Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time
Universal Studios Hollywood · Super Silly Fun Land
Overview
Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time combined a specially filmed 3D sequel sequence with live stunt performers and practical effects, extending the Terminator 2 storyline in an original narrative directed by James Cameron. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, and Edward Furlong reprised their film roles for new footage shot specifically for the attraction, which was reported to be one of the most expensive theme park productions ever made at the time it opened. The show blended the filmed segments with live actors and pyrotechnic effects on stage, syncing the two seamlessly for its finale.
ParksLog Verdict
One of the most ambitious theme park attractions of its era — a genuine James Cameron production with A-list cast members reprising film roles, not just a licensed theming exercise. Fondly remembered by guests who saw it as a technical high point of 1990s/2000s theme park entertainment, even as its intensity (loud pyrotechnics, a tense sci-fi storyline) meant it wasn't really built for young kids.
About this experience
3D film and live stunt show continuing the Terminator storyline, directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, and Edward Furlong, combining a big-budget filmed sequence with practical effects and pyrotechnics.
Best For
- Guests who saw the show and want to relive the memory
- Terminator franchise fans
- Disney and Universal park historians tracking big-budget 1990s theme park attractions
Tips
- The same show building now houses Despicable Me Minion Mayhem in Super Silly Fun Land.
- It was directed by James Cameron between filming Terminator 2 and Titanic, with new footage shot specifically for the attraction.
- It ran for roughly 13 years before closing at the end of 2012.
Details
History
Terminator 2 3-D opened at Universal Studios Hollywood in 1999, following the original version that had debuted at Universal Studios Florida in 1996. It closed permanently on December 31, 2012, and the show building was rethemed into Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, which opened in 2014.
Fun Facts
- James Cameron directed original 3D footage for the attraction, with a production budget reported in the tens of millions of dollars — enormous for a theme park show at the time.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, and Edward Furlong all reprised their film roles for the attraction's new footage.
- Its show building was rethemed into Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, which opened in 2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time take?
- The experience runs about 20 minutes. Budget extra time for the queue, any pre-show, and boarding — on busy days the full process can take considerably longer.
- Is Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time good for young children?
- Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time is not marked as kid-friendly on ParksLog. Check the height requirement and thrill level before visiting with young children.
- When did Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time open?
- Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time opened at Universal Studios Hollywood in 1999.
- Is Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time still operating?
- ParksLog marks this attraction as retired or no longer operating. Check Universal Studios Hollywood's official site for the current lineup.