ML Interest Tag: studio-tour

Go behind the Scenes at These Tours Kids Love

by Shelley Massey

Itching see a side of Atlanta you don’t usually get to see? These Atlanta tours offer unforgettable experiences

If there’s one thing kids love, it’s finding out how things are made. So when you get the chance to draw back the curtain and see the inner workings of…well, pretty much anything, we know your kids will be on board. Whether they can’t wait to take a seat in the Braves’ dugout, aspire to hold public office, or are just dying to know where babies come from (hint: it’s not what you think), you can show your kids just how it’s done at these behind-the-scenes Atlanta tours.

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Governor's Mansion Tour

Take a tour of the governor's three-story, 30-room mansion that rests on 18 acres. The mansion is open for public tours on Tuesdays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and promises to be an educational experience for kids and grown-ups alike. Tours are offered annually from February 1 through October 27, and include a hybrid of self-guided exploration and docent-led discussion. Pre-registration is required.

391 West Paces Ferry Road N.W.
Atlanta
Online: gov.georgia.gov

Related: 10 Women Who Changed Atlanta Forever

Truist Park Ballpark Tours

As the longest continuously operating franchise in Major League Baseball, the Atlanta Braves have plenty of history to share with their fans. Tours of Truist Park are offered year-round and take guests to many areas off limits during games. With artifacts and exhibits distributed throughout the ballpark, it is a definite must for any Braves or baseball fan. Tours begin at the Right Field Gate, and tickets must be purchased in advance online. Keep in mind that tours run rain or shine, and usually last around 1.5 hours.

755 Battery Ave. S.E.
Atlanta
Online: mlb.com

Related: Take Me Out to the Ballgame: A Family's Guide to Truist Park

World of Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola Company

Spend the day interacting with multiple exhibits, learning about the storied history of the iconic beverage brand, and sampling beverages from around the world. See the vault where the secret recipe for Coke is stored, check out the 4-D film about the global brand, and see an impressive collection of Coke—and Americana—memorabilia. You can watch to see how Coke is bottled, and pick one up on your way out.

121 Baker St. N.W.
Atlanta
Online: worldofcocacola.com

Related: That's Amore! Atlanta's Best Pizza

Babyland General

Head to BabyLand General® Hospital in Cleveland, Georgia to learn where Cabbage Patch Kids come from. Situated on 650 acres in the North Georgia Mountains, this "hospital" is filled with Cabbage Patch Kids and Mother Cabbage is always on display beneath the branches of the Magic Crystal Tree. Pollinated by fanciful Bunnybees®, the magical Cabbage Patch is tended by Licensed Patch Doctors and Nurses. Babyland General Hospital is the only place in the world where you can witness the birth of a hand-sculpted Cabbage Patch Kid.

300 NOK Dr.
Cleveland, GA
Online: cabbagepatchkids.com

Related: Play All Day: Discover Atlanta's Top Playgrounds

Mercedes Benz Stadium Tour

Experience the signature features of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, including stops at locker rooms, the field, Window to the City, Skybridges, and Clubs. Tour routes and locations are subject to change. In addition to the traditional tour offering, students can experience the signature features of Mercedes-Benz Stadium through the lens of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math.

125 Ted Turner Dr. N.W.
Atlanta
Online: mercedezbenzstadium.com

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Atlanta Motor Speedway

Learn a little about the racing industry with a tour of the AMS. Twice a year, it's the bustling center of the NASCAR Cup Series world, but the rest of the year it's open to the public for speedway tours and a behind-the-scenes look at the track, the start/finish line in the grandstands, the infield, and Victory Lane. Appointments are required at this raceway, and are offered five times daily, Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

1500 Tara Pl.
Hampton, GA
Online: atlantamotorspeedway.com

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Ten Reasons to Plan a Family Trip to SoCal this Summer

by Nora Buchholtz
Partner Content

After a long (really long) 2020, we are all ready to dust off our suitcases, grab our sunglasses, and make Summer 2021 the best one yet! With the world starting to open back up and a dizzying array of options, making the choice about where to head on vacation can feel challenging. 

We’ll make it easy for you: Southern California is the perfect destination for any family. With opportunities to relax, get adventurous and connect in totally new ways, SoCal has something for everyone. Read on for ten reasons to plan a family trip to SoCal this summer!

Wherever your next adventure takes you, Marriott has a hotel to fit your family’s vacation. Book now!

1. Nature Is the Main Attraction at Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park consists of around 800,000 acres and is situated just an hour outside of Palm Springs. With lots of room to roam, your whole family will love hiking, biking, rock climbing or nature watching in this true desert paradise. Plan a hike at the Cholla Cactus Garden, a short loop trail where you'll see cacti and wildflowers galore!

2. The Old West Feels All-to-Real at Death Valley National Park

Whether your kiddos are interested in real history or just the idea of the wild west, they’ll love exploring the five real-life ghost towns scattered throughout Death Valley National Park. These ghost towns, originally established in the mid to late 1800s, are home to old-timey buildings, like banks and jailhouses, and signs and structures that give visitors an idea of what life in the old west was really like. 

Wherever your next adventure takes you, Marriott has a hotel to fit your family’s vacation. Book now!

3. Accessing an Off-Coast Oasis Is Simple At Catalina Island

Catalina Island, just a quick fairy ride from mainland SoCal, is a destination that’s well loved by both California natives and travelers alike. While on the island, families can enjoy  a charming, walkable small-town vibe in it’s main port town, Avalon, or can head out into the wild and less populated areas on the island's interior.

4. It’s Easy to Find a Place to Stay near Every Major Attraction Thanks to Marriott

With locations in all of Southern California’s big cities, and within a stone's throw of every major attraction, Marriott makes choosing your family's vacation lodging simple. Special perks like spa specials, kids programs, pool and water park experiences and live entertainment, and elevated experiences like suite, cottages and in-room kitchenette options ensure that your whole family will enjoy your time at the hotel as much as your time exploring!

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the details each local Marriott takes care of, like making sure they’re a part of the Good Neighbor Program at Disneyland that allows visitors to enjoy a midday break before heading back to the park for evening fireworks, and feel confident and comfortable thanks to their commitment to clean policy.

Your Southern California Playground is Calling. Experience it with Marriott Bonvoy.

5. Disney California Adventure Park Is as Exciting As It Gets

Disney California Adventure Park is the place to be if you want to see superheroes come alive, taste the flavors of the world and immerse yourself in your favorite Disney and Pixar stories. With rides and attractions that will appeal to everyone from tots to teens and beyond, your family will make big memories at the all-new Avengers Campus, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind and the Incredicoaster. 

6. You Can Get Your Theme-Park Fix Again at Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park

If you can’t get enough of the thrills and excitement that theme parks offer, Knott’s Berry Farm will give you another chance to scream, laugh and smile with delight! With world-class rides, attractions and shows your whole family will enjoy, Knott’s Berry Farm has something for everyone!

7. You Can Explore Orange County via Boat

You already know that a day at the beach is a must during a trip to Orange County, but the area also has a ton of options to get your family out on the water, including the Balboa Island Ferry and Duffy boat rentals—where you can navigate your own adventure! If you're looking for a new beach-day (or really any day) outfit, plan a stop at Fashion Island where you'll find top stores and over 30 dining options. 

8. Santa Barbara Is Sure to Impress You

Beautiful Spanish-colonial architecture, palm trees galore and the Santa Ynez Mountains set Santa Barbara apart as a memorable place to explore as a family! Spend some time wandering The Funk Zone, a vibrant neighborhood with local businesses, delicious restaurants and plenty of options for wine tasting. 

Wherever your next adventure takes you, Marriott has a hotel to fit your family’s vacation. Book now!

9. Los Angeles Has Something for Everyone

An adventure to the iconic Hollywood sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a behind-the-scenes studio tour—Los Angeles has enough sparkle and shine to delight anyone! If your kids are dino-obsessed, take a trip to La Brea Tar Pits, where they can see the preserved bones of extinct animals. For beach lovers, a day exploring Venice Beach is sure to be memorable. 

10. San Diego Offers Animal Lovers a Lot to Enjoy

San Diego is the ideal town for wildlife-obsessed kids and their parents alike. You already know about the amazing San Diego Zoo, but thanks to opportunities for whale watching and a fantastical safari park, you’ll leave San Diego with all sorts of new knowledge and lots of happy snaps of your kiddos getting to know the animals we share our world with!

Wherever your next adventure takes you, Marriott has a hotel to fit your family’s vacation. Book now!

 

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Universal Studios Hollywood Announces Reopening Plan

by Erica Loop

Universal Studios Hollywood is ready to reopen! You can purchase tickets for the theme park online, starting Apr. 8. The California theme park recently announced it will welcome guests back starting Apr. 16—but with some restrictions.

With Universal Studios Hollywood’s latest news, your fam may finally get the chance to check out the Studio Tour, see the awesomeness of the Indominus rex on “Jurassic World-The Ride,” or catch a glimpse of the new “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash” attraction.

Before you book your trip, take a moment to review the park’s current set of rules and restrictions. To start with, Universal Studios Hollywood theme park visits are only open to California residents—for the time being.

The visitor party size is limited to a maximum of three households and a total of 10 people. All guests must follow state and park safety protocols. This means guests must wear face coverings at all times and practice physical distancing. Temperatures are checked at park entry and visitors with a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher may not enter the park.

photo: Nauris Pukis via Unsplash

If you purchased one of the park’s 3 Visit Ticket passes prior to the pandemic closure and still have remaining visits left, you must register on Universal Studios Hollywood’s website by Monday, Apr. 5, 2021. Guests who scheduled a visit during the closure are credited via their Universal account with a visit to use at a future valid date.

If you used your 3 Visit Ticket and the ticket was set to expire Mar. 14, 2020 or after, the 12-month expiration date is extended by the total number of days of the park closure. The deadline for unused 3 Visit Ticket first visits is extended to Dec. 16, 2021. Blackout dates will include Dec. 26 through Dec. 31, 2021.

For more information on park re-opening procedures and how to use your 3 Visit Ticket, visit the Universal Studios Hollywood website here.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo:

 

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5 Fab (& Affordable) Atlanta Hotels for Families

by Tinybeans Team

Check out these amazing Atlanta hotels to get your family out of the house

Whether you’re coming to Atlanta for a planned trip from out of town, or you’re local and in need of a staycation spot, these affordable hotels in the ATL may be exactly what you’re looking for. And the best news? Cheap hotels in Atlanta are often dressed up in the trappings of luxury. Find your next staycation spot for family adventures.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Buckhead

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Offering free made-to-order breakfasts, complimentary evening reception, an outdoor pool, and pet-friendly rooms, this hotel located in the heart of Buckhead's busy shopping district is calling our name. And you did read that right. Embassy SUITES, which means you don't have to trip over luggage on the way to the restroom in the middle of the night.

3285 Peachtree Rd. NE
Buckhead
Online: hilton.com

Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta

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This updated hotel is far from the city center, but if you're looking for a fun outpost for your trip or staycation in Atlanta, the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta's price and offerings can't be beat. With a nearby American Girl Doll Store, you can even treat your little one to a stay she'll never forget.

5750 Windward Pkwy.
Alpharetta, GA
Online: marriott.com

Loews Atlanta

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This upscale hotel brand is not cheap, but if you're in the know, it's all the more attainable for Georgia residents who can enjoy up to 15% off the listed price of a hotel room. And, with a prime location in Midtown, you can enjoy Instagram-worthy views of Piedmont Park, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and the lights of the Atlanta skyline.

1065 Peachtree St. NE
Midtown
Online: loewshotels.com

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center

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If you're setting your sights on Atlanta's downtown family attractions, this hotel's proximity to the Georgia Aquarium, The Children's Museum of Atlanta, The World of Coca-Cola, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, College Football Hall of Fame, and Centennial Olympic Park should put it at the top of your list. Don't forget to check out their Georgia Aquarium package!

100 CNN Center
Downtown
Online: omnihotels.com

The Westin Peachtree Plaza

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Another option located in the heart of downtown, the Westin serves up dramatic skyline views and deluxe accommodations and is within walking distance to the Georgia Aquarium, CNN Center & Georgia World Congress Center, among other downtown destinations. As one of the more sizable downtown hotels, this one comes with a wow factor for the littles, with a multi-storied atrium and escalators that zip from one floor to the next. Plus, the Sundial Restaurant, located on the top level of the Westin Peachtree Plaza, actually rotates as you dine.

210 Peachtree St. NW
Downtown
Online: marriott.com

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3 Perfect Days in LA: What to See, Eat & Do for Ultimate Fun

by Shannan Rouss
Partner Content

Got just a few days to spend in LA with the family and want to squeeze it all in—from the beach to Beverly Hills and beyond? We’ve got you covered with the ultimate itinerary, created specifically with kids in mind. Keep scrolling for all the details on where to play, eat and stay with three days in LA.

Day 1: Make a Splash

Kick off your LA weekend with the ultimate beach day. Rent some beach cruisers near the Santa Monica Pier and pedal along the paved shoreline path to the Annenberg Community Beach House. (If your kiddos aren't quite bike-ready, you can also drive to the destination and park on site.) The Beach House offers plenty of sandy areas for caste-building, a free splash pad and al fresco dining by way of Back on the Beach Cafe. If you're visiting between May and Sept., you can also reserve tickets to the Beach House Pool. 

For a more off-the-beaten path beach experience, consider heading further north along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway to one of Malibu's many tucked-away beaches. Just note that parking can be tricky at many of these locations, and there's often a steep trek down stairs to the sand. Once you've made it though, you'll be rewarded with tide pools, sea caves and sandy shores for miles.

Mike McBey via flickr

Post surf and sand, make your way back to the Santa Monica Pier for a spin on the historic carousel and some good old-fashioned fun at Pacific Park, complete with an 85-ft. ferris wheel, retro arcade games, funnel cakes and more. 

If you need a respite from the crowds, it's just a short walk to Tvonga Park, a 6.2-acre oasis hidden away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Santa Monica. As the day nears to an end, hop in the car for a quick trip down the coast to Manhattan Beach where the sun sets in a blaze of orange and pink over the ocean.  

JW Marriott Santa Monica

Haute Hotel Tip: If you're looking to stay within walking distance of the beach, the Marriott has two family-friendly options that fit the bill: JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot or the nearby Marriott Marina Del Rey. The Santa Monica location, with its luxe, oversized rooms, is a 7-minute stroll from the Pier, while the grounds of the modern Marina Del Rey hotel are right alongside Marina Beach (aka Mother's Beach), a sheltered, surf-free cove made for little ones.

 

Day 2: Seeing Stars

2 Rodeo via Yelp

What's a trip to LA without some stargazing—both the celestial and cinematic kind? Keep your eyes peeled for celebs during a morning visit to 2 Rodeo Drive (starting at Wilshire Blvd.) in Beverly Hills. The stretch of Rodeo is where you'll find a quaint cobblestone street, European-inspired architecture and a stretch of high-end boutiques.

Next on the itinerary: Universal Studios Hollywood, where you don't want to miss the behind-the-scenes studio tour, Harry Potter's Hogwarts Castle and the recently opened Jurassic World - The Ride. For little ones, there's the Despicable Me area with a Minion-inspired dance party, plus the nearby Super Silly Fun Land, which features a massive water-play setup along with a dry zone where kids can jump, slide and climb.

Once you've exhausted all that Universal has to offer, drive about three miles to Lake Hollywood Park, where you can park along Canyon Lake Dr. and capture all those Insta-worthy pics of the iconic Hollywood sign. From there, it's another short trip to the Griffith Observatory where you're guaranteed to see LA's brightest stars... in the sky. Kids can check out meteorites, admire the sizzling Tesla Coil and, after dark, peer through the Zeiss telescope for a glimpse of the cosmos.

Day 3: Art Attack

Introduce a little arts, culture and creative fun into your LA vaycay with a visit to two of the city's top museums. First up? A tram ride (hello, perennial kid favorite) to The Getty Center. Squeeze in a quick tour of the Michelangelo exhibit (on display until Jun.) and at least a sampling of the wide array of European and North American Art, before healing to the Family Room for hands-on activities and play. Before you leave, wander through the sprawling gardens with its winding paths and waterfalls.

Follow The Getty with a stop at LACMA. You'll no doubt recognize the outdoor Urban Light display—all those antique-style lamp posts that make for a great photo op. Although the museum is currently under construction, parts of it are still open (and the scaled-down space makes it more manageable when you've only got a couple hours to spend). Be sure to check out the pop-up art activities in the galleries and Metropolis II, a sculpture with moving parts made to look like a mini city, open select times Fri.-Sun.

Hauser & Wirth via Yelp

Keep the arts and culture trip going as you discover discover a whole new side of LA (beyond the beach and Beverly Hills) in downtown's Arts District. Stop by Hauser & Wirth, part gallery, part community gathering place with its public garden and family art workshops. 

There's also ROW DTLA, the 30-acre complex of shops, pop-ups, dining and more, located on the edge of the trendy Arts District. Wander through the open-air produce market, peek into Makers Mess (an art studio for kids and adults), and pause at Dulce Dos for a matcha latte and delicious vegan (and non-vegan) donuts. Can't get more authentically LA than that!

Haute Hotel Tip: Stay in LA's trendy downtown area courtesy of Sheraton Grand Los Angeles, an urban hotel with a family-friendly vibe. Situated in the heart of downtown, it's a short distance to the Staples Center, Grand Park, The Broad museum and more. 

Deal Alert!

Sheraton Grand Los Angeles

With Marriott Bonvoy™, families can enjoy special rates, free in-room Wifi, mobile check in and more! Save up to 20% on your weekend trip to Los Angeles when you book at least seven days in advance with Marriott Bonvoy.

—Shannan Rouss

featured photo: Ricardo Diaz via flickr

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What to Expect at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2019

by Jennifer O'Brien

Universal Studios Hollywood brings the magic of Hollywood’s past and present to life through their world-famous studio tour, theme park attractions and the unforgettable Wizarding World of Harry Potter. 2019 promises to bring even more to “The Entertainment Capital of LA” and we’ve got the inside scoop! Read on to learn what’s on the horizon for Universal in 2019 and plan your family getaway pronto!

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Coming in 2019

Running Universal: Lace up those sneakers and get ready as Universal is off to the races! The inaugural Minion Run hits the pavement on May 11, 2019 and will feature Illumination’s mischievous Minions from the popular “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride. Participants ages five and older are invited to wind their way around Universal Studios Hollywood and through parts of Universal Studios’ historic backlot, made famous in more than 8,000 movies and television shows. Runners of all experience levels are welcome and race registration includes a swag bag and specially-priced theme park tickets.

photo: Universal Studios Hollywood

Lunar New Year Celebration: Welcome the Year of the Pig at Universal Studios Hollywood during the month of February. Universal Plaza in the heart of the theme park will be festooned with customary red Chinese lanterns and stunning plum blossom Wishing Trees to set the stage. The festivities will come to life as guests discover the 12 zodiac animal signs accompanied by their symbolic attributes.

photo: Universal Studios Hollywood]

Jurassic World Ride: In 2019, colossal, dimensional dinosaurs will once again roam the Earth and astound guests when Universal Studios Hollywood debuts an all-new technologically-advanced epic adventure inspired by Universal Pictures’ blockbuster film franchise. Drawing from the favorite elements of the original “Jurassic Park—The Ride,” this next-generation thrill ride will be a fully reimagined iteration of the ground-breaking adventure. With the introduction of never-before-seen dinosaurs, enhanced storytelling, lush scenic design, an entirely new color scheme and uncompromised state-of the art technology, the ride will capture elements never experienced within a theme park.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Attractions & Shows

Studio Tour Tram Ride: The hour-long studio tour tram offers future filmmakers and mini movie moguls an incredible behind the scenes peek at how movies and television shows are made. Guests visit working soundstages, backlot sets, movie facades and recreated streets of the world, as well as a plethora of attractions showcasing amazing special effects that’ll blow your mind.

Tour Highlights: Back to the Future fans will love seeing the world-famous Hill Valley Courthouse Square where Marty zoomed away in Doc’s DeLorean. Look out for New York City streets, a simulated flash flood in a Mexican Village, the 747 jetliner crash site from War of the Worlds, a visit from Jaws himself at Jaws Lake, the Whoville set from Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, original sets from Jurassic Park: The Lost World and of course the infamous Bates Motel and house from Psycho.

Special Effects: Special effects rule this ride as guests experience “Earthquake—The Big One” (a fully-dressed movie set that simulates the devastation of an 8.3 earthquake in a subway station). Kids will also lose their shizzle over “King-Kong 360 3D” which is a one-of-a-kind experience by director Peter Jackson that throws guests in the middle of a jungle battle between 25’ tall King Kong and a 35’ tall voracious dinosaur. The tour’s grand finale treats families to Fast & Furious —Supercharged—an adrenaline-fueled 3D-HD thrill ride inspired by the studio’s most successful movie franchise of all time. Visitors are swept into the high-stakes underground world of fast cars and heart-pounding escapades as they travel at accelerated speeds of up to 120 mph through the streets of LA.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Despicable Me: Despicable Me and minions fans will adore the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” 3D-Ultra HD ride and “Super Silly Fun Land” which is an interactive play zone where kids can work off some extra energy climbing on the play structure, frolicking in an elaborate water play area and riding the “Silly Swirly Fun Ride” that soars over a fictional seaside carnival below. Minion tees, stuffies and other knick-knacks are available at shops around the area too if you need to stock up.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Springfield U.S.A.: Doh! Simpsons die-hards will totally dig a trip through Springfield U.S.A., the animated hometown of America’s funniest family. This vibrant, sprawling space features “The Simpsons Ride,” strolling characters, various shops with hilarious Simpson merch, as well as delish eateries based on the beloved series, including Krusty Burger, Cletus’ Chicken Shack, Moe’s Tavern and Duff’s Brewery and Lard Lad Donuts selling the biggest donuts we’ve literally ever laid eyes on.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Other Amazing Attractions
Other notables for little ones in this part of the park include totally immersive attractions like DreamWorks Theatre featuring Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest, Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride and Transformers The Ride—3D.

photo: Kate Loweth

Don’t Forget the Shows
Universal Studios’s dazzling shows should also be high on your list of must-sees (and offer a much-needed chance to sit) with productions like the “Special Effects Show” that provides a behind the scenes look at the industry’s coolest movie-making illusions, the “Universal’s Animal Actors” show that reveals how film’s most lovable pets light up the screen and of course the “WaterWorld—A Live Sea War Spectacular” which showcases the most complex combination of high-tech special effects, pyrotechnics, flame and human stunt work ever attempted anywhere in the world.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Wizarding World of Harry Potter: With a breathtaking view of Hogwarts castle looming over the snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets of Hogsmeade, families are magically transported into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Aspiring wizards and muggles alike will appreciate the great attention to detail at every turn, mirroring the books and movies to a tee. Upon entering, be sure to stop by the Hogwarts Express for a fab family photo op with the conductor.

If thrill-seeking is more your jam, make a beeline for Universal Studios’s first outdoor roller coaster, the “Flight of the Hippogriff,” as well as the park’s signature ride, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.” After you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to check out Three Broomsticks for delicious British-inspired fare like fish and chips, Shepherd’s Pie and Butterbeer ice cream. Speaking of Butterbeer, there are plenty of places to get your fix—from the Butterbeer carts to the Hogs Head Pub. Depending where you go, you can get it cold, frozen and piping hot!

Pro tip: On crowded days we recommend heading straight to this area at rope drop as the crowds will only get larger as the day goes on. Download the Universal Studios Hollywood app to see wait times and plan your day at the park.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Wizard Wands & Wears: After your meal, grab your broomstick and sail over to Ollivander’s, Makers of Fine Wands Since 382 BC where you can watch a wand choosing ceremony and find a wand of your very own. The shop features film character wands replicas, as well as custom wands just for you. Wands also include a map to 15 special locations throughout Hogsmeade where aspiring wizards are encouraged to practice their magic. Wave your wand to perform the Incendio fire-making spell that conjures flames of varying size based on skill level or the Alohomora spell which unlocks a series of intricate locks revealing the fiery breath of a creature hidden behind a secret door. There are also several shops throughout Hogsmeade to stock up on sweet treats and novelties, as well as robes, scarves, neckties and holiday ornaments from your favorite houses.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle: The holiday season brings “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” light show and during the summer months you can see “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle,” a seasonal light display that runs on various dates and times. Check the park app for show times and plan to arrive at the Castle well before the show starts or you may be stuck outside of the Hogsmeade entrance. This nightly display of dazzling wonder illuminates Hogwarts with colorful imagery and impressive animations dancing across the castle in tandem to music from the Harry Potter movies.

Pro Tip: If you can swing the extra dough for a Universal Studios Express Pass, we highly recommend it. The cost pays off by letting your family move to the front of the line on attractions and rides—saving you tons of time (and tantrums), especially on busy days.

100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City
Online: universalstudioshollywood.com

Make It a Staycation

Whether you are visiting Universal Studios Hollywood from the Bay Area or you are a local looking for a little time by the hotel pool, the Hilton Garden Inn Burbank Downtown is just the relaxing spot that you need to camp out with the kids. Away from much of the hustle and bustle of the city, the hotel is just 15 minutes to Universal Studios Hollywood. With a fantastic hot buffet breakfast served right off the hotel lobby and suites big enough to fit the whole crew, you may never want to leave. Dunk the kids in the heated pool after a day at Universal while you relax by the fire pit. Check out all the current offers that include breakfast, late checkout and discounts for military families. Bonus: downtown Burbank is just a few blocks away and offers tons of family-friendly dining options like Shake Shack and Gordon Biersch.

Hilton Garden Inn Burbank Downtown
401 S. San Fernando Blvd.
Burbank, CA
Online: hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com

To see what Red Tricycle Editors are up to this month, follow us on Instagram!

—Jennifer O’Brien & Kate Loweth

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DC Universe: The Exhibit is Here!

by rtelizabethkate

If your little caped crusader just can’t get enough of superheroes, there’s a new tour in town that will thrill them as much as an invisible jet. Warner Bros Studios opened their newest attraction, DC Universe: The Exhibit in May and it’s a must-see for die-hard comic fans and casual Super Man fans alike. While you wait for the Wonder Woman movie (as we all are!), take a trip through the history of DC Comics and get up-close with the Super Heroes (and Super Villains) kids love.

photo: Elizabeth Kate

Hit the Back Lot
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour was, and is, a fabulous adventure into the history of Hollywood. The basic tour takes you behind the scenes of this famous motion picture studio’s 110-acre lot and into the actual sound stages where some of Warner Bros. hit shows have been made and where some of your faves are being shot today, including Ellen and The Big Bang Theory. The kids will love The Harry Potter Exhibit and The Picture Car Vault, where they can ride on Harry’s Broomstick in front of a green screen and take a Bat-Pod for a spin. Stage 48: Script to Screen is fully interactive and you and your family can discover how movies and TV shows are created, from start to finish. The magic of Hollywood is unveiled, in a very realistic way for budding moguls. (It’s more nuts and bolts than the tram ride at Universal, which is also a great peek into movie making.)

Then, the tour went and got super. New this summer, there’s a whole additional section; DC Universe: The Exhibit allows visitors to get up close and personal with authentic props and costumes from some of their favorite superhero movies and also take an exciting sneak peek at some of the sets, costumes, and props from the upcoming summer film, The Suicide Squad.

photo: Elizabeth Kate

Squad Goals?
Featuring a movie called The Suicide Squad, how appropriate is this exhibit for little ones? Ages 8 & up will love it and have a wonderful time seeing costumes that include favorites like Wonder Woman, Superman, Batman and the Joker. However, you’ll want to take a pass on this one if you have a younger crew. Some of the displays are too much for the littlest ones.

On that note, feel free to bring visiting grandma and grandpa along for the ride this summer. DC Comics started in 1934 and now for the first time ever, original classic comic books, some dating all the way back to the 30’s, are on display. These are the actual comic books that your grandparents knew and loved and only now have they been released from DC Comic’s vault.

photo: Elizabeth Kate

Hero History
DC Universe: The Exhibit gives you the chance to walk through the development of celebrated Super Heroes and Super Villains from their emergence in comic books to their most recent appearances in major blockbusters. To make it even more fun for kids, in addition to the classic characters, DC Comics has just introduced a whole new line up of Superhero Girls, including Batgirl, Supergirl, and (teenage) Wonder Woman.

The creators of these super “teen” characters hope the new faces will inspire all girls to become strong and independent young women. The exhibit will keep things fresh and new by rotating in these new characters, as well as different props, costumes, and scenery throughout the year.

photo: Elizabeth Kate

Super Heroes Get Interactive
It’s not all just walking and talking and looking. You’ll have to tear your kids away from the super-duper video games with huge color screens on consoles and iPads featuring all of the DC Comics’ Superhero video games as well as the popular LEGo games. Visit the original Belle Reve jail cell from The Suicide Squad, the Bat Lab from Ben Affleck’s first turn as Batman, and neat set pieces from this year’s Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice. The most daring kids can even get up close and personal with a glowing piece of radioactive Kryptonite. That’s a photo opportunity you won’t want to miss.

DC Universe: The Exhibit is $62 per person for a three-hour fun-packed tour for kids ages 8 & up. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood is open daily and closed on Christmas Day. Reservations are recommended and all children eight years or older are welcomed. Tickets are $62 per person and can be purchased online or by phone.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
3400 W. Riverside Drive
Burbank
818-977-8687
Online: wbstudiotour.com

Do you have a favorite studio tour?  Let us know your behind the scenes in the movie making world secrets in the comment section.

—Elizabeth Kate

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