Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Disney’s Hollywood Studios has been captivating guests for over 35 years, and it’s only getting better. With additions of Toy Story Land and the ever-popular Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, this park has evolved into a must-see destination at Walt Disney World Resort. If you’re wondering how much you can experience in one day, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to having the best day ever at Hollywood Studios.
From thrilling attractions to immersive dining experiences, here are 10 tips to make the most of your day at the park.
1. Arrive Early for Maximum Fun
Time is of the essence at Hollywood Studios, especially since the park tends to close earlier than Magic Kingdom. To maximize your day, arrive before the park opens. Check park hours using the My Disney Experience app the night before so you can get a head start. Rope-dropping (arriving at park opening) will allow you to enjoy crowd-favorite rides with shorter wait times, giving you a head start on the day’s excitement.
If you’re a Disney Resort guest, ensure you take advantage of the 30-minute early access to the park.
2. Plan Your Lightning Lane Selections in Advance
The key to a smooth day at Hollywood Studios is securing Lightning Lane reservations ahead of time. Popular attractions, such as Slinky Dog Dash, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, can have long standby lines. Having your Lightning Lane selections lined up ensures you can enjoy the park’s most iconic rides without spending hours in line. Book these selections as soon as your window opens.
Photo Credit: DisneyPro Tip: Prioritize Slinky Dog Dash or Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, as these tend to have the longest wait times.
3. Dine at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater
Step back in time and enjoy a nostalgic meal at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant. This uniquely themed dining experience takes you to a retro drive-in movie theater where you’ll sit in “cars” while watching clips of classic sci-fi films. The ambiance here is unbeatable, and the menu offers everything from classic burgers and onion rings to out-of-this-world milkshakes. It’s the perfect mid-day break after a morning of riding the park’s most exciting attractions.
4. Have a Blast at Toy Story Land
Toy Story Land is a must-visit! Shrink down to the size of a toy and immerse yourself in Andy’s backyard, where fun awaits at every corner. Jump aboard Slinky Dog Dash for a thrilling roller coaster ride, test your aim at Toy Story Mania!, and take a spin with the aliens at Alien Swirling Saucers.
Credit: Disney
Don’t forget to stop by Woody’s Lunch Box for some mouthwatering “totchos” (tater tot nachos) and a refreshing Mystic Portal Punch.
5. Meet Iconic Star Wars Characters
If you’re a Star Wars fan, prepare to live out your sci-fi dreams at Star Wars Launch Bay and Galaxy’s Edge. Head over to Launch Bay to meet beloved characters like Chewbacca and BB-8. These meet-and-greet opportunities often have manageable lines, and PhotoPass photographers are available to capture these unforgettable moments. Make sure to explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for even more intergalactic adventures, such as spotting Kylo Ren, Rey, and stormtroopers.
6. Don’t Miss the 50’s Prime Time Café
For a dining experience that’s both delicious and delightfully retro, reserve a table at the 50’s Prime Time Café. The restaurant is styled like a 1950s family kitchen, complete with black-and-white televisions playing clips of old sitcoms. Your “cousins” (AKA servers) will remind you to mind your manners while serving up hearty dishes like Mom’s Old-Fashioned Pot Roast and Aunt Liz’s Golden Fried Chicken. Be sure to save room for dessert—try the Peanut Butter & Jelly milkshake for a nostalgic treat!
Pro Tip: Book your dining reservations 60 days in advance using the My Disney Experience app.
7. Get Ready for a Galactic Adventure at Star Tours
Blast off to a galaxy far, far away with Star Tours – The Adventures Continue. This classic ride takes you on a 3D journey through various planets from the Star Wars universe, complete with thrilling twists and turns. Each ride experience is randomized, so you may visit different planets each time!
While you wait for your Lightning Lane time or during a quieter moment in the day, hop in line for this epic ride and prepare for a one-of-a-kind space journey.
8. Sing Along with Anna and Elsa
If you love Frozen, don’t miss For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration. Join Anna, Elsa, and two royal historians as they recount the story of Frozen in a humorous and heartwarming way. Sing along to all your favorite songs, including “Let It Go,” while enjoying the comedic retelling. The show includes a special snowy surprise, making it a magical experience for all ages.
9. Explore the Muppet*Vision 3D Show
Relive childhood memories with a visit to MuppetVision 3D*. This whimsical show is full of classic Muppet humor and features Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and the rest of the gang in a zany 3D adventure. Located on Grand Avenue, it’s a great spot to relax in air conditioning while enjoying a timeless attraction that never fails to entertain.
Credit: Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) on Twitter
There’s rarely a long wait for this experience, so it’s a perfect filler between Lightning Lane times or meals.
10. End Your Day with Fantasmic!
Cap off your perfect day at Hollywood Studios with the park’s nighttime spectacular, Fantasmic! This incredible show takes place in an amphitheater and brings together Mickey Mouse and dozens of other beloved Disney characters. The combination of water projections, fireworks, lasers, and live performers makes for an unforgettable experience.
Make sure to grab a seat early or book a Lightning Lane to ensure a good view of this magical production.
Pro Tip: If you want to combine dining with the show, consider booking a Fantasmic! Dining Package, which includes reserved seating for the show and a meal at select park restaurants.
