!

We have a 5 year old. Would he enjoy the tour or be bored? I worry about the backlot portion?

Hi Sandra! For any questions or assistance with our VIP Experience, please feel free to reach out via phone at (818) 622-8477. We hope to see you soon!

Where and how we can get VIP experience..

Hi Rosita! To book a VIP Experience, we recommend contacting our team at 1-866-346-9350 as they would be more than happy to answer any questions and provide further assistance. We can’t wait to see you at our parks soon!

Goedemiddag,

We hebben vandaag ook deze tickets geboekt alvast voor komende zomervakantie in Augustus. Maar weet iemand ook of je met deze tickets voorrang krijgt om op de foto te gaan met de karakters die in het park staan/lopen?

Hi Marcel, we’re so excited to hear of your upcoming visit and VIP Experience! This tour does not include expedited access to our character meet and greets.

Does the unlimited express include the Bowser Mario Cart ride, or is it only once while on the actual tour?

Hi Michael, the only way to bypass the general queue for that attraction is the VIP Experience. Universal Express Unlimited does not include that attraction.

Is the Toadstool Cafe included with the VIP-Tour, or do I have to make a reservation?

Hi Moni! We recommend reaching out to our VIP Experience Team at 1 (800) 864-8377 for more information regarding your tour offerings!

Hi! Can we upgrade VIP tickets to platinum passes should we decide to become pass holders that day?

Hey Liz! If you had any questions regarding upgrading your ticket packages, we recommend reach out via phone at 800-864-8377. We hope to have you visit soon!

I see that during April-Aug, general admission tickets also can get off the tram and experience the movie sets. What am I paying extra for besides food and rides? This was a major draw for my family of 4 booking the vip tour and being able to leave the tram.

Hi Ramon, while Celebrating 60 Years of the Studio Tour, Guests will be able to step off the tram for about 10 minutes. During the VIP Experience, Guests get a much more in-depth look at some iconic movie sets on foot when stepping off the VIP trolley.

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• California & the West

Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience Review - May 2023

• Thread starter Nike4000
• Start date May 25, 2023
• Tags super nintendo world vip experience

Mouseketeer

• May 25, 2023

Last week our family of 4 enjoyed a fun-filled day at Universal Studios Hollywood (5/20/2023). We upgraded to the VIP experience and we can honestly say we'll never visit Universal Studios without doing the VIP tour. It was AMAZING! When we booked the tour, we had to select a time. We chose 9:45 am because we were spending the two prior days at Disneyland (you can read my Disneyland VIP Experience review HERE ) and wanted to sleep in. The night before we switched hotels from Disney's Grand Californian Resort to the Hilton Los Angeles /Universal City because we wanted to be close to Universal. Since our hotel was a 5 minute walk from the entrance to Universal Studios, we slept in and enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at our hotel. The tickets said to arrive about 30 minutes before our reserved time, so we walked over shortly after 9. After getting through security, there is a separate check in area for the VIP experience to the right of the ticket booths and it was fantastic. A Universal employee took my tickets, handed me our VIP lanyards and ponchos, and told me our guide would be Patrick T. We were then sent upstairs to wait for our tour to start. OMG! Upstairs there was a small but well stocked buffet of breakfast foods, drinks, water bottles, and comfy couches & chairs to relax on. Had I known the level of food that would be available (the stuff we read said "snacks"), we would have skipped breakfast at the hotel and just eaten in the VIP lounge. It was plentiful and very tasty. About 10 minutes before our tour was supposed to leave, a man came around asking if we were in Patrick T.'s group (I include "T" because there is another VIP guide named Patrick). We confirmed, he introduced himself, and then told us to meet him on the patio outside. After gathering the rest of the group, 12 guests total, Patrick T. laid out the plan for the day = rides, rides, and more rides; then lunch; then the studio tour, more rides if we have time, and finally the Waterworld Stunt Show. Let me tell you - he NAILED that plan. That is exactly what we did! We started off going all the way down the escalators to the lower area and hit the rides there. Yes, we visited Super Nintendo World and used the VIP entrance to the Mario Kart ride. All the while Patrick T. was telling us all sorts of tips and tricks to maximizing our Super Nintendo World experience. Things like - look for the "M" on the walls for special stickers. Or, to find the hidden lookout with binoculars and zoom in on things to earn extra bonuses. He talked us through the Power Up bands you can buy and how to use them. My son & I had purchased bands at Universal City Walk the night before, so we were already collecting coins as soon as we stepped into Super Nintendo World! We rode on just about every ride you'd want to go on - The Mummy, Jurassic World, Harry Potter, Transformers, everything. No waiting, straight to the front of the line with our VIP lanyards. Eventually, around 12:50, we ended up at the Moulin Rouge where we had a completely private, all-you-care-to-eat buffet lunch. The food was fantastic! Best meal we had on our entire trip - by a mile! I ate more chocolate chip cookies than any 1 person should eat. Did I mention that the cookies are sitting on a warming tray so they're fresh, warm, and soft? Sodas, lemonade, water bottles, whatever you wanted to drink was available. Bathrooms were limited - only 2 for the entire group, but we made due. The entire buffet lunch is included in the VIP experience price. Totally worth it for the high quality of food and the ability to escape the crowd. Dracula & Lucy Riccardo stopped by to say "Hi" while we were eating. After lunch we made our way to the tour. Did we go on the normal tram with everyone else? Oh no - we went on a special air conditioned trolley that had ice cold water bottles available in a cooler. We merged with another tour group, so there were 24 total guests. Our guide Patrick T. took the mic and gave a FANTASTIC tour for the first half. The trolley stopped a couple of times along the route and we were able to get out and explore. In the Downtown/Brownstone area, we got to walk around touch the buildings, and surrounding elements while Patrick explained how they swap out the bricks to get the desired location appearance. We walked around the grassy area outside of the courthouse from Back to the Future. Another stop was "Wisteria Lane" from Desperate Housewives. Yup, we got to look in the windows and see that they're just facades, trample the grass, and stand under the shade trees while we learned about some of the tricks used to make neighborhoods look different or bigger on film. My favorite stop was at the Edith Head Prop Warehouse, where we got to walk around the warehouse and see different things that were used in numerous shows & movies. The trolley still did the usual tram things, like Jaws, Earthquake, etc., but it was just a nice small group of us instead of a big impersonal tram. This was the first time that I'd taken the studio tour that I really enjoyed that part of the experience. Maybe it's because I'm older, or maybe it's because it was totally personalized to our small group. Either way, it was loads of fun. After our trolley tour came to an end we hit a couple of more rides that we had missed in the morning, like the Simpsons ride. We also rode a few rides that Patrick said were not nearly as fun - like The Secret Life of Pets ride. Not exactly exhilarating or anything, but a fun time to sit down and look around. Finally, we made our way to the Waterworld Stunt Show where we had reserved VIP seats in the best part of the stadium. We could see everything! Loads of fun & we didn't get wet at all! After the show, we met up with Patrick for one last time. We tried to tip him, but he refused it. His knowledge and personality had more than earned a tip and I will figure out some way to get him his money. The day wasn't over though! It was around 5pm or so and we still had our VIP lanyards. You see, unlike at Disneyland where the VIP experience ends when the guide is done, at Universal you get to use your VIP badge for the rest of the day. So, my son and I made our way to Super Nintendo World while my wife & daughter headed for Harry Potter. We rode Mario Kart multiple times in under 30 minutes while the ladies just kept walking on to the Harry Potter ride. It was freakin' amazing! Want to go on a ride? Sure, just show your VIP badge, skip the line, and walk on. It was the best thing ever! I said it earlier, I won't go to Universal Studios without a VIP experience booked. In fact, my wife & her sisters are going to the Universal Studios in Orlando later this year & they've already booked the VIP experience for their trip. It's money well spent! Speaking of money, how much did it cost? Grand total for 4 adult VIP tickets was $1,716. We tried to tip Patrick T. $200, but he wouldn't take it. I highly recommend Patrick T. as a guide. I keep referencing his last initial because there is another tour guide named Patrick. That's about it. I'll answer any questions you have about the day. I'm sure I'm leaving important details out. Quick edit - we did not get to try the food at Toadstool Café in Super Nintendo World because it was booked all day for a private event. We ate dinner at places around the park and it was nowhere near as good as our VIP lunch.  

lilsonicfan

Dis veteran.

Great review, thank you! Is the VIP cost in addition to regular tickets, or does it replace the need for a park ticket? Seems like a great cost when you compare it to the Disneyland cost! (Also - interesting about tipping!)  

• May 26, 2023

lilsonicfan said: Great review, thank you! Is the VIP cost in addition to regular tickets, or does it replace the need for a park ticket? Seems like a great cost when you compare it to the Disneyland cost! (Also - interesting about tipping!) Click to expand...

@lilsonicfan - the $1,716 we paid for 4 was inclusive of our park admission, so it's a pretty darn good deal over all. @AndrewC - Thanks! I forgot to mention that the VIP experience includes parking as we didn't have a car, we just walked from the hotel next door.  

This is SO super helpful. I think you answered all my questions about the Universal VIP experience! We are a Disney family (live 1.5hrs from WDW, AP, DVC) and are going to DL in Nov but of course the kids wanted to check out the new Super Nintendo land. I read about reservations and how busy it was so was looking into VIP to determine if you still get time there in the tour and if you could go back after so really appreciate all the information. It does sound like the way to go. Again, much appreciated!  

ngl said: This is SO super helpful. I think you answered all my questions about the Universal VIP experience! We are a Disney family (live 1.5hrs from WDW, AP, DVC) and are going to DL in Nov but of course the kids wanted to check out the new Super Nintendo land. I read about reservations and how busy it was so was looking into VIP to determine if you still get time there in the tour and if you could go back after so really appreciate all the information. It does sound like the way to go. Again, much appreciated! Click to expand...

@ngl - yeah, with the VIP lanyard you can just waltz right in to Super Nintendo World while the regular ticket holders need to schedule a time. Plus, the Mario Kart ride has a special VIP line that's a bit shorter than the Express pass line (not by much though). As I mentioned, you can do the Mario Kart ride again and again - if you choose to do so. @AndrewC - Interesting, didn't know that was a thing. We wanted the whole VIP experience from start to finish, but if we were going back, I'd definitely follow your strategy. Makes even more sense for HHN season! Thanks for the tip!  

Phatscott25

• May 31, 2023

@Nike4000 , how is the walkway from the Hilton you mentioned to the park? I ask because our group of 8 will be staying there in August and also have the VIP planned. Anyway, my mom can't do steps nor walk long distances so I'll be pushing her in a wheelchair. Everything I've been able to see online shows that the walkway has several steps. Is that the case?  

Phatscott25 said: @Nike4000 , how is the walkway from the Hilton you mentioned to the park? I ask because our group of 8 will be staying there in August and also have the VIP planned. Anyway, my mom can't do steps nor walk long distances so I'll be pushing her in a wheelchair. Everything I've been able to see online shows that the walkway has several steps. Is that the case? Click to expand...

Thanks so much for the info! The shuttle it is I guess. Also many thanks for the original post. As I mentioned, we're going to be doing the VIP in August and that post covered all the questions I had about it. Really looking forward to it!  

There are some other things not mentioned, at least during the times I have done the VIP tour: 1) The guide will hold on to your backpacks, instead of having you use lockers on some of the rides (Mummy, Jurassic park, and HP Forbidden Journey). 2) If there is someone in your group that doesn't want to ride an attraction, the rest of the group can go on and you can wait, even if it's just your kids. For example, if you get sick on Forbidden Journey, but your kid wants to ride, as long as they meet the requirements and are ok going with the guide, that will work. The guide will typically ask on each ride whether there is anyone that doesn't want to ride. 3) While on the tour, especially when it is busy, the guide will navigate you through alternate paths to get through the line much quicker. This may involve going backstage at times which is always cool. 4) You can also do the Wand experience at Ollivanders during the tour. This doesn't have an express line, and can have a long line to get in. It used to be more popular, but now with Nintendo land, perhaps not as much. Typically, someone in your group has to ask for it, and the guide may save it for near the end of the tour. 5) The no tip thing surprised me. All the guides in the past gladly accepted a tip. Maybe something changed, or your guide was just that extra nice. 6) I just want to agree with the lunch. It is by far the best food in any theme park that I have had, and it is definitely one of the best "perks".  

• Jun 1, 2023

Thanks @Steven G for the additional info! Really looking forward to this!  

@Steven G - fantastic additions! When we were in the Harry Potter world, there was zero line for Ollivanders so maybe it's not as popular anymore.  

• Jun 11, 2023

Good info ! We are going in August and doing the VIP. Nice to know what to expect.  

• Jun 12, 2023

greg9x said: Good info ! We are going in August and doing the VIP. Nice to know what to expect. Click to expand...

• Jul 2, 2023

Is re-entry allowed (for both park admission and parking)? We will have 2 kids with us and I was thinking maybe take a little break after the tour... go back to the hotel, chill and then go back to the park to take advantage of the VIP lanyard. Also, if we do the early tours (ie. 7:30am), are we eating lunch at like 10:30am? Thank you much!  

I don’t know about the reentry options, you’re probably going to have to call for those answers. I don’t think tours start as early as 7:30, but if f they do, I’d be surprised if lunch was 10:30. My best guess is that you’d have the tram tour before lunch and eat closer to noon. Again, this is probably worth a call to the VIP support team.  

• Jul 8, 2023

OffToDWD said: Is re-entry allowed (for both park admission and parking)? We will have 2 kids with us and I was thinking maybe take a little break after the tour... go back to the hotel, chill and then go back to the park to take advantage of the VIP lanyard. Also, if we do the early tours (ie. 7:30am), are we eating lunch at like 10:30am? Thank you much! Click to expand...

Hi I just enjoyed your Universal Trip Report & now I am having trouble finding your DL VIP trip report. Ill keep searching.  

There's a link to it in the original post.  

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Your Ultimate Amusement Park Guide

Unlock the Magic: Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience

Experience the ultimate behind-the-scenes adventure at Universal Studios Hollywood

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through the captivating world of movies and entertainment? Look no further than the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience, the most exclusive and immersive way to explore the magic behind the silver screen. Step into the realm of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters and iconic attractions, and indulge in a day filled with VIP privileges, exclusive access, and unforgettable memories.

Exclusive Backlot Access

“Lights, camera, action!”

Imagine strolling through the heart of the movie industry’s bustling sets, witnessing the magic unfold before your eyes. With the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience, you can make this dream a reality. Hop aboard a special trolley and venture into the backstage secrets of some of the most famous outdoor sets ever created.

• Explore Famous Outdoor Sets : As the trolley navigates through the backlot, you’ll have the opportunity to disembark and explore select sets up close. Walk in the footsteps of your favorite actors and get a taste of the behind-the-scenes action that brings movies to life. From intricate cityscapes to breathtaking landscapes, every step reveals a new facet of Hollywood’s artistry.

Exclusive Theme Park Benefits

“Welcome to a world where fantasy becomes reality.”

As a VIP guest, you’ll unlock a realm of exclusive benefits and privileges within the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park. Prepare to be treated like a star from the moment you arrive until the very last magical moment.

• VIP Lounge Experience : Begin your day in style at the exclusive VIP lounge. Savor light snacks and refreshments as you soak in the anticipation of the adventures that lie ahead. Let the excitement build as you mingle with fellow VIP guests, all sharing the same love for movies and cinematic wonders.
• Gourmet Delights : Indulge your palate with a culinary experience fit for the stars. In the private VIP dining room, Universal’s very own executive chef will prepare a gourmet meal that transcends expectations. Immerse yourself in a world of flavors, where every bite is a celebration of fine dining. Please note that alcoholic beverages are excluded from the package.
• Unlimited Universal Express Access : Say goodbye to waiting in long lines and hello to express access. As a VIP, you’ll enjoy unlimited Universal Express access to all participating rides and attractions. Feel the adrenaline rush as you journey through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ or take flight with dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. With priority entry, your adventure never pauses.
• Complimentary Valet Parking and VIP Entry : Leave your worries at the door and enjoy the VIP treatment from the moment you arrive. Benefit from complimentary valet parking, ensuring a stress-free start to your day. Glide through the VIP entry, bypassing the regular lines, and step into a world where you’re the star.

Exploring the Vibrant Universal CityWalk Hollywood

Expert Tour Guide

“Discover the past, present, and future of Universal’s Backlot.”

Prepare to be amazed as our expert VIP guides lead you through the fascinating journey of Universal’s Backlot. With their extensive knowledge and passion for the industry, they will immerse you in the captivating stories that have shaped the world of cinema.

• Express Line Escort : Say goodbye to long queues and hello to VIP treatment. Your expert guide will whisk you through the express lines at rides and attractions, ensuring that you make the most of your time exploring the park. Skip the lines and embark on one adventure after another, from heart-pounding thrills to enchanting encounters.
• Prime Seating at Shows : Get ready to enjoy the best seats in the house. Your VIP guide will secure prime seating for you at select shows, guaranteeing an unobstructed view of the spectacular performances. Whether it’s a dazzling stunt show or a mesmerizing musical, every moment will come to life right before your eyes.

Please note that all VIP Experience tour content is subject to availability based on production schedules and other factors. The magic of Hollywood is ever-changing, and the VIP Experience ensures you’re at the forefront of its grandeur.

“Unlock the Magic”

The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience is a limited capacity product, allowing for an intimate and personalized journey. With a maximum of 18 guests per tour, you’ll enjoy a truly exclusive and immersive adventure like no other.

• Age Requirements : Children must be at least 5 years old to attend the VIP Experience. Guests aged 17 and above can join the tour without an accompanying adult, ensuring a memorable outing for families and individuals alike.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to unlock the magic of Universal Studios Hollywood. The VIP Experience package, priced at $369 , includes 1-Day Park admission, unlimited express access to rides and attractions, a guided backlot tour, light snacks and refreshments at the VIP lounge, a gourmet meal in the private dining room, and complimentary valet parking.

“Book Your VIP Adventure Today”

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood, located in the heart of Los Angeles, California, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting world of movies. Immerse yourself in the magic, indulge in VIP privileges, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience today and unlock the secrets behind the silver screen like never before. It’s time to step into the spotlight!

For gerenal information about Universal Studios Hollywood and further navigation please refer to: Universal Studios Hollywood: Where Movie Magic Comes to Life

Hotels Close to Universal Studios Hollywood – Walk, Stay, Play!

What is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience?

The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience is the most exclusive way to go behind the scenes at the world’s largest movie studio and theme park. It offers exclusive backlot access, VIP privileges within the theme park, expert tour guides, and a range of benefits designed to enhance your visit.

What does the Exclusive Backlot Access entail?

With Exclusive Backlot Access, guests have the opportunity to tour the movie industry’s busiest sets in a special trolley. You can disembark at select outdoor sets and explore them up close, immersing yourself in the world of movie production.

What are the Exclusive Theme Park Benefits?

Exclusive Theme Park Benefits include VIP privileges such as escorted express access to rides, shows, and attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™. You’ll also enjoy access to an exclusive VIP lounge with light snacks and refreshments, a gourmet meal prepared by Universal’s executive chef, unlimited Universal Express access to participating rides, complimentary valet parking, and VIP entry to the park.

What role do the Expert Tour Guides play?

The Expert Tour Guides are an integral part of the VIP Experience. They provide in-depth knowledge about Universal’s Backlot, escort guests through express lines at rides and attractions, and secure the best seats for seated shows. They enhance the overall experience by offering insights into the past, present, and future of Universal’s Backlot.

Is there an age requirement for the VIP Experience?

Yes, children must be at least 5 years old to attend the VIP Experience. Guests aged 17 and above can join the tour without an accompanying adult.

Is the VIP Experience package available every day?

The VIP Experience package is subject to availability based on production schedules and other factors. It is recommended to check the availability for your selected date when making a reservation.

What is included in the VIP Experience package?

The VIP Experience package includes 1-Day Park admission, unlimited express access to each ride, attraction, and seated show, a guided tour of the backlot, light snacks and refreshments at the VIP lounge, a gourmet meal in the private VIP dining room (alcoholic beverages excluded), and complimentary valet parking.

How many guests are allowed per VIP tour?

The VIP Experience is a limited capacity product, with up to 18 guests per tour. This ensures an intimate and personalized experience for each participant.

How can I book the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience?

To book the VIP Experience, visit the Universal Studios Hollywood website or contact their customer service. Select your desired date and time, and follow the instructions to secure your reservation.

Is the VIP Experience available at other Universal Studios locations?

The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience is specifically designed for the Hollywood location in Los Angeles, California.

Universal Orlando Resort VIP Experience: A Comprehensive Guide

Can I purchase the VIP Experience on the day of my visit?

The VIP Experience is a highly sought-after and limited capacity product. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your spot. However, if available, you may be able to purchase the VIP Experience on the day of your visit, but it is subject to availability.

Is the VIP Experience suitable for individuals with disabilities?

Universal Studios Hollywood strives to provide accessible experiences for all guests. It is recommended to contact their guest services in advance to discuss any specific needs or requirements. They will be able to provide guidance on accessibility and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable VIP Experience for individuals with disabilities.

Can I modify or cancel my VIP Experience reservation?

Modifying or canceling a VIP Experience reservation may be possible, depending on the terms and conditions of your booking. It is recommended to review the cancellation policy at the time of booking or contact Universal Studios Hollywood’s customer service for assistance.

Can I bring my own food or drinks during the VIP Experience?

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted during the VIP Experience. However, the package includes light snacks and refreshments at the VIP lounge, as well as a gourmet meal prepared by Universal’s executive chef in the private dining room.

Are there any height or weight restrictions for the rides and attractions included in the VIP Experience?

Yes, certain rides and attractions may have height or weight restrictions for safety reasons. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of each ride before participating. Universal Studios Hollywood provides clear signage and guidelines for guests to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Are there any discounts available for the VIP Experience?

Universal Studios Hollywood occasionally offers promotions or discounts for the VIP Experience. It is recommended to check their official website or inquire with customer service to explore any available discounts or special offers.

Can I use Express Passes or other Universal Studios tickets for the VIP Experience?

The VIP Experience includes unlimited Universal Express access to participating rides and attractions. Therefore, separate Express Passes or tickets for individual rides may not be necessary. However, it is best to review the details of your VIP Experience package to confirm the inclusions.

Will I have access to all areas of the theme park during the VIP Experience?

While the VIP Experience provides exclusive access and privileges, there may be certain restricted areas within the theme park due to operational requirements or ongoing productions. Your expert tour guide will ensure you have a comprehensive and enjoyable experience within the permitted areas.

Can I bring a camera or take photographs during the VIP Experience?

Yes, you are typically allowed to bring a camera and take photographs during the VIP Experience. However, specific guidelines may apply to certain areas or attractions, particularly where photography or recording is restricted for privacy or safety reasons. It is recommended to follow the instructions of your tour guide and adhere to any signage or announcements regarding photography.

Is there a dress code for the VIP Experience?

There is no specific dress code for the VIP Experience. However, it is advisable to wear comfortable attire and footwear suitable for a day of walking and exploring the theme park. Additionally, consider the weather conditions and dress accordingly.

The Ultimate Universal Studios Hollywood Packing List: Essentials for an Unforgettable Adventure!

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Born and raised in FL, I love traveling, enjoying life and new places, visiting amusement and theme parks while on the go. Hope my tips can be helpful to others too!

Drop me a line [hello {@} tayloredtripsblog.com] should you have more questions/suggestions/topics, etc.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

Complete Guide to the Universal Studios VIP Experience

This article is your complete guide to the Universal VIP Experience! We are going to cover everything about the Universal Studios Orlando VIP tour and of course the Universal Studios VIP pass in Hollywood. There are some major benefits to the Universal VIP pass which include front-of-the-line access to all of the major shows and rides, free meals, free parking, and your tour guide for the day. We have done the Universal Studios VIP, and have a lot of good things to say, as well as downsides for the extra cost.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Universal Orlando be sure to check out our Universal Crowd Calendar!

 Universal Crowd Calendar

What Are The Universal VIP Tours?

The Universal VIP tour offers an unparalleled experience for guests. This tour is guided by an expert through the park’s top attractions and shows, and is available at both Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood! This exclusive experience includes significant perks like the Universal Express Pass , allowing you to bypass lines at most attractions. The tour is offered in both private and non-private formats and provides the flexibility to customize your visit. Whether you enjoy the Universal Studios Orlando VIP experience or the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour, you’re guaranteed priority access, expert insights, and a memorable, comprehensive way to enjoy Universal Studios, making every moment unforgettable!

How Long Does the Universal VIP Tour Last?

• 5 – 7 hours

The duration of the Universal VIP tours varies between 5-7 hours, depending on the type of tour package you choose. The Universal Orlando VIP tour typically spans 6-7 hours, while its counterpart, the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour, usually lasts between 5-6 hours.

How Early Should You Arrive for Your Universal VIP Tour?

• 45 – 60 minutes before the tour begins

One of the most useful tips and tricks we can provide to get the most out of your Universal Orlando VIP tour is to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your tour even begins. One of the main reasons is it will take you some time to get through security at Universal. And once you do arrive at the park gates, your group will still have to check in to your VIP experience. We also enjoyed getting to meet with our Universal VIP tour guide and coming up with a game plan for how the entire group would prefer to tackle the parks.

Related Post: Complete Guide to Harry Potter Orlando Vs California 

Universal Orlando VIP Experience Express Pass

The Universal VIP experience provides guests with front-of-the-line access to both of the main Universal Orlando parks. Out of the many perks that the Universal Orlando VIP ticket also includes, the free Universal Express Pass ticket is our favorite one! The second biggest pro to the VIP experiences at Universal Studios Orlando is that they include the two most popular rides in Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the VelociCoaster.

It’s important to point this out as although both of these rides are included with early park admission, they are not included with the Universal Orlando express pass ticket.

Does Universal VIP include Hagrid’s?

• Yes, all VIP experience Universal offers front-of-the-line access to every ride and attraction within the theme parks, including Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure!

The significance of this feature cannot be overstated, especially considering that this ride is not covered by the standard Universal Orlando Express Pass. So when you decide to go for Universal Studios VIP tickets, you’re gaining an advantage that goes beyond the usual benefits!

Related Post: Complete Guide to Universal Studios Orlando Shows

Universal Orlando Non-Private VIP Tour Overview

You can purchase tickets for up to six guests for the Universal Orlando non-private VIP experience. Then you will be combined with other parties to form a group of up to twelve people for the day’s adventures. The non-private Universal Orlando VIP tour typically begins at 11:00 AM each morning and typically lasts between five and seven hours. We will also say that even though guests follow the Universal tour guide lead on average they are guaranteed to get an average of ten rides.

One key distinction between the non-private and private Universal Orlando VIP experience is the role of the tour guide in selecting the day’s attractions. While the guide will make the final decisions, they typically conduct a group poll to gauge everyone’s interests. Given this, we strongly recommend engaging in a discussion with the other members of your non-private VIP experience Universal Orlando tour before it starts! This will allow you to align your ride preferences and ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

What is Included in the Universal Orlando Non-Private VIP Tour?

• Free Valet Parking
• Front-of-the-line access to Universal Orlando shows and rides
• Backstage tour and knowledge from your tour guide
• Universal Express pass for after
• Complimentary breakfast and lunch

Does the Universal Orlando VIP Experience Cost?

Another common question we receive is, how much is the Universal Orlando non-private VIP tour?  The Universal Orlando non-private VIP tour for 2 parks over 1 day starts at  $189.00 per person plus sales tax. It’s also important to note that a valid Universal Orlando park-to-park admission ticket is required as well to participate in the Universal Orlando VIP tour.

Related Post: Complete Guide to the Lockers at Universal Orlando

Private Universal Orlando VIP Tour Overview

This option is mandatory for groups of seven or more who are interested in upgrading to the Universal Orlando VIP experience. The most significant difference between private and non-private VIP tours lies in the level of control you have over your itinerary. In a private VIP tour, the guests have the final say on which attractions they’ll visit during the eight-hour tour.

This level of customization can be a game-changer. For instance, if your private tour group is enamored with H agrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or the VelociCoaster , you have the freedom to ride these attractions as many times as you’d like. This makes the VIP experience uniquely tailored to your group’s preferences.

As for the Universal Private VIP Experience cost , it’s worth noting that while this option may come at a premium, the personalized nature of the tour often makes it a value-added choice for larger groups or those seeking a bespoke experience at VIP Universal Studios .

Overall the private Universal Orlando includes the same private Universal tour guide to bring guests to the front of the line on all shows and attractions. It also includes free valet parking, a Universal express pass for after the tour, and two full-service meal vouchers which can be used inside the theme parks or at CityWalk. Non-private VIP tours also come with a 3-day Universal Orlando photo pass. 

What is included in the Universal Orlando Private VIP tour?

• Front-of-the-line access to Universal Orlando shows and rides which you select
• Universal express pass for after
• Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• 3-day Universal Orlando photo pass
• Additional discounts on food and merchandise

Private VIP tour Universal Orlando Cost?

So, what is the Universal private VIP tour cost? The Universal Studios private VIP tour costs start at $3,099 for the two park-a-day private VIP experience for up to five guests, and additional guests will start at $375 per person each. The private VIP tours at Universal Orlando can accommodate up to ten guests. It’s also important to note that these are the starting costs and the final price can fluctuate based on the time of year that you are visiting.

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Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour 2024

Now, let’s shift our focus from Florida to California and address the question: What is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP pass ? Much like its Orlando counterpart, the Universal Hollywood VIP ticket represents the pinnacle of exclusivity, offering front-of-the-line access and behind-the-scenes experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood.

The VIP offerings at Universal Studios Hollywood come in two flavors: the non-private VIP tour and the Universal Hollywood private VIP experience. Both options provide an elevated way to explore the park, but they cater to different needs and group sizes.

The non-private option is similar to the Orlando guided tours , where you join a group of up to twelve people and follow a pre-determined itinerary set by your tour guide. On the other hand, the private VIP experience is more akin to Orlando private tours , offering a customizable agenda that you and your group dictate.

If you’re considering the Hollywood option, you might be interested in looking up a VIP experience Universal Studios Hollywood review to get a sense of what past guests have thought of their experience. For those who are still weighing the pros and cons between the two coasts, comparing this with a private tour from Universal Orlando could provide valuable insights into which experience might be the best fit for you.

What are the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tours?

• Non-private Universal Hollywood VIP tour
• Private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour

Related post: Discount Universal Hollywood Tickets

 Universal Studios Hollywood Non-Private VIP Tour

So, what is the Non-private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood? The non-private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is a limited-capacity experience with up to eighteen guests per VIP tour. It will provide guests with a backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot, free parking, an unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass with priority seating for select shows, light snacks and refreshments in the morning, and a gourmet meal for lunch.

What’s included with the Non-private Universal Hollywood VIP Tour?

• Backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot
• Free parking
• Unlimited Universal Hollywood Express Pass
• Snacks and gourmet lunch

How much does the Universal Hollywood Non-private VIP tour cost?

Now that we have gone over the details, how much does the Universal Hollywood VIP tour cost? The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tours start at $379 per person and each group can accommodate up to eighteen people. We would say one of the biggest differences between the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP and the Orlando VIP tour is with Hollywood the cost of admission is included in the purchase price.

Related post:  The Complete Guide to Harry Potter World: Universal Orlando vs Hollywood

Private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour

Okay, now that we have covered the non-private you might be wondering what is the private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour. And, the private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood includes guests a backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot, free parking, an unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass with priority seating for select shows, light snacks and refreshments in the morning, and a gourmet meal for lunch. However, the biggest difference is it will only be for members of your group, and you will not be paired with any of the groups that day.

How long is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour?

Another common question we receive is, how long is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour?  As a general rule of thumb, the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour is approximately 6 hours, however, it is important to note that guests can stay in the park until closing to take advantage of their unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass.

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Is the Universal VIP Tour Worth it?

One of the most frequently asked questions we encounter is: Is the Universal Studios VIP tour worth it? As a general guideline, if your goal is to maximize your time and experiences, the Universal VIP tour is often well worth the investment. This is particularly true if you’re already considering an upgrade to include the Universal Express Pass ticket.

The reason for this is quite compelling. In the case of Universal Orlando, three major rides are not covered by the standard Express Pass but are included in the VIP tour Universal . This offers families a significant level of flexibility. You won’t need to worry about arriving for early park admission, which can sometimes be as early as 7:00 AM, to benefit from shorter wait times at the most popular attractions.

So, when considering a tour of Universal Studios Orlando, the VIP option provides a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the park. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned theme park veteran, the Universal Studios Orlando VIP and Orlando VIP experiences offer a premium, hassle-free way to enjoy all that Universal has to offer.

From a budgeting standpoint families will also be surprised to learn that the non-private VIP tours can make sense when you add up all of the extra benefits. We believe the fact that an unlimited Universal express pass is included with your Universal VIP ticket is huge as it will allow you to get onto so many more rides within your day. We also find that the Universal express pass is typically 60-70% of the cost of the non-private VIP tour anyway. So once you add the free valet parking and meals to your budget it might not be that much more to upgrade to the Universal VIP tour.

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Universal VIP Tour FAQ

Does the Universal VIP tour include VelociCoaster?

As a general rule of thumb, the Universal Orlando VIP tour does include the VelociCoaster. It’s important to note that the VelociCoaster is not included with the Universal Express pass so you will be sure to want to ride this attraction during your tour throughout the day.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our   Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar  is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We breakdown the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to  Universal Studios,  be sure to check out  Universal Orlando Tickets! Not only will you save money vs buying direct, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits that can help save you up to three hours in the parks!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at  Themeparktoday.com!

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Insider Look at the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience

Posted on Last updated: January 3, 2024

Home » Theme Parks » Insider Look at the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience

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Heading to Universal Studios Hollywood in California? Scroll to find out everything you need to know about the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience.

This universal studios hollywood post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, i will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. all opinions remain my own..

My husband and I have been debating bringing the kids to Universal Studios for a while. I’d never been and my husband had been many years ago.

Since our kids are 4 years old and 1 year old, I had a feeling they might not be able to do most of the rides.

So, when my Mom offered to fly up to watch the boys, my husband and I decided to live it up in Los Angeles for the weekend! And top on our list was a day at Universal Studios in Hollywood !

Find amazing Universal Studios Hollywood deals here .

We spent a lot of time comparing the ticket options. I read a lot of blog posts about what people recommend. Friends gave me their advice.

But, my husband is the one who convinced me to get the VIP Experience .

I’m a movie and TV nut and the Universal Studios VIP tour gives guests a more in-depth studio tour. Plus, guests jump to the front of all the ride lines (even after the VIP tour ends.)

My husband was really stoked about the free breakfast, gourmet lunch, and valet Universal Studios Hollywood parking. And they gave us ponchos and little amenity kits. Oh and all the bottled water we could drink!

Since we only had one day to explore Universal Studios without kids, we decided this was the way to go!

Don’t miss these Universal Studios Hollywood tips

Checking In

So when you drive into Universal Studios, head to the Frankenstein Parking Lot. It’s the one closest to the park entrance. Pull into the Valet area and then simply walk up the stairs to get to the park.

After security, head to your right and you’ll see a door marked VIP. That’s where you want to go.

After checking you in, you’ll be sent upstairs to their VIP Lounge . We had about 20 minutes to eat breakfast. They had juices, tea, and coffee. I was also impressed at an assortment of pastries, croissant sandwiches, hard-boiled eggs, oatmeal, etc.

After we ate, our guide Chris came over to talk about our schedule for the day. He also gave us ponchos for Jurassic Park and an amenity kit that had mints, wipes, lip balm etc.

Insider tip: Don’t eat TOO much because the first things you will do are rides!

[irp posts=”3790″ name=”How to Survive Disneyland with a 3 Year Old”]

Universal Studios Hollywood Rides

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The first place we went at Universal Studios Hollywood was to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter . In preparation for this trip, we binge-watched all the Harry Potter movies !

I’m so glad we did because walking through Hogsmeade was incredible! There are so many things to do at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter !

Since we were on a tour, we quickly walked past the amazing shops in Hogsmeade to get closer to Hogwarts. Our guide Chris positioned us in the best place to get photos in front of Hogwarts. Then, we hit the ground running!

FLIGHT OF THE HIPPOGRIFF

First up was Flight of the Hippogriff . It’s touted as a family-friendly roller coaster. The ride is about 21 seconds long. I’m a total chicken when it comes to rides, and it made my stomach a bit wonky. I’m glad I ate a very light breakfast!

HARRY POTTER AND THE FORBIDDEN JOURNEY

Then, we headed straight to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey . The ride line takes you through the inside of Hogwarts, which lives up to the hype!

We watched the paintings of founders of each house talk to each other! I assumed it would look like a projection or video, but it seriously looked like the images in the cracked paintings were moving on their own! So cool!

Once we got through Hogwarts, we handed our bags to Chris. You can’t have anything loose around you.

Trust me: we got kicked off because my husband had a camera around his neck. Thankfully, we were able to get right back on. For those not doing the VIP tour, there are lockers for you to store your stuff.

The ride itself is pretty cool! You sit in line and you get to fly around Hogwarts. I started to feel a bit dizzy about half-way through, so I just closed my eyes on and off.

The ride is a bit longer than I expected, but a must-do ride for Harry Potter fans!

Lower Lot at Universal Studios

When they say “Lower Lot” they really mean that you’ll be going down countless escalators to the valley below! I was shocked we were still at Universal Studios!

After doing the previous rides, even the escalators felt a bit intense! But, I’m not really a ride person I guess! I took a time-out from rides in the Lower Lot, but my husband did them all!

JURASSIC PARK—THE RIDE

This is a boat ride that ends in an 84-foot plunge. Our guide Chris helped guests get into their ponchos. I walked all the way to the entrance with the group and then Chris walked me out so I could take photos.

My husband enjoyed the ride and thought the plunge was fantastic! His shorts got pretty wet in the front row (he failed to wear his poncho.) And it made him want to rewatch Jurassic Park and Jurassic World .

REVENGE OF THE MUMMY—THE RIDE

Revenge Of The Mummy—The Ride is just a few yards away from Jurassic Park—The Ride . This time, a few other guests opted to sit the ride out.

We spent the time taking photos of the dinosaur character hanging around. My husband again had a great time because he’d seen The Mummy ! And he told me I definitely wouldn’t have enjoyed it!

TRANSFORMERS: THE RIDE 3-D

I opted to take photos with Bumblebee instead of the ride. I had a blast dancing with Bumblebee! My husband is a huge Transformers fan and he thought the ride lived up to his expectations.

He got to fight alongside his idol Optimus Prime in an epic battle of war.

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Waterworld Show

We headed back up the endless stream of escalators to make our way to catch the 12:15pm Waterworld show.

The last time I saw Waterworld , I was in middle school. So, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was kind of thinking how weird it is when movies become live-action musicals. I was wondering how they’d pull this off.

What’s awesome about this show is that they set the stage with a bit of backstory. So, if you haven’t seen the movie, it doesn’t really matter. The show starts even before everyone is seated. Actors start spraying water at late guests and joking with the crowd.

Then, the show starts with jaw-dropping special effects! There are jet skis, water skiers, motor boats, etc. And lots of fire! You’ll see actors swinging from ropes and little gondolas.

Oh and a plane lands in the water at the end of the show! It was insanely cool! And the actors in the show are also characters in well-known TV shows.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

My 4-year-old is a HUGE Minions fan, so I felt a little guilty going on this ride without him.

We went in a little room to watch a video to set the scene. Then, we headed into our row, put on our 3-D glasses and started the ride.

Our scene was where little Agnes was trying to give a present to Gru to celebrate the anniversary of their adoption. Super cute story, but I did have to close my eyes a few times with all the simulated drops.

Insider tip: I heard from other guests that the story changes throughout the day, so it might be worth doing this Universal Studios ride twice.

VIP Lunch in Private Dining Room

Universal Studios Hollywood has a whole restaurant dedicated to serving VIP guests lunch .

It’s a buffet lunch featuring sushi, seafood, meat, salad, soup, and just about every other type of food. Lots of options for kids, vegetarians, carnivores, picky eaters and everyone in between.

Plus, they had an array of desserts! The food was delicious and it was nice to sit outside in the undercover patio and rest a bit.

Insider tip: Use the restrooms here. They are HUGE!

During lunch, the character of Lucille Ball was walking around chatting to the guests. She was super fun to talk to and to eavesdrop on while she was talking to other guests!

Apparently, she travels to Lucille Ball’s hometown of Jameston, NY for their annual Lucy Comedy Fest.

Our guide Chris gave us a full hour for lunch, which was plenty of time to leisurely enjoy our meal and use the restroom. And we had extra time to check out the Minions merchandise in a gift shop and take photos with the kids from Despicable Me .

[irp posts=”5056″ name=”Warner Bros. Studio Tour Review”]

Universal Studios VIP Studio Tour

Ok, so this was the part of Universal Studios I’d been waiting for!

Instead of riding in a huge 4-car tram like the regular studio tour, we got to ride in a private open-air trolley. We teamed up with another VIP group, so I think there were 20 of us in total.

Since our trolley was small, we were able to squeeze through narrow alleys and get a lot closer than the trams. Plus, we were able to load and unload quickly, maximizing our time!

Champions Set

The first place we explored was the set of the upcoming TV Show called Champions . It’s produced by Mindy Kaling and premieres March 8 on NBC!

The set we toured was a boxing gym that seems to be the main set of the show. They had filmed earlier in the day and were going to film later that evening, so we had to be extra careful not to touch anything. It was AMAZING!

I love Mindy Kaling and we knew we’d be watching this show, so it was really exciting to get a sneak peak! The only downside to exploring this set is that we couldn’t take any photos. Or touch anything.

My husband and I used every morsel of self-control to keep from taking a Jolly Rancher from the dish on the counter!

Courthouse from Back to the Future

Next, we got to walk around the courthouse featured in Back to the Future . It was right next to a street used in Hairspray Live !

The clock part was up just for tourists to take photos. I guess it’s such a recognizable set that they usually have to take down the clock if they want to film there.

New York Street

Another cool area we got to walk around was New York Street. It’s also decorated to look like London, Chicago, and countless other cities. The ends of the streets curve so they can connect it to other streets when editing.

As we were walking around, I kept wondering how many times I must have seen this street in TV, movies, and commercials!

Prop Warehouse

One of the coolest places we stopped on the tour was the prop warehouse. It looks like a thrift store warehouse filled with all kinds of knick-knacks, furniture, and memorabilia.

It would take hundreds of hours to really look at each item and we didn’t have that long. So we did a quick walkthrough and our guide Chris pointed out some cool items.

I spent most of the time looking down the narrow aisles seeing what kinds of treasures I could find. I also started reading as many tags as I could.

As we were heading out, I noticed a lady just standing in front of a cart. I was a little annoyed since I maybe wanted to take a photo and she was in my way. After all, I’m a tourist and my job is to take photos of everything!

But, then I realized she was standing in front of a cart marked This is Us and she was pulling items for it! Like most people in their 30s, This is Us is one of my favorite shows!

It brought me back down to realizing this was a working prop warehouse and all this stuff has been used (and will be used) for television and films.

The Good Place and Little Europe Sets

My husband and I are borderline obsessed with Kristen Bell’s show The Good Place . So, when we saw a set filled with yogurt shops, I squealed!

We got to get out and explore the set, which was amazing! Each shop sign was funny and smart! And they had the train station. I could have spent 30 minutes wandering around here taking photos.

That set is also used to replicate Europe. They just swap out the signs for ones in another language. With all the little alleys and nooks, it has a European feel. The set definitely felt like we were walking through a side street in Paris.

It made me think a lot about our trip to Paris last spring !

King Kong 360 3-D

So by now you know I’m a total ride junkie, right? NOT the case. So, when I was told King Kong 360 3-D was the most intense 3-D ride in the world, I was a bit nervous.

But, I actually kept my eyes open for the whole ride. You are kind of in a tunnel and there are screens on both sides. You’ll see dinosaurs and King Kong and he will move from one screen to the other. You wear 3-D glasses and it’s pretty cool.

Earthquake: The Big One Ride

Our trolley drove into a subway area used in an episode of Bones .

Inside, our trolley shook as we experienced an “Earthquake” and flood situation. It was pretty incredible to see how they did it for the show! We even got a bit wet when the water gushed in.

Had it been a real earthquake, I would have panicked over being sprayed with “subway water,” but this felt pretty clean.

Flood Scene from Big Fat Liar

We drove through the set of a Mexican town and got to see how they simulate rain. We saw the sprinklers, water on rooftops, simulated lightning and a flood!

Afterward, we watched the clip from Big Fat Liar (starring Frankie Muniz and Amanda Bynes) to show the scene that featured the flood.

I was surprised how realistic the rain looked. And I’m a Seattle girl, so I KNOW rain!

Fast & Furious—Supercharged

Another ride is this 3-D experience featuring the cast from Fast & Furious . The video was really incredible because it looked like the actors were outside our trolley.

The ride was mostly us chasing bad guys. The trolley shook a bit, but not too bad. It was cool, even if you aren’t a big Fast & Furious fan.

One of the last rides we experienced was Amity Island on the set of Jaws . The town sits on a man-made lake. We watched a guy get eaten by a shark and then the shark came right up to our trolley and sprayed us with water.

The Bates Motel

I’m not a Psycho fan, but I’ve heard of Norman and The Bates Motel. It’s an actor who is shown putting a body into the trunk of his car and then he notices us. Naturally, he comes toward us with a knife.

Nothing too scary, but very cool to see an actor on this tour.

War of the Worlds Set

Something really cool for my husband was exploring the War of The Worlds set. He’s a Boeing engineer so it was interesting for him to see how they destroyed the Boeing aircraft for the movie.

It was crazy to see all the destruction and we thought the set was eerie.

[irp posts=”1777″ name=”7 Ways to Prep for Disneyland with Toddlers”]

End of VIP Experience

The simpsons ride.

After the Studio Tour concluded, we headed to The Simpsons land. We were able to get a quick photo with Krusty the Clown before heading into The Simpsons Ride.

Our guide Chris was able to get us into Car 6, which put us right in the middle of the screen. Super helpful since this was a virtual reality roller coaster ride. I used to love The Simpsons , so I did this right.

However, I had my eyes closed during a lot of it.

The Walking Dead

This experience uses real actors and they take 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off. I knew The Walking Dead wouldn’t be up my alley. So, I went to the entrance and Chris walked me to the exit.

It’s a super quick walk though experience.

By the time I got to the exit, our group came out about 30 seconds later. Half the people exiting looked freaked out while the other half laughed.

VIP Experience Finale

After The Walking Dead , our Universal Studios VIP Tour was officially over. Chris reminded us that we could still use our passes to go to the front of the line for any other rides until the park closed.

The whole VIP experience lasted more than 6 hours.

Hogsmeade at Night

My husband and I had thought the Hosgmeade looked a bit funky in the bright California sunshine. So, we opted to head back to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter as the sun was going down.

This gave us the opportunity to get a quick photo with the train conductor.

I always rave about how people should experience Cars Land at Disney California Adventure at night. Hogsmeade takes the cake! It was magical and felt so true to the movies!

We sipped a Butterbeer and just soaked in the ambiance. It was the ultimate way for us to end a whirlwind day at Universal Studios Hollywood.

[irp posts=”5929″ name=”Ultimate Guide to Disneyland While Pregnant”]

Final Thoughts on the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood

In the end, we thought the VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood was definitely worth the money.

There’s no way we would have been able to do all the rides we did without that VIP pass. We also would have wasted valuable time looking at maps and trying to figure out where to go.

And the in-depth studio tour lived up to my high expectations! It was exactly the type of Hollywood experience I wanted for our kid-free getaway.

We were also very appreciative of the valet service to pick up our car on the way out. We had our car 2 minutes after leaving the park exit.

Insider tip: Ask for Chris to be your tour guide. He guides all the celebrities around Universal Studios and EVERYONE knows him. You’ll really feel like a VIP!

Where to Stay at Universal Studios Hollywood

Hilton los angeles/universal city.

The Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City hotel is just a block away from the entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood and minutes from Hollywood.

They even have a complimentary shuttle available daily to Universal Studios Hollywood. And then cool off in their large outdoor swimming pool. Check the latest rates and availability.

SHERATON UNIVERSAL HOTEL

Sheraton Universal Hotel is uniquely and centrally situated in the Hollywood Hills, right next to Universal Studios Hollywood and the Universal Citywalk.

You can easily drive to Universal Studios, Walt Disney Family Museum, Warner Brothers , and Paramount, as well as numerous production companies. Check the latest rates and availability .

BLVD HOTEL & SPA

This hotel has an awesome location! The BLVD Hotel & Suites has the intimate appeal of a boutique hotel in Hollywood with California-cool characteristics.

Its Hollywood and Highland location in Hollywood, CA makes attractions like Universal Studios and the Los Angeles Metro Station walking distance away and close proximity to all the major attractions in Hollywood/Los Angeles area. Check the latest rates and availability .

Check for the best Universal Studios Hollywood deals here .

Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience Wrap Up

After we visited Universal Studios, it’s no wonder why this is one of the top things to do in Hollywood ! It’s such an immersive experience and a great way to learn a bit about movie magic!

Looking for more Southern California content? Check out our guide to Universal Studios Hollywood at Christmas and Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood !

Unlock Your Free eBook

Our exclusive eBook, Top 10 Unforgettable Family Adventure Destinations , is your ticket to a world of wonder and excitement. Get your free copy today!

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Friday 27th of April 2018

I am struggling if I go for VIP. They are expensive. After reading your review I think it must be a good choice. I will go with my parents in law who are 85+, first time traveling out from San Francisco, two young kids 7 and 12. Do they have a VIP expert guide only us ? Or do we combine into another family? Does VIP experience including parking that means we don’t need pay extra? Thank you for your in/depth and lively review.

marciecheung

Great question! They keep the tour group pretty small. I think we ended up with 9 people and the maximum is 12 people, I believe. Yes, VIP includes valet parking, so you won't have that additional cost. I'm so glad this post helped! Please reach out with any additional questions. Thanks!

Thursday 12th of April 2018

We're heading to SoCal this July for 6 nights and 5 days. We were thinking of doing a 3 day hopper for Disneyland, 1 day for Knott's Berry, and 1 day at Universal. Oddly and funny enough, we also have a 1 year old and a 4 year old (well, soon to be 5 in a couple of months). But, unlike you, we're bringing them.

If I'm reading the online stuff correctly, under 5 is not allowed for the VIP experience at Universal. Do you know if this is true? If not, would you still recommend a VIP experience for a 5 year old (and the baby)? I know mom and dad would enjoy it :)

Also, does that sound good to you -- 3 days Disney, 1 Knott's, and 1 Universal?

Any other thoughts, comments, feedback, and advice would be greatly appreciated!

Yes, under 5 is unfortunately not allowed for the VIP experience at Universal. That's part of the reason we decided to do it when we were kid-free because it would be 4 years until both kids are old enough. My neighbor took her 5yo daughter and they had a blast! You might look into the Universal Express tickets for your family. It will allow you to jump ahead in line. Summer is a busy season, so that would save you hours and keep spirits high. And indulge in the Butterbeer :) They also have a rider switch option (just like Disneyland) that will be helpful since your 1yo won't be able to go on most of the rides. And Universal is much larger than I anticipated, so I'd suggest doing one area at a time. The upper and lower lots are really far apart.

I think your plan sounds great! Will you have any down days during your trip? Your kids might have sensory overload (and you might be exhausted) and need a day to rest in between the theme parks. It took me a few years to realize how helpful it is to lay low every few days to let the kids refuel.

Have an incredible trip! I have a few posts about Disneyland with babies, toddlers and preschoolers and feel free to ask any other questions you have. I'm here to help!

Tuesday 20th of March 2018

I have annual passes and I've never thought about buying VIP tickets! Sounds like you had a lot of fun! I should think about it for sure!

OMG the VIP experience was incredible!

Ava Crosier

I LOOOOOOOOVE Harry Potter and I have been to Harry potter world be4 and its amaaaaaaaaaaaaazing I love it! thanks 4 the cool writing??????

*!!!!!! not ??????

I was seriously impressed with how amazing all the Harry Potter stuff was!

Tyffani Duvall-Stone

Tuesday 20th of February 2018

This was a great read! my husband and I are going in June for our 10 year wedding anniversary. I am so glad we came across your blog.

Wednesday 21st of February 2018

Oh what a fun way to spend your 10 year anniversary!

Per LA County’s Public Health order, beginning October 7, all persons ages 12+ must be prepared to show proof of full FDA or WHO approved COVID-19 vaccination (a full 14 days after final dose was administered), or a negative test taken within 72 hours of visit, prior to entry to the theme park. A COVID-19 self-test, sometimes referred to as a “home test,” is not acceptable. Persons ages 18+ must also show any photo ID. Verification will take place when required based on theme park attendance. Children under the age of 12 are not required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result. Regardless of vaccination status, face coverings are required to be worn at all times, both indoors and outdoors, when visiting the theme park. At Universal CityWalk, face coverings are required to be worn indoors. Review Important Safety Guidelines

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Join other fans and get the blood-red carpet treatment with the ultimate Halloween Horror Nights experience: a guided R.I.P. walking tour of the event. R.I.P. Tour is available for individual parties of up to nine (9) persons only, and parties will be mixed into tour groups of up to twelve (12) people. R.I.P. Tour ticket includes:

• One-time R.I.P. entry to each maze (based on tour itinerary) and unlimited express access (per day) to select maze/ride/attraction.  Daytime admission to the Park is not included.  
• Tour exclusive photo opportunity.
• Private R.I.P. Trolley transportation.
• Reception featuring an all-you-care to-enjoy dinner (alcoholic beverages excluded).
• Commemorative R.I.P. Tour credential and lanyard.
• One complimentary Valet Parking.
• Event begins at 7:00 p.m. Online purchase from www.halloweenhorrornights.com includes Early Event Admission to select mazes beginning at 6:00 p.m., subject to availability, cancellation, and change.

Book early since tours may sell out.  (Pricing varies by date and tour selection, subject to availability.)

From $329* per person

To book a Private R.I.P. Tour, please call (818) 622-0251 any day of the week during normal business hours (PT 8AM-6PM, 7 days a week).

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Ticket is valid on your selected date and time only.  Ticket includes one-time R.I.P. entry to each maze as well as select rides and attractions (based on tour itinerary) while on the tour with the R.I.P. Tour Guide and Universal Express Unlimited access (with R.I.P. credential) at select maze/ride/attractions for the night of your tour (valid upon check-in at V.I.P. Reception to be used before or after tour during normal event operating hours). Does not apply to food and retail locations or shows.  R.I.P. Tour is available for individual parties of up to nine (9) persons only, and parties will be mixed into tour groups of up to twelve (12) people.  Includes complimentary valet parking for one vehicle (not valid at self-parking).  Access to cash bar locations available during the tour (must be 21+ to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages with valid Photo ID).  You will need to arrive at R.I.P. check-in 30 minutes before your scheduled tour departure time.  All R.I.P. Tour content is subject to availability based on production schedules and other factors.  Includes a reception with all-you-care-to-enjoy dinner (alcoholic beverages excluded).  Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times while taking part in any R.I.P. Tour. No outside food or beverages allowed.  Gates open at 7:00 p.m. each night. (Beat the crowds and the traffic – arrive early). Online purchase from  www.halloweenhorrornights.com  includes Early Event Admission to select mazes beginning at 6:00 p.m., subject to availability, cancellation, and change.  Event occurs rain or shine. No rain checks, returns, or refunds.  Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed event.  No costumes, costume masks or face paint allowed unless specified for select nights. Guidelines will be enforced. All themed outfits are subject to Universal Studios Hollywood’s final approval.  This event may be too intense for young children and is not recommended for children under the age of 13.  Universal Studios Hollywood’s Code of Conduct will be strictly enforced.  Ticket is non-transferable and non-exchangeable. Tickets are non-refundable if cancelled less than forty-eight (48) hours in advance.  Ticket may not be altered, copied, transferred or resold. Ticket is only valid for the person named on it. Ticket cannot be combined with other offers, separately ticketed events, discounts, or sightseeing tours.  Please note the CDC advises that  older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions  might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Guests should evaluate their risk in determining whether to attend. People who show no symptoms can spread COVID-19 if they are infected,  any interaction with the general public poses an elevated risk of being exposed to COVID-19,  and we cannot guarantee that you will not be exposed during your visit.  By accepting admission, you assume all inherent risks and agree to release Universal and its affiliates from liability for illness (including communicable / infectious diseases), loss, injury, or damage related to your purchase or visit.  Universal reserves the right to revoke the license granted by this ticket.  Park, rides/shows/attractions, mazes, entertainment, experience details and/or access to event may be restricted or unavailable due to capacity/closures/other factors and benefits/restrictions are subject to change without notice.  For Park hours, visit  UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/calendar-and-hours .  Valid at Universal Studios Hollywood, located in Los Angeles, California.  Universal elements and all related indicia TM  & © 2021 Universal Studios.  All rights reserved.  A Division of NBCUniversal.

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Need to Know: A Guide to Halloween Horror Nights 2023 at Universal Studios Hollywood

The horror season is upon us! Halloween Horror Nights 2023 is set to begin Thursday, Sept 7 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

For those who have visited the event in the past, you know what to expect. For those who haven’t, get ready for some unforgettable horrific encounters…

Universal Studios Hollywood’s haunted houses are known for their incredible make-up, costuming, and set design.

Horror Nights 2023 features 8 haunted houses, 3 scarezones, the Terror Tram, and two shows – as well as an insane offering of spooky-themed food & drink. In addition, Death Eaters will be roaming the streets of Hogsmeade. Universal will be keeping most of its popular attractions open during the event as well.

There is so much to do that it can be overwhelming. So we’re to help as best we can, answer some frequently asked questions, and provide some veteran knowledge to your game plan.

We’ll be updating this page throughout the event to make sure it’s as up-to-date as possible.

Halloween Horror Nights 2023 takes place on select nights from September 7, 2023, through October 31, 2023. The event starts at 7pm every night, but closing times may vary depending on crowd levels and other factors.

This year’s lineup features 8 haunted houses and the Terror Tram:

• Stranger Things Season 4 of Netflix’s original series “Stranger Things” is brought to life in a terrifying all-new haunted house that transports guests to Hawkins, Indiana where they will be immersed in the eerie Upside Down for a heart-pounding experience while traveling through iconic scenes. Guests will confront their deepest fears and come face to face with otherworldly creatures like demobats, and even Vecna himself within his blood-red Mind Lair in a race against the clock to escape and save mankind from his deadly curse.
• The Last of Us For the first time ever, Naughty Dog and PlayStation’s award-winning post-pandemic video game “The Last of Us” comes to life in an all-new haunted house that propels guests into an obstacle course of carnage and mayhem as they join a brutal journey in a world overtaken by a fungal virus that turns humans into various forms of a new threat known as the Infected. Guests will find themselves navigating iconic locations from the video game in a desperate attempt to escape and survive.
• Universal Monsters: Unmasked The dank Catacombs of Paris house a much darker secret sixty feet beneath the bustling streets, as the all-new haunted house “Universal Monsters: Unmasked” takes guests down into the infamous burial grounds where every corner and crevice overflows with millions of skeletal remains and even more sinister secrets. Deep within the Catacombs, Universal’s most notorious creatures – The Phantom of the Opera, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Dr. Jekyll and his deranged alternate personality Mr. Hyde, and Dr. Jack Griffin, aka The Invisible Man – lie in wait as they bide their time and seek vengeance against guests after the opening of the Catacombs to public visitation. These desperate and dangerous fiends have become filled with a rage toward guests navigating the twisted tunnels of their underground labyrinth home.
• Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count Inspired by the hit USA & SYFY series and cult classic films, “Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” casts this killer doll as the star of his very own haunted house for the first time. A true sadistic killer, Chucky has been mired in the agony of disrespect he feels from his peers at not being taken seriously. Thus begins his quest to turn his haunted house into a living slaughterhouse by killing every person who enters.
• The Exorcist: Believer Inspired by Universal Pictures’ terrifying new horror film from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek Entertainment (in theaters  Friday, October 13 ), “The Exorcist: Believer” haunted house will unleash an entirely new level of terror to Halloween Horror Nights. In this new chapter, guests will be transported to a bustling street market in Haiti, where an innocent purchase of a strange folk doll with three eyes leads to the opening of a demonic portal, the awakening of sinister spirits and the subsequent disappearance of two 12-year-old girls in the U.S. The girls are found three days later with no memory of what happened to them. After the girls begin to exhibit unsettling behavior, it soon becomes clear that only an exorcism can save them – and everyone who comes in contact with them, including unwitting guests, is suddenly at risk of losing their souls.
• Evil Dead Rise An ancient curse rises in a new setting: an L.A. apartment building. The Book of the Dead is about to unleash unimaginable horrors on you and your scream squad. Evil has come home.
• Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America ¡Ten cuidado! With La Muerte as your guide, you and your scream squad must try to survive three terrifying legends: the blood-sucking Tlahuelpuchi, owl-faced witch La Lechuza, and bone-ripping El Silbón.
• Holidayz in Hell From New Year’s Eve to Thanksgiving, your favorite holidays to celebrate with your friends are going to hell. ‘Tis the season to scream in this holiday nightmare. The scarier, the merrier .
• Terror Tram…The Exterminatorz The Terror Tram puts guests on the world-famous Universal backlot and in the middle of an insect uprising led by the devious Larry Larva whose goal is to exterminate humans from the Earth. Horror fans will also walk along the Jupiter’s Claim set from Nope where they will encounter The Tethered from Us in an epic crossover from two of director Jordan Peele’s blockbusters.

The 3 scarezones are:

• El Terror de las Momias Villagers unearthed an ancient army of mummies. Now you and your squad are the targets of their cursed wrath. And if you manage to escape, you won’t get away from Muerte and the Goddess of Death. The zone is an extension of the “Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America” haunted house. 
• Toyz A maniacal toymaker is using dark magic to bring evil toys to life, including a porcelain doll, teddy bear, nutcracker and ballerina. Now these devilish dollz are after you and your friends!
• Ghostz As soon as you enter the event, a horde of blood-soaked, chainsaw-wielding ghostz will descend upon you and your scream squad with twisted smiles. These spectral horrors will haunt you.

The two live shows featured this year are:

• The Purge: Dangerous Waters It’s a race against time when a politician and his entourage escape to an island to avoid The Purge.  Sanctuary is fleeting when the island is quickly overrun by Purgers and the hunt is on. Located in the WaterWorld venue and featuring adrenaline-filled action sequences, stunts, spectacular lighting and laser effects, high fall fire burns, and massive explosions, “The Purge: Dangerous Waters” celebrates an evening of anarchy without thought of punishment or fear of retribution.
• Blumhouse: Behind the Screams Showcases a selection of Blumhouse horror films, including the highly anticipated films Five Nights at Freddy’s and The Exorcist: Believer, and fan-loving hits like M3GAN and TheBlack Phone. This unique experience breaks the fourth wall and invites guests to explore these films as they step through the silver screen for an up-close look at authentic film props, costume displays, and terrifying character encounters.

Additional Horror Nights experiences include:

• The Carl Laemmle Patio will feature Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar with themed cocktails from  The Purge  and “Chucky” and photo opportunities with scareactors.
• Universal Plaza will serve up a celebration in honor of Dia de Los Muertos featuring an array of Latin Folklore-themed cocktails, Lil Cocina Taco Stand, and a margarita bar.
• The Death Eaters will be roaming the streets of Hogsmeade.

The following rides will be open:

• Jurassic World: The Ride
• Revenge of the Mummy
• TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D
• The Simpsons Ride
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Flight of the Hippogriff

Guests can choose from a variety of different ticket options, from single-night to multi-night passes, and even VIP experiences.

A single-night ticket to HHN starts at $74.99 per person, plus tax. To add the Regular Express to your single-night ticket, it’s an additional price starting at $219.99 per person, plus tax. This option allows one-time Express access to each participating house/attraction.

To add the Unlimited Express option, which allows multiple uses throughout the night, the price starts at $259.99 per person, plus tax.

There is also the After 2pm Day/Night Combo ticket, which allows entry into Universal Studios Hollywood, with same-day admission and Early Entry into Halloween Horror Nights beginning at 5:30pm. The ticket also includes same-day access to Super Nintendo World from 7:00pm to 10:00pm and is the only way for guests to experience the land during Halloween Horror Nights hours. Ticket prices for the After 2pm Day/Night Combo ticket start at $149 , plus tax. If you’d like to add Express to the ticket, prices start at $339, plus tax.

New this year is the Halloween Horror Nights Early Access Ticket, which allows guests the option of early entry into Halloween Horror Nights, starting at 5:30pm. Prices start at $10. To clarify – this is not an admission ticket. A Halloween Horror Nights admission ticket must be purchased separately for the same date.

Pricing varies by date and is subject to availability. Check Universal Studios Hollywood’s website for exact prices for your planned day of visit. Sellouts are possible, so if you’re planning a single-night visit – BUY your ticket as soon as you can.

For multi-night tickets, there a several options – each with the ability to add Express.

• Frequent Fear Pass – Get up to 30 nights, with some blackout dates. The ticket price is $209.99 , plus tax. The blackout dates are October: 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, and 29.
• Ultimate Frequent Fear Pass – Get up to 38 nights, where you can visit ALL event nights. The ticket price is $329.99 , plus tax.

The R.I.P. Tour

R.I.P. Tours are available for individual parties of up to nine people only and could include multiple parties in the same tour group.

• Ticket valid for one (1) R.I.P. Tour admission to Halloween Horror Nights. Ticket includes a guided walking tour of the event; one-time R.I.P. entry to each haunted house as well as select rides and attractions (based on tour itinerary), reserved VIP seating at a live show (based on tour itinerary) while on the tour with R.I.P. Tour Guide, and Universal Express Unlimited access (with R.I.P. Tour credential) at select haunted houses, rides, and attractions for the night of your tour. Express access is a separate line with a shorter wait time at each participating haunted house/ride/attraction. (Does not apply to food and retail locations or shows).
• Exclusive Universal Backlot Halloween experience with a private VIP trolley transportation.
• Gourmet dinner in the private VIP dining room (alcoholic beverages excluded).
• Complimentary valet parking (one vehicle).

Is it Scary?

That depends on who you ask, as everyone’s definition of scary is different. Afraid of Clowns? Afraid of Dolls? Afraid of Blood? It’s all there. What is normal for the spider is chaos for the fly – if you will.

The event is a smorgasbord of horror, a little something for everyone – so there will most likely be SOMETHING that will try to eat at your fears.

Our recommendation is to comb through the lineup and see what’s what so you know what to expect.

If you are easily startled, be on your guard. The actors focus on guests who aren’t paying full attention, so if you’re on your cell phone – expect to become a scare target.

To Express or Not to Express?

Express Passes will allow you to skip the long lines at all open attractions ONCE per night. For those who can afford it, we highly recommend purchasing them.

Express is definitely a luxury, but it is worth the peace of mind to enjoy the event at your own pace.

We also recommend to NOT use your Express pass for anything under 20 minutes.

If you opt to go without Express – you must, must , MUST be there before opening; especially on busier nights if you want to accomplish everything. You can do everything without Express, but it will require you to take advantage of Early Entry and a committed schedule.

Be forewarned: If you arrive late on any night, it may take a while to get through the parking, security, and through the turnstiles. This is why it is so important to buy your tickets in advance and arrive early.

Should I Start in the Lower Lot or the Upper Lot?

If you have Express, it’s totally your call. That’s the beauty of the perk.

The Lower Lot has two of the headliners this year, so we anticipate that a bulk of the crowds will head there first. There’s also a good chance that people will flock to the first house they see, which will be Evil Dead Rise or Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America located near the Universal Plaza in the Upper Lot.

If you’re trying to get ahead of the crowds and do not have Express, our advice is to go through the Wizarding World: Hogsmeade and head towards Universal Monsters: Unmasked and Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count first.

Food & Drink Menu

We will be updating with additional information soon!

Q: Are express passes really needed? A: This is a question that is asked the most, and yes you should purchase them. They will ensure you are able to visit each house and attraction, as well as maybe visit some houses multiple times. Crowds are always heavy, especially as it gets closer to Halloween.

Q: What is the alcohol situation? A: Multiple stands and designated bars are set up with food and drink throughout the park.

Always remember to drink responsibly.

Q: What’s the best house? A: This can’t be answered. Different strokes and all. But you must visit each house to voice your own opinion.

Q: Are children allowed? A: Yes, however, Universal states that the event may be too intense for anyone under the age of 13. We don’t recommend bringing young children, but we understand every child is different and may be able to handle the scares. Ultimately, as a parent, you have to make the call on what you feel is right for your child.

Q: Can I use my Express pass more than once? A: It depends on your Express Pass. The Regular option allows only one use Express once per attraction. The Unlimited option speaks for itself… it’s unlimited.

Q: Can I dress up for Halloween? A: Costumes and Masks are not permitted during any event night.

Q: If there was only one thing you could recommend to a first-timer, what would it be? A: Decide beforehand what’s most important to you and construct your game plan around that. There is no cheat code to beat the wait times so determine what meets your needs and then plan accordingly. If you have Express, you can take a more chill approach. If you’re opting to go without Express, you may need to plan an early arrival and expect a bit of hustle.

Q: Why shouldn’t I use Express if the wait is so low? A: Express is an expensive benefit, and rightfully so. We think it’s wasteful to use it on a line less than 20-30 minutes. In addition, though the wait time may show 20 minutes, there’s a chance your wait will be less, or the wait time is incorrect. Keep that Ace in your pocket; so if you want to repeat a house later in the night, you can use your Express benefit then.

Q: When is the best time to visit? A: If you’re #1 goal is to avoid crowds; then the earlier in the event, the better. As we start getting into October – with school breaks, the Columbus Day holiday, and the Halloween spirit growing, it tends to be a lot busier.

Q: Should I get a Frequent Fear Pass? A: Only if you see yourself making more than one visit during the event’s run.

Q: Can I touch a scareactor? A: Absolutely not. Depending on the situation, it’s cause for ejection from the event.

Q: Can I take photos or video? A: Per Universal – recording and flash photography are not permitted in the haunted houses. Outside the haunted houses, you are allowed to take as many photos and videos as you’d like.

Flash photography is also frowned upon in the scarezones, so please be kind to the actors. No one likes a sudden burst of bright light in their face. While not breaking a rule, you will be asked by security and leaders to turn your flash off.

And while photos are allowed, the actors are there to scare, so it is totally up to the actor whether or not to pose for a picture with you.

Additional Tips

• Purchase tickets as early as you can to ensure you are guaranteed entrance into the event.
• Wear comfy shoes. Seems silly to include, but you’d be surprised how much of an oversight this usually is to guests.
• We repeat… Never use Express on waits of less than 20 minutes.
• Don’t waste time doing the rides; this is Halloween Horror Nights! If you must do everything, including the rides, Express will be beneficial to this game plan.
• If traveling in large groups, be aware of your party’s needs. If you have people who may want to skip a certain haunt, make sure they know where you will exit.
• If you plan to drink, please drink responsibly. There will be mass amounts of law enforcement making sure no one gets disorderly. Also, don’t try to sneak in alcohol, the police will be looking carefully. Under-age visitors, this means you!

If your question wasn’t answered, we recommend checking our Forums for some more Tips, Tricks, and Info for Halloween Horror Nights 2023 .

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Move over Tokyo. Universal Studios Hollywood is getting Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift

Universal Studios Hollywood is getting in the fast lane. 

On Friday, the Southern California theme park shared new details on its “first-ever, high-speed outdoor roller coaster.” Fast & Furious : Hollywood Drift, which will open in 2026 with advancements never previously used in a coaster, according to the park.

“Highlights will include groundbreaking 360-degree rotation of the individual ride vehicles as they rocket along an elaborate track meticulously constructed with sound reduction technology for a breathtaking, superior experience,” Universal Studios Hollywood said in a press release. “These attributions will create a seamless sensation of drifting cars as guests spin in motion at furiously fast speeds.”

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will be located on Universal Studios Hollywood’s Upper Lot, which is already home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios, Minion Land and more. The Lower Lot has Super Nintendo World and popular attractions like Jurassic World – The Ride.

Universal Studios Hollywood already has a Fast and Furious - Supercharged experience within its World Famous Studio Tour , which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Universal Studios Florida has a standalone Fast and Furious attraction of the same name.

Without ‘Barbenheimer’ 2.0, Hollywood Needs ‘Deadpool 3,’ ‘Despicable Me 4’ and Other Sequels to Heat Up Summer Box Office

By Rebecca Rubin

Rebecca Rubin

Senior Film and Media Reporter

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• Box Office: ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ Aims for $50 Million-Plus Opening Weekend 15 hours ago
• Box Office: ‘Garfield’ Scratches Up $22 Million Overseas Ahead of Domestic Debut 3 days ago

Say hello to sequel season. 

That might as well be the nickname for this summer’s slate of potential blockbusters. Over the next four months, Hollywood is rolling out what it hopes will be a winning mix of follow-ups, reboots and spinoffs from tested franchises like “Despicable Me” and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as it looks to reinvigorate the shaky movie theater business. 

Popular on Variety

Summer movie season unofficially begins on May 3 with Universal’s “The Fall Guy.” David Leitch’s film is based on the 1980s TV series about stunt performers, but it may as well be something entirely new because, let’s be honest, who remembers that show? Notably, this will be the first time since 2016 that Disney and Marvel aren’t kicking things off. “The Fall Guy” has nabbed strong reviews and could very well ignite its own franchise. However, box office comparisons to the same weekend in 2023 will be tough given that “Guardians of the Galaxy” started that party with $118 million. So, industry experts wouldn’t be surprised if summer starts slow. 

“We saw an opportunity in May, and we were happy to take advantage of it,” says Jim Orr, Universal’s president of domestic distribution. “We think ‘The Fall Guy’ will not only open well but charm audiences throughout the summer.” 

“Summer is important to reestablish momentum. We had some in March, but we lost it,” says Orr. “I’m very optimistic about May and beyond.” 

Last year’s summer stretch was mightier than expected thanks to “Barbenheimer,” which powered the season’s box office to $4 billion for the first time in the post-pandemic era. It also proved that a glut of new movies can co-exist, and even thrive off one another. That’s good news considering there’s nary a week until fall without at least one major release. 

“This is how it used to be in summer — new films every single week,” says exhibitor Chris Randleman of Texas-based Flix Brewhouse. “We’re trying to form habits of moviegoing again.” 

“Deadpool & Wolverine” is one title that could help determine the financial fate of summer. It’s predicted to become one of the year’s biggest films, but first it’ll have to overcome the existential threat of superhero fatigue. Recent misfires like “The Marvels” and every 2023 DC Comics entry proved ticket buyers won’t see any ol’ comic book character on the big screen. Audiences want them to be watchable, too. (Go figure!) The very-R-rated “Deadpool & Wolverine,” which unites Reynolds with Hugh Jackman, may flip a bird to naysayers.

Superheroes should have an assist in saving the box office. Theater owners have griped that since COVID, family movies have been in short supply. It should quell their concerns to know that studios are offering up many kid-friendly adventures, including Paramount and director John Krasinski’s fantasy comedy “IF” (May 17), Sony’s “The Garfield Movie” (May 24), “Inside Out 2” (June 14) and Universal’s “Despicable Me 4” (July 3). Pixar releases have been struggling since the pandemic, but exhibitors believe the sequel to 2015’s “Inside Out” (which grossed $858 million worldwide) will recapture the animation empire’s glory.  

Whereas many of those titles are based on beloved IP, Paramount distribution chief Chris Aronson says, “Hopefully ‘IF’ will be one of those big bold original bets that pays off.” 

Other epic swings on new ideas include Costner’s “Horizon: An American Saga,” with “Chapter 1” landing on June 28 and “Chapter 2” arriving on Aug. 16. And there’s “Fly Me to the Moon,” a space-centric romantic comedy with Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum that launches July 12. Apple spent more than $100 million on the movie (Sony is distributing), which will require stellar word-of-mouth to fill auditoriums and justify its massive price tag.

Meanwhile, Universal is spinning off the 1996 cyclone epic “Twister” with a group of new storm chasers in “Twisters.” It opens on July 19 and analysts believe it has sleeper-hit potential thanks to the combination of nostalgia and Glen Powell’s budding stardom. Paramount’s nearly silent prequel “A Quiet Place: Day One” on June 28 reboots the post-apocalyptic world with Lupita Nyong’o and Joseph Quinn. And Sony has “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” the fourth installment in nearly 30-year-old series, on June 7. But will audiences return for another Will Smith-Martin Lawrence reunion after watching Smith’s assault of Chris Rock onstage at the 2022 Oscars?  

“‘Bad Boys 4’ has everything going for it, so if it doesn’t open big, we know why,” Bock says. 

August can be hit or miss at the box office, but there’s certainly plenty on the calendar. Blake Lively’s literary adaptation “It Ends With Us” could score for Sony, while Lionsgate’s “Borderlands” will either continue the hot streak of “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” and “Uncharted,” or prove it’s still challenging to make a good movie out of a wildly popular video game.  

“There’s a lot of traffic at the end of summer,” says Aronson, “but volume might make up for it.” 

Now dig into a VIP+ subscriber report …

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‘the fall guy’ falls down to $27m+ opening – monday update, ‘the super mario bros movie’ levels all the way up to win deadline’s 2023 most valuable blockbuster tournament.

By Anthony D'Alessandro

Anthony D'Alessandro

Editorial Director/Box Office Editor

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Universal and Illumination ‘s smash The Super Mario Bros Movie finishes No. 1 to make it a wrap on Deadline’s  Most Valuable Blockbuster tournament for 2023. While the industry is still coming out of Covid and the aftermath of the strikes, there’s no question about the major motion picture studios’ embrace of the theatrical downstream model; steamers such as Amazon and Apple realize the power of it too.

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More power to the B.O.: When your brand is more than beloved, like in Five Nights at Freddy’s , a big screen is where everyone wants to see it rather than at home watching on a streamer. While the first weekend of summer 2024 was rather dull in The Fall Guy’ s less than spectacular $27.7 million start , June, July and beyond will improve things as more movies come into the multiplex with such must-sees as Inside Out 2, Deadpool & Wolverine and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.

The Super Mario Bros Movie Universal/Illumination

For a third time in the history of Deadline’s Most Valuable Blockbuster Tournament, Illumination boss Chris Meledandri ascends the ladder to cut the nets, in this case for Super Mario Bros , the animation studio’s co-production with Nintendo . Meledandri won the inaugural tournament in 2014 with Despicable Me 2 and was crowned again in 2017 for The Secret Life of Pets.

THE BOX SCORE

The bottom line.

Not only is The Super Mario Bros Movie the highest-grossing Illumination movie of all time with $1.36 billion at the global box office, but it’s also the most profitable at $559M, besting Minions ‘ net of $502M in 2015. The latest film’s $100M production cost was split 50-50 between Nintendo and Universal. While the movie didn’t have a $100M promotional-partner marketing campaign to offset P&A, that would be rare for an animated film. However, there were plenty of partners to knock audiences atop the head with McDonald’s Happy Meals, Shake Shack and 7-Eleven takeovers. Universal blasted off the  Super Mario Bros Movie  trailer during a New York Comic-Con panel in the fall of 2022 timed with an integration on Nintendo Direct (YouTube digital press conference for the brand), along with a global digital launch. The second trailer dropped in November and was attached to the holiday season’s must-see film,  Avatar: The Way of Water . Several spots ran during the NFL championships games, the NBA All-Star Game and last year’s March Madness. On March 10, Nintendo’s Mario Day, movie tickets went on sale for the film’s Easter-weekend release. There were in-game displays for the movie on such kids game sites as Roblox, Minecraft and Fortnite . This all resulted in big turnout by Hispanic and Latino audiences at 40%, with the biggest five-day opening of all time at $204.6M stateside and the biggest debut for animated movie around the globe at $377M.

Big thanks to our sources for making this profit series possible and to Deadline Co-Editor-in-Chief Mike Fleming Jr. Rather than rush these figures out at the end of the year, we take time to deep dive with those involved.

Still to come: an epilogue to the 2023 tournament centered on streaming movies, so be on the lookout.

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Greta lee & kingsley ben-adir in negotiations to lead louis leterrier’s ‘11817’, ‘kingdom of the planet of the apes’ beats chest for $130m global bow: preview, 2023 most valuable movie blockbuster, ‘barbie’ struts to no. 2 in deadline’s 2023 most valuable blockbuster tournament, ‘spider-man: across the spider-verse’ conquers superhero fatigue at no. 3 in deadline’s 2023 most valuable blockbuster tournament.

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‘the fall guy’ to kick off summer box office after a brutal late spring, eyes $30m-$35m opening.

For years, a superhero pic marked the start of the summer moviegoing season but that all changed with the pandemic and Hollywood's historic labor strikes.

By Pamela McClintock

Pamela McClintock

Senior Film Writer

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David Leitch’s action-comedy The Fall Guy isn’t the normal kind of stunt Hollywood usually relies on to herald the start of the summer box office , but these aren’t normal times.

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From Universal, The Fall Guy has plenty of star power. The film stars Ryan Gosling of Barbie fame as a burned-out stuntman who comes out of self-imposed exile to help save a Hollywood movie that’s being helmed by his ex-girlfriend, played by Oppenheimer ‘s Emily Blunt . All sorts of mayhem ensues when the movie’s leading man disappears from set in Australia.

Hannah Waddingham, Aaron Taylor-Johnson , Winston Duke and Stephanie Hsu co-star in the film, which currently boasts an 87 percent critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

The Fall Guy — inspired by the 1980s TV show of the same name starring Lee Majors — is tracking to open in the $30 million to $35 million range, enough to top the weekend chart. The action comedy’s net budget is a reported $130 million, so it will need long legs to recoup its budget. In 2022, the action comedy The Lost City , starring Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum, turned into a sleeper hit and played for weeks, on its way to $192.9 million globally.

It’s already begun rolling out overseas, earning a somewhat subdued $8.4 million to date from 38 markets. The bigger test comes this weekend when it opens in an additional 40 markets.

The box office has been saturated with male-driven fare in recent weeks, and The Fall Guy should benefit from appealing to females as well. THR ‘s review says Gosling and Blunt “sparkle in this action comedy with heart,” and that is the “rare big studio film that feels human.”

Year-over-year comparisons for the weekend will be bleak because of Guardians 3 , but studios and theater owners are hopeful that the summer slate — including Deadpool & Wolverin e (July 26) and Inside Out 2 (June 14) — will help collectively make ground after a dismal late spring.

At the moment, domestic revenue year to date is running 21 percent behind 2023, when summer revenue cleared $4 billion thanks primarily to the Barbenheimer phenomenon. This summer — defined as the first weekend in May through Labor Day — is hoping is hoping to get to $3.2 billion, but there is little chance it gets to $4 billion.

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