Inside the Magic of Universal Studios Singapore

in Entertainment, Movies, Theme Parks

Universal Studios Singapore

Southeast Asia became the home to movie-themed entertainment on March 18, 2010, when Universal Studios Singapore opened its doors. This unique Universal theme park is located at Resorts World Sentosa, on the southern coast of Singapore.

While this amazing gathering of attractions and experiences heralds the Universal Studios banner, it is not owned by the company. Holding company Genting Group, under license from Universal, owns and operates Universal Studios Singapore.

Related: When Will Universal Studios Hollywood Reopen?

Jurassic Park Universal Studios Singapore

Resorts World Sentosa, occupying much of Sentosa Island, hosts several vacation wonders. In the central zone, visitors will find hotels, restaurants, and a pair of casinos. On the island’s west side, more restaurants, hotels, and salons join attractions like Adventure Cove Waterpark, S.E.A. Aquarium, The Marine Experiential Museum, Royal Albatross (at the Historical Ships Harbor), and Dolphin Island. Universal Studios Singapore dominates the resort island’s east side.

Seven Separate Themed Lands

Within the Singapore park, seven themed areas (Hollywood, New York City, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, The Lost World, Far Far Away/Shrek, and Madagascar) entertain guests.

HOLLYWOOD

A signature section in all Universal Studios theme parks, this is the first themed area guests experience as they enter the park. Singapore’s version of Hollywood hosts six entertainment experiences, a pair of dining opportunities, and six shopping stops.

Exciting Entertainment

Hollywood Dreams Parade winds its way through Hollywood on weekends and holidays. Areas of the theme park are represented via floats and marching characters.

Hollywood China Arcade is packed with the latest video games. There’s even the opportunity to earn prize-winning tickets.

Hollywood Walk of Fame meet and greets allow guests to get up close with animated favorites and film legends.

Lake Hollywood Spectacular dazzles nighttime guests with a colorful firework show set to music.

Disney Fireworks

Meet the Minions – Gru’s adorable yellow assistants make regular appearances for photo ops.

Delicious Dining

Mel’s Drive-In – Straight off the silver screen, “American Graffiti” inspired Mel’s Drive-In serves up fast food (burgers, fries, shakes).

Starbucks – Sip signature specialty coffees and famous Frappuccino favorites from this well-recognized coffee company.

Mel’s Drive-In 'Burger'

Souvenir Shopping

The Brown Derby – A Sesame Street Shop sells souvenirs and toys from the famous CTW franchise.

The Dark Room delivers delightful memories from the day’s adventure. Purchase prints of playtime in the park captured at various attractions.

Souvenir Shopping

Hello Kitty Studio supplies fans of the famous feline with exclusive Hello Kitty collectibles and toys.

Minion Mart merchandise is a must-have for fans of the “Despicable Me” franchise.

Silver Screen souvenirs include movie memorabilia and collectibles from the latest feature films.

That’s a Wrap offers one last opportunity to pick up toys, collectibles, tee shirts, and more before exiting the park.

Universal Studios Store – This sprawling merchandise mecca is the main souvenir shop for the park. Items related to the various themed areas are available for a one-stop shopping spree of memory-making items.

Hello Kitty Studio

NEW YORK

Just to the right of Hollywood, another familiar Universal Studios theme park landscape comes into view: New York. Singapore’s vision of New York City has its own unique attractions and adventures.

Amazing Attractions

Lights! Camera! Action! Hosted by Steven Spielberg places guests in the middle of a fearsome hurricane as it bears down on New York City. This indoor attraction requires children under 122cm (48 inches) to be accompanied by a “supervising companion.”

Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase – Super Grover and Elmo must stop Macaroni the Merciless before he steals the planets pasta. This indoor attraction requires children under 122cm (48 inches) to be accompanied by a “supervising companion.”

Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase

Exciting Entertainment

Boop’n Around – Betty Boop and her “Boop’n Beauties” sing and tap dance during this street of New York show.

Betty Boop & “Boop’n Beauties

Character Meet and Greet rolls out Sesame Street favorites Oscar the Grouch and Elmo for picture posing possibilities.

Rhythm Truck awakens New York with precision percussion and vocal looping.

Turntables invite guests to participate during a random pop-rock-driven talent show.

Delicious Dining

Loui’s NY Pizza Parlor pleases palates with the perfect pizza pie and Italian dishes.

KT’s Grill tops off tummies with Irish-American pub food.

KT’s Grill

Souvenir Shopping

Big Bird’s Emporium boasts the largest collection of Sesame Street souvenirs in Singapore.

Big Bird’s Emporium

SCI-FI CITY

Traveling past New York brings visitors to Sci-Fi City. Home to futuristic fun and out-of-this-world thrill rides, this fictional fantasy land offers a trio of high-energy rides as well as delightful dining and a transforming shopping experience.

Amazing Attractions

Accelerator tests guests’ “intergalactic stamina” as they twirl within their spinning ride vehicle. This outdoor attraction requires children under 122cm (48 inches) to be accompanied by a “supervising companion.”

Battlestar Galactica: HUMAN vs. CYLON
“Choose your side – Human or Cylon – as you engage in the ultimate intergalactic battle between good and evil on the world’s tallest dueling roller coasters! Themed after the hit television series Battlestar Galactica, these spectacular, intertwined coasters offer a truly exhilarating adventure as your twist, turn and drop. Riders on both coasters will experience unbelievable thrills as they race towards each other!” – Universal Studios Singapore

Riders must be able to fit within the safety restraints and be at least 125cm (49 inches) tall.

Transformers: The Ride 3D puts guests in the role of freedom fighters as they join the Transformers in battle Decepticons.  Motion simulated on-screen action is augmented by movement matching ride vehicles. Children shorter than 122cm must ride with a “supervising companion.” All riders must be at least 102cm (40 inches) tall.

Transformers

Exciting Entertainment

Character Meet-and-greet gives guests the chance to come face to face with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee from “Transformers.”

Transformers

Delicious Dining

Starbot Café: Human Refueling Center includes StarBot Café (quick service Asian favorites) and Stardots (soft serve ice cream and “Yoghurt.”).

Souvenir Shopping

Transformers Supply Vault stocks toys and collectibles from the science fiction film franchise.

ANCIENT EGYPT

Tucked between Sci-Fi City and Lost Worlds, this Egyptian-themed region offers the adventure of exploration as well monstrous thrills.

Amazing Attractions

Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride – Fast, fierce indoor roller coaster action forces riders to face flesh-eating scarabs and malevolent mummy monsters. A minimum height of 122cm (48 inches) is required to experience this adventure.

Revenge of the Mummy Ride

Treasure Hunters is geared towards junior adventurers. This track-guided experience allows for the exploration of ancient Egypt by jeep. This outdoor attraction requires children under 122cm (48 inches) to be accompanied by a “supervising companion.”

Treasure Hunters

Exciting Entertainment

Character Meet-and-greet – Offering an excellent photo opportunity, Egyptian Royalty has been spotted surveying the realm.

Egyptian Royalty

Delicious Dining

Oasis Spice Café’ caters to cuisine from India, including Butter Chicken Biryani and Mutton Masala.

Oasis Spice Café

Souvenir Shopping

Carter’s Curiosities cultivates Egyptian artifact replicas and faux fossils.

THE LOST WORLD

The far side of Universal Studios Singapore is reserved for living fossil-fueled fun. Dinosaurs once again roam the land!

Amazing Attractions:

Amber Rock Climb – discover “ancient” fossils, gemstones, and more while climbing the bone-riddled wall.

Amber Rock Climb

Canopy Flyer seats four guests for a flight around the Lost World. A 92 cm (36 inches) height restriction exists and children must be accompanied by a “supervising companion.”

Canopy Flyer

Dino-Sorin’ gives younger guests control over the altitude of their circling Pteranodon. Children shorter than 122 cm (48 inches) must be accompanied by a “supervising companion.”

Dino-Sorin’

Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure – Guests are sure to get soaked as they splash through prehistoric rivers where dinosaurs roam. The minimum height allowed is 107 cm (42 inches), Children between 107 cm and 122 cm (48 inches) require an “accompanying companion.”

Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure

Exciting Entertainment:

Character Meet-and-Greet opportunities include the chance to watch a velociraptor hatch (Hatched! Featuring Dr. Rodney) or encounter a full-grown ‘raptor (Lookout! Velociraptors have escaped in Jurassic Park!)

Jurassic Park

Waterworld showcases epic stunts and thunderous explosions as part of a live-action aquatic performance.

Waterworld

Delicious Dining

Discovery Food Court – Laska, Hainanese Chicken rice are among the regional delicacies to be discovered.

Fossil Fuels offers favored flavors from mouth-watering fusion hot dogs to other local tastes.

Souvenir Shopping

The Dino-Store sells all things Jurassic Park-related, from toys to collectibles.

Dino-Store

Jurassic Outfitters offers dinosaur-related merchandise and souvenirs from the films.

FAR FAR AWAY (Shrek land)

The left side of Universal Studios Singapore hosts a pair of Dreamworks-driven destinations. The first of these is located on the opposite side of The Lost World from Ancient Egypt. Here, guests will be delighted by the spirited characters from the animated feature “Shrek” and its spin-off  “Puss in Boots.”

Amazing Attractions

Enchanted Airways seats young guests atop Dragon for a child-friendly rollercoaster ride. Minimum 92cm (36 inches) height requirement. Children between 92 cm and 100cm (39 inches) must be accompanied by a “supervising companion.” All riders must be able to fit within the ride’s restraints.

Magic Potion Spin

Magic Potion Spin summons small riders from within Fairy Godmother’s Potion Shop for an enchanting Ferris wheel adventure. Children under 100 cm (39 inches) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian; there is a weight limit of 200 kg (440 lbs) and limited space (some riders may not fit).

Magic Potion Spin

Puss in Boots’ Giant Journey – inspired by the adventuring feline’s fierce fighting skills, this highspeed coaster pairs riders with Puss and Kitty on a quest for the golden eggs. Riders must be 100 cm (39 inches) tall and fit within ride restraints.

Shrek 4-D Adventure – Join Shrek and Donkey in a 3D, motion-simulated, 25-minute original story.

Shrek 4-D Adventure

Exciting Entertainment

The Dance for the Magic Beans brings Kitty Softpaws and Puss in Boots together for a frolicking feline flamenco dance show.

Puss in Boots

Donkey Live lets fans interact with the sassy steed as he belts out songs encouraging the audience to join in.

Donkey Live

Happily Ever After is a who’s who meet greet with the characters from “Shrek.” Characters include Pinocchio, Princess Fiona, Puss in Boots, and Shrek.

Shrek

Delicious Dining

Fairy Godmother’s Juice Bar magically mixes brightly colored frozen refreshments in an assortment of flavors.

Fairy Godmother’s Juice Bar

Goldilocks grants guests the opportunity to satisfy hunger by serving seven-spice chicken. Ben & Jerry’s famous flavors of ice cream complement the perfect dessert.

Friar’s features pizza, burgers, and ice cream.

Souvenir Shopping

Fairy Godmother’s Potion Shop conjures collectibles, toys, and tees based on the ogre-powered Shrek franchise of films.

Fairy Godmother’s Potion Shop

MADASGAR

Step into the realm of Dreamwork’s animated franchise for encounters with familiar faces and discover an exciting river ride featuring characters from the motion picture. This final realm of animated amazement is sandwiched between Far Far Away and Hollywood.

Amazing Attractions

Madagascar: A Crate Adventure carts guests on an indoor river ride accompanied by Alex, Gloria, Marty and Melman. Riders must be able to fit within ride restraints and be at least 80cm (31 inches) tall. Children between 80cm and 122cm (48 inches) must be accompanied by a supervising adult.

Madagascar

King Julien’s Beach Party-Go-Round allows King Julien to host guests on a “Madagascar” character-powered carousel. This outdoor attraction requires children under 122cm (48 inches) to be accompanied by a “supervising companion.”

King Julien’s Beach Party-Go-Round

Exciting Entertainment

Madagascar Boogie brings out stars from the film for a family-friendly dance show.

Madagascar Boogie

Delicious Dining

Marty’s Casa Del Wild Food Court conveys culinary selections like Satay and curry dishes.

Gloria’s Snack Shack serves crispy squid, waffles, churros, and other snacks.

Gloria’s Snack Shack

Souvenir Shopping

Penguin Mercantile manages “Madagascar” movie merchandise selections.

Penguin Mercantile

Exciting Extras

Birthday Parties

The ultimate birthday celebration awaits! Loui’s NY Pizza Parlor, Casa Del Wild Food Court, Princess Fiona Royal Parlor, or KT’s Grill hosts 15 (minimum) or more children for a 2-hour birthday party.  Packages include party decorations, 2 planned activities, a kid’s menu/beverages, birthday cake, guest goodie bag (for each attendee), and a gift for the birthday boy or girl.

  • Menu options provide three different types of meals: Italian, American, or Healthy. Adult menus, for an additional fee, serve either Classic, Asian or Vegetarian food.
  • Upgrades enhance the experience. These range from a 3D birthday cake, a professional photographer, face painting, caricature drawings, and character meet-and-greet opportunities (available characters are based on venue).
  • Prices, options, and reservation request forms reside on the Birthday Party page of the resort’s website.

NOTE: this memorable experience is available outside of the Universal Studios park as well. Adventure Cove Waterpark, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Dolphin Island host similar party options.

Breakfast Character Dining

“Treat your kids to breakfast like no other – on Sesame Street! Besides hearty fare to start the day right, your kids can look forward to the lively company of Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, Elmo, and Oscar the Grouch. There will be games to be played and lots of pictures to be taken, so let’s all join in for a fun-filled morning!” – Universal Studios Singapore

Pricing details, restrictions, and availability, and reservations available online.

VIP Tours

Expert guides take guests on a tour of the park. This experience includes priority access to rides and shows. Tours can be arranged online.

Wedding Photography Packages

For the new, or soon-to-be bride and groom, Universal Studios Singapore celebrates the occasion with a special Wedding Photography Package. 3 single-day park tickets, character meet and greets and a 2-hour photography session with a personal guide are included in the package. There are restrictions and considerations to keep in mind: photography and video are not permitted on attractions or rides as well as during holidays/holiday eves, and blackout days. The package is limited to the bride, groom, photographer, and two guests (the two extra guests much purchase park admission). Additional restrictions, reservation information, and other details can be found on the Wedding Package page of Universal Studios Singapore’s website.

Seasonal Fun

Chinese New Year

“Usher in Chinese New Year with the mystical dragon dance through an exciting park-wide trail and join your favorite characters dressed in their New Year best! Ring in some good fortune with friends from Sesame Street as they celebrate with a Monster Lo Hei. Plus, enjoy thrilling rides and attractions!” – Universal Studios Singapore

Halloween Horror Nights

Universal Studios’ popular party featuring all things Halloween enjoys an eerie existence at Universal Studios Singapore, first emerging in the fall of 2011. Smaller in scale (i.e. 2016’s event only featured five houses and ran for 16 select nights). Along with intellectual properties, this spectacular spooky soiree borrows from local legends for fine-tuned fiendish fun. Fear fans can sign up on Singapore’s HHN site to be informed (via newsletter) of each year’s devilish details. Photos from 2018 (5 houses, 2 scare zones, and three shows) materialize on the RWSCoop (Resort World Sentosa) blog.

Christmas Celebrations

Snow, seasonal shows, and events usher in the holidays at Universal Studios Singapore. Eight enchanting festive features include:

  • “Bah Humbug! A Christmas Spectacular” stage show at Pantages Hollywood Theater
  • CAROL-OKE and Christmas craziness (including candy cane limbo) fuel DJ Eddy Elf’s live show at the Lagoon stage
  • Character meet-and-greets get yule-tide trimmings as they arrive in their finest holiday attire throughout the park
  • Christmas Fireworks (select nights)
  • Marilyn Monroe & Betty Boop song and dance show showcases a dance medley of merrymaking and holiday songs (in front of the New York Public Library)
  • Santa’s Village brings the North Pole to New York (near the New York Library)
  • Snow is in the forecast (hourly at 20 minutes past, except 5:20) at both Hollywood and New York areas.
  • Universal Journey (a walkthrough, breath-taking display of over 800,000 lights)

Tips and Notes

ATM – Jurassic Outfitters (Lost World) harbors the park’s single automated teller machine.

Outside food and beverage are discouraged.

Attractions may undergo refurbishment. Some may not open when the park opens. Be sure to consult the daily park map for times and closures.

Pets – only service animals (for visually impaired) are permitted in the park

Photography and Videography are permitted within the theme park, but not at the attractions or on rides.

Package Express allows guests to make purchases in the park and have them sent to the entrance for pick up later.

Express Pass – As with other Universal Studios theme parks, these passes may be purchased to utilize exclusive queues for shorter than regular wait times in line.

Book Tickets via Sentosa for extra benefits. In addition to avoiding the ticket lines at the park entrance, the owner-operator of Universal Studios Singapore provides perks when pre-purchasing tickets directly from them:

  • Wi-Fi – Save on data use by logging on to park-wide wi-fi
  • Kids Eat Free – KT’s grill allows kids to dine free (Not available during Halloween Horror Nights)
  • 10% retail discount (not available during Halloween Horror Nights)
  • Receive two “Bikini Yard Bottles” with lanyards

Universal Studios Singapore can be found on the east side of Sentosa Island (as part of Resorts World Sentosa) in southern Singapore. Park operating hours change seasonally; these are posted on the Universal Studios Singapore website.

Related: What’s Next For Disneyland and Universal Studios?

Source and images: Universal Studios Singapore, HHN (Singapore), RWSCOOP blog (HHN) RWSCOOP blog (Christmas), Wikipedia

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