As of August 2013, visitors to Universal Studios Orlando are invited to step into a giant Springfield USA, the hometown of the Simpsons family. For years, the theme park has been developing the section of the park in honor of the series, which has been on the air since 1989! Basically a life-sized set, the area includes all kinds of references to the show as well as large statues of the well-known characters including Homer, Marge, Lisa, Bart, Maggie, Chief Wiggum, and Barney Gumble. Mike West, an executive producer with Universal Creative, says, “For longtime fans, it’s the realization of a dream. We tried to make it as authentic as possible.”
Located in Fast Food Boulevard are memorable places like Krusty Burger, Duff Brewery, The Frying Dutchman, and Moe’s Tavern. There is a large statue honoring Jebediah Springfield, a Kwik-E-Mart convenience store and gift shop, and a large waterfront area. The town has been developed around a central point, the Simpsons Ride, which invites passengers to ride along with the main characters as they enjoy an adventure through Krustyland theme park. To complete the day, visitors can pose on a replica of the family sofa, creating their own version of the Simpsons to remember forever.
via [Ricky Brigante, Flickr], [Fubiz]