CityWalk, known for its nightlife, diverse food choices, neon signs and entertainment options, was once a place you could walk into. But new security measures are now in place at the tourist attraction leading up to Universal Studios Hollywood.
People planning to visit CityWalk, not the theme park, do not need an entry ticket but are subject to the same park security rules – they wait in line to go through a metal detector and have their bag scanned.
When you go to a theme park, you don't need to go through security again. But for those who just want to grab a bite or see a movie in an IMAX theater, the security protocol is an additional — and possibly annoying — barrier. Online users commented on the inconvenience for moviegoers and whether it could cause some people to skip their trip to CityWalk.
But from visitors The Times spoke to on Thursday, the response was overwhelmingly positive.
Ernesto Lopez, who was from Stockton, was attending CityWalk for the second time with his family and said the security measures were “surprising”, but he felt safe. Lopez's relatives agreed.
“I didn't know we had to put our things in the basket, but it's actually a good safety measure,” Lopez said, referring to the bag check system.
Lopez added that the security that was evident in the surrounding area felt like an extra layer of protection. Apart from extra security guards, many places open to the public are cordoned off and the exits are guarded. Park-goers and those going to CityWalk are directed to new security checkpoints.
“There is no danger, nothing,” said Lopez. “It's safer.”
The policy was implemented this month and was not inspired by the World Cup, or the Olympics that will come to LA in two years, a Universal Studios spokesperson told The Times. The “protection bubble,” as it has been called on the Internet, has been active for months, and the ongoing construction was clearly visible.
The Universal Studios globe can be seen at the security checkpoint outside the theme park.
(Ethan Noah Roy / For The Times)
The new security measures align the Hollywood attraction with other Universal Studios locations, according to a spokesperson.
“This approach is consistent with our locations across the country and at major sports and entertainment venues throughout Los Angeles,” a spokesperson said in an emailed statement.
The policy is similar to Disneyland, where visitors must go through security to access Main Street, USA, before entering the theme park and California Adventure.
When The Times was at the checkpoint Thursday afternoon, the security line was moving quickly at each checkpoint.
Jackie Segura, who was there with her daughter, called the line “quick and easy.”
“I have no complaints,” said Segura, a regular visitor.
The businesses had customers who were there to shop and visit the entertainment venue. Many restaurants had patios that were busy with people.
For first-time visitors Ty Birtles and his girlfriend, security protocol wasn't really a problem; it was easy to get in.
“But I have to remember to leave the weed shed next time,” she said.
