Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios transports guests into Andy’s backyard, offering larger-than-life toys, thrilling rides, and playful dining. As one of the park’s newer additions, it still draws large crowds and long lines. But with a bit of planning, you can have a fantastic experience!
Here are 10 essential tips to make the most of your visit to Toy Story Land.
1. Prepare for Some Wait Time
While advance planning helps, expect some waiting. Whether you arrive at park opening or have FastPasses (now replaced by standby strategies), you’ll likely encounter lines—whether it’s for rides or meeting Woody and Buzz. Keep your patience and plan your day with waiting time in mind.
2. Take Advantage of Early Entry Opportunities
Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels can enjoy Early Entry, giving them access to the park 30 minutes before general admission. Arriving early gives you the chance to ride Slinky Dog Dash or Toy Story Mania with shorter waits. Check park hours on the My Disney Experience app to confirm early access times for your visit.
Credit: Disney
3. Don’t Forget Your Hat and Sunglasses
Toy Story Land is known for its lack of shade, which can be challenging during Florida’s hot and humid days. While Disney has added umbrellas and shade structures, the sun can still be intense. Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and stay hydrated throughout the day to keep the heat from dampening your experience.
4. Use Mobile Order for Woody’s Lunch Box
Dining at Woody’s Lunch Box is a must, thanks to its nostalgic dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches and “Totchos.” However, the lines can get long. Save time by using the Mobile Order feature on the My Disney Experience app to order ahead and skip the wait.
5. Keep Checking for Last-Minute FastPass Availability
Even if you didn’t secure FastPass+ reservations, don’t give up! Keep checking the app throughout your trip—spots sometimes open as other guests change their plans. You might get lucky and grab a reservation for Slinky Dog Dash or Alien Swirling Saucers on the day of your visit.
6. Ride Attractions Late in the Day for Shorter Waits
Lines for popular rides tend to be shorter later in the evening. If you couldn’t secure FastPasses, try getting in line for Slinky Dog Dash right before park closing. As long as you’re in line before the park closes, you’ll get to ride. Additionally, Toy Story Mania and Alien Swirling Saucers often have shorter waits toward the end of the day.
Credit: Disney
7. Look Out for Fun Details Throughout the Land
Every corner of Toy Story Land is filled with creative storytelling. Look closely, and you’ll spot nods to the Toy Story films, hidden Easter eggs, and playful elements—like Andy’s footprint embedded in the ground. These small touches make you feel fully immersed in the whimsical world of toys.
8. Meet Your Favorite Toy Story Characters
No trip to Toy Story Land is complete without meeting its iconic characters. Get in line to meet Woody, Jessie, or Buzz Lightyear, or catch the Green Army Men marching through the area. These character interactions are a fantastic way to capture magical memories and get unique photo opportunities.
9. Visit Both During the Day and at Night
Much like Pandora – The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom, Toy Story Land transforms after dark. The oversized string lights illuminate the land, creating a whimsical ambiance you won’t want to miss. If you’re visiting during the holidays, the decorations make the land even more festive and enchanting.
10. Bring Patience—Crowds Are Inevitable
Even though Toy Story Land has been open for a while, it’s still a popular area that draws large crowds. Add the buzz around Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and you’re likely to encounter congestion. To avoid frustration, plan your visit during off-peak hours—like early mornings or late evenings—or visit while other guests are enjoying nighttime shows like Fantasmic! or Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular.
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic
Final Thoughts
Toy Story Land offers a magical experience for guests of all ages, but with careful planning, you can make the most of your visit. Use mobile ordering for food, take advantage of early entry or late-night opportunities, and explore every fun detail this playful land has to offer.
Whether you’re meeting Woody or riding Slinky Dog Dash, every moment in Toy Story Land is filled with wonder and nostalgia.
