10 Mind-Blowing Secrets About Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios, originally known as Disney-MGM Studios, opened on May 1, 1989. The park was designed as both a theme park and a working production studio. Over the years, it has transformed into a premier destination for immersive storytelling.

The park now features lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land. Despite its evolution, Hollywood Studios still holds fascinating secrets and hidden gems. Here are 10 intriguing facts about the park that will enhance your next visit.

10. It Was Almost an EPCOT Pavilion

Before becoming a standalone theme park, Disney considered making a movie-themed pavilion at EPCOT. This would have complemented World Celebration, World Discovery, and World Nature.

As the concept expanded, executives saw potential in developing a full park centered around film and entertainment. This decision also positioned Disney to compete directly with Universal Studios Florida, which was in development then.

9. Hollywood Studios Was Once a Real Film Production Studio

While Hollywood Studios now focuses on attractions, it originally operated as an active production facility. The Florida unit of Walt Disney Feature Animation worked on films such as Mulan and Lilo & Stitch.

Television productions like The All-New Mickey Mouse Club were also filmed here. However, Disney eventually closed its Orlando-based animation studios in 2004.

8. The Park Changed Its Name Due to Licensing Issues

When the park first opened, it was called Disney-MGM Studios due to a licensing deal with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. However, MGM later considered opening its own Hollywood-themed park, which led Disney to rename the park.

Since 2008, it has been known as Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Many longtime fans still refer to it as MGM Studios out of nostalgia.

7. Hollywood Brown Derby Features Real Artwork

Dining at The Hollywood Brown Derby is like stepping back in time to classic Hollywood. The restaurant’s walls feature caricatures of famous celebrities, paying homage to the original Brown Derby in Los Angeles.

Some of the caricatures in gold frames are authentic originals from the original Brown Derby locations. This unique touch adds to the restaurant’s vintage charm.

6. The Great Movie Ride’s Plane Was Only Half There

Before Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway opened, The Great Movie Ride was the park’s most iconic attraction. It was housed inside the Chinese Theatre and featured memorable movie scenes.

One of its most famous scenes depicted Casablanca, with a classic airplane in the background. However, only half of the plane was inside the ride. The other half was repurposed for the Jungle Cruise attraction at Magic Kingdom!

5. Aerosmith Wasn’t Disney’s First Choice for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is one of the park’s most thrilling rides. However, Aerosmith wasn’t Disney’s first choice for the attraction’s music and theme.

Disney originally approached U2, but the band declined the offer. Aerosmith agreed, and the coaster’s high-energy soundtrack became an instant hit with Guests.

4. The Hollywood Tower Hotel is One of the Tallest Structures at Disney World

The Hollywood Tower Hotel, home to The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, stands at 199 feet. This makes it one of the tallest structures in Walt Disney World.

Disney Imagineers designed it to be just under 200 feet because any taller would have required a blinking red aviation light. That would have disrupted the park’s immersive theming.

3. Authentic Hollywood Props Are Used in the Tower of Terror

Step inside the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror lobby, and you’ll notice intricate decor. These details enhance the ride’s eerie atmosphere.

Many items, including vintage furniture and props, were purchased from Hollywood auctions, creating an authentic 1930s hotel feel.

2. Hidden Names at Star Tours

Listen closely to the overhead announcements while waiting in line for Star Tours: The Adventure Continues. Some boarding calls mention passengers like “Egroeg Sacul” and “Mot Worrom.”

These aren’t random names—George Lucas (creator of Star Wars) and Tom Morrow (a nod to a classic Tomorrowland character) spelled backward!

1. Star Tours Only Has One Flight Number

Although Star Tours: The Adventure Continues offers multiple destinations, every flight is designated as Flight 1401. This number is a tribute to Walt Disney Imagineering’s headquarters.

The headquarters is located at 1401 Flower Street in Glendale, California. Disney Imagineers love incorporating these hidden details into the attractions.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is filled with hidden details, fascinating history, and immersive experiences. Whether you’re stepping into the world of Star Wars, joining a high-speed rock concert with Aerosmith, or reliving Hollywood’s golden age, there’s always something new to discover.

Next time you visit, keep an eye out for these hidden secrets—you never know what Disney magic you might uncover!