Disney's Hollywood StudiosNews

Construction Projects Are About to Make Hollywood Studios a Nightmare

Current State of Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is experiencing substantial crowding issues, more pronounced than Disney World’s other parks. The park’s design, combined with the configuration of its attractions, creates a sense of congestion. Due to the overwhelming presence of visitors, visitors often find it challenging to enjoy the park fully.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster inside of Disney's Hollywood Studios, a Disney park in Orlando.
Credit: Disney

Furthermore, segregating the park’s most popular lands, such as Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, compounds the issue. These areas feel isolated from the rest of the park, preventing a seamless experience. In contrast to the more cohesive layouts of Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, Hollywood Studios lacks the flow necessary for a relaxing visit.

Major Construction Projects Underway

Major construction projects are now underway at Hollywood Studios to address these pressing issues. Key changes are taking place in the Animation Courtyard, which is undergoing a significant transformation. Among the new features slated for inclusion is a Monsters, Inc. Land, which is expected to draw even more visitors once completed.

Concept art of coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios
Credit: Disney

Unfortunately, the visitor experience is negatively impacted during this construction phase. Construction walls temporarily obstruct pathways, making navigation through the park increasingly difficult. The planned changes are anticipated to conclude in 2026, aligning with other developments, such as new attractions set to debut soon.

Challenges for Visitors

With the ongoing construction projects, visitors are faced with numerous challenges. The most notable of these is the loss of relaxation areas. Previously popular spots, including the Muppets Courtyard and the Star Wars: Launch Bay, were refuges for weary guests, particularly on warm days. The absence of these areas means that visitors have fewer options for respite from the sun.

Sunset Boulevard at Disney's Hollywood Studios featuring the Tower of Terror
Credit: mckenzie-sobieski, Unsplash

Additionally, the construction walls create significant bottlenecks that hinder mobility throughout the park. As guests attempt to navigate between popular attractions, they encounter obstacles that restrict pathways, further complicating the overall experience. This increased complexity makes it difficult for visitors to move freely, especially between Toy Story Land and Galaxy’s Edge.

Future Outlook for Hollywood Studios

Looking ahead, Hollywood Studios’ future appears promising, albeit challenging in the interim. After the construction projects are completed in 2026, a wave of enhancements is expected to significantly improve the guest experience. The introduction of Monsters, Inc. Land and new animation experiences should draw more visitors and enhance the park’s overall appeal.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster stretch limo ride vehicle at Disney's Hollywood Studios within Walt Disney World
Credit: Disney

The long-term effects of this overhaul are anticipated to create a more cohesive and enjoyable environment for guests. By addressing the current crowding and navigation issues, Hollywood Studios aims to transform into a more accessible park. Whether the changes will lead to a lasting improvement in park flow and visitor satisfaction remains to be seen, but the commitment to enhancement is undoubtedly underway.

As Hollywood Studios continues its evolution, visitors must adjust their expectations and prepare for a transformed landscape. While the construction projects currently disrupt the park experience, the potential future benefits promise a refreshed and vibrant destination for Disney fans.

Rick Lye

Rick is an avid Disney fan. He first went to Disney World in 1986 with his parents and has been hooked ever since. Rick is married to another Disney fan and is in the process of turning his two children into fans as well. When he is not creating new Disney adventures, he loves to watch the New York Yankees and hang out with his dog, Buster. In the fall, you will catch him cheering for his beloved NY Giants.

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