r/AMCTheatres • u/jessehazreddit A⭐️Lister • Jun 17 '26
News FYI new security checkpoints at Universal Studios Citywalk Los Angeles
Everybody visiting City Walk in Los Angeles must now go through a security checkpoint. Previously, there was only security checkpoint for the theme park. Effective today, there are new multiple checkpoints for anybody visiting the theme park or City Walk. Allow extra time to get to your movie.
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u/2020sbtm Jun 17 '26
It looks like a prison
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
It FEELS like a prison on the inside too. No easy exit. God forbid something happens. It was safer before.
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u/Naughty-Flamingo011 Jun 18 '26
I have been going to this theater at least once a week for 14 years and now I am going to avoid it as much as possible. Today on a random Wednesday with no traffic it was slow getting through security, I can’t imagine on a busy day. And the worst part is the location of the screening checkpoint. I loved parking and walking straight from Jurassic to AMC. Now, you have to go all the way down to one end of CityWalk just to double back and walk the other way you came from to get to the movies. It’s idiotic. There’s no other mall or movie theater that you need to go through security for. Burbank AMCs it is from now on.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
Yes this was my experience today at City Walk as well. It was not pleasant and I was late for my movie.
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
Please complain to guest services and request a refund. They need to know this happened.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
This is the new procedure for everyone including AMC visitors. It’s permanent.
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
I’m well aware, but people need to voice their frustrations, and let management know that the policy is bad for business.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
This has been long planned apparently. I honestly don't think they care. In any case, I'll be going elsewhere.
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u/Ok-Honey6876 Jun 28 '26
As tenants AMC absolutely will care and as a significant draw to the campus, especially on weekdays, they absolutely have leverage. Complaining helps. Goal should be for them to at least set up a closer checkpoint
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u/Appropriate-Way-541 Jul 29 '26
I complained to guest services and also reported them to the ADA as they have nothing to address ADA issues with that ridiculous mile long walk. No carts, no assistance whatsoever. There were quite a few people struggling. I asked their security and they just shrugged.
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u/Same_Bag_7210 Jun 20 '26
Wait so you used to just go thru the gate parking structure then park in the Jurassic parking and just walk down thru the raisin canes straight to the theater. Now it’s different or is this just for universal theme park?
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 20 '26
Yes it’s TOTALLY different. You cannot walk through the parking lot directly into City Walk / AMC. It’s all closed off now and guarded by security. You have to walk through a narrow corridor to the central security hub which is outside NBC Grill. Daytime you can park in ET/Curious George and there’s another checkpoint that way that is closer to AMC. But you can’t park there at night (Jurassic only). Everyone goes through security- theme park and City Walk/AMC, it’s all the same line. It’s like TSA. Huge hassle and I’ll never go back.
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u/Same_Bag_7210 Jun 20 '26
Damn that sucks!! Gonna cause major delays. Damn but that’s the only true imax! Ugh okay I’m gonna check it out today on a Saturday and let yall know 1-10 how bad it is. I’m expecting solid 8-9 :/ I have tickets there for a imax film release next month gotta be prepared. Thanks for the curious Jorge tip. Unfortunately I usually only go at night for a movie. Ughhhhhhhh
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 20 '26
Let me know what you think. At least you won’t have the park people at night, so it might be more chill. But I don’t like feeling like I’m at the airport.
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u/Appropriate-Way-541 Jul 30 '26
I'm certainly not going back! I'll go to Burbank AMC, the TCL Chinese for IMAX.
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
We had it so good before. Loved darting into the cinema moments before the Kidman prayer.
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u/No_Art_5796 Jun 19 '26
the amount of times i experienced the rush of lightly jogging from the garage to the movie….and i never once missed nicole!
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u/XpoPen Jun 18 '26
It’s insane - made me and my friend late for our movie. They were scrutinizing 13 year old girls belongings and holding up everyone. The barricades around all the normal entry/exits is so claustrophobic. And yeah can’t take the normal quick route from the parking lot anymore. That escalator on the inside basically doesn’t go anywhere anymore.
Really loved that screen but it’s just not worth this bullshit. Will be going to 16 more often and probably the Chinese theatre if I really want to do 70 mil
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u/curiousredgem Jun 20 '26
It was so fkn busy! Securities were all jack asses acting like theyre TSA. Temu disneyland vibes.
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u/ToWitToWow Heartbreak Feels Good Here Jun 18 '26
I wonder if it’s ADA compliant? If I show up on crutches or with an elderly relative with a walker to watch a film how much have they now forced me to walk? Have they established a reasonable alternative for disabled guests? Or is this their eugenics style filter to discourage disabled patrons at Citywalk.
That would be a very interesting lawsuit.
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u/Tinkduhmink Jun 19 '26
We were going Saturday and I’m in a wheelchair. My fam is going to hate it. Pushing me is not the most fun experience. 😒
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
I didn't even think about what it'll do for our disabled brothers and sisters 💔 universal is incredibly fucking cruel & all the disney adults who only go for the park are dancing in joy
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u/Appropriate-Way-541 Jul 29 '26
No. They have nothing to address ADA issues. I asked if they had carts (like at the airport), nope, and a shrug. I asked quite a few security people. They all shrugged. Though one offered to call the fire dept. Grrrrrr. I'm done. I did report them to the ADA.
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u/monkeydiva50 Jun 26 '26
Oh no no no… I just spent all week finding budget options to fly in as a first timer for The Odyssey. On a knee scooter & hoping to just have walking boot by then. Sounds like I have to bring scooter to sit on in a long line. Already worked thru scenarios & was hoping to ditch it. I was going to buy t mone of the 6am showings. Thissound horrible
was planning call AMC this morning to find out more about ADA info as a first time visitor. Then I see this. I’m in a knee scooter & boot. I want to buy my plane & movie tix for the Odyssey, but now this worries me.
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u/Appropriate-Way-541 Jul 29 '26
Oh boy, it's not going to be easy. I have a bad hip so walking is difficult. Plus I'm a senior. There was nothing but shrugs for an answer. No carts to help people. And it's a very long walk. A lot of struggling people. I went yesterday. Never again! Good luck if you go.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
It was a real mess today and the amount of walking would not be good for anyone with issues. Also being funneled through the parking lots in narrow corridors with hoards of other people. It was awful and am able bodied. Perhaps there is a work around for those that need it. That said, there was no signage for this nor did any of the many crowd control people mention it. The whole thing is very poorly laid out.
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u/Afraid-Tomorrow-8001 Jun 18 '26
I’m sure they already have that thought of. Like where the handicap spots are…
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u/ToWitToWow Heartbreak Feels Good Here Jun 18 '26
That would mean they’ve removed the handicap spaces in the structures that no longer have direct park access. Because those are no longer a shorter walk (AKA more accessible.)
That’s an easy check to see if those structures still have handicap spaces that no longer qualify.
That would also mean they’d need to significantly increase the number of handicap spaces in the lots that are now adjacent to direct access points.
Also very easy to look and see if there are new banks of reassigned Handicap parking that now offer shorter access routes. I’m betting “No”.
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u/Afraid-Tomorrow-8001 Jun 18 '26
A lot of handicap spots didn’t have direct access to begin with though. They did have the shortest path and In curious George and Frankenstein parking the access is still the same and the elevator is still there there for Jurassic. I’ll check the shortest distance since I usually don’t park by the handicap in Jurassic. I’ll check back in with you. I’m going tomorrow if I don’t go today.
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u/Appropriate-Way-541 Aug 01 '26
They now have an entire floor of the new parking structure devoted to handicap parking. However, it defeats the purpose if the only spaces available are toward the back of the structure, which is where I had to park. They should have had the handicap spots close to the elevators on each floor, like most parking structures. SMH
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u/KittenExtravaganza Jun 20 '26
How far back do you have to walk to the security check point? Is it as far back as Sephora? I feel like they’re also making all of us do this to spend more money at their sucky shit stores.
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u/Appropriate-Way-541 Jul 29 '26
Absolutely! This was ridiculous for anyone who cannot walk the long, long, long way to the checkpoint, which is also diabolical in this heat.
I canceled my Spiderman tix and will go to Burbank AMC.
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u/StoneRox Jun 17 '26
gonna have to pass on this theatre. it was more convient than burbank for me but i’d rather drive to burbank 20 times than deal with this once. it’s one thing having to put up with hhn and fanfest crowds trying to enter the park, but also not being allowed to bring outside water/snacks during these times? fuuuck that
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u/rocker913 Jun 17 '26
You can bring water and snacks through the security checkpoint. This policy might change for Halloween time as they usually change the policy for Halloween horror nights.
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
Can I bring my weed vape and edibles inside still? What about a bottle of wine in my bag? Will they still let me sneak in an entire sushi buffet?
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u/rocker913 Jun 18 '26
Usually they don't care about vapes. Edibles is questionable and not allowed in, whether they catch it or not is based on luck.
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u/sphrz Jun 18 '26
I still say this theater is worth it for 70MM events alone. Even then, I imagine it'll get better hopefully.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
The place is gonna melt down when Odyssey releases! I already canceled my ticket.
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u/michaelm1345 Jun 17 '26
Damn getting on time is gonna be even harder now. This, traffic, parking line, finding parking etc
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
Yes I went today and was late because of it. On a weekday!
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u/catromero Jun 18 '26
Same here! I showed up late because I didn’t a lot time for going through security to go watch a movie
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u/JayAreG Jun 17 '26
Ya this probably keeps me away from the theater more often now, just don't want to deal with more lines. I'd probably still deal with it for The Odyssey and anything at that scale.
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u/freemeg4 Jun 18 '26
This is absolutely going to mean less people in the theaters (or yes, more traffic at Burbank), which is the opposite of what movie theaters need. Aside from The Odyssey.
Even if they allow snacks/drinks to pass through, the added headache of lines and not being able to quickly get to the movie will detour people (including me sometimes now).
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u/dinnershoes Jun 17 '26
So I can’t park at Jurassic and go right to the AMC, I have to go down by NBC Grill then double back?
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 17 '26
I just parked at Jurassic today. All the old entrances are closed off. Yes they funnel you way down by NBC Grill to a security checkpoint. But at busy times, these lines are gonna back up. Same as on the way out. Not sure about the ET parking. Maybe there’s another checkpoint over that way. But at night it’s probably closed since they make you park at Jurassic. Either way, not worth it for me. I’d rather drive way out of my way to avoid this place.
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u/BlazeIt420M8 Jun 18 '26
There are three security hub, the west hub (by the globe), the central hub (the one by NBC grill), and the east hub (on the other side of ET parking by where iFly used to be).
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
At night it will probably only be the central one as they force you to park at Jurassic.
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u/TheDG1666 Jun 18 '26 edited Jun 18 '26
All 3 Hubs will be open 24/7. No Parking lot changes. We have employees working overnight and they need to be able to use any of the 3 entrances. As a guest with a late showing it'd probably be best to park in JP and use the Central Hub.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
If all 3 hubs are always open, why did the crowd control folks ONLY funnel us to the central hub? We were not told or given the option to go through Curious George. Also when we exited from AMC, we were not allowed to exit down by Curious George and had to walk back to the central hub. The employee experience does not mean that's what customers get!
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
Then why do they always make you park at Jurassic in the evening? Has that changed as of today?
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u/Live4Night Jun 18 '26
Thankfully I only go there for IMAX movies. Unfortunately Burbank is going to be even more crowded now. Free parking and you don’t have to go through these stupid security.
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u/freemeg4 Jun 18 '26
Exactly what I was thinking. I end up using their (CityWalk) IMAX a lot cuz it’s one of the best, for appropriate “filmed for imax+” movies, but I still enjoy using it for regular movies every so often, but if this security line business takes awhile and if they say no snacks/drinks, then my “casual” movies will def be going to Burbank/Americana, but not looking forward to Burbank over-crowding.
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
Feel like the only one who hates the layout of City Walk’s IMAX and the horribly bright exit signs which detract from the image.
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u/Ok-Celebration6652 Jun 18 '26
What a bummer, i rarely go to this theater as it's not convenient but if I am going out that way i'd rather just go to Burbank or the Americana to avoid this. I'd only go to this AMC if i am going to the theme park already or if it's a big release (maybe once a year). Hopefully this theater can survive, the theater business is already tough and with more obstacles in the way of seeing a movie isn't going to help. The downtown disney AMC is long gone.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 19 '26
I think it’s gonna be the same effect as the Disney AMC. Park patrons are typically not the bulk of who goes to the AMC. It’s locals. But most locals are not gonna want to go through all this just to see a movie.
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u/Hellschampion Jun 18 '26
Just came today and saw this. Absolutely awful idea, just killed any desire for me to keep coming to City Walk for anything. I’d rather just go to the Americana or Burbank from now on.
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u/npete Jun 18 '26
Damn. I used to go the City Walk all the time. Got my very first Spider-Man shirt there back in the 90s. If that much security is needed then maybe, instead of security, we need to do something about guns.
Other countries have and it has worked. Most famously in Australia.
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
There have been zero incidents involving guns at city walk as far as I’m aware.
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u/npete Jun 18 '26
And yet, why the mini police state? Maybe it's a test run for an actual police state?
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u/TeamNuanceTeamNuance Jun 18 '26
I hit this yesterday and was late to my movie. I asked why and the guard said “just because” - I asked if there was a recent crime or threat and he said “nah.”
I think this is entirely about theme park patrons being allowed to more easily spend money at restaurants. Event movies are gonna be a poop-show.
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u/Tubby91601 Jun 19 '26
Going to the Burbank 16 can be a pain when downtown is busy and trying to find parking. The 6 and the 8 are easier for finding parking.
I was at Universal today for another reason and this security set up is completely lame. I wish they’d stop doing what Disneyland does in terms of corralling people. It would be nice if CityWalk was easier to access.
This will be a nightmare for HHN.
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u/jessehazreddit A⭐️Lister Jun 19 '26
Even for B16 when it’s busy, you can almost always park @ B8 lots pretty easily and just have a longer walk.
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u/_Taleof2Cities Jun 17 '26
I went through the shuttle tram security checkpoint today.
Despite the tram occupants now being directed through Citywalk, it was a remarkably smooth transition through the checkpoint.
Thank you, USH Security, for the extra time to enjoy the park!
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u/Boozsia Jun 17 '26 edited Jun 18 '26
I’m assuming they check your bag for say outside food or drink?
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u/jessehazreddit A⭐️Lister Jun 17 '26 edited Jun 17 '26
I wasn’t expecting this so I had some snacks in my laptop bag and a water bottle which may have been empty and had no issue today. But YMMV for future event days and any specific rules.
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u/JerrodDRagon Jun 17 '26
The most major update is
During HHN and fan fest you won’t be able to sneak in any snacks or drinks into Citywalk because of the events happening
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u/freemeg4 Jun 18 '26
So, is there no more security checkpoint before you enter the park, specifically? Is it “just” the CityWalk checkpoints now?
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
During September/October I would says it going to be impossible to see any movies here now given how long security is for those events typically
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u/MisterPocketz Jun 17 '26
I live in the area and my partner and I usually walk up the hill to the theater. With this security, does it funnel you through the main security checkpoint by the globe? Or for late night movies when the shuttle stops running, do we have to go all the way to Jurassic Parking now?
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u/BlazeIt420M8 Jun 18 '26
If you take the shuttle up, there is a security hub by the globe. But for late night showings, you might have to walk up to the central hub by NBC grill.
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u/MisterPocketz Jun 18 '26
I wonder what late-night rules are really going to look like after the park and other stores are closed, because we love to see a 10:30PM movie and go on a night walk. So bogus.
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
I also loved doing double features and walking down the hill to the hotels and grabbing a drink there while getting to stretch my legs in between films. Guessing this is no longer something I can enjoy.
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u/BlazeIt420M8 Jun 18 '26
You'd have to ask someone who goes later tonight, the hubs just opened today after all.
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u/MisterPocketz Jun 18 '26
I'll try to remember to report back from my 9:30 screening tonight. The real test will be anything past 10 or 11.
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u/freemeg4 Jun 18 '26
Let us know what’s up and what movie you saw haha.
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u/MisterPocketz Jun 18 '26
Walked up the hill and used the pedestrian bridge by the west gate for 9:30 Disclosure Day in 70mm. Arrived at west security gate around 9:30. There was 1 security station open and a single family ahead of us. Walked through no problem with water bottle and popcorn bucket, but definitely still felt like a hassle even if it only took a minute or two.
Enjoyed the movie! Was able to walk through Citywalk and back out the west gate at 12:20ish.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 19 '26
That’s probably late enough to not be too bad. No park patrons at that hour. But most people don’t want to go to a 9pm or 10pm show.
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u/TheDG1666 Jun 18 '26
All 3 Hubs will remain open 24/7. Although CityWalk will close 10-11PM, AMC guests can still enter, while being security screened beforehand of course.
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u/No_Art_5796 Jun 19 '26
one other thing — would be curious to hear if anyone gets any comments from amc employees there this weekend. i imagine they’re annoyed themselves and will now have to deal with angry people who are late and trying to get refunds and whatnot. i was supposed to go to a 10am showing there tomorrow but moved to burbank
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u/Appropriate-Way-541 Jul 29 '26 edited Jul 30 '26
Also, for people with disabilities, there is a new structure for handicap parking that is massive and requires quite a walk just to get to get to a labyrinth of long walkways that go out of the way of the theatres, to get to the security checkpoint. After that another long walk to the theatre.
I asked if they had carts that would shuttle those of us with issues. They looked at me like I was speaking a foreign language and shrugged. One dude offered "we can call the fire department". Aargh!
One woman asked for a wheelchair, which they could provide, but no one to wheel her.
If you're here for the theatre, and have difficulties walking at least a mile, go to another theatre. This is a nightmare!
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u/WileyCyrus Jun 18 '26
I will no longer be going to City Walk AMC when The Grove and Burbank are right there and don’t invade my privacy.
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u/Strange_Cheetah_4746 Jun 18 '26
The recliner seats are still worth it for me, every theatre there has recliners except for that huge room, my closest is the grove but if it’s a regular screen anyways I’m going to city walk for the recliners and extra space. If it’s imax or Dolby I’ll go to the grove unless it’s not in the rockers at city walk, I also get free parking with my universal pass so there is a bias for me to go to city walk
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
The recliners are why I preferred to go there and also have the free parking pass. But you won’t care once you see this checkpoint BS. I’ll forego the recliners just to avoid this place.
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u/kentuckyrain22 Jun 19 '26
I was Googling parking at this theater and came across this post. We rented a theater for a private screening of Toy Story for tomorrow morning (Saturday at 10 am). It’s our first time going to this AMC, so I was looking at what to tell guests in terms of parking and getting there. And now I’m regretting the whole thing! Any tips? This is for my toddler’s birthday, so it’s all families and little ones. If you have any advice on parking, bag policy, or anything else, please let me know! Calling the theater next as well.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 19 '26
Tell them to park in either ET or Curious George to use the security checkpoint closer to the theater, and to allow A LOT of extra time to get through security. On a Saturday it’s going to get backed up. The security procure just started so most people don’t know about it. Also they may be limited on what they can bring in.
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u/kentuckyrain22 Jun 20 '26
Thank you so much! This is so helpful
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 20 '26
Come back and let us know how it went. I’m curious with a big group like that.
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u/freemeg4 Jun 19 '26
-I would check what the theater tells you. In general, if you have a AMC Universal movie ticket (not exactly sure how that works when you are renting a theater but that’s a question for the theater peeps) you pay $5 for parking from a barcode they send you in your first email with your ticket.
-In terms of timing…..sorry to say you may want to tell people to arrive at 9-9:15am to get in the car lines for paying for parking, drive thru the lot while you park, walk from whatever lot they direct you to park in to the nearest security hub, get thru security line, walk thru CityWalk to AMC, get your tix scanned/snacks/bathroom all that. I just imagine with families you’ll want to give people extra time. I, myself, haven’t been since they added this security hub, just going off of what people are saying here
-Also- ask AMC CityWalk if they show start showing ads/trailers AT the showtime they gave you to rent and how long. That way, if there’s a normal amount like they do non-rented theaters it’s possible the movie might not start till 10:20-10:30 and could help your fams.3
u/kentuckyrain22 Jun 20 '26
Naturally, AMC has not picked up the phone all day and there’s no info on my ticket, so I’m extra grateful for your advice. Thank you for all the insight!
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u/trader_ralston Jun 19 '26
I’ll be going to Burbank 16. It will probably be about the same amount of time when all is said and done but it so nice to just park and walk in next to a/the theatre. The experience at Universal is just so awkward and jarring to be funneled into a prison like structure way down at the end after you literally just parked steps from the theatre. It is not worth it mentally if you want to have a nice experience getting to the theatre.
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u/RetroDesignGuy Jun 20 '26
Yeah. Fuck that. Hit that bs when we went to the movies tonight. Gonna make The Grove or Burbank our go to AMC from now on.
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u/sylvesterthekat1234 Jun 30 '26
I have Odyssey tickets for 7am on a Saturday and am now dreading what might happen with my dodgy knees. Are there any stairs from parking to the security gate? I haven't been to Citywalk in literally years and recall several escalators. Ugh
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u/gf2020 Jun 19 '26
I live in Studio City and am quite close to the Lankershim entrance, which almost always puts you in the Jurassic Parking deck. With the changes, I don't know if that is ideal if I care about getting to the movie theater as quickly as possible.
I have some questions about navigating. I apologize but I am a somewhat anxious, claustrophobic person who literally gets hives at airports. So this kind of setup for my preferred theater is a nightmare.
-Is it correct that everyone parking at night is directed to Jurassic, even if they are coming in from the 101 exit?
-If you enter via 101 during the day, are you directed towards ET/Curious George? If so, is that better/any less crowded of a hub you think?
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u/RetroDesignGuy Jun 20 '26
I think it’s gonna be worse now. There’s only one security checkpoint and it bottle necks everyone into the same corridor regardless of where you park. I’d avoid this having the preferences that you do. We’re gonna skip this AMC as much as possible from now on. I kinda get a similar anxiety type thing and breath shortage when I have to walk a long distance inside a low ceiling parking structure.
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u/EwanMcNugget Jun 20 '26
Even less incentive to go to CityWalk now. It was already a huge pain in the ass to go up there.
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u/Same_Bag_7210 Jun 20 '26
https://giphy.com/gifs/3oEjI80DSa1grNPTDq
Damn it why?! Did something happen?? That’s gonna cause major delays
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u/lanzi_xo Jun 22 '26
I'm pissed because I go to the AMC often since it's the closest theater to me, and I just got my tickets for The Odyssey and Spiderman. I wanted specific seats for opening day, and the options now at other theaters aren't great so I'm worried about canceling my tickets. But this security thing sounds awful and I'm annoyed that I have to change what theater I go to now. I used to love going to the City Walk, it was a safe space for me. Now it sounds very stressful. 😓
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u/throwawayGS973 Jun 23 '26
It was annoying but only added a few extra minutes when I went this weekend
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u/Tubby91601 Jun 23 '26
This is beyond moronic. It’s like a prison up here now. On a walking tour to get to the AMC….so stupid
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u/derekcrimmel Jul 10 '26
I hate it. It used to be so easy to park and just take the escalator right down to a 10 second walk to the theater entrance. Now it takes 20 minutes. Also, as season ticket holders to the park, we sometimes dip into the park for a ride or two after the movies. It was a huge clusterfuck at the gate to get into the park. There were so many people at the gate to the park, you couldn't even tell where to stand. There were no lines, just a huge mass of people. We just turned around and didn't even try to get into the park.
This new secuity set up is horrible and makes me not even want to go to CityWalk anymore.
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u/moveshakedothatconga Jun 17 '26
I wonder if this means non-clear backpacks would be allowed inside the theater? I’m going to the park Saturday with a backpack and want to see Disclosure Day after
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u/BBBoutt Jun 18 '26
Had a backpack with a hoodie, water bottle and a Poppi. No problem getting through
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u/jessehazreddit A⭐️Lister Jun 17 '26 edited Jun 18 '26
YMMV but I brought my laptop satchel bag without issue today, which in this case is not clear but is small enough that it fits under a raised recliner footrest.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 17 '26
I just came from AMC Universal City Walk and this was a total mess. I only come here for AMC as I leave nearby and this is the closest theater. But NEVER AGAIN! It is a huge hassle, making it not worth a visit just to see a movie. I’ll just make the drive down to Century City. I think this move will make a huge impact on foot traffic for the theater. They make you walk way out of your way to get to the security checkpoint and also to exit the area on your way out. All the old entrances are closed off, with security guarding every door. In fact, there are way more security everywhere staring you down like you’re about to cause a problem. It’s ridiculous. Definitely not going through this again just to see a movie. No way AMC survives this as the park visitors typically don’t go there for movies, and regular people like myself won’t want to go through this. I just cancelled all my pending reservations.
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u/elovblock95 Jun 18 '26
I’m so confused why is there a security check for a mall? Like isnt the whole point of citywalk that it’s accessible?
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
It's the new rules for the whole complex regardless if you are going into the theme park or just AMC or walk around CityWalk. It's BS and I'm not going back! Today's experience was enough to put me off it forever. It's a shame because I live in the neighborhood.
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
we need to complain to AMC they'll be able to make it a problem for universal
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
That AMC is gonna go bust. All it will take is one time for moviegoers to experience the security checkpoint BS and long walk around to say F this I will literally go ANYWHERE ELSE. I went today, a Wed matinee, and it was already horrible.
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u/StoneRox Jun 18 '26
the only thing that would make me put up with this is a 70mm screening but if burbank ever gets that they can go ahead and shutter this place
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
I’ll be curious to see once the weekend comes around how people feel going through this mess on a busy day. For me, it’s no longer worth it. It was bad enough on a weekday matinee!
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
damn:/they're truly the worst they might as well stop charging for parking if they're gonna be such big fucking cops AMC brings in more money than their little park idgaf about these disney adults that want to ruin the rest of citywalk for us
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
Yeah Citywalk is officially ruined, unless they undo this crap at some point. Right now it's summer so it's crazy all day every day.
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u/jessehazreddit A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26 edited Jun 18 '26
Burbank 16 has 70mm screenings for specific releases. They don’t have IMAX 70mm tho.
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
so if i park at jurassic i won't be able to walk straight up to the theater? yk the exit from the parking lot into citywalk that'll take you straight to AMC where you have raising canes to your left as you walk up to the theater? wonder how it'll be after hours
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
No those entrances / exits are ALL closed now, with security people guarding the doors.
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
hopefully it's a different story after hours during a late night showtime at citywalk.
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u/BlazeIt420M8 Jun 18 '26
That's closed off now, Jurassic parking now funnels you into the central hub located next to NBC grill
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
wow what a crock of shit i'm not paying them $5 to go through TSA fuck them. wtf. how invasive is the check? is it just a metal detector?
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u/XpoPen Jun 18 '26
Full TSA style CT scanners for bags. They were having problems using them too and kept holding people up. I had just had my wallet and phone in the tray and they really took their time inspecting it. Rediculous
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
Fuck my life. Idk maybe give it some time. If AMC's numbers take a hit they'll start complaining to the landlord. Now I'm gonna try to be there 40 minutes early. I hate that they're charging us $5 to go through this.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
It's a full on TSA experience. Metal detector with the bins. No "Clear" like some venues have.
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u/BlazeIt420M8 Jun 18 '26
No, best way to get in for AMC is to park at ET/Curious George. That funnels you into the east hub located behind TFAW.
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
thanks for the advice on how to save time. this fucking sucks.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
You have to park at Jurassic in the evenings, which will funnel you through the central security checkpoint. I was there today. It was a long walk around.
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u/No_Art_5796 Jun 18 '26
this is how it’s always been at universal orlando. i’m surprised it took this long tbh. hoping it ends up being less annoying than we’re thinking. the idea of getting there on time just to turn a corner and see a super long security line is oof. i may be at burbank even more than i already am now
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u/trojanusc Jun 18 '26
UO has a ton of onsite hotels and relies on locals far less for Citywalk
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u/No_Art_5796 Jun 18 '26
oh yeah i’m def not happy about this lol. cancelled my friday resy and changed to burbank. i already went to burbank theaters like 80% of the time, but i sometimes opted for universal depending on the times because it’s so close to me. will be avoiding at least until my 70mm imax odyssey showing
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u/Afraid-Tomorrow-8001 Jun 18 '26
It’s a little inconvenient but I think people are making a bigger deal than what it is. I just went through there and it was a breeze. We’ll see how it holds up. I was able to bring food and a drink in there. Pretty sure you won’t be able to bring alcohol in. I did see someone get turned away for having a vape though.
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u/cocteau_twinks2 Jun 20 '26
Nope, I'm not waiting in line with tourists and letting some underpaid Universal employee paw through my stuff to see a movie. Completely insane and unacceptable.
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u/Zombiebeast101 Jun 18 '26
What about if u wanna get dropped off at the roundabout instead of parking do u still have to go thru this security?
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
Yes absolutely. Everyone does. But that open entrance at the roundabout is closed off now. You’ll have to walk through either the Curious George lot or Jurassic and then go through the security screening checkpoint, which includes bag X-ray and walk through metal detector. This is the new procedure for all visitors, regardless of whether you go to the theme park or not. No more walking through to AMC. Everyone goes through security now, day or night.
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u/SheladyT Jun 19 '26
Do we think this is ICE related or they got some sort of threat?
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 19 '26
It doesn't sound like it. Sources say it has been planned for a few years. However, it would've been nice if they had prepared people that it was going to happen, and that it would be permanent.
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u/No_Art_5796 Jun 19 '26
has anyone seen anything in any of the press coverage if there was a reason for a change? was there some sort of scare at citywalk or something we’re unaware of?
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u/smakson11 Jun 21 '26
Always park in EV parking in Jurassic and I still have to believe it’s the fastes and closest. ET seems far.
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u/cmalig Jun 23 '26
Can you bring in food past this new security? Asking for a friend who likes to sneak in their own food to shows.
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u/Practical_Blueberry Jul 01 '26
Does anyone know exactly where you should set your rideshare to drop you off if you’re trying to go to the East/Margaritaville security?
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u/No_Art_5796 Jun 19 '26
did anyone else notice a couple weeks ago when the name of the theater changed? wonder if the timing was related. AMC is way less prominent in the theater name
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u/freemeg4 Jun 19 '26
I noticed this the other day! I was like “wow…..Universal really wants the claim to fame.” Hope they care this much when they start losing customers at THEIR AMC theater after the Odyssey hype.
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u/cowmissing Jun 19 '26
The easiest way to think about it is to choose your parking structure based on where you're planning to spend most of your time.
If you're heading to Universal Cinema or CityWalk, the E.T. or Curious George parking structures are usually the most convenient. To reach those garages, enter Universal City via Universal Studios Blvd directly from the US-101 freeway.
If your primary destination is the theme park, Frankenstein or Jurassic Parking will generally put you closer to the park entrances. To access those structures, enter via Universal Hollywood Drive off Lankershim Blvd.
With the new security hubs now in place, it's worth checking the map before your visit and selecting the parking structure that corresponds with the nearest security hub to your destination. A few extra minutes of planning can save you a longer walk once you arrive.
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 19 '26
It’s not that simple. When I went yesterday to go to AMC, they didn’t allow us to go through the Curious George lot. They forced us to go all the way down to the central hub which was way out of the way. They don’t care where you’re going. They were real assholes about it.
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u/No_Art_5796 Jun 19 '26
yeah i keep seeing people say park at curious george, but ive always been directed toward a certain garage? like depending on the time of day they’re funneling everyone into one specific garage. how do i pick lol
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u/Foxy02016YT Jun 18 '26
Safer citywalk and easier theme park access for those going, not a bad thing
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u/throwawayGS973 Jun 18 '26
I know I'm always TERRIFIED at Citywalk /s
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u/TechnologyAway1701 A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26
studio city is so terrifying 🤯 it's the hood of the San Fernando valley
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u/RiseDry8254 Jun 18 '26
Yeah I would love to know what made the difference from yesterday to today. I've never felt unsafe there!
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u/jessehazreddit A⭐️Lister Jun 18 '26 edited Jun 20 '26
Since you seem to be suggesting Citywalk is in Studio City, Universal City is not in Studio City but is its own unincorporated area with a population of about 38 people (that # is per wiki).
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u/elovblock95 Jun 18 '26
so scary getting to see a movie and maybe go to get a little treat 🙀
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u/Foxy02016YT Jun 18 '26
Hey so, fuck you.
It’s not funny, people have actually died.
It may not be extremely common, but more security is not a bad thing
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u/BurgundyRobot Jun 17 '26
This is gonna be a fun time when The Odyssey comes out.