The Complete Guide to the Best Rides at Hollywood Studios

Are you ready to feel like the star character of a movie? Welcome to Disney's Hollywood Studios, where the magic of film comes to life! In this blog we'll take you on a journey through the best Hollywood Studios rides and attractions. From exploring the intergalactic Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to experiencing the thrill of Toy Story Land, Sunset Boulevard, and Echo Lake, there is no shortage of detail here. Plus, we'd like to share insider tips you need to know to ensure you understand the ins and outs of this Disney park. If you're wondering where to stay during your Disney vacation, we'll surprise you with some discounts to Westgate Resorts in Orlando. Fasten your seatbelts as the magical adventure through Hollywood Studios begins!

Unveiling Disney's Hollywood Studios

Step into the world of your favorite movies and characters, and experience the magic and allure of Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios like never before. To date, Hollywood Studios is said to be the best park for those who enjoy cinematic excellence.

An Overview of Hollywood Studios' History and Significance

There's rich history and significance at Hollywood Studios that has made it the destination for Disney enthusiasts. This iconic theme park has a captivating backstory, tracing its origins back to the days of 1989. Its main inspiration is driven by film, television, music, theatre, and the original Golden Age of Hollywood. From its humble beginnings to becoming a must-visit attraction, Hollywood Studios has enchanted visitors with its old and new-age iconic attractions. Fans from all over the globe come to discover why Disney's Hollywood Studios holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Exploring the Lands at Hollywood Studios

Before we continue, prioritize downloading the My Disney Experience App, granting you access to show times, character meet and greets, height requirements, the locations of attractions and more, setting up your full day(s) to be most efficient for seeing all there is to see. The amount of information provided on My Disney Experience is something even a map can't keep up with.

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Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

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What an absolute treasure of a land this is. It's at Galaxy's Edge where you're transported to a galaxy far, far away through immersive experiences and epic rides. Unleash your inner Jedi by building your own lightsaber at Savi's Workshop or droid at Droid Depot. Feel like a local with a cup of Batuu’s legendary frozen blue or green milk. Meet Chewbacca as he roams the land. Dine at Oga's Cantina or Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo. Hop in line for the thrilling Millennium Falcon Smuggler’s Run and the mesmerizing Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Or, simply walk this giant land and get a glimpse of all the cool gadgets, shops, and characters. Most of all, keep your eyes out for Stormtroopers - they may approach you to recruit you to the resistance.

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PHOTO: Toy Story Land

Toy Story Land

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Toy Story Land, where the magic of Toy Story comes to life before your eyes. From the larger-than-life attractions to the enchanting atmosphere, Toy Story Land promises an unforgettable experience. Feel the thrill as you brave the Toy Story Mania! ride and hop aboard the Slinky Dog Dash for a wild roller coaster expedition through Andy's backyard. While you're here, take a intergalactic spin on Alien Swirling Saucers! This is a highly populated land; consider exploring early in the morning or during lunchtime when many choose to take a break.

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Sunset Boulevard

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Discover the enchantment and glamour of Sunset Boulevard at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of this iconic street, where magic and allure await around every corner. Uncover hidden treasures and captivating attractions as you explore this vibrant part of the park. Whether it's indulging in the magical atmosphere or enjoying world-class entertainment, Sunset Boulevard has something for everyone. It's here that you'll find Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy, Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage, and Fantasmic! fun show and fireworks.

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Echo Lake

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Get ready to dive into the wonders and attractions of Echo Lake at Disney's Hollywood Studios. This vibrant area offers a host of exciting offerings and experiences that will leave you in awe. Immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Echo Lake's attractions as you discover hidden gems and captivating sights. You'll find plenty of shows and attractions here like the infamous Indiana Jones™ Epic Stunt Spectacular!, Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, and For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration. If you're an Olaf fan, don't skip out on this land!

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PHOTO: Daisy at Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard

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Experience the enchantment and allure of Hollywood Boulevard as you step into the heart of the glitz and glamour. The charm of Hollywood Boulevard is an essential part of your visit to Disney World's Hollywood Studios, offering Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway attraction along with multiple options of dining and shopping.

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Animation Courtyard

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This one's for the kids! Animation Courtyard is home to Disney Junior Play & Dance, a musical celebration full of soaring energy and excitement. Great for preschoolers and kids, this is where you'll find everyone's favorite characters. Continue your character sightings at Star Wars Launch Bay while also touring authentic movie props. Complete your Animation Courtyard explorations with a Disney history lesson (100 years of Disney on display!) at Walt Disney Presents while simultaneously learning about upcoming Disney films. We recommend grabbing a refreshing beverage from Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Company as you explore!

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Commissary Lane

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Though the land has a total of three things to do, Commissary Lane packs a punch with one of the best attractions at Hollywood Studios - meeting Mickey and Minnie Mouse! Meet Mickey and Minnie at Red Carpet Dreams as they welcome their biggest fans backstage on set. Once the memories are captured, grab some grub at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant or ABC Commissary. Consider this a quick adventure and a job well done.

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Grand Avenue

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Formally known as Streets of America and the Muppets Courtyard, Grand Avenue is home to Muppet Vision 3D, an extravaganza featuring Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Fonzie, and others. Dining options in this land include PizzeRizzo, Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano, and Baseline Tap House.

Top Rides and Attractions at Hollywood Studios

With so many incredible options, Hollywood Studios is the perfect place for thrill-seekers and Disney enthusiasts alike. If possible, it's recommended to purchase Lightning Lane for these rides. Now, let's take a closer look.

PHOTO: Inside Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

If the perfect ride was ever created for a Star Wars fan, this is it. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is an epic intergalactic adventure that'll leave you breathless with excitement. This ultimate ride takes you on a pulse-pounding mission where you become part of the Resistance in a battle against the First Order. Brace yourself for an immersive and heart-pounding experience as you journey through the galaxy, facing thrilling encounters and incredible special effects. This trackless dark ride is a must-visit for any Star Wars fan, offering a perfect blend of storytelling, ride systems, and motion simulators. Join the Resistance, feel the Force, and make this experience part of your mission.

PHOTO: Inside the Tower of Terror

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

A classic. Step into the haunted Hollywood Tower Hotel and brace yourself for an eerie elevator ride like no other. As you wait for your fate, you'll get to enjoy the old Hollywood-styled décor of the hotel. And as you free-fall through the depths of the Twilight Zone, you'll experience what it really feels like to be stuck on an elevator shaft with no end. This is an iconic ride with a flair for theatrics at Disney's Hollywood Studios, so if you're a fan of adrenaline-pumping rides, add Tower of Terror to the itinerary. It also tends to have a shorter wait time than some of the other rides in the park.

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Toy Story Mania!

Test your aim and compete with friends in exciting carnival-style games at Toy Story Mania! Immerse yourself in the vibrant and colorful world of Andy's backyard. Aim, shoot, and score as you embark on a thrilling 4D journey. This interactive ride is a must-try for all Toy Story fans. Let your excitement soar as you join Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of the Toy Story gang. Feel the thrill as you take aim at targets and rack up points. Experience the magic of Andy's imagination come to life.

Slinky Dog Dash

Get ready for one of the most popular adventures at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Join Woody, Buzz, and the gang as you embark on a wild and bouncy ride through twists and turns. Feel the wind in your hair as you zoom through Toy Story Land, soaking in the vibrant sights and sounds. It's a one-of-a-kind experience that makes you feel like a toy in Andy's backyard. Slinky Dog Dash is a must-try roller coaster, offering the perfect blend of excitement and fun. So don't miss out on this thrilling journey with your favorite Toy Story characters!

PHOTO: Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

A thrill ride indeed. Before you launch from 0 to 60 mph in a matter of seconds, you'll get to meet Aerosmith and their crew. Twist and turn to the beat of Aerosmith music, immersing yourself in the high-speed rock 'n' roll experience like never before. This thrilling indoor roller coaster is a must-try for music lovers seeking an unforgettable experience. Consider it one of the best Hollywood Studios rides.

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Step into the whimsical world of Mickey and Minnie Mouse on the enchanting Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Join the Disney duo as they embark on a delightful adventure filled with surprises and laughter. Enjoy a captivating 2D animated universe brought to life with cutting-edge technology and dazzling visual effects. This charming ride is perfect for guests of all ages.

PHOTO: Millennium Falcon Smuggler's Run

Millennium Falcon Smuggler’s Run

Step into the thrilling world of Star Wars with Millennium Falcon Smuggler’s Run! During your introduction to the legendary Millennium Falcon spaceship, you'll be assigned the pilot, gunner, or engineer. The interactive mission will then begin as you pilot through space, shoot enemies, and repair the ship with your teammates to complete your smuggling assignment. As you navigate through the Star Wars universe, flying at lightspeed and dodging obstacles, you'll notice the ride's fantastic detail to a full sensory experience. This is a great movie ride and a dream come true for many Star Wars fans as it allows you to step into the shoes of Han Solo and Chewbacca.

Making the Most of Your Visit

To help maximize your time at the park, first it's best to beat the crowds by arriving early and heading straight to the most popular rides like Slinky Dog Dash and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. By midday these rides are double the wait time. Also, planning your use of Genie+ and Lightning Lane in advance will minimize wait times, allowing you to experience more attractions throughout the day. Don't forget to explore the park's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions if wait times are extended, such as Walt Disney Presents and the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. Lastly, be sure to catch the spectacular nighttime shows, like the mesmerizing Wonderful World of Animation for a memorable finale to your day at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Tips and Tricks for a Memorable Experience at Hollywood Studios

Our favorite part: ensuring your visit to Hollywood Studios is unique and at maximum efficiency! To pay less for keeping you and the family hydrated, it's recommended to bring your own water bottle, as there are filling stations located within the park. This minimizes the need to purchase drinks along with wasting plastic. Think the single rider line is less of a wait time? You'd be surprised. On a busy day, the wait time will most likely be the same as the standard line, sometimes even longer. The single rider line isn't what it used to be - a lot of visitors caught on to the idea of it being a "shorter wait time", which now it's become more counterintuitive than anything. Also, save time and skip the line at restaurants by using mobile ordering. If the goal is to dine at one of the few restaurants within the park, reservations are absolutely necessary. Otherwise, most will become booked for the day. With these insider tips, you're guaranteed to have a memorable experience at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Why Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane are Essential

We've visited the park ourselves and have concluded that these two services are almost a requirement if you're looking to enjoy the best rides at Hollywood Studios. Why? Simply put, the park gets very busy. If you're not one who enjoys, say, 180-minute wait times, then it's worth the splurge. As Disney states, with Genie+, visitors "... can enter 2 to 3 attractions or experiences per day using Lightning Lane entrances if the first selection is made early in the day." Or, you can purchase Lightning Lane "a la cart" - or individually - for a specific ride. The Lightning Lane line will always take precedence over the standard line. Meaning, if the park is crowded that day and many have purchased Lightning Lane for your favorite ride, you'll be waiting in the standard line longer than you think. Trust us when we say this, we've experienced it.

Either way, our rule of thumb is, reduce spending within other areas of your vacation so you can enjoy the perks of the park without being fixated on your budget. There's a reason we created discounted Disney's Hollywood Studios tickets and vacation packages - to meet the needs of our very own guests.

Why is Hollywood Studios a Must-Visit for Disney Lovers?

Aside from the ever popular Magic Kingdom, it's at Hollywood Studios where you can explore iconic film sets, meet beloved characters, and enjoy live shows. Indulge in delicious dining inspired by your favorite films. Experience the perfect blend of thrills, entertainment, and Disney enchantment.

Enjoying a Comfortable Stay at Westgate Resorts in Orlando

What's a vacation in Orlando without the luxury and comfort of a Westgate Resorts stay? Conveniently located, Westgate Orlando Resorts like Westgate Town Center Resort provide easy access to Hollywood Studios and all the other Disney parks. After a day of adventure, unwind by the pool or continue the thrills at Shipwreck Island Water Park. Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones in this comfortable and stylish setting. Whether you're visiting Disney World for the first time or are a seasoned visitor, Westgate Resorts locations in Orlando are the perfect choice for continued magical vacation fun.

What're you waiting for?

In conclusion, Hollywood Studios offers a magical experience for Disney lovers of all ages. From immersing yourself in the world of Star Wars at Galaxy's Edge to reliving your childhood at Toy Story Land, there are thrills and adventures waiting around every corner. Make sure to check out the top Hollywood Studios rides and attractions, including Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. To make the most of your visit, follow our tips and tricks for a memorable experience. And if you're looking for a comfortable stay, consider booking a room at Westgate Resorts in Orlando. Don't miss out on the excitement and wonder that Hollywood Studios has to offer. Are you ready to embark on a magical journey?

Disney Hollywood Studios Map