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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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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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Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour – tickets, prices, what to expect

Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience Tour is the most exclusive way to go behind the scenes at the world’s largest movie studio and Theme Park in Los Angeles.

During the VIP Experience tour, you will be shown around exclusive backlot areas not open to the public, gain express entry to all the rides, shows, and attractions, enjoy a gourmet meal, access the VIP lounge, etc.

If you want to be treated like royalty at Universal Studios Hollywood, opt for the  Universal VIP experience tour .

The other two ways to explore the LA theme park area – are with a  General Admission ticket , which helps you skip the ticket counter lines, or with an  Express ticket , with which you avoid both the ticket counter lines and the queues at the rides and shows.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience.

Top Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tickets

# Universal VIP tour tickets

Table of contents

What to expect on a universal vip tour, visiting with kids, how do the vip tickets work, cancellation policy, vip experience discount, vip tour hours, how long is the vip experience tour, private vip experience at universal hollywood.

A select few receive star treatment during this exclusive, guided tour of Universal Studios Hollywood.

If you drive, you will get free valet parking (worth US$40) at the entrance.

After meeting your expert guide at the VIP Reception of the Theme Park, you will begin your day at the exclusive VIP lounge with a light breakfast.

After the light meal, the expert VIP guide takes you on the Universal Backlot Tour, also known as the World Famous Studio Tour . 

The guide will immerse you in the past, present, and future of Universal’s Backlot.

Besides seeing sets of famous movies such as Jaws, Psycho, War of the Worlds, etc., you will also experience how Hollywood creates floods, earthquakes, etc. 

You will also visit authentic sound stages where blockbuster films and television series are shot.

And explore the massive Archive and Collections Department to see how Universal’s historical props, documents, photos, and costumes are preserved.

Entry into the working Sound Stages and the Property Warehouse are exclusive to the VIP Experience and are not part of the regular Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour.

And then, the private guide helps you get VIP privileges on all the  rides at Universal Hollywood .

Because of the VIP Ticket, you don’t spend any  time waiting at the roller coasters  and can go on the ride as many times as you want. 

The guide also gets you priority seating at the Waterworld and Universal’s Animal Actors show.

When you feel like taking a break, you can head to the private VIP dining room and savor a gourmet lunch prepared by Universal’s executive chef.

After lunch, relax in the VIP lounge and head back to either the Upper Lot or Lower Lot of the theme park to enjoy VIP privileges at the rides.

At the end of around six hours, the guide takes their leave, after which you can continue to stay in the Park and have fun.

Note:  The content of all VIP Universal Experience tours is subject to change, dependent on production timelines and other reasons.

Visual Story : 13 must-know tips before visiting Universal Studios Hollywood

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Universal VIP tour tickets

Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience is the best way to visit Universal Studios Hollywood.

Reservations for Universal VIP Experience tours are limited to up to 18 guests per tour and, as a result, are in short supply. 

Universal VIP Pass is unavailable at the venue and usually gets sold out in advance.

Children under five are not allowed on the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience. 

Universal Hollywood’s Express Pass is your next best option if you have a child under five years but want special privileges.

Visitors must be at least 17 years old to attend without an accompanying adult.

Immediately after purchase, you will receive a gate-ready 1-day entrance ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood.

You can present this e-ticket on your smartphone for instant entry into the theme park. 

You don’t need to take a printout, but please go ahead if you prefer a hard copy.

The  VIP Experience Tour Ticket  is only valid for your selected date and time and is non-transferable and non-refundable.

However, you can reschedule your date of visit. 

Requests to change your reservation must be made at least 48 hours in advance.

Unfortunately, Universal Studios Hollywood offers no discount on its VIP Experience Tour.

Since this is an exclusive tour and spaces are limited, all visitors five years and above are classified as one and pay the same price for their ticket.

Seniors, students, and disabled visitors also don’t get any cost concessions.

Cost of VIP Tour:  From US$389 per person

*On peak days, the ticket price can go up to US$479 per person.

Do you tip Universal VIP tour guides? Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. Ten to twenty percent is a good tip for your guide.

The Universal Studios Hollywood opens at 9 am; some days, it begins at 10 am; VIP Experience Tours start soon.

You can select your preferred time slot while booking your Universal Studios VIP ticket. 

However, because of the exclusive nature of Universal’s VIP tour, it may get rescheduled to one hour before or one hour after the time slot you selected.

You must arrive at the VIP Reception at least 20 minutes before your scheduled tour time.

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The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience lasts approximately six hours. 

However, visitors can continue to explore the Park after their tour for as long as they wish.

The Park’s closing time varies seasonally, from 6 pm in winter to 11 pm during peak summer.

Recommended Reading – Universal Studios Hollywood discount tickets – Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Height requirements of Universal Studios rides – How to go from Universal Hollywood to Disneyland

Universal Studios in Los Angeles also offers a private VIP tour, which is even more exclusive than the VIP Experience Tour. 

While on the VIP Tour, you get clubbed with other visitors; during a Private VIP Tour, the guide is exclusively for your group. 

It is impossible to book this high-end tour online or at the gates. 

You must call Universal Studios at  (818) 622-8477  for price and availability.

This tour has no age minimum, but guests must be at least 17 years old to attend without an accompanying adult.

Sources # Universalstudioshollywood.com # Tripadvisor.com # Attractiontickets.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Shobha Mahapatra

She loves traveling in groups - of friends and relatives. The destination doesn't matter much as long she has her fun group around. She loves to try the local cuisine and clothes and also builds friendships wherever she goes. Favorite Cities: Istanbul, Hanoi, Cape Town, Singapore

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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We are blessed to have wonderful neighbors with kids almost the same ages as our boys, and we jointly decided to spend Memorial Day weekend 2022 together in Los Angeles. One of the cornerstones of our long weekend was the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP experience , which none of us had done before. The VIP experience offers exclusive access to the theme park that you can’t get as a member of the general public. From an exclusive VIP lounge at check in to an expert guide who takes you around the entire park with VIP privileges and a studio tour that gives you up-close-and-personal access (you get to go inside some of the sets!), is the Universal VIP Tour worth it? Read on for our comprehensive, unvarnished opinion of the Universal Studios VIP Experience Tour.

Want to see the rest of our LA itinerary? See our  review of the Beverly Wilshire hotel  and our list of  kid-friendly restaurants in LA.

Universal VIP Experience Tour Logistics

Universal Studios VIP tickets range in cost, depending on the time of year that you book. We visited over a holiday weekend, making our tickets more expensive than other times of the year. We spent $389 per person, the same for kids and adults. You will get the best deal visiting on a weekday in low season, but the prices don’t go lower than $369 per person, so you’re not saving much by going at off-peak times.

Booking was an easy process, and I completed the whole thing online. You do have to enter the names of each guest when you book, so you need to have finalized your group prior to booking tickets. You get an email confirmation with QR code tickets, and you will need to bring the tickets along with the credit card used for booking on the day of your tour.

When you book your Universal Studios Hollywood tickets, you choose your date and entry time. They recommend that you arrive at least 30 minutes before your tour start time so that you can get checked in and have something to eat before heading out on the tour. In reality, I don’t think 30 minutes is enough, especially if you have a large group.

Included with your ticket price is:

• 1 day park admission with an expert VIP guide
• Unlimited Universal express access (per day) to each ride, attraction, and seated show. Express line access is a separate line with a shorter wait time at each ride, attraction, and seated show. (Does not apply to food and retail locations or non-seated shows.)
• Free valet parking (but not free self parking)
• VIP access on the studio tour on a private trolley, the most exclusive way to see the movie and TV sets from some of the most famous shows on film, like Desperate Housewives and War of the Worlds
• Light breakfast and gourmet lunch

How Old Do You Have to be for the Universal VIP Pass?

Visitors on the VIP tour must be at least 5 years old, and at least 17 years old to attend without an accompanying adult. My kids were 5 (almost 6) and 8, and our neighbors’ kids were 7 and 9. I do think that 5 is the minimum age to visit, and older would be better. Our 5 year old liked a few of the rides, but some of them (like Transformers) were terrifying for him. He spent the entire ride screaming and burying his face into my chest…pretty traumatic for everyone. 

Universal Studios VIP Cancellation Policy

The cancellation policy on the VIP experience is pretty strict – tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and non-exchangeable. Requests to change your reservation must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Before you book, be sure of your group, your date, and your time.

Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Food

The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP experience includes a light breakfast and a gourmet lunch. The breakfast was served upstairs in the exclusive VIP lounge, which you reach after walking a red carpet into the check-in area. Options included coffee, tea, juice, and water to drink. Breakfast food options left a lot to be desired, so if you care about nutrition or need to fuel up before a long day at the park, you may want to eat beforehand. I would compare it best to a respectable buffet at a budget hotel. If you’re looking for a VIP experience, you’re not going to get it with the breakfast. 

I also found that the staff couldn’t keep up with demand, and many of the platters were completely or nearly empty. This wouldn’t be an issue, as I assume they continually refill them, except that you are on a tight schedule, and when your group gets called to go into the park, that’s it. You don’t have another chance to eat until lunch (unless you bring your own snacks, and…really, who wants to do that when you’re paying this much for a VIP experience?)

On the day we visited, the breakfast options included:

• ham and cheese croissant
• egg and cheese croissant
• smoke salmon croissant
• caprese tartlet
• plain croissant
• pain a chocolat
• raspberry danish
• apple danish
• blueberry muffin
• raspberry cream cheese puff
• chocolate chip cookies
• fruit salad

Lunch was more impressive, with lots of cold and hot options, though I don’t seem to have photos of the lunch buffet. I do remember that adults and kids alike had lots of options, and everyone could find something they liked.

Overall, the food experience feels a little rushed, but then I suppose the point of the day isn’t necessarily to enjoy a leisurely meal – it’s to experience as much of the park as possible. Part of how they do this is to keep things moving quickly from one ride to the next, and to optimize your break periods to give you just enough rest to keep going until the next break. 

VIP Experience with Food Allergies

If you have food allergies, the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP experience will leave a lot to be desired. My son is anaphylactic to eggs, all nuts, and peanuts. This made it almost impossible to find food for him to eat at either breakfast or lunch. The staff was unable to give us clear guidance on what ingredients were in the breakfast options, which left my son with instant oatmeal and yogurt as his breakfast options. Not terrible, but when the buffet was full of breakfast sandwiches and pastries that he couldn’t eat, it’s a tough sell for a 6 year old. 

It may seem like a small thing for guests who don’t deal with allergies on a daily basis, but for us, it’s a constant stressor when traveling, and we often seek out luxury options ( like in Israel ) because they can easily – and happily – accommodate us. I mistakenly assumed we could receive similar treatment on the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour, and visitors with food allergies would do well to have proper expectations going in.

My husband is allergic to gluten, and his options were similarly limited. The majority of the breakfast items contained gluten, but he isn’t much of a breakfast eater anyway and he adapted ok. 

Lunch was even more disappointing (on the dessert front particularly). There were enough entree options to manage our allergies (hooray!) Dessert, however, was a frustrating experience. There were many dessert options, but the ONLY one that was egg-free…was covered in peanuts. That left my son literally no dessert options. Any parent knows how excruciating it is for a kid to watch a table full of other kids eat dessert and have nothing to offer them. 

What was most disappointing for a VIP experience and a supposedly gourmet meal was that even after the staff was aware of my son’s allergies and that there was nothing for him to eat, they did not offer to get him something different or bring in something from elsewhere in the park, which frankly I would expect at this price point. 

Instead, he and I left the private VIP dining room and ventured into the park to find an ice cream stand, where the very kind cashier let me check the ingredient labels on all the packaged ice cream treats until I found one my son could eat. She asked why the heck we were buying ice cream when our lanyards indicated that we were VIP guests and offered us a discount when she learned of our situation. It was far kinder than the service we received in the private dining room, and I very much appreciated it.

I suppose if you don’t deal with food allergies regularly, this might not be top of mind, but I hope Universal’s executive chef takes a second look at the offerings and makes some simple adjustments to make the menu significantly more allergy-friendly. As all of our allergies are in the Top 8 allergens worldwide, one would assume we aren’t the only VIP visitors with dietary restrictions to accommodate.

Universal Studios VIP Tour Experience Review

One of the first things you should know as a VIP guest is that you might think that you have a completely private tour, but you don’t (unless your group is large enough). We had 8 people in our group (4 adults and 4 kids) and we were paired with a family of 4, for a total of 12. Their kids were similar ages, and the kids ended up hanging out for the day, which was fine. I would have preferred a fully private group, especially since we were already 8 people, but it didn’t detract from the day.

Best Rides for Kids – Pets, Minions, Simpsons

Our private guide led us to each attraction, starting with the Pets ride. This one was good for littler kids, with interactive elements that weren’t scary. Both my kids liked this one a lot, but it was boring for adults. 

One of the additional VIP benefits that you get in addition to a private guide is skip the line tickets, which saves a lot of time standing in line. Our guide led us to the front of the line and we got right in.

The second ride we did was a crowd favorite, as it was Minions. There were lots of special effects but toed the line of being great for kids and being too scary. Again, the skip the line benefit got us quick access to the ride, though there was some waiting to get into the actual room. The ride is set up like stadium seating, and you go in a single file line, so it’s possible to be separated from your group (if you are in the third row, for instance, you may be in the third row of 2 different ride machines, as our group was – they don’t take your group and do rows 3 and 4 of the same equipment). Our kids were old enough (and with friends) where this wasn’t an issue, but if you have a little one who may need a helping hand, make sure you pay attention to where you are in line. 

One of the last rides we did was the Simpsons, which my kids really enjoyed despite having never seen The Simpsons before. We all enjoyed it, though it wasn’t one of the television shows I was allowed to watch as a kid, and it doesn’t hold any nostalgia for me. 

Scary Rides for Kids – Transformers and Jurassic World

I loved the Transformers ride personally, but my 5 year old thought he was getting actually attacked and completely lost his mind. I couldn’t wait to get off this ride because of how panicked he was, and our entire car was giving us sympathetic looks and trying to calm him down. We opted out of the Jurassic World ride for that reason, because our guide steered me away from it. Our older son and my husband went ahead, and they loved that this one ended with a literal splash!

The big hiccup we had with the Mummy ride was that you have to store your gear in a locker. It is supposed to be smart and save you time by giving you a keycode to use to open it rather than a physical key…except that my husband’s code wouldn’t open the locker at the end. We ended up waiting a long time while they had to get park maintenance to come open it for him, which put a damper on the day. We did feel that bringing a backpack was critical for our day, but it did get annoying on the rides where you couldn’t bring it on. 

Want to know what else we packed for our day at Universal Studios? Check out my  packing list and what to wear at Universal Studios Hollywood.

One of the nice perks of the VIP tour is that they think of the little comforts that make your day more pleasant – they provide bottled water (crucial for those hot days!!) as well as ponchos for the water rides. I loved that we didn’t have to carry everything ourselves, but yet we had everything we needed at just the right time.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Our tour ended with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which was just as well, because I sure as heck didn’t want to leave once we got there. The physical embodiment of one of the world’s favorite movies, Harry Potter World is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re a Muggle who has never experienced Harry Potter or you know just which house you belong to, you can’t miss Harry Potter at Universal.

Our guide obligingly took photos of us at the entrance, and found us the best way to skip lines on the many rides within the bounds of Harry Potter. The whole world is magical, from Ollivander’s wand store and RFID-enabled wand activities throughout Hogsmeade to Hogwarts Castle and the Forbidden Journey ride (my favorite – I did it twice…but my stomach wished I only did it once). I loved that our VIP tickets for us unlimited express access, so I was able to zip through the castle…more or less…while my husband took the kids for food. 

My kids preferred the Flight of the Hippogriff ride, and they tolerated the long line (even in the fast pass line) well. So well, in fact, that they opted to ride it twice, one of the only rides they wanted to do again.

I did find that lines in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter were longer than in other parts of the park, but they make the experience so immersive that you sort of forget you are waiting in a line, especially while going into Hogwarts Castle. 

Live Show on the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour

To switch up the pace, we attended a live show during our day as VIPs. Our guide led us to the best seats, which had been reserved for VIP visitors only. They were farther up than I would have expected in the amphitheater, but we had a great view and we didn’t get hit with water like the lower rows. The show was a combination of daring stunts, acting, and audience participation. It was entertaining, believable, and very well executed. I wouldn’t have chosen to attend the show if it weren’t part of our itinerary, but it was a nice way to rest from all the movement of the day, and our kids loved it!

Universal Backlot Tour

After a full morning of rides, our entire group went together for our back lot tour. You are combined with other VIP groups to visit the set pieces and sound stages of the world’s largest movie studio. I didn’t love that we were put with a larger group, but it was generally ok. The tour on the bus (really more like an open-air trolley) is narrated by Jimmy Kimmel, and your expert tour guides get off the bus with you and explain more about the sets, like how they design them for camera angles, and how they achieve optical illusions in the filming process. We even got to go inside one of the houses on Wisteria Lane!

One of the most interesting parts was hearing how they adapt the same set for different productions with just small tweaks, and seeing how you could turn the corner on the bus and go from gritty downtown Chicago to a rural Mexican shootout town, showing just how efficient and immersive they can make a single “street.”

Visiting iconic sets of Hollywood movies isn’t the only activity on the backlot tour. There are several “rides” you experience as well – from King Kong to Fast and the Furious. My kids didn’t love these rides, and I did a lot of snuggling and reassuring that no, we weren’t going to catch on fire, and no, the giant ape wasn’t going to attack us. Another indication that 5 is definitely the floor for visiting Universal Studios…older ages may have a better, less scary time.

My favorite part of the backlot tour was the War of the Worlds section. Despite it being a plane crash, it somehow felt the most “real” to me, with sirens going off sporadically, and “smoke” emanating from the wreckage of the plane. My kids were freaked out a bit, it felt so real. After some reassurance, they loved seeing the wreckage spread out before them.

Best Spots for Photos at Universal Studios

There are several great spots for photos during the unique experience of being a Universal VIP. My favorites were the following:

• Red carpet leading into the check in area – don’t get shepherded in too quickly – your arrival is the only time you will be here. Take a moment to grab a photo!
• The Universal Studios fountain leading to the private VIP entrance – this one if FULL of people, so don’t expect to get a photo without a ton of people in it, but it is a classic photo with the Universal logo
• Standing at the gates of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Standing at the entrance of Hogwarts Castle
• Hanging out of the special trolley for VIP guests – this is a good place to get a family photo…if you can arrive early and each pop into a window seat, you can hang out the windows and get a cute photo
• The fake Hollywood sign setup on the backlot tour – the background is surprisingly real-looking, and you can crop your photo to make it look like you’re really there!
• On set on the back lot tour – pick your backdrop based on your favorite tv shows and movies…Wisteria Lane is possible, as is some of the Jaws set, the courthouse from Back to the Future, or just wandering down the various streets used to make movie sets look like anywhere but Hollywood – old Mexico, Chicago, and more. 

Is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience Worth It?

Admittedly, I haven’t been to the Disney World VIP tour or to Universal Studios Orlando, so my review has to stand alone for the Universal Studios Hollywood. That said, yes, I would absolutely recommend it . You get a completely different backlot tour than you can get with a regular ticket, and the VIP guide helps you save a ton of time throughout the day. It’s great having the little things taken care of, like ponchos and water, and to have someone who can help you navigate lost items (RIP sunglasses) and hold bags at certain rides. 

The experience fell short for us on food, but when your time is limited, the VIP tour experience is a really solid value. With regular tickets starting at $109 and skip-the-line tickets starting at $199, the $369 starting price for VIP isn’t too much of a stretch. 

What do you think – is the VIP tour right for you?

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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.

[irp posts=”6077″ name=”Best Disneyland Hotels for Families with Young Children”]

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 !

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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!

The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood

100 Universal City Plaza, , Los Angeles, California

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

On the VIP Experience, you’ll have exclusive access to backlot sets not open to the general public. And you’ll enjoy unlimited express access to ALL rides and attractions. Get ready to be treated like a star. Your day begins on the red carpet, and from there, it only gets more exclusive. Walk among the most iconic sets in cinema history, enjoy a gourmet meal and experience the Park in a different way. What really sets this day apart is the exclusive access you’ll have on the VIP Experience. Today, you’re a celebrity!

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

VIP Experience: $379

Universal Studios Hollywood’s VIP Experience: Your Exclusive Access to Hollywood Awaits. No date or time changes allowedTour Time: Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time and check-in at VIP reception

Meeting Point

Universal Studios Hollywood

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per traveler

What's Included

• Valet Parking
• A VIP Guide to tour locations closed to the general public
• Unlimited (Per Day) express access to each ride, attraction and seated show
• Tour historic backlot locations
• A gourmet meal in the private VIP dining room
• Light refreshments served in an exclusive VIP lounge
• 1-Day Park admission to Universal Studios Hollywood

What's not Included

• Carnival games (available to purchase)
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Movie tickets for Universal CityWalk Cinemas
• Food and drinks not listed above (available for purchase

Cancellation Policy

• All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Additional Info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please note: Booking is only valid on selected date of travel.
• Minimum age is 5 years
• In order to maintain the safety of guests, modified operating procedures have been put in place. Guests visiting the park will have their bags inspected by staff. Large bags and coolers will not be permitted in the park. Outside food is not permitted inside the park with the exception of bottle water, fruit and baby food.
• HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s21).Inc.TRANSFORMERS and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission.© 2021 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.© 2021 DreamWorks LLC and Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. The Mummy © 2021 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. Kung Fu Panda © 2021 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved. Universal’s Animal Actors © 2021 Universal Studios. THE SIMPSONS TM & © 2021 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Universal elements and all related indicia TM and © 2021 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

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Universal Studios Hollywood celebrates 60 years with this new Studio Tour experience

Universal Studios Hollywood reissues iconic Glamor Trams as the world-renowned Studio Tour celebrates a milestone 60 years. (Photo credit: Victoria Wall Harris/Universal Studios Hollywood)

LOS ANGELES - Universal Studios Hollywood celebrates the Studio Tour's 60th anniversary this season with a new, "experiential" addition to their popular Los Angeles back lot tours. 

While guests are normally confined to keeping their arms and legs inside their vehicle during the tour, beginning April 26, Universal Studios Hollywood is flipping the script. The park invites guests to get off the tram to pose for photo opportunities in front of some legendary movie scenes, like Universal's "King Kong" and "Jaws" sets.

For a photo opportunity like never before, the anniversary event will also feature the first-ever original replica of the Hollywood Sign situated along the iconic back lot for guests to get up close to the iconic landmark.

Universal Studios Hollywood reissues iconic Glamor Trams as world-renowned Studio Tour celebrates a milestone 60 years. (Photo credit Victoria Wall Harris/Universal Studios Hollywood)

Other notable attractions include the renovated debut of Universal's "Earthquake – The Big One," which features a realistic 8.3-magnitude quake, and a large Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur display. The 60th-anniversary elements offer guests new ways to immerse themselves in Hollywood's most iconic scenes – and take the photos to prove it.

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"The Studio Tour is a crown jewel in our theme park portfolio and a beloved attraction for millions of guests," said Universal Studios Hollywood Executive Vice President and General Manager Scott Strobl. "We are thrilled and honored to share our enthusiasm for its historic relevance with guests both new to the experience as well as those who have journeyed with us along the way."

As part of the Studio Tour 60th anniversary celebration, Universal Studios Hollywood offers a selection of specially created, highly themed food and beverages, available from April 26-August 11, 2024. (Photo credit Victoria Wall Harris/Universal Studios Hollywood)

The anniversary celebration also includes new eatery options, including BBQ brisket sandwiches and BBQ chicken sandwiches from Hollywood & Dine, burgers and chili dogs from Mel's Diner, ice cream from Studio Scoops and cookie sandwiches from City Snack Shop.

Universal Studios Hollywood's 60th anniversary event runs from April 26 through August 11, 2024. Click here for more information and for tickets .

Universal Studios Hollywood Tour celebrates 60 years. See past and present photos

Visitors can celebrate the anniversary by riding along a red and white retro tram, posing with the original jaws shark, and sampling themed food., by jasmine mendez • published april 2, 2024 • updated on april 2, 2024 at 6:02 pm.

Universal Studio Hollywood is celebrating 60 years of scenic excursions via the Studio Tour ride, offering park-goers a chance to experience old Hollywood with new attractions as well as themed merchandise and food.

Anniversary celebrations begin on April 26 until Aug. 11, 2024.

The tour will take a pit stop onto legendary movie sets, allowing riders to step into the world of cinema. The stop features an original, fully restored retro Glamor Tram from when the tour first opened in 1964.

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Photo opportunities are also available, with a giant King Kong backdrop and the original hanging Jaws shark.

The “ Earthquake: The Big One ” section recently underwent a top to bottom renovation and will debut new contemporary technology and aesthetics. The attraction, emulating an 8.3 magnitude quake, was built in 1988 replacing the Tower of London set . 

As the tour continues to the backlot, riders will get the chance to see an original time machine picture car from Back to the Future at Courthouse Square . The Doc Brown character will be roaming the area as well.

Other nostalgic returns include the 1976 “Return of the Runaway Train" set, featuring warning bells and siren alarms. A large Tyrannosaurus rex display from "Jurassic World" will be heard screeching from afar as well.

For a final touch on the 60 minute tour, riders will see an original replica of the Hollywood Sign situated along the backlot. The original billboard was installed in 1923, and later declared a cultural and historical monument in Los Angeles.

Anniversary-themed merchandise and food will be available for purchase at the park as well. Food items include:

• Hollywood & Dine
• Mel's Diner
• Studio Scoops
• City Snack Shop

According to the park, a 60th anniversary dining pass will be available for purchase, allowing guests to select up to two entrees, four snacks, sides, desserts or beverages at participating restaurants or food carts. A pass member preview is also available for RSVP April 18, 22, 23 and 24.

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Bruce Springsteen’s 3-Hour-20-Minute Show at L.A.’s Forum Resets the Bar for Epic Bossiness: Concert Review

By Chris Willman

Chris Willman

Senior Music Writer and Chief Music Critic

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But “Wrecking Ball” remains a key moment in his set, not for how sentimental it makes us feel about basketball barns, but for how it makes us feel about us, its true intended subject. Like a lot of the standby songs and commentaries on his 2023 tour and now (following a sick-day pause) the ‘24 outing, this particular standout has to do with his most recurring theme of recent years, live and on record: the thin veil between life and death. In Springsteen’s advanced view of mortality, we’re all dumps-that-jump, in a manner of thinking. And he’s come back from enforced hiatus to throw us the best party, or wake, we could possibly have.

Springsteen hasn’t spoken so much publicly about the condition that took him off the road for six months, and which caused these particular L.A. dates to be postponed for four. But something about his first Forum show Thursday caused him to get a little bit chattier about the malady.

“We’re sorry we missed you last time,” he said during a spoken interlude in the middle of an epic version of “Tenth Avenue Freezeout,” being performed as the show’s penultimate number  after the setlist had already passed the three-hour point. “I hope we didn’t put you out too much. But, man,” he elaborated, “I had the worst motherfucking bellyache you could ever imagine.”

“When I sang, my belly ached,” he said.

“When I did anything, my belly ached,” he continued.

Bruce Springsteen has fire in the belly. Lucky for him and everyone else, it’s back to being a fire that does not consume.

At a length of three hours and 20 minutes, Springsteen’s opening Forum show pretty much set the bar for not gentle into that good Thursday night. Its 200-minute running time was 40 minutes longer than most other sets of his lately, all of which already test and transcend what a guy in his early 70s who recently recovered from illness ought to be pulling off. It’s reductive, though, to focus too much on the running time, which makes it feel like an endurance test or marathon. Yes, every minute added onto a show beyond the tour mean confers some kind of badge of pride on attendees, and it’s great fun to start doing the numbers as a show begins to expand… but the miracle is not just that he endures.

The miracle is that he bobs and weaves with a dynamic setlist that needs that much expansiveness to sufficiently cover multiple moments of sorrow or grief and “Twist and Shout” (should you be so lucky to get that bonus track as a celebration of life, as Thursday’s crowd did).

As fans have already noted during these first few weeks of the 2024 touring resumption, the setlists tend to be only about 75% set in stone. That’s to say, they’re much looser than when the E Street Band hit the road again in 2023, closer to how they used to be in legendary days of yore. For anyone who likes to go to more than one show on a tour, or just for anybody who enjoys knowing they’re in the presence of some free-spiritedness, this flexibility is a godsend.

Given that the surprises each night are added onto the surety of some of the most powerful song sequences he’s ever constructed for a tour, a 2024 Bruce Springsteen show is really something that gives “overstuffed” a good name.

Most of his shows on this show have opened with “Lonesome Day,” which is nearly an overture for the conflicted lyrical feelings that will come up in the emotionally dynamic hours to come. But occasionally he’ll start off with a ringer in advance even of that opener. Thursday, it was a cover of John Lee Hooker’s “Boom Boom,” which ain’t nothing but primal — the blues as filtered through a “Nuggets” sensibility. He hadn’t done this oldie since 2016, which augured well for tour premieres and oddities.

Would an oldie this obscure count among the highlights of a three-hour-plus set that includes an inordinate amount of the best rock songs ever written? On the face of it, no. Or yes, for that segment of fans that lives for the idea of audibles being called.

The biggest surprise of the night: the return of Patti Scialfa, who performed on a few 2023 shows and then disappeared from public view. (“Where’s Patti?” isn’t quite up there with “Where’s Shelly?,” but it still remained a question.) Now we knew, without the FBI being called in: His bride is just living her post-E-Street life, happy to show up for a cameo instead of being tied to a recurring gig. “My baby’s back!,” Springsteen exclaimed, kicking off the first of two numbers the couple performed as a team. The recently rare “Tougher Than the Rest” featured Scialfa leaning in close on their single mic for harmony, followed by “Fire.” That number, Springsteen said, hadn’t been played “in a long time. We did do it on Broadway,” he clarified, but “Patti’s never done it.” By which he possibly meant never performed it as a full-on duet; his wife unexpectedly got the first verse of this ‘70s perennial all to herself. (Patti as a Pointer Sister, to name the group that really made the song famous? Live long enough, and all sorts of things can happen.)

The bones of the set were otherwise mostly intact. “Prove It All Night” follows “Lonesome Day” at the beginning, as a promise. But sometimes it seems like rock ‘n’ roll’s power as an elixir won’t be enough, if you’re reallly following how an underlying narrative develops.

“Ghosts” and “Letter to You,” both from the album of the latter name, overtly introduce the theme of loss, so often returned to. Then the mournful hits keep coming, as pointed segues. “My City of Ruins,” whose “Rise up” chorus barely disguises just how sad it is, goes in for more than 10 minutes, with cheerful chatter, as Bruce introduces the band, followed by bittersweet moments dedicated to the group’s fallen members. That in memoriam segued into a cover of the Commodores’ ‘80s hit “Nightshift,” which pays homage to soul music’s lost ‘60s and ‘70s greats, including Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson.

The soul memorial led into “Last Man Standing,” his song about realizing he was the last surviving member of his original band — a song so solemn it’s performed just by Springsteen and a solitary trumpeter, who might as well be playing “Taps.” From there, much of the crowd is relieved to hear Springsteen singing something as light as “Backstreets”… or is it? “Until the end… until the end…,” he sang, drawing one line out into a chant. It’s a “Born to Run”-based suite that has finally, after 49 year, turned into the requiem it was apparently always meant to be.

And then, as this emotionally fraught show drew closer to a close, we got the Three Stooges. That is, during the go-for-broke joy of “Rosalita,” there was a moment when the otherwise stone-faced Little Steven Van Zandt drew close to Springsteen and they indulged in some Larry, Curly and Moe-style face-poking, prodding, mugging and noise-making.

Springsteen has put on a tour that is the most bittersweet show on earth, until it finally settles for being the happiest, and occasionally even goofiest… and then turns heartbreaking again for the final encore. The most abrupt segue might be the final one, when, having climaxed with “Tenth Avenue” and (on this particular night) “Twist and Shout,” he sent the rest of the band off to their sleep while he serenaded the crowd with a completely solo number, “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” boldly sending the audience out thinking again about loved ones they’ve lost, if with a ballad that feels like a comforting lullaby. By the end of the show, he’s kept all these things in balance enough that any of these notes feel like they could be an honest place to land, whether it’s with an Isley Brothers tent revival or a heart-rending ode to creating memories as a means of cheating death.

Given his stage mastery, was it possible Springsteen was moving even himself with this show? It’s probably risky i to parse exactly what emotions a showman this great might be spontaneously feeling. The most deeply emotional moments are deeply baked into the tour. As always, he gave the much-quoted speech about his old friend and bandmate George Theiss’ passing, about the clarity that death brings the living. This should be rote for Springsteen by now, given how little variation he introduces into the homily, as he retells it. Yet his closed eyes looked moist enough as he eulogized his teenaged soulmate once again Thursday night. Honestly, it could also just have been perspiration (even though his face didn’t look that sweaty in the closeups seen on the two big screens for the rest of the show).

Either way, sweat or tears, it was working, like it’s always worked for a few generations now. “You’ll need a good companion for this part of the ride,” Springsteen sang toward the end of the show in “Land of Hope of Dreams,” part of the tumult of climactic numbers. Maybe he didn’t mean that line as an actual rock ‘n’ roll direct-sales pitch at the time he wrote it, but he sure keeps living up to it.

(For Variety ’s review of Springsteen’s San Diego concert March 25, click here .)

Boom Boom Lonesome Day Prove It All Night Trapped Two Hearts Ghosts Letter to You The Promised Land Tougher Than the Rest (with Patti Scialfa) Fire (with Patti Scialfa) Hungry Heart Jole Blon Spirit in the Night No Surrender My City of Ruins Nightshift Last Man Standing Backstreets Because the Night She’s the One Wrecking Ball The Rising Badlands Thunder Road Land of Hope and Dreams Born to Run Rosalita (Come Out Tonight) Bobby Jean Dancing in the Dark Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out Twist and Shout I’ll See You in My Dreams

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