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Universal Studios pits itself directly against MGM Studios, but as US is much
bigger, it doesn't feel as cramped on busy days. Universal Studios is a
fantastic park and as much as a 'must see' as the Disney parks.
Like most of the theme parks, Universal Studios is divided into a number of
differently themed areas.
Production Central
As you walk into the park, straight ahead of you is Production Central. Two new
rides were added in 2003. Shrek 4D is a must for those who loved the film,
which picks up where the movie finished. It starts with an entertaining
pre-show which then leads into the '4-D' experience with all the original
characters and great special effects.
For the youngsters Jimmy Neutrons Nicktoon Blast is a great simulator ride
pitting Jimmy against the evil Emperor Oobar. Kids will recognise all the
Nickelodeon characters such as the Rugrats and Spongebob Squarepants.
Also in Production Central is Nickelodeon Studios. Kids get chance to pretend
to be on the set, and one lucky individual will get the chance to be gunged.
New York
Just opening in 2004 (replacing the King Kong ride) is The Revnge of the Mummy.
Expect this to be as popular as Orlando's other roller-coasters.
Also in New York is Twister, based on the hit movie. Twister allows you to
experience what it would be like in a real tornado, complete with flying cow.
Fans of the Blues Brothers will want to see the Jake and Elwood who entertain
the crowd with songs from the film.
San Francisco/Amity
San Francisco/Amity offers two shows. The All-New Beetlejuice Revue features
scary characters singing well known hits and is hosted by Beetlejuice himself.
The Wild, Wild, Wild West Show features lots of noise, stunts and jokes in a
wild west adventure setting.
Also here is Earthquake - The Big One where you can experience what an
earthquake would be like on an underground train. This is very noisy, so is not
recommended for the little ones.
The Jaws ride brings you up close with the infamous Great White. This is a
fantastic boat ride, brought to life by the boats captain who add a comic
tension to the whole journey.
World Expo Center
The World Expo has two great rides. Back to the Future...The Ride is one
of the original and best simulator rides. Jump inside a De Lorean and
help Doc Brown catch Biff in a chase through time.
Join the MIB's on Men in Black Alien Attack, where you will get the chance to
blast the aliens that have landed on Earth. At the end of the ride, you and
your fellow MIB'ers will be given your score by Will Smith. Will you have saved
the earth from the alien invaders....
Woody Woodpecker's Kidzone
This is Universal Studio's area dedicated to the younger members of your
party. ET adventure is a scenic ride where you take to Elliot's bike
to help ET escape the authorities and make his way back to his home
planet.
Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster is a kid's size coaster, and although short
is thrilling for the youngsters.
Also in the Kidzone are two play areas. Fievel's Playland is a fun playground
with where the kids can jump around and expend loads of energy. Curious George
Goes to Town is a mini water park where kids can cool down in the hotter
weather.
A Day in the Park with Barney is a stage show aimed at the pre-school children.
Join the Pink Dinosaur for this fifteen minute show. The very young do love
this, adults probably don't.
There is also the Animal Planet Show, where we're shown how clever animals are.
Hollywood
Terminator 2 - 3D is a thrilling combination of a stage
show and 3-D movie. Watch Sarah Connor battle against the Cyberdine creations
in this 'high-octane', explosive stage show that was directed by James Cameron.
The Gory Gruesome & Grotesque Horror Make-up Show gives you the
opportunity to get an insight to see how make-up effects are done in the
movies. Again, not recommended for the youngest.
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