And here we are, at the colorful Universal Studios Hollywood of today. The look of the Studio has changed greatly over the years, especially with the addition of the just-expanded CityWalk retail and dining venue, but the heart of the Universal Tour remains true to its original concept -- offering guests a unique view of Hollywood movie magic as seen from the inside of a busy, functioning production studio.

The glimmering metal globe above harkens back to Universal's logo used in the early 1930s, but with a decidedly contemporary appearance. It stands at the 'crossroads' between the Tour and CityWalk to greet tourists disembarking from their buses, establishing the Studio's iconic stamp upon visiting eyes and minds. Just try and get a clear shot of it on any given day -- as you can see, I still couldn't clear the foreground on my third attempt, but at least I got the name to line up in frame!

Universal has gone to some lengths recently to spiff up their entrance plaza, which was rather formless and undramatic before this palm-lined walk was established a la movie premiere style. Since you're the star today, take your walk up the red carpet and through the gates of Universal Studios Hollywood.

© 2002 scott weitz