The 60th anniversary of the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood marks a significant milestone for one of the most iconic attractions in the film and entertainment industry.
Over six decades since its establishment in 1964, the Studio Tour has offered millions of visitors a unique glimpse into the magic of movie-making.
The Studio Tour began as a simple opportunity for fans to experience movie sets with just a few sets and props, a stunt show, a costume show, or a makeup demonstration.
But today, it has transformed into an immersive experience, combining behind-the-scenes access with high-tech rides and shows.
For all the movie fanatics out there, join in on the Diamond Anniversary celebrations at the Studio Tour from April 26 to August 11, 2024.
It’s a special chance to soak up all the excitement of exploring the studio’s backlot, collecting souvenirs, eating themed food and drinks, and more.
Here’s a detailed description of what to expect for the anniversary celebrations at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Exclusive Studio Tour Experience
The 60th Anniversary calls for attention with its old-school, candy-striped Glamor Trams from the 1960s.
Also, there are brand-new electric trams that are super quiet, giving you a smooth ride as you cruise through movie history in style.
You’ll have the chance to snap some awesome photos with cool backdrops from Universal’s biggest hits, like a giant King Kong or the original hanging Jaws shark, or from the updated “Earthquake—The Big One” attraction.
And guess what? There are some special cinematic AR filters to make it even more fun, so keep an eye out for someone lurking around the set.
Universal Studios is even bringing back the 1976 Runaway Train stop, complete with all the vintage bells and sirens, giving a nostalgic treat to all those who have been on the tour before.
Get ready for a fresh look all around, with cool new decorations, updated tour guide scripts, and even new videos with some celebrity surprises.
And how can you make the most of these experiences? Here’s how: you can choose from three types of tickets when you visit.
The General Admission ticket gets you access to all the public areas and attractions.
If you want to skip the lines, consider the Universal Express Pass, which offers faster access to rides and attractions.
For a truly deluxe experience, go for the VIP Experience Tour.
Choose the right ticket to match your adventure style!
A walk through Studio Tour classics
Wish to step right into the middle of some classic time-travel adventures?
The Studio Tour will take you through Courthouse Square, famous for the clock tower scene from the time-traveling hit “Back to the Future.”
For the celebration, you would love to see downtown Hill Valley come to life with an original time machine car, and an actor dressed up as Doc Brown.
And for the fans of “Jurassic Park” and “Jurassic World,” get ready for some dinosaur action!
There’ll be a Tyrannosaurus Rex display from the “Jurassic World” promotions, next to wild dinosaurs that roar as if they are trying to escape.
Updated version of a classic attraction
One of the favorite moments on the Studio Tour, “Earthquake – The Big One,” has gotten a fresh makeover for 2024.
It used to take you through a 1989 San Francisco BART station during an 8.3 magnitude earthquake, but now it’s set in a modern subway stop decked out with electric bikes and sleek white tiles.
Don’t worry; it is still packed with the same thrills!
With Universal Studios Hollywood tickets, be it a general admission ticket, an express pass, or a VIP ticket, you get to experience a fire, a ceiling that comes crashing down, a gas tank that slides right into the station, and even a flood—all created with amazing practical effects.
So, when your tram rolls into this iconic spot, you’ll love the refreshed version of this classic attraction.
Universal Studios adds Hollywood Sign to its attractions
Universal Studios Hollywood is introducing the first-ever original replica of the ‘Hollywood Sign’ right inside the studio backlot tour.
Since you can’t see the sign from Universal Studios Hollywood, the park is teaming up with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the Hollywood Sign Trust to celebrate both cultural icons together.
It is placed near where you can hop off the tram, giving you a perfect photo op.
As part of a special, multi-year partnership, Studio Tour guests will be able to see this 10-foot (3-meter) tall replica on the hillside during their visit.
So, you get a piece of that Hollywood magic without even leaving the park!
Themed food and drinks
Celebrate with some fun, themed food and drinks all over the park!
Universal is going all out with special retro-inspired treats and drinks scattered throughout the park.
You can pick up a 1964 Retro Combo Meal, buy a collectible popcorn bucket, or grab a 60th Anniversary Donut while you roam around the land.
Popcorn Buckets
For the 60th Anniversary of the Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood has created one of the cutest popcorn buckets.
It features Woody Woodpecker driving the Studio Tour tram on this limited-edition snack.
Celebratory Drinks
The park serves a Dining Pass worth $60, which allows you to pick two eligible entrée items or four eligible dessert, snack, side, or beverage items.
For those skipping alcohol, try the Cosmic Pop—a fizzy mix of Sprite, alcohol-free blue Curaçao, grenadine, and sparkling cranberry juice, all topped with blue raspberry Pop Rocks.
Adults can enjoy the Glitz and Glamour (vodka hibiscus lemonade), Shark Bite (a tropical tequila drink with a shark lollipop), Old Hollywood (whiskey with root beer liqueur and cream soda), or the fruity Banana Tiki made with rum.
Festive snacks
Need a quick snack? Head to the City Snack Shop by Production Plaza on the Upper Lot.
They’ve got giant pretzels shaped like the number 60, special edition Banana Breath Popcorn (that’s caramel with banana chips), and a line-up of commemorative sugar cookies—including one shaped like a candy-striped Glamor Tram.
Over at Hollywood & Dine, you’ll find an amazing selection of sandwiches like smoked brisket and BBQ cheeseburger, all served on adorable Woody Woodpecker buns.
And at Mel’s, the vibe is all ’60s, with fried chicken and meatloaf served on throwback combo trays. Take a look at various dining options at Mel’s.
While you’re enjoying your customized festive snacks, do not skip the blue signs throughout the park that say “HERE BACK THEN.” When you spot one, scan the QR code on it to see what attractions or shows used to be right where you’re standing. It’s a cool way to step back in time and see the park’s history come to life!
Dessert time at Hollywood & Dine
If desserts are your thing, you’re in for a treat.
Hollywood & Dine is going out with desserts inspired by Woody Woodpecker’s buddy, Chilly Willy.
Check out the Chilly Willy Funnel Cake or the Chilly Willy Snowball.
Don’t miss the Film Reel Cookie Sandwich, a sugar cookie with cream filling shaped like a film reel.
Down on the Lower Lot, Studio Scoop serves treats like Kong’s Ice Cream Sundae—a gigantic banana split with all the trimmings and a 60th Anniversary cookie.
Try the Glam Tram Cone, a vanilla soft serve with a strawberry swirl, topped with a 60th Anniversary cookie.
For those who are really into celebrating, don’t miss the 60th Donut made just for the occasion—two donuts adorned with blue icing and candy pearls.
Anniversary Edition Retro Merchandise
Make sure to grab some commemorative souvenirs to remember this special anniversary.
Visit the Universal Studio Store at CityWalk, or the Universal Studio Store and Production Central inside the theme park.
Inspired by the original Glamor Trams, the collection includes shirts, jackets, hats, mugs, cups, and tons more.
Make your visit more memorable by purchasing a little piece of history with you.
Happy Birthday to the Studio Tour, which basically invented the modern theme park.
