Who let the dogs out? Because now I really want to hug them all
Let me get one thing straight: I have no idea who these pets are, why they have secret lives, or why they’re off the leash. I also didn’t realize this was based on a movie. My bad. What I do know is that this is a fantastic dark ride that small children will absolutely adore. It’s incredibly cute, features charming environments, and has lovely visual effects, perfect for kids who enjoy Paw Patrol, dogs, and, cats… which is basically every child on the planet.
This is a dark ride that really invokes a distinct Disney-vibe. You go through a big urban environment full of buildings and animatronics of different animals, with a few visual effects and CG thrown in as well. It’s a more modern dark ride aimed at younglings with a lot to see and a ton of interesting setpieces, which makes sense since this is still a relatively new attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood.
What we like about Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash
Can we say that this ride is super, super, super cute? Well, it is. It features a variety of animals, showcasing an impressive range of dog and cat breeds. Let’s be honest… the ride kind of cheats by simply including cute pets to melt everyone’s hearts. But credit where it’s due: the animatronics are well-crafted, and the diverse selection of animals, both in type and size, keeps things feeling fresh and unique throughout.
I love that Secret Life of Pets also uses a huge deal of animatronics. In my opinion, practical effects will always win over pure CG, and the different animals look really great here, with a distinct cartoon feel. CG is used sparingly, mostly to enhance the background, such as shadows cast against dark walls, fireworks illuminating a digital screen or a dog taking a nice bath. This actually reminds me of Men in Black: Alien Attack, that uses big environments and lots of animatronics over anything else. The difference is that in Secret Life of Pets you don’t shoot at anything… thankfully.
This is also a great dark ride for young children. The animals are really charismatic and there isn’t anything that looks scary. There is a short section in a dark alley full of cats, but it doesn’t last for very long. Other than that, you only go through colorful and beautiful environments that are sure to entertain younglings.
Oh, I almost forgot! The queue is also really great. It’s cute and puts you right in the middle of a movie, walking inside a New York apartment building taken by talking animals. There is a lot to see, and several guests share the idea that this is one of the best queues in all Universal Hollywood… and anywhere, really. Your kids will probably love it as much as the main ride.
What we don’t like about Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash
There’s nothing particularly wrong with this ride. My only minor gripe is the small height requirement, which could disappoint some very young children. Other than that, it’s a traditional yet modernized attraction, filled with plenty to see and a strong emphasis on practical effects.
Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash FAQ
Is The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash scary for young kids?
No, it’s not scary. There is a brief section where the vehicle passes through a dark alley, but there are no frightening elements.
How many guests are allowed per vehicle on The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash?
Each vehicle accommodates two guests.
Is The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash exclusive to Universal Studios Hollywood?
Yes, Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash is exclusive to Universal Studios Hollywood.
What is the usual wait time for The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash?
The wait time for The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash typically ranges from 30 to 55 minutes.
