Hollywood Studios Rides & Attractions: A Guide to Star Wars, Toy Story, and More
Hollywood Studios is organized into themed areas, each inspired by different aspects of film and television. From the galaxy far, far away in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to the playful world of Toy Story Land, each section of the park brings its own magic. Here’s what you can expect to find in Hollywood Studios’ top attractions and areas.
1. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is one of Disney’s most immersive lands, taking guests to the planet Batuu, a remote outpost filled with winding marketplaces, starships, and interactions with characters from the Star Wars universe. This area is a must-visit for fans of the franchise, with groundbreaking attractions, themed dining, and unique shopping.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is a thrilling simulator ride that lets guests step inside the iconic Millennium Falcon and take control of the ship. Each rider is assigned a role (pilot, gunner, or engineer), and your team’s performance affects the mission’s outcome. The cockpit offers an immersive, interactive experience that transports guests right into the Star Wars universe.Must-Try For: Star Wars fans, thrill-seekers, and families.
Tip: Try to be the pilot if you can! This position gives the best view of the action and lets you “fly” the ship.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Rise of the Resistance is one of the most advanced and ambitious attractions Disney has ever created. The ride combines multiple ride systems, including a trackless vehicle, simulated flight, and animatronics, to create an immersive experience in which guests join the Resistance in a mission against the First Order. With encounters featuring Kylo Ren, Stormtroopers, and life-size AT-AT walkers, this attraction is a must-do for anyone visiting Hollywood Studios.Must-Try For: Star Wars fans, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for an unforgettable ride.
Tip: Use the virtual queue or consider purchasing individual Lightning Lane access, as Rise of the Resistance is one of the park’s most popular attractions.
Dining in Galaxy’s Edge
Oga’s Cantina: A Star Wars-themed cantina with space-inspired drinks and an energetic atmosphere. Reservations are highly recommended.
Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo: A quick-service restaurant offering unique dishes inspired by Star Wars lore, such as smoked kaadu ribs and roasted tip-yip chicken.
Other Experiences in Galaxy’s Edge
Savi’s Workshop: A custom lightsaber-building experience where guests can create their own lightsaber. Advanced reservations are recommended.
Droid Depot: A build-your-own-droid experience where you can create a personalized droid to take home.
Tip: Arrive early in the day or stay later in the evening to experience Galaxy’s Edge with fewer crowds, and be on the lookout for roaming characters like Rey, Chewbacca, and Kylo Ren.
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2. Toy Story Land
Toy Story Land shrinks guests down to the size of toys, inviting them to play in Andy’s backyard with larger-than-life toys, games, and fun details inspired by the beloved Pixar films. With rides, character encounters, and colorful scenery, Toy Story Land is a lively and family-friendly area that appeals to kids and adults alike.
Slinky Dog Dash
Slinky Dog Dash is a family-friendly roller coaster that twists and turns through Toy Story Land on the back of Slinky Dog himself. The ride is smooth but exciting, with fun visuals and a bouncy feel that makes it perfect for kids and adults alike.Must-Try For: Families, coaster enthusiasts, and Pixar fans.
Tip: Slinky Dog Dash is popular, so consider booking it as a Genie+ selection or riding early in the day.
Toy Story Mania!
Toy Story Mania! is an interactive, 4D shooting game where guests compete to score points by hitting targets with their “spring-action shooter.” This carnival-themed ride is filled with Toy Story characters and playful scenes that make it a fun experience for all ages.Must-Try For: Families, competitive riders, and those looking for interactive fun.
Tip: Look for the Easter eggs in each game! There are hidden ways to unlock high-point targets if you pay attention to the clues.
Alien Swirling Saucers
Alien Swirling Saucers is a spinning ride where guests are pulled along by aliens from the Toy Story movies in “rocket” cars. It’s a lighthearted attraction with colorful lights and space-themed music, making it a great option for younger visitors or those who prefer milder rides.Must-Try For: Families with young children and fans of lighthearted, spinning rides.
Tip: This ride can have moderate wait times but is usually quieter in the early morning or late evening.
Dining in Toy Story Land
Woody’s Lunch Box: A quick-service spot offering grilled sandwiches, totchos (tater tot nachos), and lunch box tarts. This eatery is known for its playful menu and fun presentation.
Tip: Toy Story Land is particularly charming at night, with string lights illuminating the area and adding to the whimsical atmosphere. Try to visit during the evening for a unique perspective.
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3. Sunset Boulevard and Tower of Terror
Sunset Boulevard is home to some of Hollywood Studios’ most thrilling attractions, including the iconic Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. This area is themed as a classic Hollywood street, with palm trees, vintage details, and the historic Hollywood Tower Hotel.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
The Tower of Terror is an iconic drop tower attraction that takes guests into the mysterious world of The Twilight Zone. The story follows guests as they enter an abandoned hotel, board a haunted elevator, and experience unpredictable drops. This ride is both thrilling and atmospheric, with immersive storytelling and eerie details.Must-Try For: Thrill-seekers, fans of classic Hollywood, and those looking for a spooky experience.
Tip: The drops are randomized, so each ride can be slightly different. Tower of Terror is a great choice for Genie+ if you’re looking to save time in line.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is a high-speed indoor roller coaster that launches riders from 0 to 60 mph in just a few seconds. With an Aerosmith soundtrack blasting in the background, the ride includes loops, corkscrews, and neon-lit cityscapes. It’s the park’s most intense coaster and a must for adrenaline junkies.Must-Try For: Thrill-seekers, classic rock fans, and coaster enthusiasts.
Tip: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster often has long lines, so consider riding it early in the day or using Genie+ for faster access.
Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
This live-action musical retells the story of Beauty and the Beast with beautiful costumes, choreography, and classic songs. The show takes place in an outdoor theater, making it a great option for a relaxing break between rides.Must-Try For: Disney fans, families, and those who enjoy Broadway-style performances.
Tip: Arrive early for the best seats, as this show is popular and fills up quickly.
4. Animation Courtyard and Other Must-Visit Attractions
Beyond Star Wars, Toy Story, and Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood Studios offers several other attractions worth visiting.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Located inside the park’s original Chinese Theatre, this attraction is the first Mickey Mouse-themed ride-through attraction in Disney history. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway takes guests on a zany adventure inside a cartoon, complete with animated effects and whimsical scenes. It’s family-friendly, visually engaging, and filled with hidden Disney references.Must-Try For: Disney fans, families, and those who enjoy fun and creative rides.
Tip: Try booking this as a Genie+ selection, as it is one of the park’s most popular attractions.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
This live-action stunt show recreates scenes from Raiders of the Lost Ark, complete with fight sequences, explosions, and impressive stunts. The show gives guests an inside look at how movie stunts are done and includes audience participation.Must-Try For: Fans of action, movie buffs, and families.
Tip: Check showtimes in advance, as the show doesn’t run continuously throughout the day.
Muppet Vision 3D
Muppet Vision 3D is a 3D film attraction featuring the Muppets in a series of comedic scenes and visual effects. With the iconic characters and their zany humor, this show is both nostalgic and entertaining, providing a fun break from thrill rides.Must-Try For: Muppet fans, families, and those seeking lighthearted entertainment.
Tip: The theater is large and air-conditioned, making it a good option for a midday break.
Final Tips for Visiting Hollywood Studios
Use Genie+ for High-Demand Rides: Attractions like Slinky Dog Dash, Rise of the Resistance, and Tower of Terror can have long wait times, so consider using Genie+ to maximize your time.
Explore During Evening Hours: Hollywood Studios has a unique charm at night, with neon lights, themed music, and fewer crowds in some areas.
Arrive Early for Popular Lands: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land are busy all day, so consider visiting these areas early in the morning or later in the evening for shorter lines.
Hollywood Studios combines classic Hollywood nostalgia with modern, immersive experiences that make it one of Disney’s most exciting parks. From the intergalactic adventures of Galaxy’s Edge to the playful atmosphere of Toy Story Land, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.