Visiting Universal Studios with Kids

While Universal Studios Hollywood is certainly family-friendly, those traveling with small children may find that the majority of the rides are too intense for the little ones. There are also some rides with height restrictions (see below) that may exclude your younger ones from riding.

Never fear! That doesn't mean you can't enjoy Universal. Many of the rides offer the opportunity to use Child Switch, which allows one parent to wait with the child while the other parent and family members ride, and then switch when they depart, without having to wait in line again.

Park maps indicate which rides are appropriate for your children and also list spots where you kids can enjoy photo-taking with their favorite characters. You'll find that restrooms, changing stations, and other things that families with kids need frequently are readily available and easy to find.

Attractions that are Suitable for Young Children

The Adventures of Curious George: Features a water playground and foam ball room for kids, and a small playground with slides and playground equipment for very small children (up to 48"). Changing rooms are available so you can bring a swim suit.

Universal's Animal Actors: combines animal talents and insights into working with animals on a movie set. Features dogs, cats, birds, a chicken and a pig. Most kids will like the show.

Characters in the Park: Dora the Explorer, Diego, Spongebob Squarepants, Donkey, Curious George, Woody Woodpecker and other characters are available for kids to meet and have a picture taken. Universal Studios is far less crowded than Disneyland, so kids don't have to wait in line 15 minutes to meet their favorite characters. In many cases you can walk right up, or wait just a minute or two.

Shrek 4D: This is a light-hearted movie. There are moments of darkness, but this should be suitable for kids 3+.

The Simpsons Ride: This roller coaster simulator seems suitable for most young guests who are at least four years old. (40 inch requirement)

Jurassic Park - The Ride: Part of the ride is dark and noisy, but the main concern is the 84-foot water slide at the end. There is a jolt at the end and kids will need to be able to keep their head from hitting the back of the seat. Make sure you warn them right before the plunge so they are prepared for this. During the drop you can put your hand or arm between their head and the seat as necessary, "just in case". (42 inch requirement).

Attraction Height Requirements

• Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride: Must be 48 inches or taller. This is a very fast roller coaster, forward and backward through a dark tunnel.
• Jurassic Park - The Ride: Must be 42 inches or taller.
• The Simpsons Ride: Must be 40 inches or taller. This ride seems suitable for most young guests who are at least four years old.
• Transformers - The Ride 3D: Must be 40 inches or taller. Many scenes may be too intense for young guests. Parents should ride this first to decide if it is suitable for their child.

Parental Guidance Suggested

• WaterWorld - There are loud explosions that involve flashes of fire, sensations of heat from the fire, and splashes of water. This can be frightening to small children if you sit too close. Seats farther back will insulate you from the heat and water, plus make the noise less frightening.
• Terminator 2: 3D - Some scenes may be too intense for young guests.
• Special Effects Stage - There is a short scene that simulates massive bleeding, which could be disturbing to young guests.
• Studio Backlot Tour - There are two locations that are enclosed and include intense activity: King Kong 360 3D; and the flooded subway with earthquake. Also, the spinning ice cave might cause uncomfortable dizziness for a child who is not used to controlling the sensation. Regardless, people do take small children on this attraction, and they seem to be OK at the end. NOTE: The tour lasts 45-60 minutes and many small children will become bored.
• House of Horrors - This is far too scary for young guests!

Child Switch Available

• Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride
• Transformers: The Ride 3D
• The Simpsons Ride
• Jurassic Park - The Ride
• House of Horrors