Universal Studios Singapore guide
A common meeting ground during the school holidays, Universal Studios Singapore (USS) requires no introduction. Daredevils come here for the exhilarating Battlestar Galactica, while kids go ham over the meet-and-greet sessions with their favourite characters.
So if you’re still looking for a way to use your Singapore Rediscover Vouchers, here’s a guide to USS based on which zones to conquer first, the attractions with the highest rated thrill-factor, and the best food available. This helps you beat the crowd and maximise your day here so you don’t spend half the time queueing.
Note: Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, some of the attractions and shops are closed. More details on the current measures further below.
Check out other things to do in Singapore:
Universal Studio Singapore’s seven zones
Image credit: @positive_energy83
Movie fans are sure to be appeased by USS’ seven zones that take on themes from family-friendly shows like “Sesame Street” and blockbuster films like “Transformers”. Each zone features a different theme and has its own rides, retail shops and restaurants.
The park’s layout is circular, so you can easily navigate through the different zones. But the trick is to not start with the first zone you see or follow the order of the loop; we recommend making a beeline for either the top rides on your bucket list or the inner zones to stay ahead of queues.
Thrill seekers should head straight for the Revenge of The Mummy ride at Ancient Egypt, while families with young ones can hop over to Far Far Away, since both zones are located farther in. Else, if you’re arriving just when the park opens, just chiong towards your favourite rides before exploring the rest of the park.
1. New York & Hollywood
Image credit: @akiasncn
New York and Hollywood are two small zones combined, and they’ll make you feel like you’re walking through an actual movie set. Decked out in city lights and flanked by iconic landmarks and buildings, these zones are possibly the closest you’ll get to these glamorous US cities without stepping out of Singapore.
Here, you can hop aboard the Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase ride to experience an adventure with your favourite childhood heroes in the flesh. Else, be sure to experience a Steven Speilberg blockbuster sequence for yourself with the Lights, Camera, Action! show*.
* Unavailable until further notice
2. Madagascar
Image credit: @urvashianand
Both kids and adults who are young at heart will surely be familiar with the fun-loving zoo animals of Madagascar. Embellished with thick foliage, wooden crates and animal prints, this zone will let you tour the home of Alex, Melman, Gloria and Marty – you might even see these characters parading around IRL.
Hop onto the chill Madagascar: A Crate Adventure river cruise or go on a fun carousel ride on King Julien’s Beach Party-Go-Round.
3. Far Far Away
Image credit: @fl_ash_
Arguably the most iconic zone of Universal Studios Singapore, Far Far Away is home to the majestic castle from “Shrek”. It doesn’t just serve as an IG-worthy backdrop, of course – it’s where you can catch shows like Shrek 4-D Adventure which brings the story of Shrek, Fiona and Donkey to life via sensory effects like water jets and movements.
For those who prefer easygoing rides, head here for the story-driven Puss In Boots’ Giant Journey roller coaster. If you’re looking for a little more thrill that’s kid-friendly, the Enchanted Airways roller coaster will do it for you.
4. The Lost World
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“Jurassic Park” fans will no doubt recognise the humongous iconic doors fit to keep T-Rexes at bay at The Lost World. Spot dinosaur statues and hop onto themed rides to reenact scenes from your favourite “Jurassic Park” movie.
Soar in the sky on the Canopy Flyer roller coaster to get a bird’s eye view of the entire zone, or explore a dense dino-filled jungle on the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure’s water rafts. There’s also WaterWorld, an action-packed live water show based on the Hollywood blockbuster of the same name.
5. Ancient Egypt
Image credit: @mistiblu11
Take a trip to Ancient Egypt where you’ll get to see replicas of Egyptian guards donned in elaborate clothing, Mummies in tombstones and olden-day artifacts – basically your typical mental picture of Egypt.
While you’re there, don’t miss the Revenge of the Mummy high-speed enclosed roller coaster for an adrenaline rush. If high speeds aren’t your thing, go for the Treasure Hunters ride that takes you through archaeological “sites”.
6. Sci-Fi City
As its name suggests, you can expect robots and all-things-tech in this futuristic Sci-Fi City. Home to the not-to-be-missed “Transformers” autobots, this is the place to go to for iconic wefies with Bumblebee and Optimus Prime.
It also has the two of the most sought-after rides in the park: Battlestar Galactica: HUMAN vs. CYLON roller coaster and the thrilling 3D ride, TRANSFORMERS The Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle.
Rides and attractions at Universal Studios Singapore
Aside from good vibes and movie-themed zones, most flock to this eclectic theme park for its hair-raising roller coasters and family-friendly attractions. Here are some of the must-visit rides ranging from low to high on the thrill factor for both the scaredy cats and the gungho.
Battlestar Galactica: HUMAN Vs. CYLON
Battlestar Galactica
Diehard fans of rollercoasters who are up for a challenge can have their go at the Battlestar Galactica: HUMAN Vs. CYLON. Acclaimed as the world’s tallest duelling roller coasters at the highest point of 42.7M, these two roller coasters are definitely not for the faint of heart. Expect 360° turns and massive sudden drops, all while going at a speedy 90KM/H.
Thrill factor: 5/5
Revenge of the Mummy
Image credit: YongQuan Huang
Imagine a high speed roller coaster at 70KM/H with fireballs and creepy mummies in Ancient Egypt, on top of sudden drops, accelerations and even backward motions. The catch? The Revenge of the Mummy operates in near complete darkness, so you won’t be able to anticipate any of them.
Thrill factor: 4/5
TRANSFORMERS The Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle
Those with a fear of heights will have no more excuses to not go on this ride. Believe it or not, the TRANSFORMERS The Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle does not physically plunge down steep descents – it’s mostly the work of the exceptional 3D effects and movements of the carriage.
It’s a crowd favourite among park-goers and “Transformers” fans alike, and you’ll get to be part of a movie scene where the Autobots go up against the Decepticons on high-rise buildings and subway tunnels.
Thrill factor: 4/5
Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure
Image credit: @tuckyair
If you’re game for a white water rafting adventure, hop aboard the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure to ride the choppy waters of The Lost World. You’ll get up close and personal with animatronic dinosaurs that might just try to chomp on you.
We recommend bringing your own ponchos or purchasing one at the ride entrance for $2 if you don’t want to get your clothes wet. Else, there are life-sized dryers available for rent afterwards at $5 if you sustained more than just a splash.
Thrill factor: 3/5
Canopy Flyer
Image credit: RWScoop
Instead of being the designated guardian of your friends’ belongings, those who are terrified of all things high-speed can cruise along the Canopy Flyer. You’ll get to enjoy unparalleled views of The Lost World below. Though it doesn’t move at breakneck speed, it may get a little speedy so you can enjoy a little dose of thrill.
Thrill factor: 2/5
Other must-visit attractions
Aside from these, there are also a slew of family-friendly rides for both the young and old. The low-speed joyride Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase that zips you through space with Elmo and Super Grover. There’s also Madagascar: A Crate Adventure, a scenic boat ride that takes you through iconic scenes from the movie.
After you’re done with the rides, head over to the deluge of shows like crowd-favourite WaterWorld and Shrek 4-D Adventure that you won’t want to miss.
What to eat & where to shop at USS
Entertainment and rides aside, USS doesn’t fall short on dining options that include themed restaurants and classic Western fare. You’ll also want to set aside time to visit the retail shops to stock up on USS merch.
Note: During this period, only Mel’s Drive-In, Loui’s NY Pizza Parlor, Fossil Fuels and Goldilocks are open until further notice. Select food carts will also still be open.
Mel’s Drive-In
Image credit: RWScoop
For some hearty burgers and sinful American style milkshakes, hop by Mel’s Drive-In. Have a go at Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger ($16) for something classic, or the Portobello Mushroom Burger ($15) for the herbivores. There are also sweet must-tries like Milkshakes ($8) and Chocolate Brownies ($7) to end your meal on a high.
Goldilocks
You can’t go wrong with good ol’ fried chicken. Goldilocks is known for their homemade seven-spice fried chicken that’s tender and juicy. Choose between 2-pc ($16) or 3-pc Chicken ($18.50) that comes in either tom yum or garlic flavour, with a side of nuggets.
Image credit: Super C via Burpple
Their range of sides include Hot Wings ($12), Onion Rings ($7) and Tater Tots ($5). Those with a sweet tooth can delight in Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream (from $7) for dessert – you can even opt for Shrek Waffles with ice cream (from $15) for an even sweeter treat.
Loui’s NY Pizza Parlor
Image credit: Four Square
A pizza never fails to check off all the boxes for a quick and easy lunch. Swing by Loui’s NY Pizza Parlor for some giant slices of Original NY Pizzas ($8/slice, $40 for whole pizza).
Also, the old adage “the early bird catches the worm” is indeed a mantra to live by – especially if you want to beat the crowd at your favourite rides. Start the day early with the buffet Breakfast with Sesame Street characters* (from $32) for your kids when Covid-19 restrictions ease.
* Unavailable until further notice – check out the USS website for updates.
KT’s Grill
In true Irish-American fashion, KT’s Grill has ribs, burgers and pastas galore. Indulge in the Chef’s Special BBQ Baby Back Ribs ($29) that comes with fries and salad, or the DIY Pasta Treat ($19) where you can choose your own sauce base and toppings.
* Temporarily closed until further notice.
Retails shops for movie merch
Image credit: RWS
If you’re a loud and proud fan of the pop culture franchises featured at USS, the slew of retail shops at USS are a must-visit.
Head down to Big Bird’s Emporium for some Sesame Street collectibles or set aside time to browse the TRANSFORMERS Supply Vault to stock up on Bumblebee apparel.
Image credit: @heyprecious
On top of that, there’s also the Hollywood China Arcade where you put your driving skills to the test and shoot hoops to win e-tickets, which can be used to exchange for USS merch. Game credits are priced at $1 but you’ll get bonus credits for top ups $10 and above.
* Temporarily closed until further notice.
Character meet-and-greet and street entertainment
Kids or full-fledged adults alike who are fans of “Despicable Me”, “Sesame Street” and “Transformers” should have their cameras charged to 100% when you’re here. You can catch your favourite characters waltzing through the streets of USS where they’ll be more than happy to snap a pic or two with you.
Hollywood Dreams Light Up Parade
If that isn’t enough, look forward to the Hollywood Dreams Light Up Parade which is the hallmark of every USS experience. It features characters from Hollywood movies parading the roads on larger-than-life floats and dazzling costumes. There are also interactive shows like Rhythm Truck and Turntables that’ll drop the beat and get you into your dancing mood.
Note: Due to Covid-19 restrictions, most street entertainment, meet-and-greets and show performances will not be available until further notice.
USS Covid-19 restrictions
As of time of writing, below are some of the safe distancing measures you need to take note of to make the most out of your next visit:
- New operating hours – USS is now open from 12PM-7PM, Thursdays to Sundays only
- Staggered ride timings – refer to the USS website for the latest ride hours
- Limited tickets due to capacity limit – reservations are required before visiting
- Maximum group sizes following the current government restrictions
Guide to Universal Studios Singapore
Whether you’re in need of a novel experience to quell your wanderlust or simply want to experience thrills of sorts, a trip to Universal Studios Singapore will be the perfect daycation to make you feel young at heart all over again.
Getting there: Alight at Harbourfront MRT Station that’s located on the Circle Line and Purple Line and board the Sentosa Express. Alight after one stop at Resorts World Station. Else, you can take the Sentosa Boardwalk by foot at Vivocity.
Universal Studios Singapore
Price: From $66/adult and $58/child. View the full list of USS ticket types and prices
Address: Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, Singapore 098269
Opening hours: Thu – Sun 12PM-7PM (Closed from Mondays to Wednesdays)
Universal Studios Singapore website
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Cover image adapted from: RWS (bottom right)
