Fans of “The Simpsons” already know that Homer Simpson is a big fan of Duff beer, Krusty Burgers and Lard Lad Donuts, but beginning Wednesday, those culinary favorites will migrate from the world of animation and become available to visitors at Universal Studios Hollywood.
The theme park, which already boasts a Simpsons Ride and a Kwik-E-Mart convenience store, will open its “Springfield” village Wednesday, allowing visitors to wander through the streets and businesses made famous in Fox’s long- running animated hit.
Billed as an “immersive themed environment,” the Springfield attraction includes scenery and iconic locations that serve as a backdrop for Homer, Marge, Maggie, Lisa and Bart Simpson.
The hills of Springfield loom over the attraction, along with the cooling towers of the Springfield nuclear power plant. Also included are the Android’s Dungeon comic book and baseball card store, the Springfield Police Station and Aztec Theater.
Fans can also sip on favorites from Moe’s Tavern, enjoy down-home fare from Cletus’ Chicken Shack and savor dessert at Phineas Q. Butterfat’s Ice Cream Parlor.
The Springfield attraction is the latest installment of a renovation effort designed to put visitors into the world of their favorite films. The effort began last year with the debut of the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride and accompanying attractions from the animated films. That attraction includes Gru’s house and neighborhood, Miss Hattie’s Home for Girls and the Super Silly Fun Land seaside carnival featured in the movie.
Likely to be the crown jewel of the park’s renovation will come in 2016 with the opening of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” which will place visitors in the realm of the renowned book and film series. It will mirror the attraction that opened in 2010 at Universal Orlando Resort in Florida.
—City News Service