20 of the Best Rides and Attractions at Disney World Hollywood Studios
Disney World is a magical place, and we are here to make your Disney vacation one to remember. There are rides and attractions for everyone. If you’re looking for a thrilling experience, check out the Hollywood Tower of Terror which is one of the best Hollywood Studios rides at Disney World.
Even though there may be long lines or a height requirement, it’s worth it! This newest ride is sure to get your heart racing and is a good idea when you want to spook your friends, just like the Haunted Mansion.
However, for something a little tamer, try the Voyage of the Little Mermaid. This ride is perfect for young kids and will be one of their favorite rides with small drops. Young children will love Disney’s Magic Kingdom on their Disney trip because of the character meets and new rides they have to offer.
They even have events like the Disney junior dance party. No matter what you’re looking for, Disney World has got you covered!
It’s no wonder that it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. If you’re planning a visit to Disney World Hollywood Studios or the Walt Disney World Resort for the first time or with little kids or older kids, then you’re in for a treat either way.
There are so many amazing rides and attractions to choose from. Download the My Disney Experience App before you go to figure out the best rides, best attractions, live shows, and avoid any long wait.
So, here’s the scoop on 20 of the best rides and attractions at Disney World Hollywood Studios!
All About Hollywood Studios
First order of business, Hollywood Studios. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a theme park at Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida. It opened on May 1, 1989, as Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park, and was the third of four theme parks built at the resort.
The park is dedicated to show business, themed after classic and current Hollywood movies and television shows. The park is home to three major attractions: The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, and Star Tours – The Adventures Continue.
In 2010, Hollywood Studios underwent a major overhaul with the addition of Toy Story Land and Cars Land. These two new lands brought with them two new attractions: Toy Story Mania! and Radiator Springs Racers.
If you’re looking for a unique experience and a park that is dedicated to the magic of movies and television, then Hollywood Studios is the place for you to find a virtual queue. Or, talk to a cast member while you are there if you need help navigating through the park.
Disney World Weather
Before you visit Hollywood Studios, it’s important to know what the weather is like. The Florida climate is hot and humid year-round. The average high temperature in Orlando is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The best time of year to visit Hollywood Studios is during the winter months. The temperatures are a little cooler, and there is a lower chance of rain. However, keep in mind that the park is still crowded during this time of year.
If you’re planning on visiting Hollywood Studios during the summer months, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and water. The temperatures can be very hot and uncomfortable, and there is a higher chance of severe weather. Though, we’re sure you’ll have a blast, regardless of when you choose to visit!
Hollywood Studios Hours
Hollywood Studios is open from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. The park usually closes earlier during the summer months and stays open later during the winter months.
The best time to visit Hollywood Studios is during the morning or afternoon. That is, the park is the most crowded between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm.
Of course, you probably want to experience a full day at Hollywood Studios. Just know that you may be slowed down during these hours.
If you’re visiting Hollywood Studios on a weekend, be sure to check the park hours and any height restrictions before you go. The park typically opens later and closes earlier on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Best Rides at Disney World Hollywood Studios
There are so many great rides and attractions at Hollywood Studios, it can be hard to know where to start. The entrance starts with a themed walk through Hollywood Boulevard, so instead of being lost in thought on where to start, enjoy the view.
We’ve got you covered! Here is a list of the best rides to check out:
1. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
This is one of the most popular attractions and Disney World rides; it should definitely be a part of your visit and probably the first ride you should go on.
This ride is sure to give you a thrill with its special effects and is, hands down, one of the most iconic rides at Disney World Hollywood Studios. It’s based on the classic TV show, The Twilight Zone. You’ll board an elevator and be taken up to the 13th floor.
Then, the best part is that the ride will drop you 13 stories! Make sure you don’t eat too much to avoid motion sickness.
This attraction is based on a popular television series that had originally aired from 1959 to 1964. Creative genius Rod Sterling both hosted and wrote this television series. It was extremely successful because of its twists and turns throughout the storyline.
This ride includes really quick and fast drops in a dark, small space which may be frightening to some kids or adults that aren’t used to it.
2. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Take a ride down Sunset Boulevard. This next ride is a must-ride for any Aerosmith fan and it is so much fun. One of the best things about it is that It’s a high-speed roller coaster that goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 2.8 seconds! For this reason, It’s high on our list of the top rides at Disney World Hollywood Studios!
3. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Even though it might be the longest wait time, this is a great movie ride to get an amazing experience beyond just watching the movies. This new ride is sure to be a hit with Star Wars fans and people who love all Star Wars films.
It’s a ride that takes you on an adventure through the galaxy’s edge or on the Millennium Falcon. You’ll even get to battle the dark side on this dark ride!
4. Star Tours
The Adventures Continue – This simulator ride is based on the Star Wars movies. You’ll be taken on a thrilling adventure to some of the most famous planets in the galaxy.
You’re in for a fun show! You can even encounter Darth Vader or Kylo Ren. If you’re a big Star Wars fan, you’ll recognize them immediately.
5. Toy Story Mania
This ride is a must for any Toy Story fan. It’s a 4D interactive ride where you compete against friends and family in carnival games.
There are 5 fast-paced games to play. As each game is completed, your cart will spin and slide to the next game. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise this is one of the best rides at Disney World Hollywood Studios.
- Hamm & Eggs
This is where you can shoot hardboiled eggs at targets in the barnyard. This is a great experience for young kids who want to get in on all the action and fun. Also, this is a great way for them to be independent at the park. - Rex & Trixie’s Dino Darts
This fun game is where you can launch darts and also pop balloons, and right in front of a big prehistoric volcano. - Green Army Men Shoot Camp
Aim your baseballs at all of the different dinner plates at the firing range. We hope you have a good aim! - Buzz Lightyear’s Flying Tossers
This is a great place to toss rings and catch some aliens. - Woody’s Rootin’ Tootin’ Shootin’ Gallery
Shoot some darts at every one of the targets that are inspired by the “Woody’s Roundup” show on TV.
6. Muppet Vision 3D
This is another classic Disney attraction. It’s a 3D movie starring the Muppets like Miss Piggy and Doc Mcstuffins.
This vision was created by the one and only puppeteer, Jim Henson. The famous Muppet Show aired from 1976 to 1981 and was a total success.
This attraction was a creative collaboration between Jim Henson Productions and Walt Disney Imagineering, which in the end included the final released film directed by Jim Henson himself, and he featured his voice as Kermit the Frog.
7. Fantasmic!
This nighttime show is a must-see. It’s an epic battle between good and evil set to music and special effects that will have you feeling like you are in a different world.
You are in for a treat with lasers and lights. This show is only available on certain nights, so just make sure you check ahead before going!
8. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
This is a must-see for Frozen fans. It’s a sing-along show with all your favorite characters from the movie that is especially great for little kids. But, everyone is sure to have a good time!
They will be able to interact and get connected with the best and most known characters from Frozen like Elsa, everyone’s favorite!
9. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
This is a place where you get the chance to watch the daring duo dodges deadly traps, compete in battles, and lastly leap from buildings of all heights. They also make exciting escapes, straight out of Raiders of the Lost Ark. You get to see all of this live! You will be biting your nails as the suspense ends with a crazy explosion in the finale!
While the stunts are going on, you and your family can also get an inside look at how each one of the stunts is done. This happens with demonstrations that reveal how you can safely take punches and also throw them. The stunt masters elaborate on how they fall from tall buildings and deal with all the wildest action sequences.
This show is based on the popular movie franchise, Indiana Jones. You’ll see some of the most exciting stunts from the movies performed live on stage. For this reason, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is one of a kind. While it’s not one of the rides, with so much excitement, It might as well be a rollercoaster!
10. Beauty and the Beast
Live on Stage – This show tells the story of Belle and the Beast in a musical performance that is sure to delight fans of the movie. It entails a production that is unlike no other and encapsulates the magic that you see from the original movie itself! There is no way you won’t enjoy it!
11. Slinky Dog Dash
This is a must-ride for any Toy Story fan and it’s one of the best rides at Disney World Hollywood Studios. It’s a family-friendly roller coaster that takes you on a ride through Andy’s backyard and you can see the props are the size of a toy, making this a one-of-a-kind experience that you are sure to enjoy with your family.
This ride is like you are riding on Andy’s assembled Mega Coaster Play Kit—and the Slinky Dog (who is one of the most known characters in Toy Story), is taking you on this journey through the hills and curves, mixed in with a bunch of little drops. This is an excellent ride because of the spring and coils that stretch all around while the ride goes along the track.
12. Alien Swirling Saucers
This new attraction is based on the Pixar movie, Toy Story. You’ll board your own space vehicle and swirl around to music from the film.
But, be careful not to eat too much junk food before going through. These vehicles go a little fast for people with motion sickness.
13. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
This show is a must for any Cars fan. You’ll learn all about what it takes to be a professional racer from Lightning McQueen himself, and the character meets will have your little kids smiling the whole time.
To start the academy off, Lightning will demonstrate all the knowledge that he has learned over the years. He does this by using his brand spanking new racing simulator which also has a wraparound screen.
This racer will teach you that not all things have gone his way and he has learned some insightful lessons. But he also shares that he can always think fast and get back onto the track or course.
You also get to see Tow Mater, Cruz Ramirez and all the other parts of the gang from Radiator Springs cheer him on while you do, as Lightning gets ready for his next race challenge. This is a great way to get the whole family interacting with each other and excited!
14. Wonderful World of Animation
This show is a tribute to all the great animated movies of the past. You’ll see clips from beloved classics like The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, and Aladdin.
It is really jam-packed with excitement projection that was created to give you the lowdown on an incredible journey that has been there for more than 90 years of Pixar and Disney animation. These show some of the building blocks that have made up the Disney journey.
You can watch the Chinese Theatre become transformed into something completely different which is a tribute to animation and its greatness.
You can get in touch with lots of action-packed sequences that celebrate strong themes of family, romance, friendship, and love overall. The sequences are shown specifically toward these themes. Unforgettable moments from The Incredibles, Sleeping Beauty, and more are shown strategically to make the whole family feel at peace and feel love moving forward.
This all was started with Mickey Mouse, however, and we can never forget that. That is what the show starts with and we have to pay tribute to that of course! It begins and ends with Mickey Mouse.
15. Disney Junior Play and Dance!
This is a dance party for kids starring some of their favorite Disney Junior characters. Show off your best moves and dance around in bubbles. Certainly, you can even dance with special guests DJ Deejay and Mickey mouse! This is something that you and your kids will never forget.
16. Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
This new ride is a must-ride for any Mickey Mouse fan. Minnie’s Runaway Railway is a train ride that takes you on a journey through the world of Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
This ride makes it easy to step into the cartoon world and interact with Mickey and his friends on this railway. It is new to the park, having arrived in 2022. But, don’t let its newbie status fool you. Certainly, it’s been a great addition to the park.
It is the first major Mickey ride that is guaranteed to make the whole family want to come back and ride it again. You get to board the train with Goofy the engineer. After this, you then get to go on a crazy adventure that is adventure-filled and is a little out of control! In an exciting way, of course.
You hear the original storyline of Mickey and Minnie, along with the theme song that almost everyone knows. It uses new technology and strategies to make the ride different than most.
The visual effects make the ride an immersive experience and allow you to experience Minnie and Mickey like you never have before.
17. Beacons of Magic
This is a show starring some of your favorite Disney characters. It’s a mix of puppetry and digital animation that is sure to delight kids and families.
It is an experience that you will never forget. But not just you, the family won’t either! Come and celebrate with theme park icons that are strategically transformed into each Beacon of Magic. It is truly a celebration that you don’t want to miss.
This Beacons of Magic is only available at select theme parks but is available nightly. The images that are shown are only concepts from artists.
18. Disney Fab 50 Character Collection
This is a must-see for any Disney fan. It’s a collection of 50 life-size statues of popular Disney characters. It’s not a ride at Disney World Hollywood Studios, but it’s still one of the best experiences the park has to offer.
Not only is this is a great way to enjoy the Disney characters in a different way, but it’s also a great photo op! You can get pictures with your favorite ones as you walk through the park. So be sure to scratch them all off your list!
19. Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Of course, a must-ride for any Mickey Mouse fan. It’s a train ride. But don’t be fooled! It’s not just any train! This train takes you on a journey through the world of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, giving you the most magical experience ever. The colorful sets look straight out of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.
20. See Disney Stars at Red Carpet Dreams
While it’s not technically one of the rides, it is still one of the best things to see at Disney World Hollywood Studios. You’ll get to see some of your favorite Disney stars walking the red carpet and get to mingle with them as you please. This is something that your family will remember for a lifetime.
Planning Your Vacation
If you’re planning a trip to Disney World, be sure to check out our guide to the best rides and attractions at Hollywood Studios. You’ll find everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
We hope you have a fantastic time at Hollywood Studios!
From thrill rides to musicals on stage, shows, and the world of Avatar, there’s something for everyone at this park. And don’t forget to catch a glimpse of your favorite Disney stars while you’re here!
Disney World Tips
1. Get there early – The lines for the rides and attractions can get long, so it’s best to get to the park early.
2. Plan your days – Make a plan of what you want to see and do each day so you can make the most of your time at the parks.
3. Use the Genie+ system – This will help you avoid long lines for the most popular rides and attractions. But, be sure you know which ones are available for this feature. Unfortunately, only a select number of rides and attractions have a LIghtning Lane option.
So, do your research ahead of time. For more information on Disney Genie services, click here.
4. Relax and have fun – Remember to relax and have fun on your vacation. After all, that’s what it’s all about!
Disney World is a great place for families to vacation. There are so many things to do and see for you and your kids, so you’ll never run out of things to do. Be sure to check out all the great rides and attractions at Hollywood Studios!
Packing For Disney World
When you’re packing for your trip to Disney World, be sure to pack comfortable clothes and shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so you’ll want to be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Some Disney fanatics recommend bringing a light jacket or sweatshirt, even in the summer, as the air conditioning can be a bit chilly. Also, don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and sunglasses! The Florida sun can be intense, so you’ll want to be sure to protect yourself from the sun.
And don’t forget to pack your camera! You’ll want to take lots of pictures of all the fun you’re having on your vacation.
Other Disney World Attractions
In addition to Hollywood Studios, there are lots of great places to visit at Disney World.
1. Magic Kingdom – This is the original Disney park and home to classic rides like It’s a Small World and the Haunted Mansion and the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
2. Epcot – This park is home to rides, shows, and attractions that celebrate culture and science like Test Track, and Space Mountain.
3. Animal Kingdom – This park is home to rides, shows, and attractions that focus on animals and nature.
4. Typhoon Lagoon – This is one of two water parks at Disney World. It’s a great place to cool off on a hot day!
5. Blizzard Beach – This is the other water park at Disney World. It’s themed after a ski resort and has some great slides and attractions.
Whether you’re looking for rides, shows, or just a place to relax, there’s something for everyone at Disney World. Be sure to check out all the great attractions at Hollywood Studios!
Things to Remember About Disney World’s Hollywood Studios
These are just a few of the great rides and attractions at Hollywood Studios. But, remember that the parks can get filled up quickly.
So, to make sure you go on your favorite rides, don’t forget to reserve your spot on Disney Genie. However, if you don’t want to wait in long lines, Genie+ is a paid service that will grant you Lighting Lane entrances on select attractions.
As you can see, there is a lot to do at Hollywood Studios. If you’re looking for a park that is dedicated to the magic of movies and television, then this is the place for you.
There are so many great rides and attractions, it can be hard to know where to start. But with our list of the 20 best, you’re sure to have a great time. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!
There are so many amazing rides and attractions at Hollywood Studios, such as the Smugglers run, you’re sure to find something that everyone in your family will enjoy.
Be sure to check out all the great shows, too! Hollywood Studios is definitely worth a visit on your next trip to Disney World.
That’s the scoop on 20 of the best rides and attractions at Disney World Hollywood Studios! So, do you agree with our list? Tell us what you think in the comments below!
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For more scoop on your Disney planning needs, check out these articles:
- 50 of the Best Rides and Attractions For Adults at Magic Kingdom in Disney World
- What to Wear to Disney World in July
- The Best Disney World Restaurants For Adults Guide
- The 20 Best Disney World Resorts and Hotels for Adults