5 Reasons Why We Love Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Changes are taking place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A large part of the park is closed, and there are construction walls everywhere. The result makes it feel crowded, even on a day that’s not too busy. Some guests are staying away from the park until the construction is finished and the two new lands, based on Toy Story and Star Wars, have opened. If you skip Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’ll be missing out. Here are five reasons why we love Disney’s Hollywood Studios, even during the construction.

5. Star Wars

While the new Star Wars land is still a long way off (the opening year hasn’t been announced), Disney’s Hollywood Studios is still the place to go if you’re a Star Wars fan. There are several offerings that will make you excited for the new land. You can see prop replicas, meet Star Wars characters, play games, and more in Star Wars Launch Bay. Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple allows kids to learn the ways of the Force and use a lightsaber against a Star Wars villain. In Star Tours – The Adventures Continue you’ll board a Starspeeder 1000 and fly across the galaxy far, far away; and you’ll encounter some familiar faces on your trip. To end your Star Wars experience with a literal bang, stay for Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. The show features fireworks, projections, lasers, and the music of the legendary John Williams. These are just a few of the reasons why Star Wars fans are still flocking to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

4. Live Entertainment

The “Hollywood” part of the name is still taken seriously at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. There are live shows that are based on hits that everyone knows and loves. You can see shows based on Frozen, Beauty and the beast, The Little Mermaid, and Raiders of the Lost Ark. The littlest ones in your party will also love Disney Junior – Live on Stage! If you prefer bad jokes and improve, stop to watch Citizens of Hollywood as they take over Hollywood Boulevard. You might become part of the act. The live entertainment isn’t over yet! Fantasmic! is the best way to end your day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Arrive early, because seats go quickly.

3. Family Attractions

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a great place for families. One of the most popular family rides at Walt Disney World, Toy Story Mania!, is found in Pixar Place. The Great Movie Ride is a slow moving train that will take you and your family inside many classic movie scenes. Muppet*Vision 3D may be a bit dated, but that’s part of the cheesy fun. You can teach your kids about the man who started it all at Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream. Another great reason to take your kids to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is because they will be able to meet some of their favorite characters. This is where Olaf hangs out. Other characters include Buzz and Woody, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, Mickey and Minnie, and Disney Junior favorites. Your kids will get plenty of autographs, and you’ll have pictures that you will cherish for a lifetime.

2. Unique Dining Options

When you’re hungry, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has everything from fine dining to whimsical atmospheres. Two of the more unique restaurants you’ll find at Walt Disney World are located here. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant allows guests to eat in “cars” while watching old movie trailers at a drive-in theater. 50’s Prime Time Cafe has you eating in a 1950’s kitchen while watching black and white sitcoms. Both restaurants are a blast. If you’d prefer something a little more upscale, try The Hollywood Brown Derby. This signature restaurant is a recreation of the original from Hollywood, where the rich and famous used to eat. Make sure you try the Cobb Salad, it’s a classic. If you’re craving traditional Italian food, stop by Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. For character dining, make a reservation at Hollywood & Vine. Breakfast and lunch are a party for preschoolers featuring Disney Junior characters. For dinner, classic characters take over for Minnie’s Seasonal Dining. If you don’t have a reservation for any of the above, or if you’d prefer a quick meal, Disney’s Hollywood Studios still has you covered. PizzeRizzo, ABC Commissary, and Backlot Express are just three of the delicious counter service choices.

1. Thrill Rides

While there is plenty for everyone in your party to do at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the park is known for two of the biggest thrills at Walt Disney World. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is imposing from a distance. You don’t have to be in the park to see it, it’s visible from some roads, the walking path from the Epcot Resort Area, and also the parking lot. The backstory is almost as much fun as the ride. You’ll learn about a fateful night in 1939 from The Twilight Zone’s Rod Sterling. You’ll then board an elevator and drop 13 floors. It’s not over yet! You’ll go back up and then down again. The ride is random, so you’ll never know which way you’re about to go. The other thrill ride that you won’t want to miss is Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. If you like inversions, this is the ride for you. You’ll go upside down three times, and you won’t know that they’re coming because the ride is in the dark. The music of Aerosmith adds to the fun. One of the best parts of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is the launch. There’s a countdown and then you’re off! If you love thrill rides, you will love Disney’s Hollywood Studios.