Is this the most misunderstood Disney park? I’m making the case for Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios often gets overlooked, but from epic rides to hidden gems, here’s why this park deserves more love from Disney fans.

Back in 2017, I went back to Disney World for the first time as an adult. It was also a special trip because it was my wife’s first time ever at Disney World. We had a jam-packed week planned: We’d visit all four theme parks, check out Disney Springs, and even do a little resort hopping. And the first park we went to on that trip was Hollywood Studios.

My wife was excited to be at Disney World for the first time, but she also was skeptical about why people loved it so much. However, as we took our first steps onto Hollywood Boulevard, I’ll never forget her saying, “Now I get it!” A Disney World fan was born.

Despite that initial excitement, Hollywood Studios ended up being the only park on that trip we left for part of the day. And the reason was, well… there wasn’t that much to do.

At times throughout its history, Hollywood Studios has had a reputation for being a half-day park. However, Hollywood Studios has stepped up its game in recent years, especially with the addition of so many new lands, attractions, and experiences. So if you’re on the fence about whether you should include this park on your next visit, here are 10 reasons why I think it’s well worth it.

1. It’s Home to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Are you a Star Wars fan? Even if you’re not, Galaxy’s Edge is a must-see. This immersive land makes you feel like you’re a part of the Star Wars universe with attractions like Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run and Rise of the Resistance, restaurants such as Docking Bay 7 and Oga’s Cantina, and experiences like building your own droid or lightsaber.

2. Hollywood Studios Also Has Toy Story Land

Toy Story Land is the second newest land in this Disney World theme park, and it’s a delight for children and adults alike. From the family-friendly Slinky Dog Dash coaster to the interactive Toy Story Mania attraction, there is plenty of toy-themed fun to be had.

After seeing Woody, Buzz and the gang, grab a bite to eat at restaurants like Roundup Rodeo BBQ and Woody’s Lunch Box.

3. There Are Plenty of Thrill Rides to Be Found Here

Hollywood Studios arguably has the most thrilling rides in all of Disney World. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (which soon will be re-themed to the Muppets) features a fast launch of 0 to 57 mph in less than 3 seconds, plus three inversions.

And of course, there’s the iconic Hollywood Tower of Terror, which takes riders on multiple drops in a haunted hotel setting. So if you are someone who prefers more intense rides, don’t skip Hollywood Studios!

4. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Shouldn’t Be Missed

It’s hard to believe that throughout Disney World, there’s just one sole ride that features the world’s most famous mouse. And while many mourn the loss of The Great Movie Ride, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is a welcome addition to the parks and features a fun and lighthearted trackless adventure that’s fun for the whole family.

5. Hollywood Studios Has One of the Best Nighttime Spectaculars

When you think of nighttime shows, Fantasmic! is hard to beat. It takes place in an outdoor amphitheater and features live characters, music, fireworks, pyrotechnics, water effects, and more to experience Mickey’s imagination and battling against various Disney villains. It’s definitely a spectacle worth watching! (Note: the show may be scary or intense for young viewers).

6. Hollywood Studios Is an Entertainment Hub

In addition to Fantasmic!, Hollywood Studios has several other amazing shows for guests to experience. One of my favorites is the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, which shows how stunts are performed in action movies. There’s also the Frozen Sing-Along and live adaptations of Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid.

7. It’s Where You’ll Find All the Villains

If you’re someone who wants more Villain-themed attractions at Disney, you’ll want to check out Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After. This stage show infuses humor as various Disney villains present their case to prove that they’re the one that’s been treated the most unfairly. With fun music and special effects, this is a great recent addition to Hollywood Studios.

8. Jollywood Nights Is a Top-Tier After-House Event

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party over in Magic Kingdom may get more attention over the holidays, but don’t sleep on Jollywood Nights!

This event just launched a few years ago in 2023, and features a more adult-oriented approach to a Disney holiday party. With event-exclusive entertainment, character interactions, and food, Jollywood Nights has turned Hollywood Studios into a must-visit holiday destination.

9. Hollywood Studios Is Home to Great Dining

Theme parks aren’t always known for dining, but Disney has always challenged that notion. And Hollywood Studios is no different.

In addition to the themed restaurants I mentioned earlier, other fantastic options include the Hollywood Brown Derby and Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant (where you get to eat inside a car!), just to name a few. Even the ABC Commissary has upgraded its menu from typical theme park fare to a more robust menu.

10. The Disney Skyliner Makes It So Convenient to Visit

Lastly, Hollywood Studios is one of two parks on the Disney Skyliner route (EPCOT is the other). That means you can easily get to this park using this gondola system from Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, the Riviera, Yacht & Beach Club, and the Boardwalk. Even if you’re not staying at any of these resorts, hopping on the Skyliner can be a nice midday break as well!

So if you’re not sure whether you should include Hollywood Studios on your next trip, I hope this convinced you to add it to your itinerary!

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