Hey there, fellow explorers! I’m excited to share our family’s recent escapade at Universal Studios Singapore.
If you’re like us, always on the hunt for a thrilling, yet family-friendly outing, then buckle up. Our day at Universal Studios was a whirlwind of fun, excitement, and some unexpected lessons learned.
🚕 Getting There: A Smooth Ride
Our journey to Universal Studios Singapore started with a practical decision – taking a cab. It cost us around SGD $15 and conveniently dropped us at the underground casino entrance.
This route was a shortcut right to the heart of Sentosa Island and the gates of Universal Studios.
For families traveling with kids, we found the Zig app to be an excellent alternative to Grab. It allowed us to book a registered taxi where kids could ride without booster seats – a common requirement in other ride-sharing options.
This little detail made our start hassle-free and comfortable, especially with the excitement bubbling amongst us.
🎟️ Tickets and Essentials
The tickets were priced at SGD 83 for adults and SGD 62 for kids aged 4-12.
To our delight, our youngest, aged 3, got in for free, which was a pleasant surprise.
The essential part of our gear was our travel stroller. As we entered the park, we realized just how much walking was ahead of us.
The stroller was not just a convenience; it was a necessity. It gave our kids a chance to rest and rejuvenate, especially when the excitement started to wear them down.
🎬 Hollywood: First Impressions
The Hollywood zone was our first encounter in this realm of fantasy.
The moment we stepped in, it felt like we were on an actual movie set. The attention to detail, the vibrancy of the colors, and the seamless theming set a high bar. Compared to theme parks back in Australia, Universal Studios Singapore was in a league of its own.
It was immaculate, lively, and filled with a sense of wonder. We noticed the Trolls Hug Time Jubilee showtimes – a must-watch for later, we thought, as we made a mental note of the schedule.
🌆 Thrills and Chills in New York
The New York zone was a blend of the contemporary and the classic. The highlight here was the Lights, Camera, Action! ride, spearheaded by Steven Spielberg. It was an exhilarating experience that took us through a staged hurricane in New York City.
The collapsing roof and other effects were impressively realistic, creating an intense experience that left us both awe-struck and a bit rattled. It was a bit much for the younger ones (spoiler alert!), but an unforgettable experience nonetheless.
We later circled back to the Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Race. This ride was a more relaxed, air-conditioned journey, perfect for younger kids. It’s a whimsical ride through space with Sesame Street characters, filled with delightful animations and gentle movements that kept our kids enchanted and giggling.
🎭 Meeting Characters and Enjoying Shows
One of our top tips for anyone visiting Universal Studios Singapore is to keep track of the show schedules. We took a photo of the day’s schedule for shows and meet-and-greets near the New York stage.
It helped us plan our day efficiently, ensuring we didn’t miss out on exciting experiences like meeting the Minions and seeing Santa. The character interactions were a standout feature of our visit. The kids’ faces lit up with joy as they met their favorite characters in person.
These moments were not just photo opportunities; they were magical experiences that brought our kids’ favorite characters to life.
🤖 Sci-Fi City’s Wonders
Sci-Fi City was a futuristic wonderland that captivated us all. The Transformers meet-and-greet, especially with the gigantic, interactive Optimus Prime, was a highlight of this zone.
The massive, moving animatronic was not just a static display; it interacted with the crowd, spoke, and even knelt down for photos, making it a surreal experience for both kids and adults. The zone was a visual spectacle, with its futuristic cityscape and interactive experiences around every corner. The intricate designs and the dynamic interactions with characters made it feel like we had stepped into a sci-fi movie.
The attempt to ride the Battlestar Galactica, however, was met with a twist of fate – maintenance issues and a sudden downpour typical of Singapore’s unpredictable tropical climate. Though disappointed, the anticipation and the sight of the impressive structure made it memorable.
🏜️ Ancient Egypt: A Timeless Adventure
As we wandered into the Ancient Egypt zone, the sheer scale and authenticity of the theming transported us back in time. The towering statues and thematic architecture were not just visually impressive; they created an immersive atmosphere that captivated us all. Here’s what stood out:
- The Rides:
- Treasure Hunters: This easygoing ride was a hit with the kids. It’s a gentle car journey around a well-crafted Egyptian landscape, complete with statues and an aura of adventure. Perfect for young explorers, it offered a peaceful break from the more intense attractions.
- Revenge of the Mummy: We didn’t ride this one (a bit too intense for our little ones), but the buzz around it was palpable. It’s known for its thrilling indoor rollercoaster experience, combining dark ride elements with fast-paced action.
- The Ambiance:
- The zone is adorned with incredible Egyptian artifacts and hieroglyphics. Walking through felt like an exploration of a lost world, with each corner unveiling a new aspect of ancient Egyptian culture.
🦖 The Lost World: Dinosaur Mania
The Lost World was an entirely different experience, a paradise for our youngest dinosaur enthusiast. This zone felt like stepping into a prehistoric world, with its lush greenery and towering dinosaur statues.
- Dino Soarin: This ride was perfect for the kids. They got to ‘fly’ on the back of colorful dinosaurs, controlling their ascent and descent. It was a gentle, enjoyable ride, offering great views of the surrounding area.
- Canopy Flyer: A bit more thrilling, this ride was a family favorite. It’s a suspended roller coaster that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the Lost World. The ride is exciting without being too intense, making it suitable for slightly older kids.
- The Atmosphere:
- The Lost World is filled with life-sized dinosaur statues, perfect for photo ops. The lush vegetation and soundscape added to the prehistoric feel, making it a comprehensive and engaging experience.
🏰 Far Far Away: A Shrek-tacular Experience
Our next stop was Far Far Away, home to Shrek and his friends. This zone felt like stepping right into the movies, with its fairy tale-themed architecture and vibrant colors.
- Shrek 4D Adventure: This was an immersive experience that combined 3D film with physical effects. Being in the front row made it quite intense. The middle rows offer the best experience, where the effects and film blend seamlessly for an engaging adventure.
- The Enchanting Setting:
- The castle, the focal point of this zone, is a marvel. The area buzzes with the charm of the Shrek universe, making it a delightful experience, especially for fans of the movies.
🍔 Food and Dining
- Cuisine Variety: Each restaurant in the park caters to a different theme. We were on the lookout for simple, kid-friendly meals.
- The Diner Near the Entrance: This became our go-to spot for easy, Western-style food. It was a hit with the kids, offering familiar and comforting menu options.
🤩 Upcoming Attractions: Minions World
- Minions World: Slated to open early this year, this new addition promises to add even more vibrancy and fun to Universal Studios Singapore. We’re eagerly looking forward to exploring it.
💡 Tips and Takeaways
- Express Pass: Next time, we’re definitely considering this for quick access to popular rides.
- Stroller Necessity: A lifesaver for tired little legs.
- Pack Snacks and Hydration: Essential for keeping energy levels up.
- Weather Preparedness: Singapore’s climate is hot and humid, with frequent showers. Be ready for sudden weather changes.
- Food Options: Explore the variety, but keep an eye out for simple options for the kids.
Our adventure at Universal Studios Singapore was an incredible blend of fun, discovery, and family bonding. It’s a place where every turn brings a new experience and every moment is a memory in the making. If you’re planning a visit, these insights will hopefully help you make the most of your adventure!
