Disney’s Hollywood Studios Ultimate Guide: Your Complete Resource for a Magical Experience
Formerly known as Disney-MGM Studios, Disney’s Hollywood Studios was the third theme park to open at The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Originally inspired by Disney movies, the park combines a nostalgic “old school” feel with the latest in high-tech rides and attractions.
Opened in May 1989, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has recently undergone a major transformation and expansion, bringing the Star Wars franchise to a Disney theme park in Orlando. Construction began in 2016 when Disney closed the former “Streets of America” section, which included the stunt show and other backstage areas.
Now, the park boasts the all-new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land. Additionally, another attraction has been updated: the former Great Movie Ride, the last remaining attraction from the original opening, has been replaced by Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
This Ultimate Guide to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is perfect not only for first-time visitors but also for seasoned Disney fans seeking the latest information about this amazing theme park.
Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood Boulevard serves as the vibrant entryway to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, designed to evoke the charm of classic Hollywood. This bustling area features a diverse selection of shops and dining options, mirroring the nostalgic feel of Main Street USA found in the Magic Kingdom. Guests can also find essential services here, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, introduced in the spring of 2020, offers an exciting and whimsical ride that takes guests through the enchanting world of Mickey Mouse. The attraction employs a trackless system with eight-person vehicles, providing varied experiences based on the chosen ride vehicle. The ride is rich with lively music and short clips featuring Mickey, adding to the immersive experience.
During peak seasons, wait times are typically between 45 to 60 minutes.
The Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant and The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge
The Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant is inspired by the legendary Brown Derby establishment located on Wilshire Boulevard in Hollywood. This upscale dining venue serves contemporary American cuisine, offering a menu that features steaks, seafood, and a thoughtful selection for children. Dinner prices generally range from $30 to $49, making it a mid-range option for park visitors.
With both lunch and dinner services available, reservations are recommended due to high demand. The restaurant also presents two unique dining experiences: the Dine with a Disney Imagineer package, which includes a four-course meal with a special guest, and the Fantasmic! Dining Package, which offers a meal alongside VIP seating for the popular Fantasmic! show.
The Trolley Car Cafe
Resembling an early 1900s trolley station, The Trolley Car Cafe is a quick-service dining option perfect for grabbing a bite on the go. This venue specializes in a range of baked goods and serves Starbucks coffee along with a selection of other specialty beverages. With participation in select dining plans, it provides an ideal spot for breakfast to kickstart a day of park adventures.
Oscar’s Super Service (guest services)
Oscar’s Super Service is the go-to location for guests needing assistance during their visit. This facility offers various services, including stroller and wheelchair rentals, package pickup, and restaurant reservation help. Known for its attentive and knowledgeable staff, Oscar’s ensures that every guest feels supported throughout their time at the park.
In addition to the dining experiences and services along Hollywood Boulevard, guests can explore several shops for souvenirs and merchandise. This includes stops like Mickey’s of Hollywood, Keystone Clothiers, and the Celebrity 5 & 10 gift shop.
Echo Lake
Echo Lake serves as a vibrant centerpiece featuring a lagoon that reflects the iconic styles of early Hollywood architecture. It is a lively area within Disney’s Hollywood Studios filled with attractions that attract guests of all ages, alongside numerous dining options.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! (Endless Summer favorite)
Inspired by the adventures of Indiana Jones, this live stunt show features thrilling action and special effects. Guests will join Indy and Marion as they navigate obstacles, confront villains, and escape a massive rolling boulder. The performance lasts approximately 30 minutes and is suitable for all ages, making it a popular choice for families. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane access is available, and wait times can vary between 30 to 60 minutes, especially during the busy summer season.
Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple
Children between the ages of 4 and 12 have the opportunity to train as Padawans in this engaging 20-minute experience. They learn lightsaber techniques and gain insight into using the Force while facing off against the dark side. Registration is required, taking place at the Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is advisable.
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Guests embark on an exhilarating 3D journey aboard the Starspeeder 1000 while encountering beloved characters from the Star Wars universe. This motion simulator ride is enhanced with 3D visuals, Audio-Animatronics, and special effects, providing a unique experience with every ride. Inspired by the latest Star Wars films, riders must navigate challenges from the First Order to return safely to the Rebel base. A height restriction of 40 inches applies, and Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane access is offered. Typical wait times range from 30 to 60 minutes, and guests who experience motion sensitivity should consider this before boarding.
For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sign-Along Celebration
This enchanting 30-minute presentation invites guests to sing along with popular characters like Elsa, Anna, and Kristoff as they relive the beloved songs from the Frozen films. This experience is particularly appealing for young fans of the franchise. Wait times typically range from 30 to 60 minutes during peak times. Guests can also meet Olaf at his Celebrity Spotlight, conveniently located nearby.
Hollywood & Vine
Hollywood & Vine offers buffet-style dining with two unique character experiences: Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine and Minnie’s Seasonal Dine. Diners can savor American cuisine while engaging with Disney characters in a lively setting. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with pricing ranging from $27.00 to $55.00 per person. Reservations are strongly recommended to secure a spot.
50’s Prime Time Cafe and the Tune-in Lounge
Transporting guests back to the 1950s, the 50’s Prime Time Cafe features nostalgic décor and comfort food favorites such as pot roast, fried chicken, and meatloaf. This table-service restaurant offers a unique dining experience, with meals priced between $15 and $30. Reservations are highly suggested, and some dining plans are accepted for this charming throwback venue.
Epic Eats
Located just outside the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, Epic Eats is a quick-service spot ideal for guests craving snacks. It specializes in sweet treats, including funnel cakes and ice cream, ensuring that visitors can easily satisfy their dessert cravings during their visit.
Backlot Express
The Backlot Express is another quick-service dining location where guests can enjoy a range of burgers, salads, and sandwiches. This eatery offers mobile ordering for added convenience, and some dining plans are accepted. It’s a relaxed place to grab a meal before continuing the day’s adventures.
Dockside Diner
Echo Lake also features a variety of gift shops, including the Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost, Tatooine Traders, and “Frozen” Fractal Gifts. These shops offer a diverse selection of merchandise such as toys, apparel, costumes, and souvenirs, allowing guests to bring a piece of the magic home with them.
Commissary Lane
Commissary Lane, the most compact area within Disney’s Hollywood Studios, offers some of the finest dining options available in the park.
Mickey and Minnie Starring in Premier Photo Ops
Visitors have the opportunity to interact with Mickey and Minnie in a fun meet-and-greet experience. Guests can take photographs and collect autographs, though it is advisable to arrive early in the day to minimize wait times.
Sci-Fi Dine-in Theater Restaurant (Classic Movie Experience)
For those who enjoy nostalgic drive-in theaters, the Sci-Fi Dine-in Theater is a must-visit. Diners are seated in 1950s-style cars while viewing classic sci-fi movie clips. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, featuring a menu with American favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Reservations are strongly recommended, and some dining plans are accepted.
ABC Commissary
The ABC Commissary provides a quick-service lunch as well as fast-casual dinner options. The eatery serves an array of burgers, salads, and sandwiches in an Art Deco-inspired environment. Reservations are available for dinner, and select dining plans can be utilized.
Grand Avenue
Grand Avenue serves as one of the quaint sections within Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Previously known as the Streets of America and Muppets Courtyard, this area has evolved to showcase attractions and dining experiences themed around the beloved Muppets.
Muppet*Vision 3D
Guests can immerse themselves in a lively performance featuring Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and their friends in the Muppet*Vision 3D experience. This attraction combines 3D visuals with live-action elements, leading visitors on a tour of the Muppets’ lab where their latest movie-making invention takes center stage. As the show progresses, humorous chaos ensues, bringing laughter to audiences.
Wait times for this attraction typically vary between 20 to over 45 minutes during peak summer days.
PizzeRizzo
PizzeRizzo offers visitors a taste of Italy with its quick-service menu, which includes personal pizzas, antipasto plates, and subs. Open for both lunch and dinner, this dining spot accommodates various dining plans, and guests can take advantage of mobile ordering for convenience. The casual atmosphere makes it an ideal stop for families seeking a tasty meal on the go.
Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano
For a more formal dining experience, Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano presents a delightful array of classic Italian cuisine. Patrons can savor crispy calamari or a fresh mozzarella and tomato salad to start, followed by entrees like chicken parmigiana or seafood fra diavolo. Desserts such as cannoli or tiramisu complete the meal. Pricing ranges from approximately $15 to over $30 per person, and reservations are encouraged, especially during busy hours.
BaseLine Tap House
For those looking to unwind, BaseLine Tap House serves a selection of fine California beers on tap, along with wine, cocktails, and hard cider. The venue also features various appetizers, perfect for pairing with drinks. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while sampling some of the best offerings available in Grand Avenue.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge invites visitors into a meticulously crafted universe inspired by the beloved franchise. Located in the heart of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this expansive area captures the essence of Batuu, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Star Wars.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
The Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance attraction introduces a pioneering experience in theme park entertainment. This ride places guests in the middle of an epic conflict between the Resistance and the First Order. Participants will encounter well-known characters like Rey, BB-8, and the formidable Kylo Ren, alongside Stormtroopers.
To access this highly sought-after attraction, visitors must join a virtual queue and will be assigned a “boarding group.” Due to its immense popularity, it is advisable to arrive at the park early, as this ride frequently reaches capacity shortly after opening. Guests must be at least 40 inches tall to participate.
The experience includes thrilling elements such as sudden drops, dim lighting, and loud sounds, so it is classified as a thrill ride.