Being back in LA after 3 years of living in Miami made me miss many things, and even though Florida, specifically Orlando is known for its theme parks, the truth is that LA’s theme parks have their own Hollywood touch. Which is why when Universal Studios Hollywood invited me to check out what’s new at their park this Summer, I didn’t think about it twice. Most of you might remember that prior to my move back to LA, I was invited by Universal Orlando Resort on a media trip to check out their parks as well, which is why I was dying to visit the Hollywood park since it had easily been over 5 years since my last visit. So, I said yes and headed out to discover what had changed since my last visit. Some of you followed along via my Instagram Stories, but here’s a full recap of why you need to visit the park this Summer.
Let’s start with my favorite part of the Park; the Studio Tour. Some of you might not know but even though both the Hollywood park and the Orlando park are very similar, one thing that differentiates the Hollywood park is the Studio Tour because Orlando doesn’t have one. It is by far my favorite part of the park and usually the first thing I ride. Because we were given Express passes, we were able to cut lines on all the rides! Winning! Great reason to upgrade your ticket when you go. If you haven’t visited in a few years, make sure to check it out because several additions have been made to it such as King Kong 360 3-D and Fast & Furious – Supercharged!
After that, we headed to my now new favorite part of the park: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™! Here’s what’s new in this area of the park.
Butterbeer ice cream! Yes, we’ve had frozen Butterbeer but making its debut this Summer is the Butterbeer ice cream which is just as delicious as its frozen drink version! Definitely, a must try, and if you’re like me, try both during your next visit! 😉
The Three Broomsticks restaurant has also recently expanded its lunchtime menu to include a selection of traditional British fare. And after lunch, you can also buy the Buttercream ice cream there as well if you wish!
Also new in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™! is the Wand Magic Experiences where with just a gentle flick of the wrist and the right touch, you can cast spells throughout the land at wand magic locations!
And before leaving the area, make sure to head in to Gladrags Wizardwear which now has new Wizarding apparel inspired by the films.
We later headed to the lower lot because I recently found out that Jurassic Park® – The Ride will be going extinct September 3rd to give way to the construction of the new Jurassic World ride that will debut next year – 2019. This meant that this would be the last time I could jump on the ride and experience it. I knew I couldn’t miss the opportunity so I rode it one last time. Even though I got drenched, it was worth it! If you make it to the park before then, make sure to ride it one last time before it’s gone!
While you’re there make sure to check out Blue at the Raptor Encounter where kids and adult can come face to face with the dinosaur!
Next up was making our way back to the Upper lot to check out the new DreamWorks Theatre featuring Kung Fu Panda. It’s an immersive adventure where guests can feel like they’re part of the movie. The seats move along with the screen so it’s pretty cool.
Across the theatre at Universal Plaza you’ll also have the opportunity to meet Po and Tigress from Kung Fu Panda.
Another surprise I loved was finding a new Hello Kitty store at the park! Too cute for words so here are some pics!
And once night hits and for the Summer only, don’t miss The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle; a true spectacle to see!
I had such a great time at the park especially because it had been several years since my last visit so the park had changed in more ways than one so there was so much to explore this time around. Thank you to Universal Studios Hollywood for the invite! If you want to see more pics from my day at the park, click here!
