Disney's Hollywood Studios

The Big Problem With Disney’s ‘Star Wars’ Ride and Its Other Disappointing Attractions

Are these really the least popular rides at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?

A young family of Disney guests enjoys a live show in a large, dimly lit venue. The child in the center, wearing a purple dress, raises their arms in excitement. The mother on the left smiles, holding a plush toy, while the father on the right looks on happily.
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Hollywood Studios stands as a beacon of entertainment, captivating visitors with a blend of movie magic and remarkable attractions. The park’s evolution over the decades has seen a shift from a mere backlot tour to a comprehensive and immersive experience, complete with cutting-edge rides that transport guests into beloved cinematic worlds. Yet, amidst the plethora of popular attractions, some rides struggle to find their footing in the hearts of visitors. This article explores the least popular rides at Hollywood Studios, shedding light on why they may not have the same allure as their more renowned counterparts.

Walt Disney Presents and Vacation Fun

Credit: Disney

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Walt Disney Presents and Vacation Fun offer a glimpse into the history and charm of Disney, presenting short films that showcase the magic of storytelling. Walt Disney Presents takes guests on a nostalgic journey through Walt’s life, complete with a selection of sketches, photographs, and artifacts that celebrate his legacy. Meanwhile, Vacation Fun features Mickey and Minnie as they reminisce about their adventures, blending classic animation with new clips.

Though both attractions are enjoyable and educational, they fall short in the eyes of many park-goers who often prioritize adrenaline-pumping rides over film experiences. Guests typically visit theme parks seeking thrill rides rather than educational films, making it challenging for these shows to attract significant attention.
As a result, they tend to rank low on many visitors’ lists.

Alien Swirling Saucers

Credit: Disney

Alien Swirling Saucers is another ride that garners mixed reviews. Upon first glance, it may appear to be a standard carnival spinning ride, lacking the thrill that usually accompanies Disney adventures.
However, guests find that the speed of the ride and the delightful Toy Story theming add an unexpected element of fun, especially for families with small children.

Despite its charming design and connection to Toy Story Land, where it is located, many guests report that the experience feels relatively short and doesn’t quite match the excitement of other attractions in the park. As a heavily trafficked area, guests often find themselves waiting longer than anticipated, which can deter them from dedicating time to a ride that might not live up to the hype.

Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run

star wars galaxys edge, millennium falcon smugglers run hondo ohnaka
Credit: Steven Beyer, Unsplash

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Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run offers visitors a unique experience, blending a ride with an interactive video game setup. Guests have the opportunity to take on various roles aboard the iconic spacecraft—pilot, engineer, or gunner—each contributing to the overall mission. This ride is undoubtedly a first for Disney, introducing a layer of gameplay to a traditional theme park experience.

Despite the excitement surrounding the interactive elements, some guests feel that it leans too heavily toward a tech demo rather than a fully realized ride experience. Comparing it to the widely celebrated Rise of the Resistance, many park-goers find that Smuggler’s Run can feel lacking in narrative depth and immersive storytelling. Instead, it is often seen as more of a competition to rack up high scores, which may not resonate with those seeking a more straightforward adventure.

Upcoming Changes at Hollywood Studios

As Disney’s Hollywood Studios continues to evolve, significant changes are on the horizon. Some beloved attractions, including Muppet*Vision 3D and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, are set for closure as part of the park’s commitment to reimagining and refreshing its offerings. These closures have sparked discussions and concerns within the Disney community, as many visitors hold fond memories of these iconic rides.

However, hope remains on the horizon, as the park prepares to introduce new developments that could reshape the guest experience. With the announcement of a land inspired by Pixar’s Monsters, Inc., excitement is building for what Disney has in store next. Guests react with a mix of anticipation and unease, hoping that the new attractions can capture the same beloved spirit while addressing some of the less popular rides that have experienced lower attendance.

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

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