A Star-Studded Welcome

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for experiences that promise to make our family vacations both stress-free and unforgettable. So, when I heard about the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood, I knew it was something I had to try. My husband and I, along with our three kids, were ready for a day of Hollywood magic.

Our day began with a touch of glamour as we arrived at the park. We were greeted with the red carpet treatment, quite literally, as we checked in at the VIP building. The excitement was palpable as we were introduced to our guide for the day, Tony, who would be our personal escort through the wonders of Universal Studios. The morning started with a delightful breakfast spread, offering everything from croissant sandwiches to fresh fruit, all enjoyed in a sunlit room with clips from Universal’s iconic films playing in the background. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the adventure ahead.

Behind the Scenes Magic

The true magic of the VIP Experience lies in the exclusive access it offers. Our first stop was the legendary studio tour, where we were whisked away to explore the backlot sets that are usually off-limits to the general public. As a family, we were thrilled to step into the world of “The Good Place” and even got to walk around the set. The tour was a whirlwind of excitement, with simulated rides like King Kong and Fast & Furious adding a thrilling twist to the journey.

One of the highlights for me was visiting Colonial Street, famously known as Wisteria Lane from “Desperate Housewives.” Thanks to Tony’s accommodating nature, my daughter and I had the unique opportunity to step off the bus and snap a photo in front of Susan’s house. It was a dream come true for us, and a memory we’ll cherish forever. The tour continued with stops at iconic locations like the Psycho House, Bates Motel, and the War of the Worlds crash site, each offering a glimpse into the magic of movie-making.

A Feast Fit for Stars

After the exhilarating studio tour, it was time to indulge in a gourmet lunch that exceeded all expectations. We were led to a private dining area with a stunning view of the valley, where a lavish buffet awaited us. The array of dishes was nothing short of spectacular, featuring everything from succulent steak to fresh seafood, and an assortment of delectable desserts. It was a feast that made us feel like Hollywood royalty.

With our appetites satisfied, Tony guided us to the Animal Actors show, a delightful performance that had us all laughing and cheering. The rest of the afternoon was spent exploring the park’s attractions, from the magical world of Harry Potter to the whimsical land of the Simpsons. Thanks to the VIP pass, we bypassed the lines and enjoyed each ride to the fullest.

As the day came to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experience we had. The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood truly lived up to its promise of making us feel like stars for a day. It was a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and family fun, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to make the most of their visit to Universal Studios.