Universal Studios Hollywood & Super Nintendo World: A thrilling adventure review

Universal Studios Hollywood is so much more than just a theme park – it's a place where you're completely immersed in the magic of movies while getting your heart racing with excitement. When I first stepped in, it truly felt like entering another world, one packed with adventure, jaw-dropping effects, and surprises you won't soon forget.

If you're as much of a movie buff as I am, or if you're just all about adrenaline-pumping thrills, this is the ultimate destination. From iconic film sets and wild roller coasters to the chance to fist-bump a Transformer (yes, really!), the park has something for everyone. And let me tell you, it delivers not only on spectacle but also makes you feel like you're right in the middle of the action. So, let me take you on my adventure through Universal Studios Hollywood and Super Nintendo World!

Some of the rides I will never forget

The Studio Tour: Hollywood movie classics meets thrills

If you go to Universal and don’t do the Studio Tour, did you even go?! This isn’t just a behind-the-scenes look at movie sets—it’s a full-on ride, complete with lot's of cool special effects, like:

• King Kong 360 3D – Imagine getting trapped in the middle of a King Kong vs. T-Rex battle while your tram shakes like it’s about to collapse. This was one of the wildest 3D effects I’ve ever seen.
• Fast & Furious Supercharged – Unfortunately, Fast & Furious Supercharged was temporarily down during our visit, but it was still a unique experience seeing the empty white screens and imagining what we were missing out on with the wild stunts and explosions. Still, it was a memorable experience!"
• Classic movie sets – Seeing the real-life Psycho house, the crashed airplane from War of the Worlds, and the famous Jaws shark was such a cool throwback.

Revenge of the Mummy: My favorite ride in the park!

Okay, I did NOT expect to love this ride so much, but WOW. It’s a dark, indoor roller coaster that starts off spooky with eerie Egyptian tomb vibes… then suddenly launches you at high speed into pitch-black darkness. There are moments where you feel like you’re flying through a void, then BAM—giant scarab beetles come at you before the ride slams you backwards!

The 3D simulator rides: Fun, but a little too much for me

Universal loves their 3D motion simulator rides, and while they’re super immersive, I had to skip a few because they can be seriously nausea-inducing.

• Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem – Super cute and hilarious! You get turned into a Minion and go on a chaotic adventure. Great for families!
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Insane effects and breathtaking sets, but honestly, the 3D + motion made me feel like I just drank a bad Polyjuice Potion. Had to sit this one out.

I ended up skipping about three other 3D rides to avoid feeling like I just got off a spinning teacup ride on steroids. But if you’ve got a strong stomach? Go for it!

NEW ROLLER COASTER ALERT! 

Universal is currently building a brand-new roller coaster in the Upper Lot, themed around Fast & Furious! It looks like it’s going to be a high-speed thrill ride, and from what I’ve seen, there’s a drifting effect involved?! I cannot wait for this one—it’s about time Universal added another big coaster! The location is seriously awesome too—it’s being built on the edge of the park, high on a hill, which is going to offer some incredible views while you zoom through the track. It’s the perfect spot for a ride that’s all about speed and action, and I can’t wait to see it in action. Definitely something to look forward to on your next visit!

Cool character interactions

Meeting Megatron: The best character interaction ever!

If you want the funniest, most savage character meet-and-greet, DO NOT SKIP MEGATRON. This guy ROASTS guests like a pro comedian. He ended up telling my boyfriend that they could rule Holland together. How asweome is that? Oh, and don’t forget, Bumblebee and Optimus Prime also make appearances at scheduled times – both are a must-see for any Transformer fan!

The Scooby-Doo gang

Now, if you want to meet some truly iconic characters, the Scooby-Doo gang is a must. Scooby, Shaggy, and Velma were all there, and it felt like we were actually hanging out with them! The crew had them down perfectly—Scooby’s goofy expressions, Shaggy’s laid-back vibe, and Velma’s classic wit. It was like stepping right into the Mystery Machine.

Beetlejuice

And then there's Beetlejuice—talk about energy! This guy has more enthusiasm than anyone in the park. His banter is off-the-charts, and he definitely knows how to keep a crowd entertained. From his antics to his quirky lines, Beetlejuice made the whole experience feel like you were in a wild comedy show.

Raptor Encounter

Let’s not forget the Raptor you can encounter in the Jurassic Park area! This dinosaur is absolutely lifelike. You’ll find it right there, ready to strike a pose for the perfect selfie! The Raptor definitely knows how to work the camera, putting in its best effort to make sure you get a great shot. It’s a fun experience, and a must for anyone looking to snap a killer photo with a truly terrifying creature!

Donkey from Shrek

If you’re looking for more laughs, make sure to meet Donkey from Shrek! He’s full of energy and absolutely hilarious. During our encounter, Donkey tried to pronounce the word “kaas” (cheese in Dutch), and it was one of the funniest things I’ve ever heard. His attempts at speaking Dutch were as charming as they were hilarious! Definitely a character you won’t want to miss for a good laugh and a memorable interaction.

Let's talk about Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World isn’t just a theme park land—it’s an interactive, mind-blowing, childhood-dream-come-true experience. Whether you’re speedrunning through the mini-games, battling Bowser, or just taking in the insane level of detail, it’s impossible not to have a blast.

Is it crowded? Yes.
Are the lines long? Also yes.
Is it worth every single coin? ABSOLUTELY.

Pro Tip: If you want to maximize your experience, go early and get a Power-Up Band. Trust me, it makes everything more fun and interactive. Oh, and don’t forget to practice your shell-throwing skills—because Bowser isn’t going down without a fight!

Also, grab an Early Access Pass if you can! This gives you the chance to enter the park an hour before Super Nintendo World opens to the public, meaning you'll have a much more relaxed experience with way fewer crowds. It's the perfect way to beat the rush and fully enjoy everything the land has to offer.

Here are some of the Super Nintendo World highlights:

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

The crown jewel of Super Nintendo World is Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. This isn’t your typical roller coaster—it’s an augmented reality, motion-tracked, multi-sensory experience that puts you right in the driver’s seat. Bowser’s Castle is the entrance to the Mario Kart ride, but it’s also one of the coolest theme park queues EVER. His throne room, trophies, and sneaky details about his evil plans are all there. Even if the line is long, there’s so much to see that you won’t even mind waiting. You get to wear an AR headset (designed like Mario’s cap, of course!) and race alongside Team Mario, throwing virtual shells at Bowser’s minions while dodging hazards.

Does it feel like a real Mario Kart race? YES. It’s a mix of practical sets, projection mapping, and AR effects that make every twist and turn feel epic. The ride itself isn’t the fastest, but it’s so immersive that speed doesn’t even matter. Pro tip: don’t forget to turn your head to aim when throwing shells—it actually affects your score!

Interactive Power-Up band fun

Now, if you really want to go all in, you NEED to grab a Power-Up Band (yes, they’re extra $40, but trust me, they’re worth it). I had a Luigi one. With this wristband, you can collect virtual coins, punch "?" Blocks just like Mario, and battle bosses throughout the land. There are interactive mini-games hidden everywhere, from activating POW Blocks to stopping a Goomba invasion.

Best part? If you complete enough challenges, you can unlock an epic showdown with Bowser Jr. It’s a fun, physical, and surprisingly hilarious experience—especially watching adults (like me) flailing around like Luigi in a haunted mansion.

Toadstool Café—The cutest restaurant ever! 

You absolutely have to eat at Toadstool Café! First off, Chef Toad (via an adorable animated screen) welcomes you into his kitchen, setting the perfect tone for the experience. And let me tell you, the food is just as amazing as the atmosphere. You can order the Mario Burger, the Super Mushroom Soup, and of course, the Question Block Tiramisu—which, we tried and was great! The dining room is filled with moving screens showing Toads running around, doing kitchen tasks, making the whole place feel like you’ve stepped straight into a Mario game.

But here's the real gem—the Peach Cupcake. It’s a must-order! This cupcake is the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and firm. It’s not just a dessert; it’s like a complete meal in itself. If you're looking for something both delicious and satisfying, this is the one to get!

Final verdict: 10/10, Would jump into a warp pipe again!

Reflecting on our visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, I can confidently say it was an unforgettable experience. The park seamlessly blends thrilling attractions, immersive storytelling, and delightful character interactions, making it a must-visit destination for both movie enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. From the nostalgic thrills of the Studio Tour to the heart-pounding excitement of Revenge of the Mummy, every moment feels like something out of a movie (and sometimes, you are in the movie).

Super Nintendo World is the cherry on top, turning childhood dreams into reality with interactive gameplay and jaw-dropping details. Whether you’re a movie buff, a thrill-seeker, or a Nintendo lover, there’s no way you’ll leave disappointed. So, if you’ve got the chance, jump into that warp pipe, grab your Power-Up Band, and get ready for a journey that will blow your mind.

Initially, we purchased the Universal Express Pass, which grants one-time express access to each ride, attraction, and seated show. Prices for this pass vary, starting from $199 per person, depending on the time of year and demand. However, in hindsight, we found that the pass wasn't essential for our visit. By strategically planning our day and opting out of certain 3D simulator rides, we managed to experience all the attractions we desired without significant wait times. This suggests that, especially during non-peak periods, the standard admission may suffice for most visitors.

In conclusion, Universal Studios Hollywood offers a dynamic blend of entertainment that caters to a wide range of interests. Whether you're navigating the thrilling coasters, immersing yourself in 3D adventures, or enjoying spontaneous character meet-and-greets, there's something for everyone. While the Universal Express Pass provides added convenience, it's worth evaluating its necessity based on your visit timing and personal preferences. Regardless of how you choose to experience it, a day at Universal Studios Hollywood is sure to be filled with lasting memories.

✅ Studio Tour – A perfect mix of classic Hollywood and thrilling surprises
✅ Revenge of the Mummy – Best roller coaster in the park!
✅ Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge – A must for Nintendo fans!
✅ Meet Megatron – Prepare for the best insults of your life
✅ Toadstool Café – Because the Princess Peach Cupcake is 100% necessary

SKIP IF YOU GET MOTION SICKNESS:
🚫 Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
🚫 Basically all 3D simulator rides