Probably one of the nation’s most fun attractions on the West Coast, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-see when you are visiting Los Angeles. Not too far from the city, this L.A. attraction is a great place to take the kids, and the kid in you, when on a family vacation. Plus, Universal Studios Hollywood is open all year round, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Every show and tour at Universal Studios Hollywood has a movie theme, as is to be expected. Shows like “Backdraft” and “Creature from the Black Lagoon” recreate scenes from these famous films and allow visitors to feel like they’re in the movie themselves. Other attractions like “Shrek 4-D”, where the fourth “D” is every moving and jolting seat, are great fun for visitors of all ages. And at shows such as “Water World”, you will enjoy many amazing jet ski stunts and special fire effects. Remember, if you don’t want to get drenched, avoid the green seats.

And of course, there is a wonderful Studio Tour that takes you to the sets of many classic films, including “Back to the Future”, “King Kong”, “Jaws” and “Psycho”. If you go on a weekend, you might even get to drive on Wisteria Lane at the set of “Desperate Housewives”. Plus, stunt shows starring the beautiful cars used in “The Fast and the Furious” can be seen all along the tour. Your favorite cartoon characters are also to be found wandering around Universal Studios. Just look for their daily schedules to see where you can find them. There’s also a wonderful interactive exhibit that includes memorabilia, costumes and props from many films, called “The Universal Experience”.

Universal Studios Hollywood also has many rides for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular attractions is the Simpson Ride, a wild ride that takes you through Krustyland and includes a fun motion stimulator. And of course, what would Universal Studios be without the famous Jurassic Park ride? This exciting ride includes and 80-foot waterfall drop that will leave all guests soaking wet. Another exhilarating ride is the Revenge of the Mummy Ride, which is a short but creepy ride that takes you forward and in reverse. For the smaller kids, there is a fun Curious George waterpark.