Sabrina's Brochure Spotlight: Universal Studios Hollywood 2008

Since we can no longer go Back to the Future at Universal Studios Hollywood, we'll have to settle for going Back to the Present--the 2008 season! Alright, alright: That was a horrible joke! Let's move on...


In an obvious effort to woo the Disney crowd, the brochure cover boldly states that this self-proclaimed "Entertainment Capital of L.A." is less than an hour from Disneyland. But I had to laugh when I read the VERY fine print beneath that statement: "Under normal driving conditions". Exactly what constitutes "normal driving conditions" in L.A.? Heck, I've found myself creeping and crawling along the highways in that area at 10pm on a Sunday night! The folks at Universal obviously have a healthy sense of humor.


The much anticipated "The Simpsons Ride" made its debut in 2008, replacing the well loved but culturally outdated "Back to the Future" attraction. I'm actually surprised that it took so long for a Simpsons-themed ride to be built, given the number of years that the series has been on the air. But obviously timeliness was a non-factor in the popularity of this ride, as it won the distinction of "Best New Attraction" for 2008 as voted by the readers of ThemeParkInsider.com.


If you are both an amusement industry enthusiast and a cinema junkie, it's hard to imagine a better place to spend a day than at a Universal Studios park. These days, the theme park section of the Universal Studios Hollywood complex features rides themed to recent blockbusters such as The Mummy, Shrek, and Jurassic Park.


If you're looking to find out what's culturally relevant in any given year, you need look no further that a Universal brochure. I mean, these brochures are the stuff of time capsules! That being said, it's nice to see that the popularity of the classic cinema masterpieces of our time--like Psycho--never seems to wane.


The only part of the Universal Studios Hollywood complex that I have ever visited personally is the CityWalk, and it was well worth it! CityWalk plays host to many unique shops and eateries, and is an overall feast for the eyes. My favorite shop was the one that sold all the classic toys that you just can't find anymore. I hope it's still around because it was a gem!!


Universal Studios Hollywood has a little something for everyone in the family, and the addition of The Simpsons Ride has kicked up the fun factor yet another notch. Can you resist the urge to visit? All you need to do to get a piece of the action is brave this tangled mess of L.A. freeways...if you dare.