PRODUCTION CENTRAL
NEW RIDE
Transformers The Ride 3D
Come along with Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and all the Autobots to help protect the Allspark which holds the power to create and destroy races and entire worlds.
This ride allows guests to go along with Evac who is part of Optimus Prime's NEST detail and is assigned to evacuate the Allspark should anything go wrong and it can't be safely housed at NEST anymore. Through the ride, you encounter Megatron and the not so nice Decepticons who are out to claim the Allspark for themselves. In the end, good wins over evil and you save the day with the Autobots and the rest of the NEST crew.
Height Requirement: 40"
This ride allows guests to go along with Evac who is part of Optimus Prime's NEST detail and is assigned to evacuate the Allspark should anything go wrong and it can't be safely housed at NEST anymore. Through the ride, you encounter Megatron and the not so nice Decepticons who are out to claim the Allspark for themselves. In the end, good wins over evil and you save the day with the Autobots and the rest of the NEST crew.
Height Requirement: 40"
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Opening July 2, 2012, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem replaced Jimmy Neutrons Nicktoon Blast which took it's final flight August 18, 2011. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem uses the same simulator vehicles previously used for Jimmy Neutrons Nicktoon Blast and The Funtastic World of Hanna-Barbera.
The fun starts in the cue line where a video sets the scene regarding the ride overall. Once inside, you find yourself in Gru's Living Room where Gru has prepared a pre-recorded message explaining everything guests need to know about the Minion Goggles (your 3D glasses). In the second room you are inside Gru's laboratory called the Minionization Prep Room. Gru himself shows up with 2 of his minions and, with the help of his daughters, explains the "Minionization Process". Once you have passed Gru's inspection, you are taken into the Main lab to be Minionized. This is where you board the simulator vehicles that move with the action on the giant movie screen in front of you. (If you do not wish to move around during this part, stationary seating is available at the front of the theater). When the ride ends, a dance party with the other Minions begins. When you are done "getting down" with the Minions, you can browse the Gift Shop where Minion inspired merchandise is available for purchase before exiting back into the park.
Height Requirement: 40"
Awards
My Take: I was among the first official 100 to ride this attraction just after it's Grand Opening. I have ridden it every chance I have gotten since then. I thoroughly enjoy this ride. Compared to Jimmy Neutrons, Despicable Me has something for everyone in the family.
The fun starts in the cue line where a video sets the scene regarding the ride overall. Once inside, you find yourself in Gru's Living Room where Gru has prepared a pre-recorded message explaining everything guests need to know about the Minion Goggles (your 3D glasses). In the second room you are inside Gru's laboratory called the Minionization Prep Room. Gru himself shows up with 2 of his minions and, with the help of his daughters, explains the "Minionization Process". Once you have passed Gru's inspection, you are taken into the Main lab to be Minionized. This is where you board the simulator vehicles that move with the action on the giant movie screen in front of you. (If you do not wish to move around during this part, stationary seating is available at the front of the theater). When the ride ends, a dance party with the other Minions begins. When you are done "getting down" with the Minions, you can browse the Gift Shop where Minion inspired merchandise is available for purchase before exiting back into the park.
Height Requirement: 40"
Awards
- Best new theme park attraction of 2012
My Take: I was among the first official 100 to ride this attraction just after it's Grand Opening. I have ridden it every chance I have gotten since then. I thoroughly enjoy this ride. Compared to Jimmy Neutrons, Despicable Me has something for everyone in the family.
Shrek 4D
Replacing Alfred Hitchcock: The Art of Making Movies, the sequel to the Shrek movies opened its doors on June 12, 2003. Shrek 4D is a 3D adventure featuring the stars of the Shrek series. The film picks up where the movies left off. When the deceased Lord Farquaad has one of his henchmen Kidnap Princess Fiona on her honeymoon, it's up to Shrek and Donkey to rescue her and restore peace. The preshow room sets the scene for the attraction. From there you are taken in to the "Torture Chamber" where the 3D film begins. The seats are a very old form of simulators which rock back and forth during several scenes. With air spitting at you, you truly feel like you are right there with Shrek and Donkey to rescue the Princess and experience the Happily Ever After. (If you do not wish to move during the show, stationary seats are available).
My Take: I enjoy this show from time to time. It is a bit of an older attraction and I love to see the show when I need a place to just sit and cool off during the day.
My Take: I enjoy this show from time to time. It is a bit of an older attraction and I love to see the show when I need a place to just sit and cool off during the day.
Shrek's Photo Finish
After visiting Shrek 4D you are able to meet Shrek, Donkey and Princess Fiona at Shrek's Photo Finish as well as get your photo taken with the trio. This Ogre sized attraction was torn down along with the former Soundstage 44 to make way for Transformers The Ride 3D (Opening Summer 2013) and has been rebuilt to be better than ever.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
Opening August 19, 2009, this one of a kind rollercoaster takes guests on the ride of their lives. When you board the rollercoaster, you are strapped in with a molded waist rather than a full body restraint. The onboard computer, similar to an I Pod Touch, is cleverly incorporated into the molded waist restraint. This computer comes with pre loaded songs. Guests choose the song they want and then just sit back and enjoy the ride while a clip from your song selection plays in speakers affixed to each seat. The rollercoaster takes you straight up before releasing you to a drop that leads into the only loop. A twist in it assures that you are never completely upside down during the ride. Once you get off the rollercoaster your picture and video taken during the ride are available for purchase before exiting back into the park.
Height Requirement: 51"
My Take: This is one of my 2 favorite rollercoasters I have ever ridden. With the lift taking you straight up it's a thrill and a half when I ride it. I always get off smiling and feeling like a rockstar.
Height Requirement: 51"
My Take: This is one of my 2 favorite rollercoasters I have ever ridden. With the lift taking you straight up it's a thrill and a half when I ride it. I always get off smiling and feeling like a rockstar.
NEW YORK
Twister... Ride It Out
Originally slated to open in March of 1998, Twister's opening date was pushed back to May 4, 1998 because of several large tornados hitting Central Florida killing many people in the weeks leading up to the original March opening date.
Twister... Ride It Out, takes guests into a soundstage and puts them in the middle of a category 5 tornado like the one in the movie, "Twister". Two preshow rooms set the scene for the grand finale in the main soundstage.
My Take: I don't do this one too often. Mainly because when it has ALL the effects working, I am not really able to withstand the ginormous fireball that goes off just a few feet from the audience. Other than that, I enjoy it but still don't attend the attraction that often.
Twister... Ride It Out, takes guests into a soundstage and puts them in the middle of a category 5 tornado like the one in the movie, "Twister". Two preshow rooms set the scene for the grand finale in the main soundstage.
My Take: I don't do this one too often. Mainly because when it has ALL the effects working, I am not really able to withstand the ginormous fireball that goes off just a few feet from the audience. Other than that, I enjoy it but still don't attend the attraction that often.
Revenge Of The Mummy
Revenge of the Mummy opened its doors on May 24, 2004.
This indoor rollercoaster ride takes you through Imhotep's tomb and a room where Imhotep challenges the riders to "savor riches beyond measure or refuse and suffer a more bitter treasure". You are then thrust into a third room where you are attacked by scarab beetles before plunging backwards toward your fate. After your vehicle rotates 180 degrees, you are catapulted into darkness and taken on a rollercoaster ride. In the end, Good wins over Evil and you can see the picture taken during the ride in the gift shop before exiting back into the park.
Height Requirement: 48"
My Take: I ride this rollercoaster everytime I go to the parks. It is one of my favorite rides and I recommend it for just about anyone.
This indoor rollercoaster ride takes you through Imhotep's tomb and a room where Imhotep challenges the riders to "savor riches beyond measure or refuse and suffer a more bitter treasure". You are then thrust into a third room where you are attacked by scarab beetles before plunging backwards toward your fate. After your vehicle rotates 180 degrees, you are catapulted into darkness and taken on a rollercoaster ride. In the end, Good wins over Evil and you can see the picture taken during the ride in the gift shop before exiting back into the park.
Height Requirement: 48"
My Take: I ride this rollercoaster everytime I go to the parks. It is one of my favorite rides and I recommend it for just about anyone.
The Blues Brothers Show
This live interactive street party featuring the ever popular Blues Brothers playing some of their music from the movie made it's debut in March 1991 and has been going strong ever since.
My Take: I enjoy this show from time to time. With the great songs and the awesome company of the other people in the audience dancing along, I love the party aspect and love to get down when I can.
Check park map for showtimes
My Take: I enjoy this show from time to time. With the great songs and the awesome company of the other people in the audience dancing along, I love the party aspect and love to get down when I can.
Check park map for showtimes
SAN FRANCISCO
NEW SHOW
Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue
Making it's debut in 1992, Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue has thrilled audiences for over 2 decades. It features your host who happens to be the "Ghost With The Most" Beetlejuice himself. Along with Beetlejuice, Dracula, The Wolfman, Frankenstein and the Bride of Frankenstein. The show closed its doors on February 2, 2014 and re opened March 8, 2014 to a newly produced show The latest installment of the show has added 2 new characters. Phantasia (female Phantom of the Opera) who is the main DJ for the show and is a nod to the original installment of the show which featured the Phantom of the Opera. The other newcomer is Cleopatra the Egyptian queen. With rocking new songs, Audience involvement and more, this is a must see for families and kids of any age. You are sure to come away happy.
My Take: I like to enjoy this show whenever I can. I try to attend at least one showing each time I go to the parks.
My Take: I like to enjoy this show whenever I can. I try to attend at least one showing each time I go to the parks.
Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride... Starring You
Making it's Red Carpet debut, Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride... Staring You, opened its doors for the first time on January 17, 2008.
In this attraction, guests are cast as extras in some "last minute key insert shots" for a new movie being filmed by Disaster Studios. A fictitious Motion Picture company, headed by Frank Kincaid (portrayed by Christopher Walken). Once guests are selected for the key shots, everyone is invited into a screening room, where Frank Kincaid himself, explains the art of making a disaster movie. Guests are then taken into a soundstage, where the key insert shots are made. Guests who were chosen are escorted to specific spots on the stage to partake in the shots they were chosen for. After the "Key Shots" are taken, In the final room, guests board a San Francisco style subway car and are taken to the set of the finale, which is essentially the same set as was used in Earthquake Ride It Out which preceded Disaster!. while being taken back to the station, guests are treated to a "Preview" of the upcoming Frank Kincaid masterpiece they had just taken part in, with the shots of the guests edited in.
Height Requirement: None
My Take: The preshows to me are drawn out (unless I'm picked) and I know what I'm expecting during the subway scene. Overall, though, I enjoy this attraction as it's a bit of a break from what can be hot Florida days.
In this attraction, guests are cast as extras in some "last minute key insert shots" for a new movie being filmed by Disaster Studios. A fictitious Motion Picture company, headed by Frank Kincaid (portrayed by Christopher Walken). Once guests are selected for the key shots, everyone is invited into a screening room, where Frank Kincaid himself, explains the art of making a disaster movie. Guests are then taken into a soundstage, where the key insert shots are made. Guests who were chosen are escorted to specific spots on the stage to partake in the shots they were chosen for. After the "Key Shots" are taken, In the final room, guests board a San Francisco style subway car and are taken to the set of the finale, which is essentially the same set as was used in Earthquake Ride It Out which preceded Disaster!. while being taken back to the station, guests are treated to a "Preview" of the upcoming Frank Kincaid masterpiece they had just taken part in, with the shots of the guests edited in.
Height Requirement: None
My Take: The preshows to me are drawn out (unless I'm picked) and I know what I'm expecting during the subway scene. Overall, though, I enjoy this attraction as it's a bit of a break from what can be hot Florida days.
Fear Factor Live
Replacing the Wild Wild Wild West Stunt Show, Fear Factor Live started testing people's fears on June 3, 2005. Taking select stunts seen on the wildly popular TV show, Fear Factor, Some audience members are chosen to come onto the stage to try some of the less physical stunts. For the physical stunts, 6 park guests are chosen through an audition process which takes place 70 min (1 hour 10 min) prior to each showing. Of the 6 people that go in to the physical stunts only 1 comes out victorious. As for the other stunts, guests are invited to eat, and drink a variety of interesting things. Audience members are also chosen to sit and have various "Deadly" creatures placed on their heads and having their hands dunked into a tank of other "Deadly" creatures. The participation is not for the faint of heart but being in the audience watching others is always a good time. Those chosen for the less physical stunts get prizes such as a Fear Factor cup or a pencil etc. the winner of the physical stunts gets a T-Shirt which declares on it that they are the victor.
Check park map for showtimes.
My Take: I rarely attend this show. I don't mind the show, I personally am just unable to stomach a few of the stunts when I see them. It's a good show though and I recommend it for any Fear Factor fan.
Check park map for showtimes.
My Take: I rarely attend this show. I don't mind the show, I personally am just unable to stomach a few of the stunts when I see them. It's a good show though and I recommend it for any Fear Factor fan.
WORLD EXPO
Men In Black Alien Attack
Built on the former site of The Swamp Thing Set, The Men In Black started protecting Universal Orlando from the Scum of the Universe on April 18, 2000. This is a laser tag ride where you use your specialized alien gun to shoot at various alien targets throughout to gain points and agent status. Once you exit the ride, you are able to view and purchase the photo of your team before exiting through the gift shop and back into the park.
Height Requirement: 42"
My Take: Another of my favorite rides, I ride this one every single time I'm at the park. It's such a blast to see my score and compare it to the others in my car each time I ride.
Height Requirement: 42"
My Take: Another of my favorite rides, I ride this one every single time I'm at the park. It's such a blast to see my score and compare it to the others in my car each time I ride.
The Simpsons Ride
Replacing Back To The Future the ride, The Simpsons opened its doors on May 19, 2008.
This is a simulator ride using the same simulator cars from the Back To The Future ride. Guests go through the exterior cue with a video staring the Simpsons and are then told to go to one of three areas. first level, second level or third level. Once inside, a holding area made to look like carnival games entertains guests until they are sorted to different rooms called "fun houses" and after a short video simpsons style on safety guests board the simulator vehicles. they are lifted into the air and move to the video on the giant screen. there are 24 cars in all and if you want the smoothest ride be sure to request funhouse 6 (car 6) as that is the smoothest car that there is and it's dead center to the screen.
Height Requirement: 40"
My Take: Due to my personal lack of liking for the Simpsons show, I have only ridden this ride twice since it opened. it's a great ride, though, for any Simpsons fan.
This is a simulator ride using the same simulator cars from the Back To The Future ride. Guests go through the exterior cue with a video staring the Simpsons and are then told to go to one of three areas. first level, second level or third level. Once inside, a holding area made to look like carnival games entertains guests until they are sorted to different rooms called "fun houses" and after a short video simpsons style on safety guests board the simulator vehicles. they are lifted into the air and move to the video on the giant screen. there are 24 cars in all and if you want the smoothest ride be sure to request funhouse 6 (car 6) as that is the smoothest car that there is and it's dead center to the screen.
Height Requirement: 40"
My Take: Due to my personal lack of liking for the Simpsons show, I have only ridden this ride twice since it opened. it's a great ride, though, for any Simpsons fan.
WOODY WOODPECKER'S KIDZONE
Animal Actors On Location
The third name for the same show, Animal Actors On Location opened in the Fall of 2006. The show takes from the original predecessors concept showing guests how animals are trained to perform in movies. This show is definitely a must see for every animal lover and is a family friendly show that parents can take their kids to.
Check park map for showtimes.
My Take: I enjoy this show from time to time. It's a good break from the hustle of the park and it shows comically how Animals are trained for the films.
Check park map for showtimes.
My Take: I enjoy this show from time to time. It's a good break from the hustle of the park and it shows comically how Animals are trained for the films.
A Day In The Park With Barney
See everyone's favorite lovable purple dinosaur Barney in this family friendly show staring Barney and all his friends singing songs and dancing in a park setting. Guests sit on park benches while Barney and his friends sing and dance on the center stage. The preshow has guests use their imagination with Mr. Peek a Boo in order to be taken to the park with Barney who comes from your imagination. (preshow is in a covered area outside and is a standing only area.)
This attraction opened in 1995 on the former site of the Bates Motel Set.
Check park map for showtimes
This attraction opened in 1995 on the former site of the Bates Motel Set.
Check park map for showtimes
Curious George Goes To Town
Opening in 1998 on the former site of the Bates Mansion Set (from the Psycho movies), curious George Goes To Town is Universal Studios' kids playground. Kids can get wet with water guns as well as a splash pad or they can go inside an interactive play area where they can climb, run and have fun dodging plastic ball pit balls shot out of specialized cannons. It's fun for kids of all ages to just go, have fun and be a kid again.
Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster
Opening in 1999, Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster is Universal Studios' kids rollercoaster. It takes guests on a more gentle rollercoaster ride through Woody's Nuthouse. This ride is great for kids as well as those that don't like rollercoasters as it has no loops or twists and is very short.
Height Requirement: 36"
Height Requirement: 36"
Fievel's Playland
This mouse sized playground at Universal Studios allows kids to play, run and jump as though they were a mouse. With larger than life objects you can find around the house it's a fun playground for everyone.
E.T. Adventure
Opening with the park on June 7, 1990, E.T. Adventure is the LAST remaining ORIGINAL ride in the park today. Guests step inside a preshow room where they are greeted by a video where Steven Spielberg sets the premise for the story of the ride. Guests then walk into a second room where they give their first name to one of the attendants sitting at a computer and are then issued an "Interplanetary Passport" with their name scanned onto the card. The ride vehicle sits 4 across in 3 rows and the vehicles resemble bicycles (don't worry. You don't have to pedal). Once guests get off, they are taken through the gift shop where they can purchase E.T inspired merchandise as well as have a Universal Studios Photographer take guests pictures with E.T. in the basket of a bicycle or in an exact replica of E.T. in disguise in the closet. (NOTE: Personal Photos (even of just E.T.) are not allowed) The photos are then available for purchase digitally or printed up on the spot.
Height Requirement: 34"
My Take: I absolutely love this ride. Especially since it is the last remaining ride that made its grand opening with the park in 1990. I recommend this ride for anyone.
Height Requirement: 34"
My Take: I absolutely love this ride. Especially since it is the last remaining ride that made its grand opening with the park in 1990. I recommend this ride for anyone.
HOLLYWOOD
Universal Orlando's Horror Make Up Show
Opening with the park on June 7, 1990, the Horror Make Up Show gives guests a comical look at what goes into producing make up for some of Universal's famous horror films including Hunchback of Notre Dame (the original), and The Wolfman (remake). When guests first walk through the doors, they find themselves in a very large room with props and replicas from some popular horror films (the displays in this room change on occasion). When guests enter the main air conditioned theater they merely take a seat and enjoy the live stage show. One audience volunteer each show is chosen to help on the stage throughout.
Check park map for showtimes.
My Take: I enjoy coming to this show whenever I can. It's comedy and improvability keeps me laughing to the end.
Check park map for showtimes.
My Take: I enjoy coming to this show whenever I can. It's comedy and improvability keeps me laughing to the end.
Terminator T2: 3D Battle Across Time
Opening April 7, 1993, Terminator T2: 3D is a combined live action stage show with a good part of it being shown on a movie screen. It is a sort of sequel to the movies. The preshow starts with a recap of Cyberdyne Systems and who they are. Once you're introduced to Cyberdyne, you are taken into the main auditorium where the show is. a lot of the middle of the show is on a movie screen although on both sides of that, there are live actors running around the auditorium bringing the show to life.
Because this is based on the Terminator movies, there is a good amount of violence, for this reason it is recommended that parents use discretion taking young children into this show.
My Take: I love this show. The part of the main show that is on the screen with no actors in the auditorium is a bit dull for me but once the actors re-appear, It's an awesome show that keeps me on the edge of my seat till the end. (Hint: if you want to know my favorite seat and what I think is the best seat in the house, I always go to the front row and sit in the centermost seat. Yes you have to strain your neck a little to look up but with a few of the effects it's worth it.)
Check park map for showtimes.
Because this is based on the Terminator movies, there is a good amount of violence, for this reason it is recommended that parents use discretion taking young children into this show.
My Take: I love this show. The part of the main show that is on the screen with no actors in the auditorium is a bit dull for me but once the actors re-appear, It's an awesome show that keeps me on the edge of my seat till the end. (Hint: if you want to know my favorite seat and what I think is the best seat in the house, I always go to the front row and sit in the centermost seat. Yes you have to strain your neck a little to look up but with a few of the effects it's worth it.)
Check park map for showtimes.
Universal's Cinematic Spectacular
100 years of Movie Memories
Narrated by Morgan Freeman, This water show gives guests the experience of remembering 100 years of movies made by Universal Studios.
With water screens and screens on the water alongside fountains of colorful water and spectacular fireworks It's a must see to end your day at Universal Orlando.
Awards
Source: About.com 2013 Readers' Choice Awards
With water screens and screens on the water alongside fountains of colorful water and spectacular fireworks It's a must see to end your day at Universal Orlando.
Awards
- Best New Theme Park Show of 2012
Source: About.com 2013 Readers' Choice Awards