4
Credit: Edited by Inside the Magic There will be a new spot in Los Angeles for you to snap that iconic selfie in front of the Hollywood sign, and it is all thanks to Universal Studios Hollywood.
Universal Studios Hollywood has just unveiled fresh enhancements, attractions, and additional offerings in anticipation of commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Studio Tour. The celebratory event is scheduled to run from April 26 to August 11, 2024.
The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood began in 1964, offering visitors an immersive behind-the-scenes experience of movie-making magic. Throughout the tour, guests embark on a tram ride through iconic movie sets and soundstages, showcasing famous films and TV shows produced by Universal Pictures. Some of the notable movies featured include Jaws, Psycho, Jurassic Park, and Back to the Future.
Visitors also get to witness special effects demonstrations, encounter dynamic movie scenes brought to life, and explore legendary attractions like the Bates Motel from Psycho and the iconic Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives. Additionally, the tour often includes encounters with live actors who are working in the sound stages and thrilling experiences such as the Fast & Furious – Supercharged ride.
Now, for the 60th anniversary, one of the new additions coming to the Studio Tour will be a real-life first ever approved replica of The Hollywood Sign that guests will be able to get a photo in front of! According to the photos, it appears that guests will actually be able to debark the tram around the Bates Motel and Psycho home set, which is not common place at all.
Guests who ride the Terror Tram do get to walk in this area during Halloween Horror Nights, however the Studios Tour does not typically allow for this, so this new change is extra special and an opportunity that will not come around often. Plus, it is likely the closest photo that guests will ever be able to get to the Hollywood sign!
Inside Universal wrote, “Universal Studios Hollywood is partnering with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, responsible for promoting and enhancing the business, cultural and civic well-being of Hollywood, and the Hollywood Sign Trust, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, responsible for maintaining the Hollywood Sign and educating the world about its historical and cultural importance.”
Universal HIGH (@HighUniversal), a fan of the theme parks, shared a photo of where the sign will go, and what the currnet consturction looks like. It seems that the base and foundation for the lettering are already put in place, and only the letters have to be added.
This is where the 10ft tall replica Hollywood sign will go on the backlot at Universal Studios Hollywood
It will be placed right between the Bates Motel and Psycho House
@UniStudios
This is where the 10ft tall replica Hollywood sign will go on the backlot at Universal Studios Hollywood
It will be placed right between the Bates Motel and Psycho House @UniStudios pic.twitter.com/tuZMPDzF6s
— Universal HIGH🌎 (@HighUniversal) April 2, 2024
Since this is a temporary event, it seems that the Hollywood sign will likely be removed after the anniversary has come to an end.
This photo-op is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what the 60th anniversary will bring to the attraction.
One of the main highlights is the reintroduction of the classic red and white candy-striped Glamor Trams. Although Universal primarily operates all-electric vehicles now, visitors will have the chance to admire some of the vintage cars and pose for photos in front of an authentic, fully restored 1964 vintage Glamor Tram.
Additional nostalgic photo opportunities being incorporated into the tour feature the original hanging Jaws shark from the theme park and a massive King Kong backdrop.
Moreover, at Courthouse Square, the filming location for scenes from the Back to the Future movies, visitors will encounter an authentic time machine picture car on exhibit, along with the character of Doc Brown strolling through the vicinity. Additionally, a colossal dimensional tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur display will be featured.
One of the most significant updates involves the Earthquake—The Big One attraction, which was first introduced in 1989. It has undergone a complete overhaul, incorporating modern technology and aesthetics from top to bottom.
As stated by Inside Universal, ““The Studio Tour paved the way for the development of Universal Studios Hollywood and celebrating its 60-year milestone pays homage to its indelible impact,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood. “The Studio Tour is a crown jewel in our theme park portfolio and a beloved attraction for millions of guests. We are thrilled and honored to share our enthusiasm for its historic relevance with guests both new to the experience as well as those who have journeyed with us along the way.”
Lastly, the 1976 Runaway Train will return, as warning bells and sirens alarm from its stationary location.
Will you be visiting Universal Hollywood to ride the 60th anniversary Studio Tour?