Universal Studios is a well-known tourist attraction in Florida. A theme park appropriate for all ages, Florida's Universal Studios has a history that reveals a bit of controversy about its conception in relation to MGM and some basic facts inform the curious tourist about the area.
In 1962, backstage lot tours began in Hollywood’s Universal theme park, which was attached to the soundstages of Universal’s movie sets. However, nearly three decades later, Universal Studios decided it wanted to open a theme part on the East Coast. It tried to receive help from Michael Eisner, then an executive at Paramount Studios. However, he declined that particular project, but he went on to assist Disney in the production of the MGM Studios park. MGM appeared before the arrival of Universal Studios in 1990.
Although primary construction was complete in 1990, renovations were made throughout the next two decades to create a resort destination atmosphere at the park. Islands of Adventure, Portofino Bay and City Walk were created with the help of filmmaker Steven Spielberg. Universal Studios Escape appeared in 1999. In 2000, the Hard Rock Hotel was added to the grounds, and in 2002, the Royal Pacific Hotel became part of the property as well. In 2010, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened.
Most popular for its rides, Universal Studios has a plethora of them for all ages. The Simpsons' Ride takes guest on a roller-coaster adventure through Krustyland, narrated by the voices of the original Simpsons cast. Revenge of the Mummy, most appropriate for teenagers, takes riders into complete darkness, where mummies and scarab beetles roam on the sides. The Amazing Adventure of Spider-Man was the first ride to combine live action, 3-D film and a motion-based ride vehicle.
Scores of other attractions exist at the park. Shows include Terminator 2 in 3-D, the Blue Man Group, the Eighth Voyage of Sinbad Stunt Show, Wantilan Luau and concerts at the Hard Rock Live. Bars and clubs such as Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, Red Coconut Club, Pat O'Brien's, The Groove, Jake's American Bar, Orchid Court Lounge and Sushi Bar, Velvet Sessions and The Thirsty Fish cater to adults searching for activities during the night hours.
Universal Studios has a variety of restaurants. The Hard Rock Cafe serves up American favorites such as burgers, ribs, steaks and salads. At Emeril's Restaurant, diners enjoy specialties of Emeril Lagasse, the celebrity chef who appears on Food Network. Three Broomsticks is a "rustic tavern" with a menu full of items such as fish and chips, shepherd's pie, butterbeer, pumpkin juice, apple pie, chocolate trifle, turkey legs, Cornish pasta and applesauce.
