Ultimate Guide to Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort
Lights, camera, action! At Hollywood Studios you can experience your favorite movies in new ways. In addition to some really cool rides, this park has great shows and immersive lands that make you feel like you’re in the movies. This guide will highlight some of the top Hollywood Studios attractions, dining options, and entertainment for you and your kids to enjoy. Let’s get to the good stuff.
Overview of Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios originally opened in 1989 under the name Disney’s MGM Studios. (If you’re like me, you might still call it that sometimes!) The name was changed in 2008 and Disney has made some exciting updates to the park, including the out-of-this-world land Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The park is divided into seven different areas, each with its own unique theme. Whether you are looking for thrilling rides or Broadway-style shows, Hollywood Studios is sure to be an exciting day for your family.
Popular Attractions for Younger Kids
Hollywood Studios offers plenty of attractions that are perfect for younger kids. Toy Story Land is a must-visit, featuring popular rides like Toy Story Mania (a 3-D arcade shooting game) and Slinky Dog Dash which is a fun roller coaster that travels right through Andy’s backyard. It is a very smooth coaster with twists and turns. There are some drops, but not too intense. Be sure to see if your littles measure up for this one, it has a 38-inch height requirement. You also won’t want to miss the chance to enjoy the ONLY ride themed for the main mouse himself at Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. You’ll step right into the cartoon for an adventure with some classic Disney pals. There is no minimum height for this ride, so the whole family can enjoy it together!
Popular Attractions for Thrill Seekers
In addition to the rides that will please the whole family, Hollywood Studios offers some bigger attractions that are packed full of excitement! You’ll definitely want to check out Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. This is more than just a ride, it’s a totally immersive experience into a Star Wars mission. Not a Star Wars fan? You still won’t want to miss out, it is so cool even if you’ve never seen a single one of the movies! If you enjoy slightly spooky experiences, be sure to drop by the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror where guests step into an abandoned hotel for a ride in a ramshackle elevator. If you’re not into sudden drops, you’d better take the stairs.
Dining Options
Hollywood Studios has some great dining options for the whole family. For a quick bite, stop by Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land for some yummy totchos or the ABC Commissary for classic American cuisine. If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, enjoy some delicious barbecue at the new Woody’s Roundup Rodeo BBQ or indulge in some Italian cuisine at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. If you enjoy upscale experiences, you’ll love the classic Hollywood Brown Derby.
Entertainment and Shows
Hollywood Studios has a variety of entertainment and shows for visitors of all ages. Younger kids will love the Disney Junior Dance Party and the Muppet Vision 3D attraction. Don’t miss the classic Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular or the hilarious Frozen Sing-Along Celebration. Be sure to catch the nightly fireworks spectacular, Fantasmic!, for a mesmerizing display of lights, music, and pyrotechnics. Pro tip: most outdoor shows (Beauty and the Beast, Indiana Jones, and Fantasmic) will allow you to eat and drink during the show. Grab some popcorn and a cold drink and enjoy a snack while you watch.
Character Meet-and-Greets
Hollywood Studios offers many opportunities to meet your favorite Disney characters. You can meet classic characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse at Red Carpet Dreams or take a picture with Buzz and Woody in Toy Story Land. Your little ones will love seeing their favorite Disney Junior characters like Doc McStuffins and Vampirina outside the Disney Junior Dance Party. You can also catch a glimpse of the First Order and the Resistance in the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge area or in the Launch Bay. Be sure to use the My Disney Experience app to check locations and availability on the day of your visit.
Special Events and Holidays
Hollywood Studios hosts many special events throughout the year, such as the seasonal Sunset Seasons Greetings and the Star Wars: Galactic Nights celebration. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the holidays with the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! fireworks show during the holiday season.
Whether you’re a cool mom with kids or just looking for a fun and exciting theme park experience, Hollywood Studios has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and explore the magic of Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort!