🎄 Christmas Season at Universal Studios Hollywood 🎢

Over the holiday break, my friends and I drove to LA and kicked off our trip with a day at Universal Studios Hollywood! I skipped the Express Pass—if you've visited other Universal parks before, it’s totally doable without one. Having been to Universal Beijing before, here’s a casual comparison and some tips from our visit: ⚠️ Before You Go 💡 I found a discounted “VIP-style” pass on social media ($90 for parking + Express Pass after 3 PM + 15% off shopping). Though my pass didn’t end up working (got a refund!), the free parking and discount still made it a win. 🎯 Tip: If you just want early Mario access, the $30 Early Admission might be more useful for rides. 💡 Super Mario-themed Toadstool Cafe requires advance reservations—you can find the QR code online! 📒 Our Game Plan We started in the Lower Lot: Super Nintendo World (arrive early!) Transformers + Revenge of the Mummy (these stay busy all day) Headed up to Upper Lot for The Simpsons, Minions, and Harry Potter Returned to Lower Lot in the evening for Jurassic World (wait times drop to ~25 mins after sunset!) 📌 Minion Land Felt smaller and less detailed than Beijing’s—still cute, but not as immersive. 📌 Wizarding World of Harry Potter Almost identical to Beijing’s, but still magical! 🪄 Ollivanders has a more interactive wand ceremony—kids in front may get chosen! 💎 Hidden merch alert: Ask staff at the Forbidden Journey gift shop for Hermione’s Time-Turner necklace—it’s not on display! 📌 Revenge of the Mummy The only indoor roller coaster—short but thrilling! A must-ride. 📌 Super Nintendo World Power-Up Bands ($40) enhance gameplay, but I skipped them since I’m not a big gamer. The Mario Kart ride alone is worth the early entry! 📌 Studio Tour A unique Hollywood experience, though not everyone’s favorite. Great for movie buffs! Visiting during Christmas was extra special—the park was decked out in festive decor, and the Hogwarts castle had a holiday-themed light show. ✨🏰 Whether you’re a Potterhead, a gamer, or just here for the vibes, Universal Hollywood delivers fun and festive memories! #UniversalStudios #Hollywood #ChristmasAtUniversal #NintendoWorld #HarryPotter #LATravel #ThemeParkHoliday #TravelTips #HolidayVibes #CaliforniaAdventure