Making Movies
Of course, it started as a film studio in Hollywood; but; today, the name Universal Studios means theme parks to many people in places as far away as Singapore; or, nearer to Hollywood; Orlando in Florida. As movie makers; Universal started on April 30TH 1912 in New York under the name of the Universal Film Manufacturing Company.
However, they soon moved their movie making activities to California and acquired 230 acres of farm land just over the Cahuenga Pass from Hollywood. This was where they set up what became known as the Universal City Studios. For some time, this was the largest studio in the Hollywood area. Unlike the other fledgling movie companies; Universal opened their studio to tourists. The entrance fee of 5 cents even included a piece of chicken for lunch!
Tourism
Movie production has changed almost beyond recognition from those early days (more than 100 years ago) and ownership of Universal has changed hands several times but the concept of the studio tour has remained. However, it has now become a major part of their corporate empire and blossomed beyond the Californian site and includes much more than a behind the scenes peek into movie making. Under the name Universal Parks & Resorts; they opened in Orlando in 1990 and now have additional functioning parks in Japan and Singapore. With over 40 million visitors a year; Universal is the third-largest amusement park operator in the world. The resort side of the business is currently headquarted in Orlando.
Universal Studios Orlando
The Universal Orlando Resort is Universal’s largest and is actually two theme parks (the studios and the Islands of Adventure) plus a night time entertainment complex known as CityWalk, and three hotels and a beach resort. Current featured rides and attractions include Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem; E.T. Adventure; two featuring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™; plus a3D Transformers ride. In total there are some 25 rides and attractions.
Getting The Most Out Of A Short Visit
If you live in Orlando you can visit the Park anytime you wish and make multiple visits to experience all that is on offer; however, if you are planning a short vacation to Orlando specifically to see the universal studios park it might be difficult to sort out the best way to see as much of what you really wish to see with only limited time available. Fortunately, there is a way out of this conundrum. Knowledgeable local experts like the online source known as knowbeforeugo.com can offer you the best advice on how to get the most out of your trip.