Universal Studios has been busy with major construction projects around the park. Summer is just around the corner, What’s the big new thing? Jurassic World is just about ready to open! And that’s not all, there’s all sorts of sprucing up around the lot. Let’s take a look at what’s new and noteworthy in the park!
The Secret Life of Pets – Off the Leash
Our first stop is The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash attraction. The ride has replaced the old Globe Theatre, which was a flex space that could accommodate up to 720 people. When we were venturing around the construction area, we realized the show building is going to be quite large compared to what was previously there. This corner of the Upper Lot will be targeted towards the younger crowd with Despicable Me, Super Silly Fun Land, and Secret Life of Pets
Universal Studios Hollywood has not elaborated on the ride’s technology except to say that it will combine “live, dimensional and animated characters with hyper-realistic media.” But it is rumored to be a family dark ride, something the park has been in need of since E.T. closed.
Jurassic World
Construction for Jurassic World is coming along swimmingly. Universal is already advertising that it opens this Summer. Looking at its current state, they are very close to having everything done. Water has been pumped into the ride, as seen by vehicle loading station. There’s also a huge new mural on the side of the show building.
Around the Park
Universal has really stepped up their game on keeping the park clean and tidy. We visited on Mother’s Day with higher than normal crowds, but the entire park felt so fresh and clean! Not that this should be a rarity, but it just stood out during our visit.
The park has must have been running on all cylinders, because everything was flowing so well. It’s hard to believe that earlier that morning Universal held its first 5k run through the park. Universal spent no time after the Minion 5k to clean up the barricades used for the event. You wouldn’t have known there was an event if you didn’t see so many guests sporting their new medals.
Dreamworks Theatre
Transformers
I’m in awe of the huge transformer characters which meet and greet with guests on the lower lot near the ride. They speak, interact with guests, and have so much humor to their dialogue. Even if you don’t get in line, it’s still fun to stand around and watch.
And I was totally surprised when these “Janitors” suddenly burst into dance.
Springfield
You will noticed covered light towers throughout my photos, they are set up for upcoming GradBash that’s held at Universal every year.
Hogsmeade
Now that Spring Break has come and gone, it means the new Dark Arts projection show has left for the season. However, Dusty assures that it will resurface around the height of tourist season this summer.
Cocina Mexicana
Universal did a small retheme and update to this Upper Lot quick service. It is now called Cocina Mexicana and serves Mexican fare instead of the normal hamburgers/sandwiches that were served here prior.
World Famous Studio Tour
You can’t visit Universal Studios without taking a ride aboard the world-famous studio tour! Below you can see some fun shots from our abbreviated tour, you will find out why below.
During our tour, one of the Trams stalled going up to King Kong, we had to hold position until a maintenance vehicle came and pushed it up the hill with the entire tram still loaded with guests. I had no idea they could do this.
One of my favorite things in the world is seeing the Bates Motel. This makes me long for Halloween Horror Nights when you can actually walk right through this area.
Universal CityWalk
Citywalk has seen a lot of changes since my last visit: a new Sephora opened, Mini Monster Boba Tea joined the scene, the Johnny Rockets did a complete facelift on their interior.
Vivo Itallian has taken over the Wolfgang Puck venue. 
Antojitos Mexican Restaurant has been under construction for quite some time, it takes over Camacho’s, can’t wait to see what is revealed here.
It’s Sugar is getting an exterior redo while the store remains open during construction.
Universal has Character
As it was Mothers Day, and Universal had characters out all over the park. My favorites were Scooby Doo and Marilyn Monroe.
Universal Event Planning
I do a lot of event planning for work and ran across this info that I thought was interesting.
Official press from Universal:
Universal City, California, May 7, 2019 –Universal Studios Hollywoodsets the stage as the premier destination for uniquely themed corporate, industry and private special events with its array of one-of-a-kind venues and the addition of Sound Stage 29, available for red carpet treatment.
Universal Studios Hollywood’s backdrop provides event planners with customizable event spaces designed to meet an array of specifications, budgets and needs. From conferences to company retreats, and industry and charitable events to weddings, Bar Mitzvahs and anniversary celebrations, Universal Studios Hollywood’s Meetings & Special Events division can execute a variety of unique programs accompanied by personalized menus prepared by Universal Studios Hollywood’s on-site Executive Chef and fine dining culinary team.
Overall, it looks to be geared towards large companies who want a very unique event. From the photos below, you can see the entire park can be used for pretty much anything your mind can create.
Have you been to Universal Studios lately? Are you looking forward to the revamped Jurassic World attraction? Let us know your thoughts below!
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