Carl Laemmle chose a former chicken ranch as
the home of his Universal Studios. The year was 1915, and Laemmle was producing
silent films with such stars as Lon Chaney, who made his classic "Phantom of the
Opera" here in 1925.
Make no mistake with 9,000 employees, Universal Studios is Universal
City. Laemmle himself began the first tours, providing his patrons with a box lunch
and charging them a quarter to watch the movie-making process. Today, the tour does
a monster business, attracting more visitors than any other Los Angeles County venue.
Universal CityWalk, which is part of the huge
Universal complex, features more than three dozen colorful shops and restaurants.
Those who catch a concert at the 6,200-seat Universal Amphitheater can grab dinner before
the show at the Wolfgang Puck Cafe, Gladstone's, Camacho's or Tony Roma's or a drink
afterward at B.B. King's Blues Club and Restaurant. It's a popular place for a
Friday or Saturday night date, with Wizardz Magic Club and Dinner Theatre particularly
inviting. There's also the 18-screen Universal Cineplex Odeon Cinemas. Or
simply stroll from one end of CityWalk to the other, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. |
