universal studio tour king kong

Ultimate Guide: Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood

The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is in my opinion one of the best attractions at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

The World-Famous Studio Tour is a one-hour tour around the backlot at Universal. This is a real working movie studio, as such you’ll see sets from your favourite shows and movies as well as some of Hollywood’s most legendary filming locations.

This tour is suitable for the whole family (I recently did it with my wife and our 14-month-old little boy) and features two cinematic ride experiences; Fast & The Furious: Supercharged & King Kong 3D.

What Is The Universal Studio Tour?

The World-Famous Studio Tour takes you behind the scenes of a real film studio which has been the home to a number of movie and television shows since its inception over 50 years ago.

The tour is hosted by comedian Jimmy Fallon alongside a live guide who provides commentary throughout the duration of the tour.

Highlights Of The Studio Tour

During the tour, you will travel through different past various sound stages, and through movie sets. Throughout this time you’ll experience a variety of attractions including;

Bates Motel

This is perhaps the scariest part of the tour.

Here you’ll pull up to the Bates Motel from the epic thriller film Psycho just as Norman Bates himself is carrying a body from a room to place in the back of his truck.

As he does so, he spots you, a witness.

In an aim to cover his tracks, Norman will come towards you with a fake knife. Thankfully, the driver will begin to pull away just in time.

Norman gets closest to the back two carriages of the tram. As such I highly recommend sitting in the carriages closest to the front if you’re travelling with young children.

Plane Crash Wreckage

After escaping Norman Bates, you’ll enter the plane crash wreckage area of the tour. This features a commercial 747 aircraft which was purchased by the production company behind the hit 2005 film War of the Worlds, directed by Steven Spielberg.

The plane was chopped into pieces and transported to Universal where the full set has been left fully dressed as it was during filming.

Obviously, given how realistic this all is, it can be scary for younger guests.

Jupiter’s Claim

This new area of the backlot tour opened on July 22, 2022 (timed to open the same day as Jordan Peele’s movie Nope).

This is a drive-through area which has been rebuilt at Falls Lake (previously occupied by the Log Cabin) and features select theme park sets used in the sci-fi horror film.

Flash Flood Simulator

As you drive through the Mexcian Village, you’ll experience one of two flooding simulators that feature within the Universal Studios backlot tour.

This is one of the oldest parts of the backlot tour (in operation since 1968) and has appeared in countless films including Big Fat Liar and Fletch Lives.

In my opinion, this isn’t as scary as the other flash flood simulator which takes place as part of Earthquake: The Big One!

Earthquake: The Big One!

Earthquake: The Big One is the only split-level sound stage in the world, and has been in operation at Universal since 1969.

As the tram pulls into the subway area, an 8.4 Richter-level earthquake hits, causing a subway train to come off the tracks as it pulls into the station and flooding from the streets above to pour down into the underground.

Various scenes have been shot here including; Beverly Hills Cop III and Season 5, Episode 15 of the TV show Bones.

The Jaws portion of the Studio Tour dates back to 1967 and subsequently is one of the most nostalgic parts for long-time visitors.

As the tram approaches the water, the tension builds as the tour guide narrates the scene. Suddenly the giant animatronic shark jumps out of the water, jaws wide open.

King Kong 360 3-D

King Kong 360 3-D is one of two simulator-based rides on the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour.

This simulator was created by Peter Jackson himself and is the world’s largest 3-D experience.

The film lasts just a couple of minutes and see’s you caught in the middle of a terrifying struggle between a 35-foot T-Rex and the 8th wonder of the world – King Kong.

Fast & The Furious Supercharged

This is another simulator-based ride situated on the back lot tour.

Once again you’ll put on your 3D glasses and experience a high-speed chase alongside Dom and the gang. This is far from my favourite part of the tour, but sadly it’s not optional. Thankfully, it only lasts a couple of minutes.

Where Is The Universal Studios Tour Located?

The World Famous Studio Tour is located in a dedicated lower lot area of Universal Studios Hollywood which can be accessed from Springfield, home of The Simpsons via a number of escalators.

This dedicated lower lot area is not to be confused with the lower lot escalators down to Jurassic World & Super Nintendo World.

If you’re unsure as to where to go for the Studio Tour be sure to ask one of the Universal Studios team members situated around the park, or the Universal Studios mobile app which features a map with GPS.

How Long Is The Universal Studio Tour?

The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood lasts between 40 minutes and one hour. During the ride, there are no stops and no toilet breaks.

While the ride itself is between 40 minutes and an hour, the standby wait line for the ride can be another hour (give or take) depending on how busy the park is during your visit.

This ride is eligible for the Universal Express Pass so, if you are upgrading to the Universal Express Pass then you will be able to skip the line here. We did this during our most recent visit and we walked straight on (the standby line at the time was around 20 mins – February 2022).

How Much Does The Universal Studio Tour Cost?

The Universal Studios Tour is free.

However, to go on the tour you will need a Universal Studios Hollywood park ticket.

Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are sold using a dynamic pricing model based on estimated demand.

As such quieter days or times of year often have lower ticket prices, while more popular days and seasons (Christmas, Halloween, Spring Break, Summer etc.) have higher ticket prices.

This dynamic pricing model also applies to Universal Express Pass tickets and tickets for the VIP Experience.

Do You Have To Book The Universal Studio Tour?

Sadly, you can not book your tour of the Universal Studios backlot in advance. Instead, spaces on each tram are on a first-come, first-served basis. Each tram roughly holds between 100 and 150 people split across 6 or so carriages.

How Long Is The Wait For The Universal Studios Tour?

The wait time for the World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood can vary depending on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and season.

During quieter times at the park, you can wait as little as 10 or 20 minutes to board the tram. However, during peak periods such as holidays or weekends, wait times can be in excess of one hour.

Can You Use A Universal Express Ticket For The Universal Studio Tour?

A Universal Express ticket at Universal Studios Hollywood can be used for the Studio Tour, as well as for many of the other popular attractions and rides in the park.

The Universal Express ticket gives guests priority access to select attractions, allowing them to bypass the regular standby line and experience the attraction with a shorter wait time.

Best Time To Go On The Universal Studios Tour?

Generally, speaking the best time to go on the tour is in the morning when the park first opens.

During this time the crowds are typically smaller and the lines are shorter, allowing visitors to enjoy the tour with minimal wait times.

On the flip side, the worst time to go on the tour is usually in the early afternoon, just after lunchtime as most people get to this area of the park at this time of day.

Is The Universal Studios Tour Scary?

Certain areas and attractions within the World-Famous Universal Studio Tour may be scary to younger children. However, none of them last long (maximum of four minutes).

If you’re looking for thrill rides then this tour isn’t it!

Is The Universal Studios Tour Suitable For Babies & Toddlers?

The Universal Studios Tour is suitable for babies and toddlers.

However, you will be on the tram ride for up to an hour so be sure to bring any supplies you may need for that duration of time with you.

It’s also worth noting that children must remain seated throughout the duration of the tour for health and safety reasons. So if you have a restless little one consider bringing a book, toy or iPad.

There is an extensive stroller parking lot available in the Lower Lot area from where the tour departs, this is covered so if it does start raining while you’re out on the tour then your stroller should be protected.

Are There Any Height Or Weight Restrictions For The Studio Tour?

Unlike other rides at Universal Studios Hollywood there are no weight or height restrictions on the World-Famous Studio Tour.

Can You Take Photographs & Videos During The Studio Tour?

Visitors are permitted to take photographs and videos during The World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood.

However, flash photography is not permitted during the tours 3D cinema experiences (King Kong 360 & Fast and Furious: Supercharged).

Is The Studio Tour At Universal Studios Hollywood Worth It?

While going on the Studio Tour takes up a significant portion of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood park. I believe it’s a worthwhile time investment.

This tour provides a unique insight into how scenes from your favourite movies and TV shows are made while the expert tour guide provides some incredible Hollywood secrets.

Can You See Celebrities On The Universal Studios Hollywood Tour?

There is always the possibility of seeing celebrities on the World Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, as the tour takes visitors through active movie and television sets where productions are often being filmed.

However, there is no guarantee.

I’ve been on this tour more than ten times over the past couple of years, and the only person I’ve seen is Mario Lopez who was filming at the entrance of the theme park.

Does Universal Studios Orlando Have A Backlot Tour?

Sadly, Universal Studios in Orlando does not have a backlot tour since it is a dedicated theme park, rather than a film studio.

The Universal Orlando Resort does, however, have a VIP Experience (which is also available at Universal Studios Hollywood).

The VIP Experience is a full-day tour of the Universal Studios park with a dedicated Universal guide. The ratio of guests to guide is roughly 8:1 so it’s a very personal experience in which you’ll skip the line on every ride in the park, go behind the scenes and learn park secrets.

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Guide to The Best Seats on the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood

No trip to  Universal Studios Hollywood  is complete without experiencing our signature attraction,  The World-Famous Studio Tour . This legit journey through the actual sets of some of your favorite movies and television shows is mixed with exhilarating attractions and entertaining insights, making it an educational thrill ride unlike anything you can experience anywhere else. And while it’s safe to say there are no bad seats on the Studio Tour, there are definitely some  preferred  seats, depending on what you’re most excited to see. Let me break it down for you.

Flash Flood

The flash flood on our Old Mexico set was added to our backlot tour back in 1968. You may recognize it from films like “Big Fat Liar”   and  “ Fletch Lives”, but seeing it in person is truly something else. A rainstorm starts out of nowhere and before you know it, 10,000 gallons of water are rushing toward you, blasting through windows, knocking over signs, when suddenly… *WHOOSH* It stops just short of washing away the entire tram. How? Movie magic, of course.

Best Seats: Car 2, Left Side

King Kong 360 3-D

The first of its kind on the Studio Tour, this attraction was created under the direction of “King Kong”   director Peter Jackson. As you make your way through Skull Island, the tram is suddenly surrounded by hungry dinosaurs and giant insects.

Luckily, Kong is on your side. Actually, he’s on all sides, throwing punches (watch out for dinosaur saliva) and catching tram cars. Good thing the tram roof is built to support that kind of weight.

…it is, right?

 Best Seats: Car 2, Right Side — if you want to see Kong’s epic entrance Car 4, Left Side — if you want to see what happens to Car 5

War of the Worlds

One of the most well-known sets from the Studio Tour is the plane crash from Steven Spielberg’s, “War of the Worlds”. Now I won’t tell you all the fun facts about this set (that’s what the tour is for), but it is a real 747 airplane that was torn apart for the movie and it is truly something to behold up close. As the neighborhood appeared in the film, you can still see the smoking wreckage of the crash and the scattered debris. Don’t worry — the tram will stop for a moment so you can snap plenty of pictures.

Best Seats: Car 3, Left Side

Some may recognize the peaceful village around the water as Cabot Cove, from the classic show, “Murder, She Wrote”. However, this section is most commonly known as Jaws Lake, home of the unstoppable great white shark from the movie “Jaws”. After greeting one of the divers in the water, the tram will pause on the dock (for safety, I guess?), allowing the shark to cause some destruction by the gas pumps before attacking the tram. This is why they tell you to keep your arms inside the vehicle, folks.

Best Seats: Car 2, Right Side — to get a good look at the shark just as he emerges Car 3, Right Side — to get a good look at the shark and enjoy those fire effects (if it’s chilly outside)

Earthquake — The Big One

This part of the tour has been featured in movies like “Beverly Hills Cop III”   and the TV show “Bones”. Much like King Kong 360 3-D, this attraction delivers thrills and action on all sides, so there are no bad seats. The difference here is that all the effects are practical (no 3D glasses needed). Plus, if you missed the fire effects from Jaws Lake or the flood from Old Mexico, Earthquake features both — and they’re on opposite sides!

Best Seats: Car 3, Left Side — for those fire effects (just watch out for the gas truck) Car 3, Right Side — for that impressive flood

Courthouse Square

Your tour guide can rattle off dozens of different movies and TV shows that have been filmed on this beautiful block of the backlot (and likely a few current productions!), but none more well-known than “Back to the Future”. While some of the facades have changed, you’ll still be taken back to 1955 (or 1985, or 2015). There’s plenty of fun stuff to see on all sides, but the tram tends to pass by the iconic courthouse and clocktower just once.

Best Seats: Car 2 or 3, Left Side – for the best view of the courthouse

New York Street & Colonial Street & Six Points Texas

A good portion of the tour is spent traveling down streets designed to look like any city  but  Hollywood. This is where the history of filmmaking on the Universal backlot comes alive with facades everywhere. Because this is a working studio, the route can vary day-to-day!

Best Seats: Anywhere!

Fast & Furious — Supercharged

There’s a government spy on board the tram and the villainous Owen Shaw is on his way to take them out (and I don’t mean to dinner). Fortunately, the “Fast & Furious” crew is aware of the situation and are here to protect you and everyone else on board. After a failed attempt to hide out at Sullivan’s Garage, the tram finds itself in a high-speed chase through the streets of LA, with intense action happening all around it. This attraction uses similar technology to King Kong 360 3-D, meaning that once again there aren’t any bad seats. To take it a step further, the action throughout is pretty similar on either side, and one character is even carried along both sides of the tram by helicopter (before jumping back into their moving vehicle, of course).

Best Seats: Any Car, Left Side – for a good look at the souped-up vehicles right when you enter Sullivan’s Garage Any Car, Right Side – for a good look at the pre-show dance party and Shaw’s arrival

As you can see, no matter where you sit on the World-Famous Studio Tour, you’re bound to get an unforgettable experience. Just remember to stay seated while the tram is in motion, and don’t put those 3D glasses on just yet. Action!

Let us know in the comments below your favorite part of the Studio Tour and we’ll see you soon!

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Josh Levesque

HHN fanatic and honorary Springfield, USA resident. Firm believer that milkshakes go with every meal. Very excited to meet your dog.

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19 comments.

For Norman Bates: Car 4, right side, second to last row. The actors who play him are usually really cute and they’ll get right on your face.

Lol. It’s sad that I know this.

I’m at Universal Studios tour guide. The Normans will be happy to hear this. Starting today through Halloween horror nights Norman is up at the psycho house so your best view will be on the left side in car four. 👍🏻

Hi. Universal Studios tour guide here. For the earthquake section you have your sides flipped. Truck comes down on the left. Flood comes from the right. 👍🏻

MVP Tour Guide! Thanks for catching that, Luke. All fixed for future readers. 🙂

Does it still pass the Psycho house ? I am taking my daughter there for the first time next week. She is obsessed with that movie and it’s all she wants to see.

Hi Vanessa! Guests will see the legendary Bates Motel from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho during the Studio Tour.

hi,i wear glasses,so i wondering there have so many 3d thing,how about bad eyesignt people could enjoy this?

Hi there! If an attraction has 3-D glasses available, they can go over normal glasses just fine!

A partir de que estatura puede hacerse este ride?

Hola Nash! Esta atracción no tiene restricción de altura y todos los Visitantes pueden experimentarla.

[…] store to choose materials for their house renovation. This store sequence was filmed entirely on the Universal Studios lot in Hollywood. This lot is made up of many stages and backlots and provides the production team with a completely […]

Hola quisiera saber que dias hay tours en español?

Hola Fernanda,

Le recomendamos comunicarse con nuestro equipo de experiencia VIP al 1-866-346-9350 para recibir asistencia con reservar un guía que hable Español para su recorrido. Se puede contactar con ellos los 7 días de la semana de 9 am a 7 pm. Para obtener más información, recomendamos consultar nuestra página de VIP Tour Experience en nuestro sitio web: https://bit.ly/3syPMhz Visitas guiadas. ¡Esperamos su bienvenida!

Can I purchase this tour without the general admission? I’ll be visiting with senior crew from abroad and they only care about the “movies tour”

Hi Cat! Guests wishing to experience The World-Famous Studio Tour will be required to purchase park tickets. We recommend viewing the Special Offers page on our website for the most up-to-date deals currently available: https://bit.ly/3wh6Hqn . We hope to see you soon!

Hola! dónde puedo ver los horarios del tour (idealmente en español)? Gracias!

¡Hola Carolina! Para informaciones actualizadas sobre los horarios del Studio Tour, recomendamos que utilice nuestra aplicación móvil de Universal Studios Hollywood. ¡Esperamos verte muy pronto!

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The History Behind the King Kong Rides at Universal Studios

King Kong  inspired two different experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Orlando. 

King Kong and Universal Studios go together like banana splits and hot summer days. The two have long been associated with both the Hollywood and Orlando theme parks. It's not hyperbole to say that Kong has been a big deal at the Universal Studios theme parks going back to his first appearance as part of the Universal Studios Tour on June 14, 1986. Since then, the major monkey has continuously appeared in several experiences at the theme parks including Kongfrontation, King Kong: 360 3-D, and the Orlando exclusive dark ride, Skull Island: Reign of Kong . 

With the great ape celebrating his 90th birthday in 2023, here's some history about how King Kong has made his presence felt at Universal Studios for almost 40 years. 

Inside King Kong's History at Universal Studios

King kong encounter .

Credit: Universal Studios

The first King Kong-centric experience at a Universal Studios theme park was for the Hollywood Studio Tram Tour . King Kong Encounter was based on the 1976 film directed by John Guillermin, and the park actually built a 30-foot animatronic ape that weighed seven tons. It was designed by legendary theme park Imagineer, Bob Gurr. Guests on the tram would get an eye-level experience with the beast as he rampaged New York City and the Brooklyn Bridge. Just as he ripped the suspension bridge cables, the tram would jolt to safety. A thrilling stop on the tour due to the scale, pyro, motion effects, and Kong's banana breath — we kid you not — the ride remained a visitor favorite until it burned down in the tragic Universal Studios fire of 2008.

RELATED:  The Real Reason Kong Is Alone: The Science Behind King Kong

Kongfrontation

On June 7, 1990,  Kongfrontation opened at Universal Studios Florida. It was also based on the 1976 remake of the 1933 King Kong , and was a riff on the successful King Kong Encounter at Universal Studios Hollywood. A full standing ride, there was no tram tour associated with this iteration of the experience. Guests would enter a queue that was themed to look like the actual line for the Roosevelt Island aerial tram circa 1976. Everyone would eventually load into a Roosevelt Island tram (which was similar to a tram car) and then make their way on a supposedly calm commute. Guests would then float above 50 set-dressed facades modeled after Manhattan's Lower East Side during the late '70s, while radio traffic alerted the tram operator and guests about the impending Kong danger. After making it past flames, electrical explosions, and flowing fire hydrants on the streets, guests got face-to-face with a livid Kong hanging on the Brooklyn Bridge. The tram then found itself in the middle of a helicopter attack between the ape, with shots fired and the tram swinging in danger until everyone escaped. It became a huge attraction and cornerstone of the early Orlando park's success until it was retired in 2002.

King Kong: 360 3-D

In 2005, director Peter Jackson rebooted the monster for his version of King Kong . A technology enthusiast, Jackson and WETA helped develop a brand-new Kong experience based on the Skull Island section of his film called King Kong: 360 3-D . The first iteration was designed for the Universal Studios Hollywood Tram Tour as an immersive two and a half minute 3-D film that is part of the tour. Guests on each tram get a video introduction to the experience by Jackson who explains the tech developments of using two 200-foot wide screens on both sides of the tram with 3-D glasses to make guests feel like they're smack dab in the middle of a prehistoric fight between a Vastatosaurus rex and King Kong. With that, the tram rolls into the ancient looking cave and the chaos ensues. Using motion, water, heat, and the perception of actually falling off the tracks, guests get an exhilarating thrill from Hollow Earth. King Kong: 360 3-D continues to be a major stop on the current Universal Studios Hollywood Tram tour . 

RELATED:  Peter Jackson’s 'King Kong' Remains an Underrated Wonder of the World

Skull Island: Reign of Kong

With the success of King Kong: 360 3-D at Universal Studios Hollywood, the idea was expanded upon for a non-tram version at Universal Studios Orlando.  Skull Island: Reign of Kong opened on June 9, 2016 as a dark ride where guests enter the experience via a full scale, ancient native temple honoring King Kong. In the highly detailed queue, guests encounter a shamaness who warns the outsiders that they are trespassing on sacred ground. As they continue to meander inside, they'll see bodies littered around as another visual warning until they reach base camp. There is the entrance to a truck that will take you into the dark ride danger zone. Riders on the expedition will see animatronics mixed with 3-D filmed footage of all kinds of creatures like Terapusmordax attacking the riders and the expedition leader named Kate. Finally, the truck will experience the same screen created battle between Vastatosaurus rex and King Kong, with the extra payoff of a scale animatronic head and torso of Kong to say goodbye. It's a full circle way to honor the very first Kong ride and bring the big beast into the cutting edge of ride technology!

Peter Jackson's King Kong is now available from Universal Pictures. For more information on the King Kong theme park attractions, head to Universal Studios  Hollywood and Orlando .

• Peter Jackson
• Theme Parks
• Universal Orlando
• Universal Studios
• Universal Studios Hollywood

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Dates: June 14 1986 – June 1 2008

First roaring into life in front of a terrified public on June 14th 1986, the King Kong attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood started a new era of theme park design.

The 7-ton 30 feet tall Kong figure was the largest and most complex animatronic figure in existence for many years. The sophistication of the attraction broke new ground, and paved the way for the most complex of today’s themed entertainments.

A massive  backlot fire on 1 June 2008  destroyed the King Kong attraction just short of its’ 22nd birthday.

After initial fears Kong would be gone for good, Peter Jackson got on board, and a worthy replacement for the big animatronic ape can now be found on the Studio Tour –   King Kong 360 3-D .

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjFlBntp9po

After seeing the delights of New York Street, our guide announces they’ve built ‘an entire city block INSIDE a sound stage’ – we should really get our cameras out as there’s a “big star” inside…

The tram heads into a soundstage behind a massive pair of doors. Inside, a stunning recreation of a New York suburb has been prepared for filming.

The tram’s heading across a large bridge. Suddenly, a TV flickers into life in one of the windows we’re passing. It’s a News Report. The anchorman announces “There’s an enraged beast loose on the streets of New York”.

We now see beautiful telecopter reporter Kelly King who’s right in the middle of the action above the wreckage of a crashed el-train. She sees a tramload of people down on a bridge in danger. That’s US!! We hear the helicopter, and Kelly’s voice now cuts through the noise over the helicopter sound system, warning us to get out!. Suddenly, the news report cuts out, and the stricken helicopter falls out of the sky right next to the tram, smashing into some power cables on the way and bursting into flames.

The tram driver decides to get us out of the danger. Wait – there’s something blocking the bridge ahead, and there’s a Police chopper shooting at it. As we round the corner, we can see Kong! He’s got hold of the bridge that we have to cross to escape! The tram driver tries to pass Kong but the beast shakes the bridge and roars at us! The terrified tour guests can’t do anything except smell the banana breath and hold on for dear life until the tram safely exits the sound stage.

Show duration:  150 seconds The bridge:  The sliding bridge was designed by Bill Watkins, and was engineered with teflon plates that slid the 88,000 pound tram back and forth as Kong “rocked” the bridge. The bridge rocked itself – Kong merely held onto it and looked as though he was moving it. The stage:  The soundstage was 26,000 square feet (160 feet x 160 feet) Cost:  $6.5 million (in 1986) Audio :  Technomad loudspeakers Attraction credits: Art Director:  Peter Alexander Project Manager:  Larry Lester Kong figure:  Bob Gurr (Chief Engineer), Tom Reidenbach, Dave Schwenniger Kong Animation:  Peter Alexander, Craig Barr Helicopter Crash rig:  Bob Gurr, Sequoia Creative Soundstage design:  Henry Bumstead Many thanks to  Peter Alexander  at  www.totallyfuncompany.com  for some information.

Timeline of the attraction

1933 –  King Kong  (Merian C. Cooper) is released with Willis O’Brien as special effects chief technician. 1976  –  King Kong  (John Guillermin) is released, and provides the inspiration for this attraction. 1984 –  Work starts on the attraction at Landmark Entertainment October 1985  – Sequoia Creative starts work on the Kong figure. March 18 1986 –  Attraction previews at Universal Studios, Hollywood June 14th 1986  – Public opening at Universal Studios, Hollywood Late 1986  – MCA (Universal’s parent company) takes control of WOR-TV channel 9 and renames it WWOR-TV. Feb 1st 1990  – News video footage re-made with WWOR-TV news anchor Rolland Smith at the WWOR-TV Studios in Secaucus, NJ. 1990  – Attraction opens as Kongfrontation at Universal Studios Florida. September 8, 2002  – Kongfrontation closes in Florida to make room for their version of Revenge of the Mummy dark ride. 2005  –  King Kong  (Peter Jackson) is released. June 1 2008  – The entire King Kong attraction destroyed by fire. Only the outer walls of the show building remained. A few days later, they can been demolished too.

Anchorman (1986 – 1990): Sander Vanocur

News Reader

The Kong attraction starts with a ‘breaking news’ story giving an urgent update on the situation, live from the telecopter reporter Kelly King. Two versions of the video have been made. The footage was updated following the opening of the Florida version of the attraction “Kongfrontation”

News Video (1986 – 1990)

Anchorman  (1986 – 1990):  Sander Vanocur “There’s an enraged beast loose on the streets of New York. We now go with live coverage from the scene from our helicopter reporter Kelly King – Kelly?”

Helicopter Reporter, Kelly King (1989)

Helicopter reporter :  Kelly King “Thank you Sander. We’re now hovering above the wreckage of a crashed El-Train…”

News Video (1990 – 2008)

Anchorman  (1990 – present): Rolland Smith Helicopter reporter : Kelly King

News Attraction Video from the first part of the show (1990)

Kong Growls and News Report Audio (1990)

Ride-Through Video (1986)

Ride-through of the attraction as it was when it premiered (from Finlay Holiday Video, 1986), (c) Universal Studios Hollywood.

Video (1992) – from A Universe of Cinemagic

Video Excerpt from The Wizard (1989)

At the climax of this movie about a video game championship, our heroes try to escape capture by leaping from the Universal Studios Hollywood tram inside the King Kong attraction (which was destroyed by fire 1 June 2008).

Construction Photo Gallery

Stills from “A Universe of Cinemagic” video, 1996

Press Pack / Advertising

• Amusement Business , April 12 1986
• MCA Ink , 1986

Seasonal Kong

Kong celebrates the festive season as only he can – with candy canes!

Sound Technology

Primary King Kong system:  6 Pioneer LV-D 6000 laser disk players 6 dBx 2231 EQ’s 1 dBx 12x-DS Sub harmonic Synthesizer 1 Urie JBL 5547A EQ’s 2 Urie JBL 5549 EQ 3 Urie JBL 5234A crossovers 3 IED 5000 VCA’s 1 Ramsa WS-SP2A Sub processor 1 Aphex 120 DA 16 BGW 250D Amplifier 13 BGW 750D Amplifier 29 Technomad WeatherTech Berlin 15/H two-way Install Version Loudspeakers 7 Technomad WeatherTech Chicago 15/12 Install Version Subwoofers 3 Technomad WeatherTech Noho/C two-way coaxial Install Version Loudspeakers King Kong ‘Growl’ components : 1 EV MTH 2/64 2 EV MTL 2 1 Deltamax controller 1 EV Crossover 1 Crown Microtech 600 Amplifier 1 Crown Microtech 2400 Amplifier 1 Crown Microtech 3600 Amplifier

See  http://www.technomad.com/articles/kong.html  for more information on the audio design and use of Technomad loudspeakers.

Key Information

It may be by far the oldest attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood, but the world-famous Studio Tour remains its biggest draw. In addition to taking guests on a trip around a number of working movie sets located on the studio's backlot (still one of Hollywood's leading production facilities), the tour also packs a number of mini-attractions into its lengthy 45-minute running time.

After boarding the Studio Tour's iconic trams, guests are whisked around locations from movies including Psycho, War of the Worlds and Back to the Future (the mixture of other sets can vary depending on the studio's production schedule). Set-pieces include an attack by Bruce the shark from Jaws, a collapsing bridge, an earthquake and an encounter with King Kong.

The last element, added during the recovery from a disastrous fire in 2008, is almost a separate attraction in itself, and is dubbed King Kong 360 3-D. Based on the Peter Jackson's 2005 remake of the original King Kong movie, it replaced the previous Kong attraction, which was burnt to the ground.

Guests remain seated on trams throughout the King Kong 360 3-D experience, donning 3-D glasses to allow them to see the action. They are surrounded by two 180-foot-long, 40-feet tall screens to immerse them in a battle between Kong and two giant dinosaurs. The new finale to the Studio Tour is Fast and Furious - Supercharged - a 3D-HD high-speed car chase that exceeds 120mph.

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The Birth of the Universal Studios Tour

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By March of 1914, Carl Laemmle's Universal Film Manufacturing Company needed more land. Laemmle and his partners founded the company in the spring of 1912 in New York, merging the new venture with several already-established film production companies. The merger gave Universal the use of the Champion Film Company studio in Fort Lee, New Jersey, the film production capital of the world at the time. Already a seasoned nickelodeon owner, Laemmle recognized that producing his own films would enable him to avoid both hefty licensing fees and production regulations imposed by Thomas Edison's Motion Picture Patents Company (MPPC). Still, Fort Lee's inclement weather and Universal's ongoing legal challenges from the MPPC made New Jersey inhospitable. Laemmle, along with a handful of other film producers, fled west.

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After arriving in Los Angeles, Laemmle took control of the Nestor Film Company production facility, which delivered Hollywood’s first films. Nestor's staff churned out three pictures a week from their studio, a former tavern rented from widow Marie Blondeau. The building conveniently offered multiple rooms and spacious grounds at the corner of Hollywood and Gower, enabling several films to be shot simultaneously. When a script called for a more expansive location, Nestor’s crews shot in the San Fernando Valley on land leased from the Providencia Land and Water Development Company. However, lugging equipment and personnel on location required precious time and money. In order to increase efficiency and profits, Laemmle determined to consolidate Universal’s holdings. Laemmle decided to build the world’s first city dedicated entirely to making movies.

Laemmle purchased 230 acres of land in the valley for $165,000 and started construction. Ignoring his colleagues’ jeers, who often referred to the decision as “Laemmle’s Folly,” the burgeoning movie mogul hired hundreds of workers to realize his vision. While filming continued on the grounds, Laemmle installed sets and stages as well as a bank, post office, school and zoo. Laemmle even hired a group of Native Americans to perform in his films and live on the property in tepees. Following a year of construction, the city, with a population of almost 500 actors and stagehands, neared completion and Laemmle planned his grand opening. 

In March of 1915, Laemmle spent eight days on a train traveling from Chicago to Los Angeles to drum up publicity for the official opening of Universal City. To celebrate his creation, now the largest film production facility in the world, Laemmle arranged for two days of festivities that included a parade, a western shootout culminating in a flash flood, and an air show. Thousands of spectators cheered the breathtaking spectacles on the first day. The excitement came to a tragic end on day two however, when a hired aircraft suffered a weather-related crash, killing the stunt pilot. Though Laemmle dispersed the crowds and closed the studio, he retained the notion of inviting people into his movie city.

Laemmle soon reopened Universal City to the public. Anyone with 25 cents for admission could thrill to the performances of their favorite film stars, while another nickel bought a boxed chicken lunch! Laemmle erected bleachers around the studio sets, encouraging audiences to cheer the heroes and boo the villains as the actors mugged for the cameras. Between takes, patrons could wander around the stages, collect autographs and visit the zoo, and the tour remained popular for over a decade. Then, with the advent of sound recording, which required a quiet set, the first version of the studio tour was put an end for nearly three decades.

Universal Studios, by then a division of MCA, officially opened its doors to the public again in 1964. Studio patrons purchased tickets for $2.50 and boarded a custom-designed pink and white Glamortram. The 90-minute guided tour included behind-the-scenes access to film and television production, costume exhibitions and an updated version of the western shootout and stunt show. The Glamortrams also stopped at the studio commissary halfway through the tour where, for an additional fee, guests could have lunch.

The new tram tours proved wildly popular, and MCA/Universal devoted more resources to the attraction. Universal City added a hotel to accommodate tourists, as well as a burning house, a rockslide and a collapsing bridge to the tour experience. Following the success of Steven Spielberg’s 1975 blockbuster “Jaws,” ride designers built a 25-foot mechanical shark to menace the passing tram. The tour continued to grow and evolve with new attractions and shows. Over the ensuing decades the behind-the-scenes aspect of the Glamortram tour became less important. In its place grew a theme park with rides and exhibitions devoted to movies and celebrating all things Universal.

At over 400 acres, Universal City now includes the studio’s backlot and offices, an outdoor mall with restaurants, hotels and the theme park. The flagship location of Universal Parks and Resorts, Universal Studios Hollywood hosted over nine million visitors in 2017 as ticket prices climbed to over $100 each — lunch not included. Universal operates theme parks with similar tours in Orlando, Japan and Singapore, with plans for new parks in Beijing, South Korea and Moscow. The current satellite studio tours are equally as successful as those in Hollywood, despite Universal not operating actual film studios in those locations.

Carl Laemmle envisioned a city dedicated to the movies. The studio tour, once simply a method of attracting audiences and publicity to Universal Films, transformed over time into a worldwide empire with revenues in the billions. While most early film studios are now mainly fading celluloid and memories, “Laemmle’s Folly” continues to grow in popularity, offering new generations of film lovers the chance to go behind the scenes.

Top Image: Photograph of filming a western movie on the Front Lot Stage at Universal City, ca. 1915 | California Historical Society at University of Southern California Libraries 

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Universal Orlando sets date for DreamWorks Land, Hogwarts Always coming summer 2024

E ver wanted to train alongside Po, perform with Poppy or even swim in the swamp with Shrek? You'll soon be getting your wish (except that last one).

Universal Orlando Resort revealed its new "DreamWorks Land" will make its official debut on Friday, June 14, along with other new experiences for guests to enjoy this summer.

“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort said in a press release. “These new experiences – coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks – will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable.”

Universal Orlando's DreamWorks Land opens June 14, 2024. What is DreamWorks Land about?

The highly anticipated new DreamWorks Land is the new themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation films and characters.

Guests can explore the vivid worlds of some of DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved characters from Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda starting June 14, 2024.

"The expansive new area will feature interactive play areas, character meet-and-greets, an all-new indoor live show experience, unique treats and photo-worthy moments that are fun for the whole family," Universal Orlando shared. "Guests will be able to explore Shrek’s Swamp, enjoy the Trollercoaster, interact with Po in the Panda Village, encounter characters like Gabby from 'Gabby’s Dollhouse' and so much more."

In addition to the new attractions, theme park officials detailed a multisensory live show with some of guests' favorite characters in "DreamWorks Imagination Celebration."

What is Universal Orlando's new show? Get ready for CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular

Universal Studios Florida lagoon will come to life with an all-new nighttime show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular.

Officials shared the new show will include iconic scores and scenes from films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions – including Warner Bros. Pictures "Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts" films, "Jurassic World," "Jaws," "Shrek," "Ghostbusters," "Trolls," "Back to the Future," "Universal Monsters," "Transformers," "How to Train Your Dragon," "E.T.," "Fast and Furious," "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," "Minions," "The Mummy" and "King Kong."

The lagoon show will feature 228 fountains that reach heights up to 131 feet, 4K projection mapping, an original composition featuring newly arranged scores meticulously crafted to each scene, and more than 600 drones.

Universal Orlando to debut new parade based on beloved films

Universal's new parade is perfect for any parkgoers who describe themselves as cinephiles. Beginning Wednesday, July 3, Universal Studios Florida will debut its Universal Mega Movie Parade – a spectacular celebration of iconic movies.  

"Universal Mega Movie Parade will be Universal Orlando’s biggest daytime parade to date and combine 13 brand new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more – and special effects to create a jaw-dropping experience where guests can relive classic film moments in a whole new way," Universal officials shared in its press release.

New merchandise to go with these changes? Start shopping now

Starting now, guests visiting the parks can gear up for the new entertainment coming this summer with specialty merchandise celebrating the new experiences, including clothing, drinkware, headbands themed to beloved DreamWorks characters, and more.

Universal Orlando’s summer tribute store will also complement the new parade experience and feature themed rooms, merchandise and photo ops inspired by some of the films that will be seen in the Universal Mega Movie Parade.

Get your wands ready! Hogwarts Castle at Universal Orlando Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Florida gets a new projection show 

Universal officials conjured up some magic for its final announcement.

On select nights, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure will delight guests in new nighttime projection show, Hogwarts Always. The show seeks to take guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts, all set against the majestic backdrop of Hogwarts castle.

The show will also feature four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house and will culminate with a colorful pyrotechnic display. Fans should also listen for dialogue from beloved characters like Professor Dumbledore, Hagrid, the Sorting Hat and more throughout the show

Let's refresh: When does Epic Universe at Universal Orlando in Florida open?

In addition to DreamWorks Land and all the other new experiences, Universal Orlando will see some other exciting additions to its resort soon — a brand  new theme park . Just not during this upcoming summer season.

Universal hasn’t yet announced an opening date for Epic Universe, only that it will open in 2025.

More on new park: Universal Orlando Resort reveals first details on highly anticipated Epic Universe

Epic Universe will feature five lands guests can explore. Altogether, it will have “more than 50 awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, dining and shopping experiences,” according to a press release from the resort.

• Celestial Park  - The first world guests enter at the park, featuring relaxing gardens, a “wet play area,” a grand carousel and Starfall Racers, a dual-launch racing roller coaster with 5,000 feet of track and speeds up to 62 mph. Celestial Park will also serve as the gateway to Epic Universe’s four other worlds, which will be accessed by themed portals.
• How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk  - Gives fans of the “ How to Train Your Dragon ” franchise a chance to finally soar with dragons like Hiccup, Astrid and their fellow Dragon Riders do on screen.
• Dark Universe  - Guests can expect to “encounter everything from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to the shadowy landscape where monsters roam in a world of myth and mystery.”
• Super Nintendo World  - Bring guests into the fan-favorite video game franchise for adventures with Mario, Princess Peach and more. Made its  U.S. debut at Universal Studios Hollywood  last year.
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic  - Seeks to blend the 1920s wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series,” according to Universal Orlando, which is already home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Universal Orlando sets date for DreamWorks Land, Hogwarts Always coming summer 2024

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DreamWorks Land Virtual Tour Sees Shrek, Kung Fu Panda & Trolls Worlds Come to Life

Want your first live-action look at how the animated worlds of  Shrek , Kung Fu Panda , and  Trolls  came to life at DreamWorks Land? Look no further. 

At long last, Universal Studios Orlando Resort let eager fans inside its highly anticipated DreamWorks Land ahead of its grand opening this summer . Although the tour was virtual, it still gives people their first real look at the way some beloved animated characters have been brought to life across the park. 

For those unfamiliar, DreamWorks Land is a new park opening at Universal Studios Orlando Resort that will let kids of all ages immerse themselves in the imaginative worlds of DreamWorks franchises like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda , and Trolls . While much has been revealed about what people can expect from the park since it was initially announced mere months ago, the new video sees the creative director of Universal Studios Orlando, Dean Orion, don his hard hat as he shows off just some of the many attractions waiting for your family when you visit the park. 

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First, he offers a look at Shrek’s Cottage, plucked directly from the films and brought to life in live-action for all to see. Although no characters came out to play during Orion’s tour, those who visit the park will get to meet Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey if they make their way to the cottage for a special meet and greet and a photo opportunity the family is sure to cherish for years to come. 

One character that did make an appearance in the video was none other than Pinocchio, who sat in a small treehouse overlooking Shrek’s Swamp for Little Ogres, a new play area within DreamWorks Land. If you press a button labeled “Fact Check” outside his treehouse, Pinocchio will share a fun fact that may or may not be true. If you’re wondering how to tell if he’s telling the truth or not, well, you’re probably not too familiar with Pinocchio. 

Next on the tour is Trolls Treats, a new haven for guests with a sweet tooth where they can get all kinds of themed goodies from the world of Trolls . Attendees can then jump aboard the Caterbus and make their way to the park’s thrilling Trollercoaster, which is sure to delight fans of all ages while giving them the best (and fastest) look at the park there is. 

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Finally, the tour concludes in Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp where families can immerse themselves in the zen world of Kung Fu Panda . Start your journey off right by pulling a rope and banging a massive gong in the center of the camp to let the entire village know you’ve arrived! 

“I can’t wait for you all to experience DreamWorks Land for yourself this summer at Universal Orlando Resort,” Orion concluded  the tour . 

If the video above got you excited to take your family on a romp through DreamWorks Land, you can all visit when the park officially opens on June 14, 2024 . 

For more information about tickets and booking for your future trip to Universal Epic Universe, check out  Universal Orlando Resorts .

• Kung Fu Panda

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