Denver Travel Agent
Janessa Ortega

Independent Travel Agent

Email Me Travel Inquiry Form Registration Form | Payment Form | Travel Lead Form

Let's go to Hollywood: Tips and Tricks for Disney's Hollywood Studios

Whether you’re a Toy Story fanatic, a Star Wars connoisseur, or just love good entertainment and attractions; Hollywood Studios has something for everyone. This park happens to be one of my personal favorites. It is home to some of Disney’s most popular rides and unique shows which definitely makes it one of the busiest parks. It can be quite difficult to get everything done in one day, but with these tips you will be sure to have an unforgettable visit. 

 

Arriving in Style

All parks have access to the Disney bus system but Hollywood Studios has access to a few other ways of transportation that will be sure to make you feel like a movie star. This park is one of two that has access to the Disney Skyliner which makes it easier to get to and from various resorts as well as park hop to Epcot. Along with the Skyliner, Hollywood Studios is also one of two parks where guests could arrive via a Friendship Boat. I highly recommend making use of these forms of transportation as they offer a fun alternative to get your Hollywood day started. 

 

Rope Drop

Rope dropping is when you arrive at the park right at opening. It is often recommended to rope drop for all four parks especially if you only have one day to spend at each of them. I would HIGHLY recommend rope dropping Hollywood Studios given the popularity of the park and its attractions. This will help ensure you are getting to experience as many rides, shows, and character meet and greets as possible. If you are staying at a Disney resort, you will be able to enter the park 30 minutes earlier than other guests. To make sure you are getting the most out of your day, head straight for some of the most high traffic rides. This includes Rise of the Resistance, Slinky Dog Dash, Hollywood Tower of Terror, and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railroad.

 

Genie+

It can be quite difficult to get all the attractions done in one visit to Hollywood Studios without rope dropping and/or adding Genie+ to your day. Whether you would like to ensure you get as much done as possible or if you would like to skip rope dropping, I would HIGHLY recommend adding Genie+ to your overall trip budget. The best way to use Genie+ is to make sure you’re able to get the most popular rides done early. This includes purchasing an individual lightning lane for Rise of the Resistance. As for Slinky Dog Dash, it is one of the most difficult rides across all of the Disney World parks to secure a lightning lane. The best plan of attack is to load into your My Disney Experience app at 6:55am and be ready to book right your LL at 7:00am. Be sure to refresh your page as it does not always load automatically. 

 

Toy Story Land

As you step into Andy’s backyard, get ready to join the gang and become a toy yourself. No matter where you look, you will not be disappointed by the playful atmosphere and amusing attractions. 

Must Try Food and Drinks:


  • Roundup Rodeo BBQ: This new whimsical restaurant showcases a unique menu of barbecue food fit for any toy!  

  • Woody’s Lunchbox Totchos

  • Lunch Box Tart (seasonal flavors offered)

  • Grilled Three Cheese Sandwich (with tomato soup)


 

Character Meet and Greets:

Gather the troops and head on over to meet some of your favorite toys like Woody, Jesse, and Buzz near the Toy Story Mania ride. Make sure to keep an eye out for the Green Army Men, just make sure not to get caught by Andy!

 

Star Wars: Galaxy Edge

Welcome to a galaxy far far away! Batuu is an out of the world experience with unique decor, attractions, and of course food! 

Must Try Food and Drinks:

  • Blue or green milk from Milk Stand (can be served with or without alcohol)

  • Ronto Wrap from Ronto Roasters

  • Popcorn from Kat Saka’s Kettle

  • Outer Rim from Oga’s Cantina (alcoholic)


 

Enchanting Extras:

  • Droid Depot: Whether you choose a R-series or a BB-series unit, you will assemble piece by piece your very own droid! Watch it come to life right in front of your eyes and even take on a personality of their own. (119.99 per droid plus tax)

  • Savi’s Workshop: Do you have what it takes to wield the force? This experience takes you through building your very own lightsaber and bringing it to life. ($249.99 per lightsaber plus tax)


 

Character Meet and Greets:

Many people do not realize they could meet some of their favorite Star Wars characters including Chewbacca, BB8, and Darth Vader. Though it is not in Galaxy’s Edge, it can be found right past the Hollywood Studio arch at Star Wars Launch Bay. 

Pro tip: In the same area, Disney Visa Card Members have special access to a magical Star Wars Photo Opportunity. Simply present your Disney Visa card and a cast member will lead you to the photo area.

 

Rider Switch

Hollywood Studios currently has the most rides with height restrictions. Whether you have a child who is not quite tall enough or just not up for a particular ride, rider switch will ensure your party will not have to miss out on the attraction. Rider switch consists of one adult in the party staying with the non-rider while the rest of the party rides the attraction, once the other adult returns they can swap places without having to wait in the traditional stand-by line. The Hollywood attractions that participate in rider switch are:

  • Alien Swirling Saucers

  • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

  • Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

  • Slinky Dog Dash

  • Star Tours

  • Tower of Terror


 

Best Places to Cool Off

The heat can definitely take over very fast in the parks and though there are not a lot of outdoor shady places to take a break at Hollywood Studio, you will have plenty of spots to get some good air conditioning and of course an entertaining show. 

  • Lighting McQueen Racing Academy: After this high energy show, any rookie racer will be sure to leave a pro.

  •  For the First Time in Forever-A “Frozen” Celebration: Experience the story of Frozen with songs, sing-alongs, and of course fun with your favorite characters.

  • Muppet Vision 3D: Get your 3D glasses and get ready for a hilarious extravaganza.

  •  Disney Junior Play and Dance: You and your little ones will join alongside some of your favorite Disney Junior characters for a dance along.

  • Vacation Fun-Animated Short with Mickey and Minnie: Enjoy an animated short film starring Mickey and Minnie Mouse!

  • Walt Disney Presents: Explore the story behind Walt Disney himself and how Disney as we know it today came to be. 


 

Family Fun Dining

Though Hollywood isn’t as known for their dining options, they do have plenty of spots you and your family will be sure to remember!

  • Hollywood and Vine: This buffet style restaurant has not only delicious food but unforgettable interactions with some of your favorite characters. 

  • 50’s Prime Time: Travel back in time where grandma’s meatloaf was the best thing waiting for you at home. Be careful where you put your elbows, and don’t forget to eat your vegetables.

  •  Sci-Fi Dine in Theater: The show is starting, take a seat in your car shaped booth and enjoy chilling sci-fi scenes while you dine on a selection of burgers and shakes among other cuisines. 


The Night is Just Beginning!

Hollywood Studios has not only one night time show but two! Each one with their own unique stories but both will be sure to end your night with a bang.

  • Wonderful World of Animation: Watch the Chinese Theater light up with projections featuring various stories that we all know and love from Disney and Pixar animated films. This show takes place daily at 9:00pm. 

  • Fantasmic: This outdoor show will have good and evil face off in a colorful musical. You may get wet so be prepared! 


 

You are ready to take on Hollywood!

Need help planning your trip? Feel free to contact me. I can help answer any questions you may have, book dining reservations, magical extras, and the best part is, all of my services are free to you when you book through me. 



Share :

Growing up, I had the privilege of experiencing both Disneyland and Disney World in my childhood. My first visit back as an adult brought back many fond memories of the magic I felt in my early years. As a travel agent specializing in the Disney destinations now,  I hope to help you create your own magical memories. Whether you have experienced in the magic in your childhood as well or if it's you...  Read More >>>



My Areas of Expertise

Learn more about this travel agents destinations, interests, and supplier partners.

Destinations

  • Europe
  • United States
  • Mexico

Interests

  • Accessible Travel
  • Adult Only
  • All Inclusive
  • Beach Vacations
  • Celebration Travel
  • See All >>

Supplier Partners

  • Adventures By Disney
  • Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
  • Beaches Resorts by Sandals
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Classic Vacations
  • See All >>

9 Certificates & Awards

The Venetian Resort Specialist
The Venetian Resort Specialist

Universal Orlando Certificate
Universal Orlando Certificate

Celebrity Cruise Certificate
Celebrity Cruise Certificate

Latest Blog posts

Is Mickey`s Not So Scary Halloween Worth It?5/17
2024
Is Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Worth It?

With the release of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween party dates and tickets for 2024, you may find y...

NEW Perk for Walt Disney World Resort Guests 👀4/8
2024
NEW Perk for Walt Disney World Resort Guests 👀

There are so many options on where to stay when planning your visit to Walt Disney World. It can bec...

Setting Sail: Everything You Need To Know Before Your First Cruise2/20
2024
Setting Sail: Everything You Need To Know Before Your First Cruise

Embarking on your first cruise is an exciting and memorable experience, but it's essential to be wel...

Sailing with Carnival Paradise1/18
2024
Sailing with Carnival Paradise

Cruising has become a popular way to unwind, explore new places, and indulge at sea. Given the popul...

Disneyland or Walt Disney World: Deciding Between the Magic12/4
2023
Disneyland or Walt Disney World: Deciding Between the Magic

Embarking on a Disney vacation is a dream for many, but with two iconic destinations to choose from ...

Wizard`s Guide: A Perfect Day at Universal Orlando10/30
2023
Wizard's Guide: A Perfect Day at Universal Orlando

For avid Harry Potter fans, Universal Orlando Resort is a dream come true. With immersive lands dedi...

Memory Maker: Is It Worth It?10/13
2023
Memory Maker: Is It Worth It?

A trip to the Walt Disney World Resort is a magical experience, filled with enchanting moments, thri...

Let`s go to Hollywood: Tips and Tricks for Disney`s Hollywood Studios7/20
2023
Let's go to Hollywood: Tips and Tricks for Disney's Hollywood Studios

Whether you’re a Toy Story fanatic, a Star Wars connoisseur, or just love good entertainment and att...

Get in touch with Janessa Ortega




*Captcha:

Start Your Next Trip With Vincent Vacations Today!

In business for over 11 years, we are your #1 source for travel!

See more