Transformers Metrobase & Universal Studios Tips
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Jingkids brings you the inside scoop on Universal Studios Beijing, before it’s open to the general public. Here’s a look at each of the lands inside the park and tips to make the most of your visit to Universal’s largest theme park ever! Check out our WeChat official account to see them all!
Tip 1: Universal Beijing Resort has announced its grand opening will be Sep 20! That means it’s just a few short weeks until Beijingers and folks from all over China descend on the park, plus its two resident hotels – Universal Studios Grand Hotel and NUO Resort Hotel – as well as CityWalk which will require no admission ticket.
Download their app from either the iPhone or Android app store by searching 北京环球度假区 Běijīng huánqiú dùjià qū, or access their mini program via WeChat (ID: gh_51d217a531b6) to purchase tickets.
Transformers Metrobase
We had the most unexpected fun at Metrobase. I was never really into all the Transformers movies, but this really changed my mind.
First of all, we had just walked over from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter which certainly seems like the most popular area of the entire park, so Transformers Metrobase was all but empty, which was great!
The Decepticoaster is the must-ride roller coaster for thrill-seekers. But if you’re with kids and can’t leave them on the side, Bumblebee Boogie is a cute alternative. It’s basically the spinning teacups ride but set to Bumblebee and his jams.
Likewise, we were super surprised in the best way possible by Transformers: Battle for the AllSpark, a 3D ride that takes you on a battle alongside Optimus Prime. Filled with twists, turns, and drops, you feel like you’re riding a roller coaster while fully immersed in a Transformer movie all at the same time.
Meet Windblade
After the ride, you’re led directly into The Supply Vault, that’s (as you can probably guess) a souvenir shop filled with Transformer-themed toys and swag. If you’re looking for a souvenir that’s not generic, there’s Windblade, a Transformer created specifically for Universal Beijing.
As for dining options, Energy Power Station offers Costa coffee and casual eats. Seriously, even the shrimp salad was a pleasant surprise. Other options in Metrobase include Hall of Order for quick bites and Swerve’s Lounge, also for those looking for something casual.
Scroll to see Energy Power Station menu
And since you’re already in Metrobase, one of the fast entertainment lines is Transformers: More than Meets the Eye. This is a great photo op and a cool chance to meet giant Transformers. Since it’s just a quick photo, the queue moves along super quickly.
Pro Tips:
Souvenirs can get really expensive really fast. If you’re looking for some Universal Studios Beijing swag for cheap, there are super adorable Minion pop boxes, Universal Studios Beijing bottles, and Butterbeer mugs that can be purchased from carts throughout the park. They’re less than RMB 100 each and come with snacks.
Stroller rental is available at the park. From the looks of the blue rentals, they’re pretty comfortable for the kids to take a quick nap in and can also help carry the many, many bags that you need to bring along with you. RMB 100/day for single. RMB 130/day for double.
Wheelchair rental, lock service, and luffa storage are available on CityWalk. Wheelchairs are RMB 100/day.
All the bathrooms are kid-friendly and clean. However, since we went before the park officially opens, we don’t know if they’ll be selling feminine products and diapers in the dispensing machines in the bathrooms. If your kid still wears diapers, it’s best to bring a few extras. There might not be a place available to purchase them in the park.
Bring a water bottle (or buy a reusable souvenir one). There are water fountains throughout the park and even in the queue lines of popular attractions. Stay hydrated!
Like in high school, a bathroom pass is a thing. If you’re in the queue and need to use the facilities, be sure to get a bathroom pass from a staff member before you hop out of line. They’re big on not letting people cut the queue, so if you leave without one, there’s a chance you’ll lose your spot even if you have people waiting in line with you.
Outside food is allowed in the park. Having some cookies in your backpack is a great idea for those long queues.
If you’re visiting with young kids, a micro luggage scooter is a good idea for long queues. Strollers are not allowed to be taken into the queues since they snake over and over again. But a small suitcase that doubles as a seat for your child is allowed.
If you’re a Potter fan, you’re going to want to buy everything in Hogsmeade, especially the sweets at Honeydukes. But before you get carried away and load your bag with chocolate, remember that keeping chocolate in your bag all day will probably get gross. We heard some people complain about their chocolate frogs melting in the bags. Instead, wait till you’re on your way out and hit up the shops in Hollywood. They’ve got the same candies and you won’t have to worry about them getting squished or melting.
Every night there’s a parade in Hollywood. If you don’t care much for parades, this is a good time to hit up the super popular rides. Since the parade itself is a recommended must-see attraction, most park-goers will be in Hollywood watching that, leaving you with short queues in the rest of the park.
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Images: Mina Yan, Uni You, Vivienne Tseng-Rush, Billy Jin
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