Things to Do Before WUSS 2025, After, and During Breaks
Make the Most of Your Conference Experience
Universal Studios Hollywood is not only a world-renowned theme park but also a gateway to interesting neighborhoods, entertainment districts and special attractions. Below are activities to consider. If your schedule allows, arrive in Los Angeles a day or two before the conference begins and/or stay a day or two after.
For expert directions and even more ideas, visit the Sheraton Universal Hotel’s concierge desk (ask for Fernando!). The theme park and adjacent CityWalk are just a short walk or shuttle ride (complimentary) away from our conference hotel. Finally, YouTube is full of things to do in the greater Los Angeles Metropolitan area (with pictures of course!).
Walking/Shuttle Distance
Universal Studios Hollywood
If your schedule allows, treat yourself to the full experience of Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park. Evening tickets are often available. Enjoy …
- Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic World
- Adrenaline-fueled rides like Transformers: The Ride-3D and Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride
- The world-famous Studio Tour gives you an insider’s look at behind-the-scenes action on four acres of historic studio “backlot”. Highlights include the Bates Motel and Psycho House, the crashed airplane from War of the Worlds, Courthouse Square from Back to the Future and special effects demonstrations.
- Throughout the day there are live performances ranging from the stunt show WaterWorld to interactive meet-and-greets with characters (e.g. Shrek).
- One of the best-known seasonal events is Halloween Horror Nights—a spine-tingling collection of haunted mazes and scare zones inspired by iconic films and TV shows(https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/hhn/en/us). WUSS 2025 attendees really lucked out: this year’s Opening is September 4-6, just as our conference is concluding!
Universal CityWalk Hollywood
Adjacent to Universal Studios, CityWalk (free) is a dynamic three-block promenade with over 50 casual to fine dining restaurants, shops, live music and cinemas. It’s a great spot for an evening out (https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us/things-to-do/lands/citywalk).
- Restaurants: There are over 30 places to eat at CityWalk. You can sample everything from Mexican street food to American BBQ: Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. for seafood lovers, Samba Brazilian Steakhouse for a hearty meal, or Antojitos Cocina Mexicana for vibrant flavors and festive décor. NBC Sports Grill & Brew offers a lively atmosphere and classic American fare.
- Fine Dining: Restaurants like VIVO Italian Kitchen or The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen offer more upscale meals and craft beverages.
- Stroll: Grab a coffee from Starbucks or Voodoo Doughnut and enjoy some fresh air and the best people-watching along CityWalk.
- Shopping: Find quirky gifts or LA-themed souvenirs at CityWalk’s varied retail outlets from the Universal Studio Store to It’Sugar, a candy lover’s paradise.
- Photo Opportunities: Snap a quick selfie with the iconic Universal Studios globe or capture street performers and neon-lit storefronts on CityWalk.
- Movies: CityWalk’s Universal Cinema is an 18-plex including a PRIME at AMC® theater and a 6-story IMAX® with LASER, making it L.A.’s ultimate movie experience!
- Live Music and Shows: CityWalk frequently hosts live music, street performances and special events. Check the schedule ahead of time or consult with the hotel concierge for concerts, comedy nights, or themed parties.