A great casual date-place (e.g. "dinner and a movie") and all purpose hang-out, Universal CityWalk incorporates trendy dining, entertainment, and shopping into one location. Almost as colorfully and brightly lit as Las Vegas, this outdoor area reflects the glamour of the Hollywood movie industry (on which it’s amusement park next door is founded). I used to come here with friends for dinner and to stroll around and people watch. Since it was also near to Universal Amphitheatre, it was nice to catch a bite here before the concert (besides which, you have to walk through CityWalk to get to the theatre or the amusement park). Select from popular restaurants which serve all types of food – American, seafood, Italian, Japanese. Two establishments popular with visitors to LA include the Hard Rock Cafe and Gladstones. I have to say that I preferred the Gladstones in Malibu better though. Beware of the crowds at peak dinner times; you may want to make a reservation ahead of time. Although not a hard-core shopping area, CityWalk shops sell candy, UCLA Bruinware, toys and stuffed animals, and other trendy and fun paraphernalia. Entertainment-wise, there is a large multiplex movie theater (of course), and ice-skating rink (open in the winter), computer/arcade-type displays, water-fountains, Wizards magic show, and a pool hall. New attractions are constantly being added.