Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers an array of incredible attractions that blend thrilling adventures with immersive storytelling. To make the most of your visit, using Lightning Lane is a smart way to save time and skip the longest lines for some of the most popular rides and shows. Understanding the tier system for Lightning Lane reservations is essential for planning your day.
Guests can choose one Tier 1 attraction and two Tier 2 attractions per day, with the opportunity to book more options after using their initial selections. Here are the six best attractions to prioritize for your Lightning Lane reservations at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
6. Fantasmic! (Tier 1)
Fantasmic! is an iconic nighttime show that combines dazzling pyrotechnics, stunning water projections, and beloved Disney characters in an unforgettable spectacle. If there are two showings on the night of your visit, consider skipping the Lightning Lane for the first showing and attending the second one instead, as it tends to have shorter lines.
However, if there is only one performance, reserving a Lightning Lane is a must to secure a prime spot and avoid long waits for this popular attraction.
5. Star Tours – The Adventures Continue (Tier 2)
Step into the Star Wars universe with Star Tours, a thrilling 3D flight simulator that takes guests on a variety of intergalactic missions. While lines for this attraction are often shorter compared to others in the park, it’s still an excellent Tier 2 Lightning Lane option. Using Lightning Lane here ensures more time to explore other areas of Hollywood Studios without the added wait.
Credit: Brittany DiCologero / Disney Tips
4. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration (Tier 2)
This heartwarming and entertaining show is a hit with Frozen fans of all ages. The sing-along celebration includes humor, beloved songs, and even some snow! Without a Lightning Lane reservation, guests may need to arrive an hour early to secure a spot. With Lightning Lane access, you can skip the long lines and arrive closer to showtime, ensuring you get a great seat without sacrificing valuable park time.
3. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (Tier 2)
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is a must-do for thrill-seekers visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This thrilling drop ride takes you into the eerie world of a haunted hotel, complete with unexpected twists and turns. As one of the park’s most popular attractions, lines can easily exceed 30 minutes, especially during peak times.
Reserving this as a Tier 2 Lightning Lane option is a great way to save time while still enjoying the immersive queue filled with atmospheric details.
2. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith (Tier 1)
Get ready to rock out on Disney’s only looping roller coaster! Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster combines high-speed thrills with an energetic soundtrack, making it a favorite among adrenaline junkies. The wait times for this ride can be quite long, particularly during midday, so using your Tier 1 Lightning Lane for this attraction is a wise choice.
Credit: ITM
If you’re traveling solo or don’t mind splitting up, the single rider line is another great option for shorter waits.
1. Toy Story Mania! (Tier 1)
A visit to Hollywood Studios isn’t complete without experiencing Toy Story Mania!, an interactive 4D ride that lets guests compete in carnival-inspired games alongside Toy Story characters. This family-friendly attraction is incredibly popular, with wait times often exceeding an hour. Reserving a Tier 1 Lightning Lane for Toy Story Mania! is highly recommended to ensure you don’t miss out on this fun and engaging experience.
Alternatively, plan to ride it first thing in the morning when the park opens to avoid long lines.
Credit: Disney
Tips for Making the Most of Your Lightning Lane Selections
To maximize your day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, here are a few additional tips:
- Plan Ahead: Use the My Disney Experience app to book your Lightning Lane reservations as early as possible. Some of the most popular attractions, like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Toy Story Mania!, fill up quickly.
- Use Early Entry: If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, take advantage of early entry to experience some attractions with minimal wait times before regular park hours.
- Monitor Availability: After using your initial three Lightning Lane reservations, check the app throughout the day for additional availability. While Tier 1 options may be limited, you can often find Tier 2 attractions with open slots.
- Balance Thrills with Relaxation: Hollywood Studios offers a mix of thrilling rides and more leisurely attractions like shows and character meet-and-greets. Use your Lightning Lane selections strategically to create a balanced itinerary.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is packed with unforgettable experiences, and using Lightning Lane can help you make the most of your day. Whether you’re soaring on a banshee in Star Tours, singing along with Elsa and Anna, or braving the Tower of Terror, these six attractions are excellent choices for maximizing fun and minimizing wait times.
Happy planning, and enjoy the magic!
