Heading into Hollywood Studios for the first time makes for a time full of excitement as you get ready to dig into the nostalgia, and Disney’s magic of movies, television, and theater. This guide is tailored to help beginners know all they need to know, get the inside scoop from veteran Annual Passholders and to create memorable experiences
- How does Hollywood Studios stand out among Disney World’s theme parks?
- What’s the history behind Hollywood Studios, and how does it influence the park today?
- For first-timers, what must-know tips ensure a smooth visit to Hollywood Studios?
- Timing your visit: How do seasonal variations and special events affect your experience?
- Understanding park tickets and FastPass+ selections: What are your options?
- Navigating Hollywood Studios: What are the key landmarks and navigation tips?
- Highlight attractions and shows: Which experiences can’t you miss?
- Dining in Hollywood Studios: Where can you find the best eats, and how do you plan for meals?
- What unique shopping experiences await you in Hollywood Studios?
- How do you get to and from Hollywood Studios, and what transportation options are available?
- Beyond rides, what special experiences and character encounters can enhance your visit?
As part of our comprehensive guide for first-time Disney World visitors, this post covers all the good things you’ll find on the star-studded streets and thrilling attractions of Hollywood Studios, offering an in-depth look at what makes this park a must-visit.
We’ll start by giving you a quick overview of Hollywood Studios and what makes it unique, then move on to specifics on theming, architecture, attractions, and its seamless integration into the Disney World experience.
Planning Your Hollywood Studios Trip
Before your trip to Hollywood Studios, understanding the park’s layout, understanding the opportunities and advantages you can leverage using Disney Genie+, and familiarizing yourself with reservation systems are crucial for a seamless experience.
Understanding Park Layout and Strategy
Hollywood Studios is divided into several themed areas, each with its own attractions and dining options. Familiarize yourself with the park map via the My Disney Experience app before your visit.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is one of the smaller parks at Walt Disney World Resort. It spans approximately 135 acres, making it larger than Magic Kingdom but smaller than EPCOT and the enormous size of Animal Kingdom.
Once you enter the main gate at Hollywood Studios, you are on Hollywood Boulevard.
To the left: Guests will find a series of shops and eateries that are themed around the early 20th-century Hollywood aesthetic. This area offers a variety of merchandise and dining options that encapsulate the golden age of Hollywood.
To the right: This side typically features guest services, including stroller and wheelchair rentals, as well as additional shops that offer Disney merchandise and souvenirs. It’s also where you can find information and assistance for your visit to the park.
Straight ahead: The path leads towards the central hub of Hollywood Studios, offering a direct view of the iconic Chinese Theatre, which houses the Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction. The central hub serves as a gateway to the various themed lands and attractions throughout the park.
Start at popular attractions like “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge” or “Toy Story Land” upon park opening to avoid long queues later in the day. Early theme park entry is available for resort guests, allowing you access before the official opening time.
Maximizing Your Time With Disney Genie+
Disney Genie+ is a service that helps you plan your day and reduce waiting times for attractions. Genie+ really shines and proves its value as a real time-saver when you are focused on riding as much as possible during your time in the park. Purchase Disney Genie+ through the My Disney Experience app and book access to select attractions starting at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit. Remember, you can only make one selection at a time, but once you’ve used your pick or the two-hour window passes, you can make another.
Reservations and Park Hopping Essentials
Book dining and experience reservations up to 60 days in advance via the My Disney Experience app or Disney World website. If you’re planning to visit multiple parks in one day, the Park Hopper option can be added to your ticket, allowing you to switch parks after 2:00 PM. Note that park hopping is subject to park capacity limitations.
Top Attractions and Rides
Discover the highlights of Hollywood Studios Theme Park, including immersive Star Wars experiences, high-speed thrills, family-friendly attractions, and rich cinematic wonders. Each adventure is unique, promising unforgettable moments for every visitor.
Experiencing Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge transports you to the planet Batuu, a remote outpost on the galaxy’s edge. The centerpiece attractions, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, offer two distinct experiences. On Rise of the Resistance, you’ll join the Resistance in an epic battle against the First Order. Smugglers Run lets you pilot the iconic Millennium Falcon in a thrilling interactive mission.
Thrills on Sunset Boulevard
Sunset Boulevard beckons with some of the park’s most exhilarating attractions. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror plunges you into the eerie world of a Twilight Zone episode with its drop tower thrills. Nearby, the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith catapults you from 0 to 57 miles per hour in just 2.8 seconds. This launch coaster’s inversions and rock music soundtrack elevate the experience.
Toy Story Land Adventures
Toy Story Land shrinks you to the size of a toy to explore Andy’s backyard. Board Slinky Dog Dash for a family-friendly roller coaster ride that twists and turns. Toy Story Mania! is an interactive 4D shooting game where you compete for the highest score by hitting virtual targets. Alien Swirling Saucers spins you in an alien-led dance party.
The Magic of Animation Courtyard and Echo Lake
In Animation Courtyard, dive into the artistry behind your favorite films. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! showcases movie magic, with live stunts and special effects. Around Echo Lake, attractions like Star Tours – The Adventures Continue take you on a spaceflight with over 60 different story combinations, ensuring a new adventure with every visit.
Shows and Entertainment
Exploring the vibrant shows and entertainment offerings at Hollywood Studios is a thrilling component of your theme park experience. These performances are crafted to immerse guests in the glamour of Hollywood and the magic of Disney.
Engaging with Favorite Characters
You can encounter your beloved Disney characters throughout Hollywood Studios. Hollywood Boulevard is often bustling with characters ready for a magical encounter.
- Meet Disney Junior Characters: Perfect for younger visitors who will enjoy face-to-face time with their on-screen friends.
- Star Wars Launch Bay: Here, you have the chance to meet iconic Star Wars characters including Jedi and other galactic entities.
Regular spontaneous performances add a touch of whimsy to your day, so keep an eye out as you stroll through the park.
Spectacular Live Shows
Experience an array of live shows that bring some of your favorite stories to life.
- Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage: A Broadway-style musical featuring the familiar tale as old as time.
- Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!: Watch daring stunts and behind-the-scenes action from this classic film series.
- Voyage of the Little Mermaid: Join Ariel and friends in this undersea adventure with live performers and puppets.
- For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-along Celebration: Sing your heart out with Anna, Elsa, and friends during an interactive show.
Each live show is a must-see, offering unique entertainment that captivates all ages.
Nighttime Entertainment
The park comes alive at night with stunning entertainment that fills the sky with color and light.
- Fantasmic!: An epic nighttime extravaganza featuring Mickey Mouse and an ensemble of Disney characters set against a backdrop of water, fire, lights, and music.
- Wonderful World of Animation: An immersive projection show that covers the iconic Chinese Theater, celebrating over 90 years of Disney and Pixar animation.
These nighttime spectacles are the perfect way to end a magical day at the park.
Special Events and Seasonal Offerings
Throughout the year, Hollywood Studios hosts special events and seasonal entertainment to add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
- Seasonal Celebrations: Enjoy special decorations, themed treats, and exclusive entertainment during holidays like Halloween and Christmas.
- Special Themed Events: Occasions like Star Wars Day may offer themed parades, shows, and character experiences.
- Limited-Time Shows: Keep an eye on park schedules for unique performances that may only be available for a short period.
These special offerings ensure that there is always something new and exciting to experience during your visit.
Dining Options
When you visit Hollywood Studios Theme Park, an array of dining options awaits you, ranging from elegant table service restaurants to quick bites and unique drinks.
Signature Restaurants and Dining Experiences
Indulge in the glitz and glamour at The Hollywood Brown Derby, a replica of the famous landmark, known for its classic American cuisine. Here, you can enjoy a meal in an upscale environment, with the famous Cobb salad or the signature grapefruit cake as must-try items. Another immersive dining experience is the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, where you’re seated in car-shaped booths and entertained with classic movie clips as you dine under a ‘starry’ sky.
Quick-Service Meals and Snacks
Grab a bite on the go at various quick-service locations like Commissary Lane, where you’ll find a range of options, including healthier choices and comfort food. ABC Commissary offers a casual place to enjoy American fare with a touch of global cuisine. For a nostalgic setting, 50’s Prime Time Café serves up classic American comfort food with a side of fun, as waiters playfully remind you of your manners.
Specialty Drinks and Dining Packages
Satisfy your thirst with specialty drinks at Oga’s Cantina, where exotic concoctions are the norm in this lively Star Wars-themed bar. For a relaxing break, consider Baseline Tap House which offers a variety of California craft ales, lagers, and cider. If you’re craving something sweet, stop by the Milk Stand for a taste of the famous Blue or Green Milk, made famous in the Star Wars series.
Meeting Disney Characters
Meeting Disney characters at Hollywood Studios theme park is an interactive experience where you encounter beloved figures from various Disney franchises. To maximize your time, familiarize yourself with the character greeting spots spread throughout the park. Star Wars enthusiasts, for instance, can come face-to-face with Kylo Ren and Darth Vader at immersive locations.
- Star Wars Characters: Find them in Star Wars Launch Bay located in the Animation Courtyard.
- Kylo Ren often patrols the area, providing a thrilling encounter.
- Darth Vader greets visitors in a setting inspired by the Star Wars universe, offering a memorable photo opportunity.
Toy Story Land offers a contrasting cheerful ambiance where you can interact with characters from the beloved series.
- Toy Story Characters: Look for your favorite characters near the entrance of the land.
- Buzz Lightyear is frequently spotted near the entrance, greeting fans.
- Woody and friends are also around, ready to welcome you to their backyard.
In addition to these attractions, visit Walt Disney Presents to explore Disney’s rich history and possibly meet classic Disney characters.
- Classic Characters: They’re usually available inside Walt Disney Presents.
- Mickey Mouse sometimes makes an appearance; check the schedule upon arrival.
- Other timeless Disney characters rotate throughout the day, offering a variety of meet-and-greet experiences.
Lastly, for Muppet fans, although character meet-and-greets are not typical, the Muppet*Vision 3D attraction provides an entertaining show featuring the beloved Muppets in a 3D comedy musical.
Shopping and Souvenirs
When visiting Hollywood Studios Theme Park, immerse yourself in a shopping experience that ranges from themed shops to customizable souvenirs reflecting your favorite movies and characters.
Themed Shops and Boutiques
You’ll find themed shops throughout areas like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land. Tatooine Traders, located near Star Tours in Echo Lake, offers an array of Star Wars memorabilia. In Toy Story Land, merchandise reflecting the whimsy of the films can be found at Toy Story Mania Shop. Animation Courtyard hosts unique boutiques with a focus on classic Disney characters.
Custom Merchandise and Exclusive Items
At Savi’s Workshop, you have the chance to build your own lightsaber, a truly exclusive item tailored to your preferences. For something plush and personal, visit the stores in Grand Avenue to find Muppets-themed items. The most dedicated fans might seek out limited edition releases that are often available during special events or in certain shops throughout the park.
Special Tips for Families
Visiting Hollywood Studios with family requires a blend of planning and flexibility, especially when exploring with kids.
Child-Friendly Rides and Attractions
Start with Toy Story Land for a vibrant area that caters extensively to children. Alien Swirling Saucers is a gentle ride ensuring a joyful experience as you whirl in your toy rocket. For a more immersive adventure, board Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, which provides an enchanting interactive ride for guests of all ages.
Parental Swap and Childcare Facilities
Utilize the Parental Swap feature, which allows one parent to wait with non-riding children while the other parent enjoys the ride. After the first parent rides, they can swap places without waiting in line again. For your convenience, childcare centers offer a comfortable space for feeding, changing, or taking a break with little ones.
Interactive Activities for Young Visitors
Engage with the numerous interactive activities throughout the park. Muppet*Vision 3D is an entertaining show with a blend of live-action and 3D effects that captivate young minds. Visit the Milk Stand where families can sample exotic blue or green milk, an activity that is both fun and memorable for children.
Interactive Experiences
Hollywood Studios offers captivating experiences that fully immerse you into the world of movies. You’ll have the opportunity to craft a unique souvenir, test your skills, and engage in adventures that place you at the center of the action.
Building Your Own Lightsaber
At Savi’s Workshop, you can construct your own lightsaber, a symbol of the Jedi Order. Choose components for your hilt and select a kyber crystal to determine your lightsaber’s color. Following a Gatherer’s guidance, assemble these pieces to build your personalized lightsaber as a memorable keepsake.
Journey with the Jedi
Jedi Training is an interactive show designed for young guests to learn the ways of the Force. Participants are trained in the art of wielding a lightsaber and facing the dark side. Step onto the stage and demonstrate your newfound skills against iconic Star Wars villains in an engaging and family-friendly battle.
Staying Connected and Informed
You will enhance your visit to Hollywood Studios by staying informed about the park’s offerings and effectively navigating its layout.
Navigating with Park Maps and Apps
Get yourself a physical map of Hollywood Studios upon entering, available at most shop entrances. For real-time navigation, download the My Disney Experience app. This app provides an interactive map, shows wait times for attractions, and locates characters, including those from Pixar films. For example, to find Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, you can search within the app and follow the guided path.
Timing Shows and Parades with Park Calendars
Refer to the crowd calendar for anticipated park attendance levels on any given day. This helps plan your visit to avoid busier times. The My Disney Experience app also provides schedules for shows and parades, so you can synchronize your day to catch performances such as Pixar-themed parades. Prioritize events and use the calendar to ensure you do not miss fan-favorite shows.
Visitor Services and Accessibility
When visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios, familiarizing yourself with the available visitor services and accessibility features can significantly enhance your park experience.
Guest Relations and Lost and Found
If you require assistance or have misplaced an item, head directly to Guest Relations. Located near the park entrance, this facility is your go-to for any inquiries. Cast members are on hand to help with lost and found items, park directions, special effects showtimes, and other services. For lost items, specify the name of the ride or location, such as the Hollywood Tower Hotel, where the item was last seen.
Accessibility Services and Ride Accommodations
Disney’s Hollywood Studios strives to ensure all guests can enjoy the park, offering a range of accessibility services. Begin at Guest Relations to discuss your specific needs. Here is how you can make the most of your visit:
- Ride Accommodations: Be sure to get a Disability Access Service Card if you are unable to wait in a conventional queue due to a disability.
- Hearing Disabilities: Assistive Listening Devices are available for shows with audio, while Written Aids provide dialogue for select attractions.
- Visual Disabilities: Audio Description devices narrate visual elements of attractions and areas throughout the park.
- Mobility Devices: You can rent wheelchairs and Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs) at the park’s entrance.
Remember, cast members at attractions like Backlot Express or near transportation like the Skyliner are there to assist with accessibility concerns. When you’re ready for a photo, PhotoPass photographers can help you capture accessible and memorable moments throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Learning About The Other Disney Parks
While you’re planning your trip to Hollywood Studios, make sure to read our guides for the other parks:
- Magic Kingdom First Time Visitor’s Guide: Essential information for first-time visitors.
- EPCOT First Time Visitor’s Guide: What to know before you go.
- Animal Kingdom First Time Visitor’s Guide: Tips for first-time guests.
