No compensation was received for this post. Media tickets provided.
With the end of the school year just weeks away, I’ve been thinking about how we can make the most of our summer. I anxiously anticipate this chunk of time where I can spend lots of quality time with my children, particularly with my son who is now a full-time, school-aged little boy. Since we live in what I think is one of the most family-friendly cities in the country, we have access to all kinds of different activities that make for incredible kid-friendly adventures. It had been some time since our last visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, so I was excited when the Hollywood-centric theme park and film studio invited us to check out their brand new Super Silly Fun Land! My kids are HUGE Minion-fans, so the anticipation of being immersed within a land dedicated to Gru’s yellow, jibberish-speaking henchmen brought out the sillies in my kids.
Having worked at the park as a teenager, I have to admit that the theme park’s transformation is impressive. Universal Studios Hollywood began “making over” the park in 2012 and the five-year plan includes the debut of Springfield, an immersive land surrounding The Simpsons Ride, Fast & Furious – Supercharged which will be the new finale to the Studio Tour, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter which will intricately and authentically bring both the books and the films to life.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Super Silly Fun Land are the latest additions to Universal Studios Hollywood, and my first impression was that it felt authentic and true to the Universal Studios’ films. If the area looks and feels vaguely familiar, that is because it is a literal interpretation of the seaside carnival depicted in the original film Despicable Me. What’s particularly unique about this land is that it was designed for younger children like my daughter.
Admittedly, our experiences at the park in previous years were limited due to their age and height, but the opening of this land and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem have given my children a place that offers the thrill of rides, character meet and greets, water play, and the opportunity to get their sillies out.
When you first walk into Super Silly Fun Land, you’ll see what resembles a boardwalk and several carnival games including Super Silly Space Killer and Minion Mishap, and Minion Toss. You can probably guess that the sought-after prizes were inspired by the film.
Located just to the right of the entrance is an expansive water-play area with more than 80 different water-play features. This is the perfect way to cool off during the summer months since California is notorious for temperatures in the 90’s and 100’s as we get deep into Summer.
The sole ride inside this land is the Silly Swirly Fun Ride which soars and spins guests around with aerial views of the park. My daughter loved being able to control the vehicle!
Interestingly enough, my daughter spent a large part of our day at the Super Silly Playground, which includes areas for kids to climb, jump, and slide. If you need to help your child get his/her sillies out, I highly recommend this area since it’s shaded and has plenty of seating areas.
I’m certain your children won’t let you leave without a ride on Despicable Me Minon Mayhem, and rightly so. This 3-D ride simulator takes you on an immersive adventure with Gru, his daughters, and the Minions as you “train” to become a Minion! Hilarious, zany, and reminiscent of the popular films, you’ll finish with a Minion-inspired dance party!
As you can imagine, I had a very difficult time convincing my daughter to take a break for lunch. Fortunately, kid-friendly options are available at the adjacent Gru’s Lab Café. Each of the eats and treats are inspired by Despicable Me and highlights include El Macho’s Nacho’s, Gru’s Backyard Rotisserie Chicken, Minion Meatball Sandwich, and Vector’s Grilled Cheese with Pulled Pork Sandwich. If you’re a vegetarian, ask for Dr. Nefario’s Lab Salad without shrimp. The desserts offered are delectable and include Minion Cupcakes, Banana Chocolate Shakes, Fresh Fruit Cups, Freeze Ray Smoothies, and freshly-made Banana Waffles (after 3 pm).
Admittedly, I felt like the options for the kids’ meals were a bit sparse and would really love to see a healthy option. At present kids can choose from a meatball slider or a mac & cheese cube. If you’re planning to spend some time at the park this summer, consider purchasing their Minion Collectible Character Sipper. The up-front price is $15.99 but refills are just $0.99 which is a STEAL!
Are you ready to get your sillies out? Be sure to check out the Minion Mayhem at Universal Studios Hollywood this summer. And for more information about Super Silly Fun Land, visit UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.
Images: Rockin’ Mama unless otherwise noted.
- Discover Luxury at Sonesta Irvine: Your Ideal Staycation - August 8, 2024
- CHOC Walk Returns to the Disneyland Resort – Special Events and Ways to Support - June 28, 2023
- Beastly Ball Returns to the Los Angeles Zoo - May 8, 2023
This looks like so much fun!
So much fun Deanna!!!