Celebrate 60 Years of Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour This Summer!

The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour, a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ entertainment landscape, is celebrating its 60th anniversary this summer. Since its inception, the tour has been a magnet for both residents and tourists, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of movie-making. This milestone is not just a celebration of the tour itself but also a reflection of the rich history of Hollywood and its enduring allure.

The Origins of the Studio Tour

The concept of studio tours dates back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, when film studios began to sprout throughout Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley. By the 1920s, major studios had consolidated into what was known as The Big 5—RKO Pictures, Warner Brothers, MGM, Paramount Pictures, and 20th Century Fox—and The Little 3—Universal, Columbia, and United Artists. Universal Studios, one of The Little 3, pioneered the idea of a studio tour.

Universal Studios Hollywood first opened to the public in 1915 as Universal City. For a quarter, guests could witness the movie-making process firsthand. This early version of the tour was akin to a live theatre experience, similar to modern-day studio tapings. However, with the advent of “talkies” in the 1930s, the tours became too disruptive, and the practice was discontinued.

It wasn’t until 30 years later, under the leadership of Lew Wasserman and Executive Vice President Al Dorskind, that the idea of a studio tour was revived. Inspired by photographs from the original tours, they decided it was time to reintroduce the public to the magic of movie-making, thus giving birth to the modern-day studio tour.

The Evolution of the Studio Tour

Universal Studios Hollywood officially opened as a theme park on July 15, 1964, with the Studio Tour as one of its inaugural attractions. Visitors were treated to an exhibition of costume designs, a western stuntman show, and even a tram walk through Doris Day’s dressing room. Over the years, the tour has evolved to include new attractions based on popular films, such as Amity Island from Jaws, Whoville from the 2000 film How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Jupiter’s Claim from the 2022 film Nope.

One of the unique aspects of Universal’s Studio Tour is that it is part attraction, part behind-the-scenes experience. During the “King Kong” and “Fast & Furious” segments of the hour-long tour, the ride transforms into a 4D immersive experience, with the tram acting as a motion simulator surrounded by giant screens that project scenes from the films. Another highlight is the “Earthquake: The Big One” portion, which simulates an earthquake in an underground subway station in San Francisco, based on the 1974 disaster drama.

60th Anniversary Celebrations

This summer, Universal Studios Hollywood is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the 60th anniversary of its beloved Studio Tour. The park has brought back the original Glamour Trams design for a limited time, allowing guests to step off the tram and take photos with replicas of iconic Hollywood landmarks, such as the Hollywood sign, a Mercedes-Benz W116, the Bates house from Psycho, and the shark from Jaws. These special photo opportunities are available until August 11, 2024.

In addition to these nostalgic touches, Universal Plaza will feature character photo ops, prop displays, and crafts, including building paper versions of the Glamour Trams. The park has also shared vintage photos of the original Glamor Tram and iconic backlot attractions, providing a historical peek into the studio’s storied past.

Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Universal Studios Hollywood, expressed his enthusiasm for the milestone: “The Studio Tour is the 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 both new and returning visitors.”

Our Advice on the City

If you’re planning a visit to Los Angeles, the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour is a must-see attraction. For occasional travelers, we recommend visiting during the summer to take advantage of the special 60th-anniversary events and photo opportunities. The tour offers a unique blend of history and modern-day movie magic, making it an unforgettable experience.

For expert travelers, consider exploring other historic studios in the area, such as Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood and Paramount Pictures Studio Tour. Each offers its own unique perspective on the film industry and provides a deeper understanding of Hollywood’s rich cinematic history.

In conclusion, the 60th anniversary of the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour is a celebration of both the past and present of Hollywood. Whether you’re a movie buff or just looking for a fun and educational experience, the tour offers something for everyone. So, grab your camera, hop on the Glamour Tram, and get ready to be transported into the world of movie magic. Happy travels!