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10 Hidden Gems and Awesome Features at Toy Story Land You Need to See

Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a playful, immersive experience that shrinks guests down to the size of a toy and places them in the middle of Andy’s backyard. Whether you’re a lifelong Pixar fan or planning your first visit, there’s a lot to love about this vibrant, whimsical land filled with surprises.

Here are ten reasons why Toy Story Land continues to capture hearts and spark imaginations!

A woman and two children stand happily under a brightly lit sign that reads "Alien Swirling Saucers." The woman and children are smiling, with one child wearing a green alien-themed hat. The scene suggests they are enjoying one of the many thrilling Disney attractions at an amusement park.
Credit: Disney

1. Meet Your Favorite Toy Story Characters

One of the most magical parts of Toy Story Land is the opportunity to meet beloved characters like Woody, Jessie, and Buzz Lightyear. These fan-favorite toys are ready to greet guests, sign autographs, and pose for pictures in front of colorful backdrops themed to Andy’s playful world.

Now that Toy Story Land has fully opened, these characters are available for meet-and-greets in the afternoons, bringing smiles to fans of all ages.

Tip: Character availability may vary, so check the My Disney Experience app for current meet-and-greet schedules.

2. Ride the Thrilling Attractions

Toy Story Land is home to two of the most exciting rides in all of Walt Disney World:

  • Slinky Dog Dash: A family-friendly roller coaster that zips and zooms through Andy’s backyard on the back of everyone’s favorite springy pup. It’s smooth, scenic, and full of giggles.

  • Toy Story Mania!: The interactive 4D game where you compete for the high score in classic carnival-style games hosted by the Toy Story gang.

slinky dog dash
Credit: tr1pletrouble88, Flickr

3. Insta-Worthy Photo Ops

Toy Story Land is packed with charming and colorful backdrops designed for photos. From pastel-painted popsicle stick fences to giant board game pieces and iconic toys, it’s a visual feast for fans and Instagrammers alike.

  • Take a seat on a bench made from a wooden train track.

  • Snap a selfie in front of a giant spool of kite string.

  • Spot the K’Nex helicopter and other oversized props scattered along the Toy Story Mania exit path.

4. Woody’s Lunch Box

This quick-service dining spot might not be Pizza Planet, but it packs a flavorful punch. Woody’s Lunch Box is styled like a giant open lunchbox packed with tasty bites and nostalgic charm.

  • Try the Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwich or the Totchos (tater tot nachos).

  • Don’t miss the Lunch Box Tarts, a fun take on toaster pastries.

  • Enjoy themed seating areas and playful touches throughout the space.

A woman and two children in front of Woody's Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Credit: Disney

5. Hidden Mickeys and Easter Eggs Galore

No Disneyland is complete without hidden details—and Toy Story Land is bursting with them! From Pixar references to character tributes, every corner of the land holds a secret or two.

  • Look closely for Hidden Mickeys in queues and on walls.

  • Find A113, the iconic classroom number hidden in nearly every Pixar film, cleverly recreated with alphabet blocks and dominoes near Woody’s Lunch Box.

  • Discover nods to Buster the dog and Jessie’s critters from the Woody’s Round-Up Show inside Woody’s Lunch Box and throughout the land.

6. Historic Hidden Dates

Pixar fans, keep your eyes peeled! Toy Story Land hides several important dates that pay tribute to Disney and Pixar history:

  • Near the exit of Toy Story Mania, six dominoes display the date 2/3/1986, the official founding date of Pixar.

  • The bar code on the Dash & Dodge Coaster Kit in the Slinky Dog Dash queue also references October 1, 1971, the opening day of Walt Disney World.

Ride Vehicle at Alien Sqirling Saucers
Credit: Disney

7. Green Army Men March

The Green Army Men are more than background characters here—they’re part of the action! These toy soldiers patrol the land, engaging guests with playful antics, marching drills, and spontaneous performances.

  • They interact with guests in character and sometimes pose for photos.

  • Keep an ear out—they speak and even perform music with their own marching band!

8. Pizza Planet Tributes

While there’s no official Pizza Planet restaurant in Toy Story Land, fans will appreciate the subtle tributes scattered throughout Alien Swirling Saucers:

  • The entrance guards to the attraction mirror those from the original Pizza Planet in Toy Story.

  • The queue decor includes pizza-themed artwork, mushroom and pepperoni-style designs, and triangle panels styled like slices of pizza.

It’s a subtle nod, but one that true fans will absolutely adore.

9. Immersive Queue Design

The queues in Toy Story Land are more than just lines—they’re extensions of Andy’s imagination. One of the best examples is the Slinky Dog Dash queue, filled with oversized toys and creative callbacks:

  • Look up to see the ride’s wait time displayed on Buster’s dog tag.

  • Spot references to vintage board games, crayons, glue sticks, and more.

  • Soak in the story that Andy built this coaster himself using his toys and creative flair.

10. Every Cast Member Has a Toy Story

Perhaps the most delightful touch: every cast member working in Toy Story Land is considered a “toy” rather than a traditional cast member. And just like real toys, each has a unique backstory!

  • Some say they were purchased from Al’s Toy Barn.

  • Others might claim they were hand-crafted or arrived from a far-off online store.

  • Ask a cast member, “What’s your toy story?”—you’re guaranteed to hear something imaginative and fun.

Two people wearing yellow 3D glasses sit side by side, enthusiastically using controllers at a Disneyland 70th anniversary ride. Inside a themed pod, they aim colorful toy cannons, surrounded by bright lights and a lively atmosphere that celebrates decades of magic and fun.
Credit: Disney

Final Thoughts

From its detailed theming to the family-friendly fun around every corner, Toy Story Land is a must-visit for guests of all ages. Whether you’re zipping through Andy’s backyard on Slinky Dog Dash, munching on a grilled cheese at Woody’s Lunch Box, or hunting down hidden Easter eggs, this land brings the Toy Story universe to life in the most playful way imaginable.

So grab your favorite cowboy hat or space ranger gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure—because in Toy Story Land, you’re not just a guest. You’re one of the toys!

Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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