A Disney Travel Agent’s Guide to Hollywood Studios Rides and Attractions
Is your family heading to Walt Disney World and planning to spend a day enjoying Hollywood Studios rides and attractions? You might already know that Hollywood Studios is home to some of Walt Disney World’s most popular thrill rides – Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Slinky Dog Dash, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.
They are great for school-aged kids, tweens and teens, but what is there to do with little ones? From shows and entertainment to one-of-a-kind character meet and greets, take it from this mom to three little ones, this Disney Park also has you covered!
A Little Hollywood Studios History
Walt Disney World opened their third theme park, Disney’s MGM Studios, in 1989. The theme? Movies and entertainment. Originally, the ideas for this park were going to be used to create another pavilion in EPCOT, but they became too large.
Disney’s MGM Studios paid tribute to the golden age of Hollywood and included a functioning movie and animation studio on site where guests could receive backstage tours. Since its opening the park has expanded and made some major transformations, including its name.
Now, Disney’s Hollywood Studios rides and attractions still pays tribute to classic Hollywood, but also immerses guests in the modern movies they know and love. The on-site studio never gained speed, but the Hollywood archway at its entrance still stands.
The Hollywood Studios Lands at a Glance
Since Hollywood Studios has grown and evolved so much, the lands can seem a little confusing and disjointed. Here’s what you’ll find:
Hollywood Boulevard
This is where you’ll enter the park, Hollywood Studios “Main Street USA.” Take in that 1930s and 1940s Hollywood vibe, architecture and décor. Stroll through the shops. Make an advance dining reservation for The Hollywood Brown Derby Table Service Restaurant or grab a seat at the lounge. Possible character sightings include Daisy and Donald Duck!
At the end of Hollywood Boulevard, check out the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, home of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. My kids love looking at all the signatures and measuring their hands and feet in the prints. At night-time, catch two different shows with projections on the Chinese Theatre: Disney Movie Magic and Wonderful World of Animation.
Echo Lake
Your first left off Hollywood Boulevard. Look at the map of Hollywood Studios in your My Disney Experience App, Echo Lake is one of the ears of a giant Hidden Mickey that made up the original park.
As you walk around the lake:
- Say hello to Gertie the Dinosaur-paying tribute to one of the first characters in an animated film
- Grab some ice cream while you’re there
- Find amazing live shows – For the First Time in Forever; A Frozen Sing-Along and the classic Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
- Make an advance dining reservation at 50’s Prime Time Café
- Meet some characters at Hollywood & Vine
- Catch a showing of Vacation fun – an original animated short with Mickey and Minnie. Take a ride on Star Tours – The Adventures Continue where you’ll have a different adventure every time
- And if you like warm hugs, this is where you can visit Olaf.
Sunset Boulevard
Your first right off Hollywood Boulevard. You’ll know you are there when you see the massive Tower of Terror. Want more thrills? Head over to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith (currently closed for refurbishment until Summer 2023).
With all these thrill rides, it’s a great time to take your little one to Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, take a break and enjoy Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage or do a little shopping.
Do not miss the night-time spectacular, Fantasmic! The entrance is located right next to Beauty and the Beast.
Grand Street
Located on the left side of the park after Commissary Lane and close to Star Tours. Reminiscent of Downtown L.A., visit this land for a tasty bite to eat at Baseline Taphouse. Stop by and catch up with the Muppets at their show Muppet Vision*3D.
Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to have a character sighting for Goofy and his son Max!
Animation Courtyard
Once you’ve reached the Chinese Theatre at the end of Hollywood Boulevard, you’ll see the archway to Animation Courtyard to your right. Step through the backstage archway of Hollywood Studios and meet some of your favorite Disney Junior Characters – Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, Fancy Nancy & Pluto.
Join more Disney Junior characters at an epic dance party – Disney Junior Play and Dance. Have Star Wars fans? Head to the Star Wars Launch Bay for a meet and greet with Chewbacca, Darth Vader and BB8. And for lovers of all things Disney, check out Walt Disney Presents One Man’s Dream show and exhibit.
Commissary Lane
Located to the left of the Chinese Theatre. Here’s where you can meet and greet Mickey and Minnie in their red carpet best – or you can catch a flick and have a meal at the Sci-fi Diner (advance dining reservations required). If you’re looking for a quick bite, try ABC Commissary.
Pixar Place
Just reopened! Located behind the Chinese Theatre. Take the steps to the right and then make a sharp left. If you’ve hit Toy Story Land you’ve missed your turn and gone too far. Stop here to meet your favorite Pixar characters-Mr. & Mrs. Incredible, Frozone, Edna Mode and Sulley. Make sure to squeeze in time for one of Jack Jack’s Num Num Cookies!
Toy Story Land
Located down the steps to the right side of the Chinese Theatre. Shrink down to the size of a toy and explore Andy’s backyard. As you enter, meet your favorite Toy Story Characters – Buzz, Woody and Jessie.
Take time to soak in the details and storytelling:
- Find Andy’s GIANT shoe print and check out the amazing toys and games scattered around the land and in the ride queues.
- Catch a live performance as the Green Army Drum Corps marches through the backyard Grab a bite to eat at Woody’s Lunch Box or the new Roundup Rodeo BBQ
- Home of the attractions Alien Swirling Saucers, Toy Story Mania and Slinky Dog Dash
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Enter Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge from either from Toy Story Land or Grand Avenue. When entering the planet Batuu you’ll feel as though you have stepped right into a Star Wars galaxy. Explore Black Spire Outpost, a fully functioning village complete with some of your favorite characters roaming around and interacting with you.
Take a stroll through unique shops at the marketplace or make an advance reservation to build a Droid at the Droid Depot or a lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop. Check out Batuu’s one-of-a-kind eateries along the way. Some quick service options include Ronto Roasters (my personal favorite) and Docking Bay 7.
Make an advance dining reservation for Oga’s Cantina and try some creative beverages and snacks or stop at Kat Sakas Kettle for some gourmet popcorn. Make sure you find the Milk Stand and try the Green or Blue Milk! Look at the life-sized Millennium Falcon and take it for a spin on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Join the Resistance and escape the first order on one of the most immersive ride experiences, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Hollywood Studios Rides
Most Hollywood Studios rides have a height requirement, so make sure you build your day according to your kids!
Slinky Dog Dash
Take a ride on Slinky Dog as he launches you through a coaster in Andy’s backyard. This mini-thrill ride is the perfect family coaster, for those tall enough. Experience hills, small drops and twists and turns while spotting some of your favorite childhood toys on the way. Don’t forget to smile for your PhotoPass Picture.
This is one of the most popular Hollywood Studios rides, so wait times are long! A great one to visit during Early Entry or to Rope Drop. If you’ve purchased Genie+, Slinky Dog Dash should be your number one priority to book at exactly 7am as booking times run out soon after. If you can ride at night-it’s an awesome experience.
| Where? | Toy Story Land |
| How tall? | 38 inches or taller |
| Who? | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
| What to expect? | Thrill Ride, Small Drops |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyGenie+ Lightning Lane ***(1st Priority)***High**Early Entry (Resort Guests)Rider Switch Available |
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Talk about immersion – this entire ride is an experience from the moment you walk in. Consisting of multiple ride systems, it is one-of-a-kind and a must do. Help the Resistance in a mission to battle against the First Order and encounter your favorite characters along the way.
If you do not want to purchase an Individual Lightning Lane this is a great attraction to Rope Drop or use Early Entry. Though, you will still wait because lots of people have the same idea. If you decide to book an Individual Lightning Lane, do so as soon as you can – that’s 7am for resort guests and at park open for all other guests. They do run out very quickly in the morning.
It’s possible to get one later in the day – but that requires sitting on the My Disney Experience App on your phone and constantly pulling down or refreshing the Tip Board to see if a reservation pops up. Even then, grab it fast because it will be gone before you blink!
| Where? | Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge |
| How tall? | 40 inches or taller |
| Who? | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
| What to expect? | Thrill Ride, Small Drops, Dark, Loud, Scary |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyIndividual Lightning Lane for purchase. Prices vary. (High Priority)Early Entry (Resort Guests) |
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Ever wonder what it would be like to go on a mission in the Millennium Falcon? Here’s your chance! Board the ship and become part of the crew. There are 6 members. The 2 pilots steer the ship, the 2 gunners press buttons to defend the ship and the 2 engineers press buttons to repair the ship.
Work together for a successful mission and be careful not to fail (because you can)! After Slinky Dog, this should be one of your top priorities to schedule next for Genie+. Note for younger riders: I rode this with my daughter – being the exact height needed to ride. She was disappointed because once strapped in, she was unable to reach the buttons.
| Where? | Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge |
| How tall? | 38 inches or taller |
| Who? | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
| What to expect? | Interactive, Thrill Ride, Small Drops, Dark, Loud, Scary |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyGenie+ Lightning Lane (Medium – High Priority)Early Entry (Resort Guests)Rider Switch AvailableSingle Rider Line Available |
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Enter the Chinese Theatre and experience the first Disney ride dedicated to Mickey Mouse. It is super cute and a must do for the whole family. Watch a Mickey Mouse short “Perfect Picnic” and magically walk through the scene to become part of the animated story.
This trackless ride system allows you to board Conductor Goofy’s train while following Mickey and Minnie and listening to the rides catchy theme song, ‘Nothing Can Stop Us Now.” Due to long Standby wait times, this is a great ride to take advantage of Early Entry or Rope Drop. If using Genie+, this should be one of your top Hollywood Studios rides after Slinky Dog.
| Where? | Hollywood Boulevard |
| How tall? | Any Height |
| Who? | All Ages |
| What to expect? | Trackless Dark Ride |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyGenie+ Lightning Lane (Medium – High Priority)Early Entry (Resort Guests) |
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Struck by lightning on Halloween night, the infamous Hollywood Tower Hotel still stands tall frozen in time around the Golden Age of Hollywood. As the story goes, a family was in the elevator when the lightning struck, taken to the Twilight Zone and never to return. Now it’s your turn to take a ride on the elevator and visit the Twilight Zone – will you return?
This is one of my favorite thrill rides, although I caution you it can be very scary for children. The queue is full of details and artifacts, including the hotel staff still frozen in the 1930s/40s time period. The elevator ride will pull you down with sudden drops and take you back up, opening the doors to see the sights of Hollywood Studios.
Smile for that PhotoPass photo! If you like that free falling feeling, this one’s for you. Best part? The lift and drop sequence is random. Everyone gets one big drop, but the rest of the experience is different every time you ride. This is a super popular attraction, so if it’s high on your family’s list, book a Lightning Lane right after you ride Slinky Dog.
| Where? | Sunset Boulevard |
| How tall? | 40 inches or taller |
| Who? | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
| What to expect? | Thrill Ride, Big Drops, Dark, Scary |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyGenie+ Lightning Lane (Medium-High Priority)Early Entry (Resort Guests)Rider Switch Available |
Rock “n” Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith (currently closed for refurbishment until summer 2023)
Drop by Aerosmith’s music studio during one of their recording sessions. Jump in the “Super Stretch Limo” and race through Hollywood with the band to try and make their concert on time. As you ride, listen to one of 5 possible Aerosmith songs and be ready for a fast launch, corkscrew and 2 loops.
This is an intense roller coaster, but lots of fun! Say cheese for your PhotoPass picture! Before riding, check to make sure you are comfortable with the seat restraints. It is closed right now but is usually high on the priority list for Genie+ and also a great ride for Early Entry or Rope Drop.
| Where? | Sunset Boulevard |
| How tall? | 48 inches or taller |
| Who? | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
| What to expect? | Thrill Ride, Big Drops, Loud, Fast Launch, Goes Upside-down |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyGenie+ Lightning Lane (Medium-High Priority)Early Entry (Resort Guests)Rider Switch AvailableSingle Rider Line Available |
Toy Story Mania
Looking for some friendly competition for the whole family? Grab some 3D glasses and hop in for a ride as the beloved Toy Story characters take you on a tour to play their favorite carnival games. Just pull the string and aim at the targets to score as many points as you can before the car spins you to the next game!
This ride is loads of fun and easy to play. What will your technique be – rapid fire or careful aim at specific targets? I’ve heard that working with your partner can be very beneficial.
| Where? | Toy Story Land |
| How tall? | Any Height |
| Who? | All Ages |
| What to expect? | Mild Spinning, 4D |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyGenie+ Lightning Lane (Medium Priority)Early Entry (Resort Guests) |
Alien Swirling Saucers
Board a rocket and listen to some of your favorite Toy Story tunes as an Alien takes you spinning around space. Be prepared to travel in a circle while being swayed back and forth. Being that many Hollywood Studios rides have taller height requirements, this is a great ride for your little ones to join in on the fun.
| Where? | Toy Story Land |
| How tall? | 32 inches or taller |
| Who? | All Ages |
| What to expect? | Spinning |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyGenie+ Lightning Lane (Medium Priority)Early Entry (Resort Guests)Rider Switch Available |
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
An updated version of the original Star Wars themed attraction at the park. Join R2-D2 and C-3P0 on a 3D motion-simulated space adventure to a planet somewhere in the Star Wars universe.
The best part? The story changes every time! You never know where you are going, what you will be doing or who you will see throughout the flight. With so many different combinations, it’s highly unlikely you’ll ever experience the same story twice.
| Where? | Echo Lake |
| How tall? | 40 inches or taller |
| Who? | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
| What to expect? | 3D Motion Simulator, Small Drops, Loud |
| Type of Queue? | StandbyGenie+ Lightning Lane (Low Priority)Early Entry (Resort Guests)Rider Switch Available |
Hollywood Studios Entertainment For All Ages
Looking for a change of pace and time to sit down and relax? Check out some of the live entertainment Hollywood Studios has to offer. Be sure to check your My Disney Experience App for showtimes and availability.
Muppet Vision*3D
Shows geared towards the little ones with little to no Standby wait
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
Located on Grand Avenue. 3D live action show with your favorite Muppet characters. A Genie+ Lightning Lane is available but not needed.
Located on Sunset Boulevard. This attraction is very close to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. It’s a great place to take your younger children while the others are riding the coaster. There is a fun outside area to explore with lots of your favorite Cars characters. The 10-minute show features live entertainment along with Lightning McQueen himself.
Disney Junior Play and Dance
Located in Animation Courtyard. This is a fast paced, high energy, live 10-minute show full of your favorite Disney Junior characters – Doc McStuffins, Timon, Vampirina & Mickey Mouse. Dance, sing and pop bubbles as the DJ plays their theme songs. There are no actual seats or chairs for this show. A Cast Member will direct you to a spot to sit on the floor. If someone is unable to sit on the floor there are benches available in the back. A Genie+ Lightning Lane is available but not needed.
Live Stage Shows for the Whole Family
All three of these shows are available with Genie+ to book a Lightning Lane, but only needed during extremely busy times of the year.
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
Located around Echo Lake in Hyperion Theater. Hands down one of my absolute favorite stage shows in Walt Disney World. Relax for 30 minutes in comfy chairs in the air-conditioned theater and listen to the Royal Historians as they retell the story of Frozen.
These Royal Historians are hysterical – telling jokes geared for both kids and adults, all the while interacting with the audience on the fly. Sing your heart out as scenes from the movie are projected on a screen in that Sing-Along style. Of course, along the way you’ll be joined by some very special guests – Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Elsa. Even though the story, scenes and songs are the same for each show, each time you visit is unique because the Royal Historians are always changing their jokes and dialogue.
Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
Located on Sunset boulevard. Sit in stadium style seating for this 30-minute musical that beautifully tells the classic story of Belle and the Beast. Enjoy Broadway-style sets, costumes and dancing while singing along with those treasured Beauty and the Beast tunes.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
Located around Echo Lake. This is a 35-minute live entertainment show with stadium seating. Watch live action scenes from the Indiana Jones movies as well as go behind the scenes to learn about how stunts are performed.
For the Lovers of All Things Disney
Walt Disney Presents
Located in Animation Courtyard. Explore a gallery dedicated to Walt Disney. Learn his life story and get the chance to see amazing Disney artifacts such as sketches, models and costumes. After you explore, watch the 15-minute documentary “Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream” or on special occasions a preview of a new Disney or Pixar movie.
Vacation Fun
Located around Echo Lake in the adorable Mickey Shorts Theater. Watch a 10-minute original animated short featuring Mickey and Minnie and their favorite vacation memories.
Here’s Where To Find Characters in Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios has plenty of unique character meet and greets for kids of all ages. If someone in your party has a “must see” character, make sure to check your My Disney Experience App for times and locations. Some are even eligible for a Genie+ Lightning Lane. Here’s a quick guide to get your started:
| Hollywood Boulevard | Daisy & Donald Duck (near Hollywood Brown Derby) | |
| Echo Lake | Chip & Dale (near Indiana Jones)Meet Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight (Genie+ Lightning Lane available) | |
| Commissary Lane | Mickey & Minnie Mouse (Red Carpet Dreams) | |
| Animation Courtyard | Disney Junior Pals, Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, Fancy Nancy. Pluto | Star Wars Launch BayChewbaccaBB-8Darth Vader |
| Grand Avenue | Goofy & his son Max, | |
| Pixar Place | Edna Mode Experience, Frozone, Mr.Incredible, Mrs. Incredible | |
| Toy Story Land | Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie | |
| Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge | Sightings Around Batuu: Rey, Kylo, Ren, First Order Stormtrooper, Vi Moradi | |
Nighttime Entertainment
If you’re able to stay or hop over to Hollywood Studios at night you will not be disappointed with their live entertainment. Fantasmic!, one of my favorite Disney Park nighttime spectaculars, stars Mickey Mouse as he takes you on a journey through one of his nighttime dreams or maybe nightmares, where good battles evil. Watch as sorcerer’s apprentice Mickey works wonders with water and fireworks as he encounters some of your favorite Disney villains, heroes and princesses. Enjoy colorful projections of your favorite movies as well as tons of live characters.
This 30-minute show is located on Sunset Boulevard right. The entrance is next to Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage. After walking down the path you will see the giant curved amphitheater around the lagoon. If you are looking for a specific seat, you’re going to need to line up early – possibly as much as 90 minutes before the show. If you choose the first few rows you will get wet! This show gets very crowded and takes some time to clear out after the show is over – lots of patience is needed here, especially with tired little ones.
If you’re looking for something a little lower key, there are two amazing 10-minute projection shows, Disney Movie Magic and The Wonderful World of Animation, full of your favorite movies and characters shown on the front of the Chinese Theatre. Make sure to check your My Disney Experience App in the Hollywood Studios entertainment section for more details, show times and availability while you are visiting.
Which Hollywood Studios Rides and Attractions Will You Experience First?
There is so much for the whole family to enjoy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Park. I recommend at least 1 full day to soak up all the magic. With so much to see, planning to visit a Disney Park can be quite overwhelming and time consuming.
On your next trip, whether you plan it yourself, or work with a top Disney Travel agent for free, don’t rush by all the Disney details embedded in the Hollywood Studios rides, attractions and lands.
