Is Hollywood Studios Overtaking Magic Kingdom as Disney’s Top Family Park?
Disney’s Hollywood Studios has gone through plenty of changes over the years, but lately, families have started noticing something different. The park that once leaned heavily toward thrill rides and cinematic storytelling is slowly becoming one of the most kid-friendly places in all of Walt Disney World. It may not dethrone Magic Kingdom anytime soon, but it’s absolutely rising into that next-best category—and the transformation is only speeding up.
One of the biggest reasons families are flocking to Hollywood Studios is the number of places to escape the heat. Florida weather can be unpredictable, and having multiple shows that pull double duty as entertainment and shade makes a day in the park a lot easier for parents. Frozen Sing-Along Celebration gives kids a chance to sing their hearts out while everyone cools off inside. Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage offers a stage-show format kids already know by heart. The Little Mermaid show gives families yet another place to rest while taking in a familiar story. And at night, Fantasmic! remains one of the most spectacular finales Disney has ever created.
Even with all these staples, Hollywood Studios isn’t slowing down. In 2026, the area over by the Animation Courtyard is getting a major glow-up designed directly with kids in mind. A brand-new Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! show will open the door for younger guests to see their favorite pals in an interactive setting. Later in the year, the redesigned Magic of Disney Animation space will introduce hands-on experiences, character greetings, and a bright playground inspired by Alice in Wonderland. A dedicated Rapunzel meet-and-greet will add even more character variety, giving younger fans someone new to look forward to.
Hollywood Studios also continues to offer gentle, family-friendly attractions that everyone can ride together. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway remains one of the brightest, most colorful rides on property with no height requirement, making it perfect for children who can’t yet tackle the park’s thrill rides. Toy Story Mania offers another accessible option with tons of kid-friendly energy and a competitive twist that keeps parents laughing as much as their children.
And of course, themed lands play a huge role in the park’s rise as a family favorite. Toy Story Land feels built for children from the ground up, with giant toys, bold colors, and meet-and-greets with Woody, Jessie, and Buzz. Even Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has become surprisingly kid-focused thanks to its roaming characters, hands-on shops, and the upcoming Mandalorian-inspired experience on Smugglers Run.
All these changes have pushed Hollywood Studios into a new era—one where kids have more to do, more to see, and more ways to feel included. Families who might have once skipped this park during shorter trips are now finding it impossible to leave off the list.
