Los Angeles - Universal Studios

A day at Universal Studios has long been a favorite activity in Hollywood. The site is divided into several areas including a theme park, a working studio, and also City Walk, an area of restaurants and shops.

Some of the most innovative and interesting theme park rides to be found anywhere in the United States can be found here. New rides are being developed all the time, however some of the most enduring and popular ones include Jurassic Park - The Ride, Shrek 4D, and a "mega attraction" based on the Simpson's television series.

In addition to the rides and amusements, a studio tour is also available. Here visitors get to take a trip behind the camera and see what goes into making a Hollywood film extravaganza. The tour involves riding a tram throughout the backlots and through former movie sets that include War of the Worlds, the Bates Motel, and Wisteria Lane.

For a bite to eat, some shopping, or to catch one of the movies you may have seen sets for, wander over to City Walk. Admission to this area is free and there is always something fun going on. City Walk has over thirty restaurants, a 19 screen cinema, comedy clubs, and even indoor skydiving.

Universal Studios was severely affected by a massive fire in June of 2008.