When planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, one of the key questions that often arises is: which rides should you go on first? With so many thrilling attractions and immersive experiences, deciding where to start can seem overwhelming. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. This comprehensive guide will give you a breakdown of the most popular rides, estimated wait times, and strategies to make the most of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood.
To make the most of your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, it’s recommended to start with the Lower Lot attractions as soon as the park opens. A suggested order for the most popular rides and attractions includes: Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Studio Tour, Jurassic World, Transformers: The Ride-3D, Revenge of the Mummy, and King Kong 360 3-D. It’s also beneficial to consider factors like peak times, wait times, and strategies to minimize these wait times such as utilizing the Universal Express Pass.
Prioritize Based on Popularity
To make the most of your visit, it’s recommended to start with the Lower Lot attractions as soon as the park opens, since the lines are shortest in the morning. Here’s a suggested order for the most popular rides and attractions:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge at Super Nintendo World in the Lower Lot.
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- Studio Tour.
- Jurassic World in the Lower Lot.
- Transformers: The Ride-3D in the Lower Lot.
- Revenge of the Mummy in the Lower Lot.
- King Kong 360 3-D as part of the Studio Tour.
Peak Times and Wait Times
During peak times, some rides tend to have the longest wait times. For example, at Disneyland, the rides with the longest wait times include Space Mountain with an average maximum wait time of 93 minutes, and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run with 78 minutes. At Universal Studios Hollywood, some rides with long wait times include Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and The Incredible Hulk Coaster.
To find real-time wait times for rides, consider using resources like Thrill Data, Queue Times, or Theme Park IQ.
Minimizing Wait Times
To minimize wait times for the most popular rides, consider the following strategies:
- Visit during off-peak times.
- Stay overnight at a theme park hotel.
- Use virtual queues.
- Take advantage of Fast Pass systems.
- Plan your day strategically.
- Utilize mobile apps.
- Consider paid line-skipping options.
Universal Express Pass
The Universal Express Pass allows you to skip the regular standby line and use a special Express Pass line with a shorter wait time at most attractions in Universal Studios Hollywood. This means you can prioritize the rides you want to experience without worrying about long wait times.
Kid-Friendly Rides
For families with children, prioritizing kid-friendly rides can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Some popular rides to consider include:
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Enchanted Tales with Belle
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- It’s a Small World
- Toy Story Midway Mania
Seasonal Events and Special Promotions
Seasonal events and special promotions at Universal Studios Hollywood can affect the order of the rides to go on first due to increased crowds and wait times. To make the most of your visit during these times, arrive early, prioritize must-see attractions, consider purchasing a Universal Express Pass, use a touring plan, be flexible, take advantage of showtimes, and stay informed with the official Universal Studios Hollywood app.
Universal Studios Hollywood offers an array of thrilling rides, immersive experiences, and beloved characters that make for an unforgettable visit. With these tips and strategies, you’ll be able to navigate the park like a pro, making the most of your time and ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone in your party. Happy exploring!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are off-peak times to visit Universal Studios Hollywood?
Off-peak times typically include weekdays during the school year, especially in January, February, and September.
What is a virtual queue?
A virtual queue is a system that allows you to reserve a spot in line for a ride without physically waiting in line. You can often do this through a theme park’s mobile app.
What are some examples of mobile apps that can help minimize wait times?
The official Universal Studios Hollywood mobile app provides real-time information on wait times, show times, and more. Other apps like Undercover Tourist also provide wait time information and crowd calendars.
What are some kid-friendly attractions in Universal Studios Hollywood?
Some kid-friendly attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood include the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, the DreamWorks Theatre featuring Kung Fu Panda, and Super Silly Fun Land.
How does the Universal Express Pass work?
The Universal Express Pass allows you to bypass the regular lines at most rides and attractions by using a special Express Pass line. This can greatly reduce wait times, especially during peak times.
What are some seasonal events at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Universal Studios Hollywood hosts a number of seasonal events, such as Halloween Horror Nights in the fall, Grinchmas during the holiday season, and various special events during the summer.
What are some strategies for planning my day at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Strategies for planning your day include arriving early, prioritizing attractions based on interest and wait times, using a touring plan, taking breaks during peak heat and crowd times, and staying late for nighttime shows and events.
