This park originally opened May 1, 1989 as MGM Studios. The original design of the park took you back to a Hollywood style movie studio. They had a backlot tour, game shows, and attractions about stunts and more.
The park went through a big transformation in January 2008 to become the Hollywood Studios we know today. Although it still has a Hollywood theme, it is less about movie making and a studio atmosphere and more about some of our favorite characters, shows, and stories from the movies.
Getting to Hollywood Studios
Car – There are a few ways to get here depending on where you are coming from. You can arrive by car, with the parking lot being right near the entrance. (No extra transportation like parking at the TTC for Magic Kingdom).
Bus – Most Disney resorts have a bus option and in the case of inclement weather, there should be a bus for every resort. The bus depot is just past the skyliner station.
Skyliner – If you are staying at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, or Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, you can take the skyliners.
Boat – If you are at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club or Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, you are able to take a boat over to the park. The boat dock is near the security area and entrance gate to the park.
Walk – If you have not gotten enough walking in, there is the option to walk from Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club or Disney’s Boardwalk Inn too. There is a nice walking path along the water and you will see the boats go by too.
A New Chapter in Animation Courtyard
If you haven’t explored the new Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, there are so many things to discover! With new experiences bringing animation to life, this area of the park has become a fun stop for families—especially those traveling with little ones.
One of the biggest additions is The Magic of Disney Animation, where you can step behind the scenes of animation, learn how Disney characters are brought to life, and even try your hand at drawing a Disney character with the one & only Olaf. It’s a fun way to slow down and experience a little of the artistry and creativity behind the stories we all know and love.
You’ll also find Off the Page! Character Greetings, where favorite Disney characters appear in colorful environments inspired by different stages of the animation process. Depending on the experience, you may find yourself meeting characters like Mulan, Rapunzel, Chip ‘n’ Dale, Donald and Daisy, Goofy, or Stitch.
And keep an eye out as you explore for playful character experiences, including characters roaming and interacting with guests through games and spontaneous moments. These are the kinds of experiences I love because you never quite know what you’re going to stumble upon!
For families with younger kids, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! brings Mickey, Minnie, and their friends together for an upbeat, interactive experience filled with music and dancing.
Galaxy’s Edge; Star Wars
Walking into Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios truly feels like stepping into another galaxy. As you make your way through Black Spire Outpost, the details, sounds, characters, and atmosphere make it easy to forget you’re in a theme park and instead feel like you’ve landed on the planet of Batuu.
One of my favorite parts is simply taking the time to explore the land. You never know what you’ll encounter around the next corner—including the Stormtroopers roaming Batuu and interacting with guests, which is always fun to see!
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance puts you right in the middle of an epic battle between the Resistance and the First Order, while Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run gives you the chance to climb aboard the Millennium Falcon and take on a role as part of the crew.
Be sure to leave time to explore the shops, grab a blue or green milk, and take in all the incredible details throughout the land. Galaxy’s Edge is one of those areas where slowing down and looking around can be just as much fun as experiencing the attractions themselves.
Toy Story Land
Get ready to feel like a toy in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! The moment you step into Andy’s backyard, you’re surrounded by oversized toys, colorful details, and all the little touches that make you feel like you’ve been shrunk down to toy size.
Toy Story Land is also home to some great dining options. Roundup Rodeo BBQ offers a full table-service dining experience surrounded by Andy’s toys and a playful Western-themed setting. If you’re looking for something quick, Woody’s Lunch Box serves up favorites like grilled cheese and totchos, but keep in mind that seating is limited, so finding a table during busy times can take some planning.
There are also a few newer things to discover! Lilypad, the newest addition inspired by Toy Story 5, made her debut in Hollywood Studios and adds another fun character moment to look for while exploring the land. And if you’re craving one of Disney’s popular snacks, Pizza Planet Spring Rolls can now be found at the newest cart in Hollywood Studios.
Between the attractions, character moments, food, and all the oversized details, Toy Story Land is a place where it pays to slow down and look around. You never know what you might spot in Andy’s backyard!
Hollywood Studios Tips
My number 1 tip is to not get it confused with Universal Studios. Hollywood Studios is home to Star Wars and Toy Story. If you are looking for Harry Potter, you won’t find it here.
You also won’t want to miss the amazing shows here. Figure out which ones you want to see and then you can work the rides around them. My favorites are Frozen First Time in Forever Sing-a-long and Fantasmic.
There are a few special events that take place at Hollywood Studios based on the season. You may want to check out one of the After Hours events or Jollywood Nights.
If you plan to hop, it can be easy to combine Hollywood Studios with Epcot as these parks are pretty close together. Walking or taking the boat is the fastest way to get from one to the other.
Hollywood Studios Blogs
Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios
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Disney Without Kids – Disney’s Hollywood Studios Attractions
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Best Places to eat at Hollywood Studios
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Quick Service Options in Hollywood Studios
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