Jenna SaxtonOf all four Walt Disney World theme parks. Disney’s Hollywood Studios has changed the most over the last 10 years. With the addition of TWO entirely new lands and 4 new rides, plus all that there already was to do, this park is sure to keep you busy from park opening to park close. So, to ensure you don’t miss a thing, check out our complete guide to Hollywood Studios rides and attractions!
Overview of Hollywood Studios Rides & Attractions
When it comes to rides and attractions, Hollywood Studios has a lot to offer. With a total of 21 rides and live shows, there’s a lot to accomplish in one day!
The park itself underwent a massive transformation between 2018 and 2020 with the addition of Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge bringing new rides, stores, restaurants, and more to Hollywood Studios. Of course, Disney is always adding new things to their parks, and Hollywood Studios is no exception. Keep an eye out for the brand-new Little Mermaid show, which is set to debut soon!
Currently, Hollywood Studios is divided into seven different lands including Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, Animation Courtyard, Echo Lake, Grand Avenue, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and Toy Story Land. Each land has its own unique theme and attractions.
With so many popular attractions, wait times can be long for the rides throughout the park. If you’re looking to skip the lines, you can take advantage of the Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass options. These passes allow you to reserve a time to ride certain popular attractions without having to wait in the standby line.
Top 6 Rides & Attractions in Hollywood Studios
With so many rides and attractions in Hollywood Studios, it’s best to know which rides are must-dos for your family and which ones you don’t mind skipping before you visit. This will help you plan your day and walk away feeling like you accomplished everything you wanted to, even if it’s not all of the attractions in the park! It can also help you prioritize which rides you book Lighting Lanes for if you purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass.
So, here are the 6 most popular Hollywood Studios rides and attractions:
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
- Tower of Terror
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
- Slinky Dog Dash
We recommend doing these rides early in the day or right before the park closes to avoid long wait times.
Now, let’s get into ALL of the rides and attractions you can find in Hollywood Studios including their height requirements and how to ride!
Hollywood Boulevard Rides and Attractions
Hollywood Boulevard is the first place you’ll visit as you walk into the park. This bustling main street is reminiscent of 1930s Hollywood and features iconic landmarks, shops, and a variety of rides and attractions. Plus, it also features one of the most popular attractions in the park front and center!
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: Trackless Slow Ride
One of the newest and most popular attractions in Hollywood Studios is Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. This ride takes you on a wild adventure through a cartoon world with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Daisy, Donald, and Pluto filled with a series of zany scenes.
The ride features state-of-the-art technology, including 3D animation and special effects, to create an immersive experience that is sure to wow you. It’s located inside the Chinese Theater and tends to have a long line, especially first thing in the morning.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rides and Attractions
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is an entire themed land dedicated to the Star Wars franchise. The fully immersive area transports you to the planet of Batuu, where you can live your own Star Wars story by talking with “the locals,” creating your own custom lightsaber, and you might even stumble upon some Storm Troopers patrolling the area. The land features two rides, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, along with other attractions, entertainment, character experiences, food, and merchandise.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Height Requirement: 38” (97cm) or Taller
Ride Type: Dark Flight Simulator
The Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is an interactive motion simulator ride that puts you in the cockpit of the iconic Millennium Falcon. You and your crew of six will play different roles, such as pilot, gunner, or engineer, to complete a smuggling mission. The ride features visuals and realistic sound effects that make you feel like you are really flying the Millennium Falcon.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Height Requirement: 40” (102cm) or Taller
Ride Type: Dark Trackless Ride
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is a thrilling dark ride that takes you into the action as you join the Resistance and battle the First Order. The ride features multiple ride systems, including a trackless ride vehicle and a motion simulator, that seamlessly blend together to create a unique and immersive experience. The ride also features impressive special effects, such as life-sized AT-AT walkers and a massive Star Destroyer hangar, that make you feel like you are in the middle of a Star Wars battle. Plus, the Cast Members act more like actors when you’re taken on the Star Destroyer.
Both of these rides are extremely popular and have long wait times almost the entire day, though you can opt to use the Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass system to minimize your wait time. Additionally, there are many other things to do in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, such as building your own lightsaber or droid, interacting with characters, and trying out unique Star Wars-themed food and drinks. So, plan to spend a good chunk of your day here!
Sunset Boulevard Rides and Attractions
Sunset Boulevard features some of the most thrilling roller coasters and attractions in all of Disney World. Here are the top rides and attractions you won’t want to miss:
Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: Stage Show
If you’re a fan of the classic Disney movie Beauty and the Beast, you won’t want to miss this live stage show. The show is a retelling of the story with all of your favorite characters and songs from the movie, including “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.” The costumes and sets are stunning, and the performers are incredibly talented.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Height Requirement: 48” (122cm) or Taller
Ride Type: Indoor Roller Coaster, Thrill Ride
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is an indoor roller coaster that takes you on a high-speed ride to the soundtrack of Aerosmith’s greatest hit. This ride is definitely for thrill seekers and even features an upside-down loop and launch start.
Note that major changes are coming to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in the near future. Click here to learn more!
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Height Requirement: 40” (102cm) or Taller
Ride Type: Dark Drop Ride, Thrill Ride
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is unlike any other drop ride you’ve ever ridden. This drop tower ride first takes you through the haunted Hollywood Tower Hotel, where you then board an “emergency elevator” that ends up having some malfunctions. The ride features multiple drops and a randomized sequence, so you never know what to expect and every ride is a little different.
Toy Story Land Rides and Attractions
Toy Story Land is one of the newer areas at Hollywood Studios with multiple rides that feature your favorite characters from the Toy Story franchise. Here’s what you can do:
Alien Swirling Saucers
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: Spinning Ride
Alien Swirling Saucers is a spinning ride that features the little green aliens from the Toy Story movies. You will ride in a flying saucer that is being controlled by one of the aliens. The ride is designed to simulate a toy being played with by a child and is great for all ages as it’s not too intense.
Slinky Dog Dash
Height Requirement: 38” (97cm) or Taller
Ride Type: Roller Coaster, Thrill Ride
Slinky Dog Dash is a roller coaster where you board Slinky Dog and dash around Andy’s “roller coaster play set.” During the ride, you will experience twists, turns, and drops that will make you feel like you are riding on a real Slinky.
This is a great ride for those who are newer to roller coasters but does still have some mild intensity.
Toy Story Mania!
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: 3D Interactive Ride
Toy Story Mania! is an interactive ride where you play carnival games while riding through a 4D environment. 3D glasses immerse you into a series of arcade games where you’ll shoot darts at balloons, throw rings on aliens, and break plates with baseballs. With the added fun of competing with your family and seeing who can get the highest score, this ride is a must-do for any visit to Hollywood Studios.
Echo Lake Rides and Attractions
With multiple attractions, shows, and restaurants, Echo Lake is part of the heart of Hollywood Studios. Here are some of the must-visit rides and attractions that you don’t want to miss:
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: Live Interactive Show
If you’re a fan of Frozen, you’ll love this sing-along celebration. This live show features hilarious live hosts who retell the story of Princess Anna and Else while singing along to all your favorite songs from the movie, including “Let It Go” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” There’s even an appearance from many of your favorite characters!
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: Live Show
Ever wondered how stunts are filmed in movies? Get a peek behind the scenes during Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular where you’ll get to see some amazing stunts and special effects as Indiana Jones battles his way through a series of dangerous obstacles. The show is full of excitement and suspense and is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The show takes place multiple times a day so be sure to check the My Disney Experience App for show times.
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Height Requirement: 40” (102cm) or Taller
Ride Type: 3D Flight Simulator
Star Tours is the longest-standing Star Wars attraction in Disney World and takes you on a thrilling journey through the Star Wars universe, complete with amazing special effects and 3D visuals. You’ll travel to different planets, encounter famous characters from the movies, and experience all the excitement of a real space adventure.
The ride has been updated multiple times over the years to feature scenes and adventures with new characters as the Star Wars universe expands.
Vacation Fun – An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: Original Shorts Theater Show
Need a break from the heat and all the walking? Vacation Fun is an original animated short featuring Mickey, Minnie, and all their friends. You’ll get to see some of your favorite Disney characters in a new and exciting way, and the whole family is sure to love it. The 11-minute short features new animation mixed with some old favorites including Panda-monium, Couples Sweaters, Potatoland, Croissant de Triomphe, Entombed, Dumb Luck, Al Rojo Vivo, Yodelburg, and Outback at Ya!.
Grand Avenue Rides and Attractions
Grand Avenue is the place for all things Muppets in Hollywood Studios! Be sure to stop here as you make your way towards (or out of) Star Wars land. And, keep in mind that Disney has announced that this area of the park will soon be replaced by a brand new Monsters Inc. land. More details on the exact timeline of these changes will be announced at a later date, but here’s what you can do now before it closes:
Muppet*Vision 3D
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: 3D Show
Muppet*Vision 3D is the only major attraction in Grand Avenue (though there are multiple restaurants here too). This show is a 3D film that features the beloved Muppets and their zany antics. The show is filled with humor, music, and special effects that make it an entertaining experience for the whole family.
It is held in a large theater with comfortable seating and air conditioning, making it a great place to relax and take a break from the Florida heat. The actual show portion of the attraction runs for approximately 15 minutes (though there is a pre-show that adds some additional time), and it is recommended to arrive early to secure a good seat and lessen your wait time as shows can fill up.
Animation Courtyard Rides and Attractions
Animation Courtyard has changed a lot over the years and tends to be an area of the park that people bypass unknowingly. But, if you’ve got little kids or a Star Wars fan in your family, don’t skip this! The area is home to multiple meet and greets (which you can learn more about below), plus one live show.
Disney Junior Play and Dance!
Height Requirement: Any Height
Ride Type: Live Interactive Show
One of the most popular attractions in the Animation Courtyard is the Disney Junior Play and Dance! This is an interactive show that is perfect for young children. During the show, your kids can sing, dance, and play along with their favorite Disney Junior characters, such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Doc McStuffins.
Character Meet and Greets at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is not only home to thrilling rides but also offers a chance to meet your favorite Disney characters. From classic characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse to newer ones like Joy from Inside Out, there are plenty of opportunities to meet characters and pose for a photo.
Meet Ariel
Location: Walt Disney Presents
Meet and Greet Times: During Park Hours
At Walt Disney Presents, you can meet Ariel in her live-action movie form. She greets guests throughout the day, so just stop by when you’re passing this area of the park.
Meet Disney Junior Pals
Location: Animation Courtyard
Meet and Greet Times: Check the My Disney Experience App
If you have little ones, they will love meeting the Disney Junior Pals. You can meet Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, and Fancy Nancy at Animation Courtyard near the Disney Junior Play and Dance show multiple times a day.
Meet Mickey and Minnie Mouse
Location: Red Carpet Dreams
Meet and Greet Times: During Park Hours
No visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is complete without meeting Mickey and Minnie Mouse! You can meet them at the Red Carpet Dreams location in Commissary Lane.
Meet Edna Mode
Location: Edna Mode Experience in Pixar Plaza
Meet and Greet Times: During Park Hours
If you love The Incredibles, you’ll want to meet Edna Mode. You can meet her at Pixar Place and take a photo with her. She may even give you some fashion advice.
Meet Joy
Location: Pixar Plaza
Meet and Greet Times: Check the My Disney Experience App
Meet Joy from Inside Out at the Pixar Plaza. She greets guests multiple times throughout the day so be sure to check the My Disney Experience app to ensure you don’t miss her.
Meet Olaf
Location: Celebrity Spotlight
Meet and Greet Times: During Park Hours
Need a warm hug? Head to Celebrity Spotlight to meet Olaf from Frozen! He greets guests throughout the day so no need to plan an exact time to stop by.
Meet Pixar Pals
Location: Pixar Plaza
Meet and Greet Times: During Park Hours
At Pixar Place, you can meet some of your favorite Pixar characters. Depending on the day and time you can meet characters like Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc., Mr. Incredible and Frozone from The Incredibles, and Buzz Lightyear and Woody from Toy Story. Ask a Cast Member if you’re not sure who’s meeting guests when you visit.
Meet Woody, Jesse, and Buzz Lightyear
Location: Near Toy Story Land Entrance
Meet and Greet Times: Check the My Disney Experience App
You can also meet Woody, Jesse, and Buzz Lightyear inside Toy Story Land. They can usually be found at the entrance to this area of the park under the sign with Woody.
Meet BB-8, Darth Vader, and Chewbacca
Location: Star Wars Launch Bay
Meet and Greet Times: During Park Hours
If you’re a Star Wars fan, you’ll want to meet BB-8, Darth Vader, and Chewbacca. You can meet them each separately at Star Wars Launch Bay where you can also walk through a small museum-like area with memorabilia from the franchise.
Comments
What is your favorite Hollywood Studios ride or attraction? Are there any that you skip? What are your best strategies for tackling all the rides and attractions you want to see in one day? Let us know in the comments!
