This week, Photos in Wonderland is zipping down to Studio City, CA, for a look around Universal Studios Hollywood. I personally love this park (oddly laid out though it may be) and can find just as much enjoyment from seeking out the details and ambiance as at Disneyland. So let’s take a look around, shall we? There are many quirky details and historical tidbits to be found. Here are some of my favorite moments.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandThis looks like a relaxing spot, doesn’t it? I wonder why there is a shark fin on that billboard, though. Odd.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandOh, that might explain it. Lucky they caught that big shark before we head out on open water! For some reason, tourists were lining up to stick their heads inside this nasty creature. Can’t imagine why: the smell would be horrible.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandOne area Universal definitely had Disneyland beat at current time was attraction-specific merchandise items. Disney really does need to step up their game and offer more items designed for more than just children across all price ranges.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandGot a hankering for giant turkey legs or slabs of ribs? The Flintstones food stand will fill all hunger levels, even prehistoric ones.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandA small street of Western facades lies on the upper lot, but no sign of the now-replaced Western Stunt Show I remember from visits in the 80’s/early 90’s.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandThe Court of Miracles set, where several Universal Monster movies were filmed over the years.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandInside the Universal history museum (lower level near Transformers), I came across this display from one of my favorite films of recent release: the delightfully dark and fun Coraline.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandNot too far away, a famous filmmaker had left his mark outside one of the park’s signature attractions, and one well worth riding for me regardless of the obligatory soaking received at the end.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandLots of ‘delightful’ options over at this (thankfully fake) Shrek-themed food stand. Donkey holds meet-and-greets from the service window throughout the day, though I’m a little sad (only a little) that I can’t order an Au Grotten serving of bugs alongside a refreshing grog enhanced with swamp water.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandOver at Krustyland/the new SImpsons ride experience, a lot of clever sideshow and amusement park posters line the waiting area. I do miss the Institute of Future Technology, but a rather brilliant animated pre-show featuring the one and only Doc. Brown aptly pays tribute to what was once on this location.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandThis poster homage to one of my favorite Universal films can be found in the European styled backlot section near the Terminator 3D theater.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandLittle gags abound at Jurassic Park. Now, come on guys, popcorn prices aren’t that high. No need to fight over it.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandA re-creation of a scene from James Whale’s classic Bride of Frankenstein, found inside the Universal House of Horrors walk-through. Not quite Horror Nights level goodness, but whets the appetite for any HHN fan visiting at least a little.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood Details – Photos In WonderlandAnd last but not least, something every visitor should watch before leaving the park: Waterworld. The movie on which it was based may still be resoundingly awful and dull, but the show is always a blast to watch and a massive crowd-favorite. Hope you like getting wet as much as the cast does!
Thanks for spending some time with us here at Photos in Wonderland, these were some of my favorite aspects of Universal Hollywood, what are yours?!

Rustin Peece
Photographer, horror enthusiast, professional cook, collector of old junk and morbid curiosities. Overly enthusiastic about area music, set-dressing and the obscure and historical as it pertains to the Disney theme park experience.