Disney’s Hollywood Studios Attractions, Rides, and Entertainment (A Complete Guide)
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a fun park with many popular rides and entertainment offerings. The park has changed tremendously over the last decade and will continue to transition as new lands and attractions are added in the coming years. Hollywood Studios is kind of a big deal because it’s where you’ll find Star Wars and Toy Story-themed lands. Both of these lands have attractions with some of the longest wait times at Walt Disney World.
You’ll also find some of Disney World’s best entertainment offerings in the park. From the thrilling Indiana Jones Epic Adventure Stunt Show (an original offering that continues to wow guests daily) to For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration (a sing-along with enough comedy that both children and adults adore it), you’ll be surprised at the high-quality productions you get to enjoy.
Of course, it takes time to see the shows, and many of the rides will have long waits. So, you’ll want to find the perfect balance of both when planning your day here. To help you plan, we’ve listed Disney’s Hollywood Studios attractions and rides with brief descriptions below. If you want to learn more, use the link underneath it to access the complete attraction review. After that, we’ve shared an overview of each entertainment offering. (Make sure to stick around to the end and grab a copy of our complimentary planning spreadsheet.)
Hollywood Studios Attractions
We’ll start by previewing the attractions in each park area: Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, Animation Courtyard, Pixar Plaza, Toy Story Land, Galaxy’s Edge, Grand Ave, Commissary Lane, and Echo Lake.
Coming Soon
Disney has announced the following new attractions for Hollywood Studios. Both (as of this time) are scheduled to open in Summer 2025.
- The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure
- Disney Villains Unfairly Ever After
Other things coming to the park in the next few years:
- Muppets Re-Theming of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
- Monsters, Inc. Themed Land
Hollywood Boulevard
The following attractions are part of Hollywood Boulevard.
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway is a trackless, dark ride based on award-winning Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts. You’ll board Goofy’s train and set out on an adventure through the park. Unfortunately, with Goofy as the engineer, things are sure to take an unexpected turn. You’ll soon find yourself in a cartoon adventure with surprises everywhere! Thankfully, toward the end, Mickey and Minnie Mouse save the day and help the train get back on track.
- Height Requirement: No
- Rider Switch: No
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: Yes
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Sunset Boulevard
The following attractions are part of Sunset Boulevard.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
*Disney has announced that this attraction will be reimagined into a Muppets-themed roller coaster.
The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is a popular thrill ride with steep drops, loops, and inversions. However, the biggest scare is the high-speed launch guests witness while waiting. This attraction is for anyone who loves a good thrill! Those who prefer milder attractions will want to sit this one out.
- Height Requirement: 48″
- Rider Switch: Yes
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: Yes
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is not for the faint of heart. This attraction is themed after an abandoned hotel. Years ago, guests took an elevator to their room during a tremendous storm, but they were never seen or heard from again! Are you brave enough to board that same elevator? Expect sudden drops in the darkness in a ride sequence that keeps guests squealing!
- Height Requirement: 40″
- Rider Switch: Yes
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: Yes
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
Beauty and the Beast is a stellar stage show held in the Theater of the Stars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The performance lasts approximately 25 minutes, and we estimate it to take about 45 minutes of touring time, considering early arrival and letting the crowd clear out before exiting. If you are a fan of Beauty and the Beast or Broadway, you’ll want to take the time to see this incredible performance. Make sure to read our article below for complete details of what to expect.
- Height Requirement: No
- Rider Switch: No
- Early Theme Park Entry: No
- Extended Evening Hours: No
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
Animation Courtyard
The following attractions are all considered part of Animation Courtyard.
Disney Junior Play and Dance!
The Disney Junior Play and Dance is in the back corner of Animation Courtyard near Star Wars Launch Bay. Each performance lasts approximately 10 minutes. It’s a wonderful place for parents to break while little ones dance along with Disney Junior Pals. Several fun characters make appearances on stage throughout the show.
- Height Requirement: No
- Rider Switch: No
- Early Theme Park Entry: No
- Extended Evening Hours: No
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Disney Junior Play and Dance!
Meet Disney Junior Pals in Animation Courtyard
Hollywood Studios is one of our favorite parks for meeting characters. Those with little ones who enjoy Disney Junior will want to take advantage of these meet-and-greets. You might see Pluto, Vampirina, Fancy Nancy, or Doc McStuffins!
Learn More>> Meet Disney Junior Pals in Animation Courtyard
Star Wars Launch Bay
Step inside Star Wars Launch Bay to see exhibits of costumes, models, and movie props from the Star Wars films. This is also the home of several character meet-and-greets: BB-8, Darth Vader, and Chewbacca. You’ll want to check the My Disney Experience app for exact times on the day of your visit. This location closes earlier than the rest of the park.
Learn More>> Star Wars Launch Bay
Walt Disney Presents
Walt Disney Presents is a walk-through tribute to Walt Disney. You’ll find tons of archives, memorabilia, and other artifacts. At the end of the gallery, you’ll find rotating exhibits that usually contain costumes from more recent Disney movies and television shows. You can also watch the next showing of One Man’s Dream, a film about Walt Disney narrated by Julie Andrews. (We highly recommend seeing the film.)
Learn More>> Walt Disney Presents
Pixar Plaza
Pixar Plaza is a small courtyard beyond Walt Disney Presents. This area was formerly home to Toy Story before the land was built. Then, for a while, it was called Municiberg Plaza. These days, it’s an area with several Pixar character meet-and-greets.
The Edna Mode Experience
The Edna Mode Experience is a dedicated place where you can meet famous fashion designer Edna Mode. While you wait, check out her accolades and the Incredibles super-suits!
Learn More>> The Edna Mode Experience
Meet Pixar Pals at Pixar Plaza
Several other characters meet in Pixar Plaza. You might run into Joy from Inside Out, the Incredibles, or Sulley from Monsters, Inc. These character meet-and-greets change from time to time. So check the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit for exact times.
Learn More>> Meet Pixar Pals at Pixar Plaza
Toy Story Land
The following attractions are part of Toy Story Land.
Alien Swirling Saucers
Alien Swirling Saucers is a fun, spinning attraction in Toy Story Land. Although it requires a minimum height, we consider it a pretty mild ride. Those prone to vertigo might want to pass. Wait times are usually reasonable for this attraction.
- Height Requirement: 32″
- Rider Switch: Yes
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: Yes
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Alien Swirling Saucers
Toy Story Mania!
Toy Story Mania is a classic ride at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This interactive ride allows guests to shoot at moving targets from their ride vehicle. You will experience a slight spin between target bays and must wear 3D glasses to see the screens. We love this attraction and wouldn’t miss it! Check the tips in our attraction article below for the best times to ride.
- Height Requirement: No
- Rider Switch: No
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: Yes
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Toy Story Mania!
Slinky Dog Dash
Slinky Dog Dash is a fan-favorite roller coaster ride with gentle drops. It offers a mild thrill and is perfect for children who have reached the height requirement. But it’s just so fun that almost everyone enjoys it! Given its popularity, you can expect long waits throughout the day. Many guests head straight to this attraction at rope drop when the park opens.
- Height Requirement: 38″
- Rider Switch: Yes
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: Yes
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Slinky Dog Dash
Galaxy’s Edge
This Star Wars-themed land offers two significant attractions, shopping, entertainment, and dining.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is one of the most popular attractions at Walt Disney World. During the walk-through portion of the attraction, you’ll accept a mission to help the Resistance. Unfortunately, the First Order intercepts you along the way. It’s up to the Resistance to rescue you! They’ll help you board a trackless ride vehicle as you narrowly escape the power of the dark side of the force. Each experience is somewhat unique and genuinely thrilling.
- Height Requirement: 40″
- Rider Switch: Yes
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: No
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Single Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run offers a chance to pilot Hans Solo’s former starship. You’ll accept a mission from pirate Hondo Ohnaka to collect goods for his clientele. Before boarding, you’ll receive a pilot, gunner, or engineer role. Make sure you’re prepared to complete the mission!
- Height Requirement: 38″
- Rider Switch: Yes
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: Yes
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Grand Ave
Grand Ave is currently home to Muppets Courtyard. This area will eventually become home to a new Monsters, Inc.-themed land.
Muppet*Vision 3D
It has been announced that this attraction will eventually close as this part of the park is rethemed to Monsters, Inc.
Muppet*Vision 3D is a 3D film attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It was the last project that Jim Henson worked on before his death. The show has a duration of approximately 17 minutes. Therefore, the longest wait for this attraction should be for the next show to begin. The film features classic Muppet characters like Kermit, Miss Piggy, and Fozzie Bear. In addition to the film, several characters make live appearances throughout the performance.
- Height Requirement: No
- Rider Switch: No
- Early Theme Park Entry: No
- Extended Evening Hours: No
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Muppet*Vision 3D
Commissary Lane
Commissary Lane is a small outdoor corridor between Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway and Grand Ave. This area is home to ABC Commissary (quick service dining hall), Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater (a table service restaurant), and Red Carpet Dreams.
Meet Disney Stars at Red Carpet Dreams
Red Carpet Dreams is the official Mickey and Minnie Mouse meet-and-greet at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The pair meet in separate rooms. You’ll first meet Minnie Mouse in her red carpet look. Afterward, you continue to Mickey Mouse’s dressing room, where he prepares to star in his role as Sorcerer Mickey.
Learn More>> Meet Disney Stars at Red Carpet Dreams
Echo Lake
Echo Lake covers an extensive area to the front left of the park. We wouldn’t necessarily consider it a defined themed area.
Star Tours — The Adventure Continues
While Star Tours is a part of Echo Lake, it borders Grand Ave and Commissary Lane. This attraction was the original Star Wars ride before Galaxy’s Edge was built. You’ll board a Starspeeder 1000 (a motion-sensitive theater) and take off on your own Star Tours Adventure. Who knows where you’ll end up with the variety of ride sequences? However, this ride has a height requirement and can be bumpy. So it’s not something for everyone.
- Height Requirement: 40″
- Rider Switch: Yes
- Early Theme Park Entry: Yes
- Extended Evening Hours: Yes
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
Vacation Fun
Vacation Fun is an original animated cartoon short featuring Mickey and Minnie Mouse. You walk inside, watch the cartoon, and see a few photo props at the theater’s exit. This is by far not a must-do attraction. However, it’s cute and not the worst place to take a break.
Learn More>> Vacation Fun: An Original Animated Short with Mickey and Minnie
Meet Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight
Celebrity Spotlight is the dedicated location to meet Olaf at Walt Disney World. We like to do this meet-and-greet after we see the Frozen Sing-Along. You’ll see Celebrity Spotlight’s entrance immediately after you exit the Hyperion Theater. This attraction will close earlier than the rest of the park.
Learn More>> Meet Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
This performance is held in the Hyperion Theater multiple times throughout the day. Each performance lasts approximately 30 minutes. The show features characters from Frozen and a surprise ending. Most of the show fades in and out to screens showing the lyrics and guests singing along. The acting is terrific and usually comical for adults. We like to take in a performance in the hotter portion of the day. It’s a perfect place to cool off!
- Height Requirement: No
- Rider Switch: No
- Early Theme Park Entry: No
- Extended Evening Hours: No
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is located directly opposite Echo Lake. This thrilling, action-packed stage show executes scenes from Raiders of the Lost Ark, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats. Each performance lasts approximately 30 minutes, and it’s well worth taking the time to see.
- Height Requirement: No
- Rider Switch: No
- Early Theme Park Entry: No
- Extended Evening Hours: No
- Lightning Lane: Yes (Multi Pass and Premier Pass)
Learn More>> Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Entertainment
You’ll find various other entertainment options at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Some of the more popular options include the following.
First Order Searches for the Resistance: This short performance happens multiple times throughout the day in Galaxy’s Edge. Times are listed in the My Disney Experience app. A First Order leader usually waits for Kylo Ren’s ship to land. Kylo Ren then exits the ship and makes an example of him before exiting the stage with two Stormtroopers. The threesome then continues to search through the crowd for spies!
Green Army Drum Corps: This popular drum corps performs several times daily in Toy Story Land. For the exact times, check the entertainment section of the My Disney Experience on the day of your visit.
Wonderful World of Animation: This 12-minute projection show, which features clips from Disney and Pixar animation, is offered nightly.
Fantasmic! (Major Evening Entertainment)
Fantasmic! is the major evening entertainment offered at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The performance is held in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater at the end of Sunset Boulevard. Guests can enter the theater up to 90 minutes before the performance. Mickey Mouse is the show’s star, and he appears in many different looks throughout each performance. You’ll also have opportunities to see many other characters. Fantasmic! lasts approximately 29 minutes and you will want to arrive early.
Related: Characters in Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Get a Copy of Our Planning Spreadsheet
We know this is a lot of information. If you want a condensed version, sign up for a copy of our free planning spreadsheet. The spreadsheet was created with Google Sheets and can be used on your phone during your vacation if you need a quick reference. We have a tab for each spreadsheet with instructions (Hollywood Studios Ride Spreadsheet) and tips.
Subscribe to the Resorts Gal newsletter and we’ll send you a copy of our complimentary planning spreadsheets.
More Planning
For more planning, you might enjoy our entire Disney World Parks Planning Guide or one of the following park guides:
- Magic Kingdom Attractions, Ride, and Entertainment
- Epcot Rides, Entertainment and Attractions
- Animal Kingdom Attractions Rides and Entertainment
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park Guide
- Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park Guide
We also have specific articles about many topics we’ve touched on in this attraction guide. Some of our most popular park planning articles include:
- Everything You Need to Know About Lightning Lanes at Disney World
- Disney World Rides with Height Requirements
- How to Use Rider Switch at Disney World
For resorts, characters, and dining, the following resources are all good starting points:
Happy planning!
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