Disney parks can be difficult to navigate, especially when there are so many “lands” all in one location. Not to worry, we’ve got you covered when it comes to knowledge on each section of each park. Soon you’ll know Hollywood Studios like the back of your hand.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios. PHOTO DisneyWalt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios is one of four theme parks on Disney property. Within Hollywood Studios there are seven uniquely themed areas to ensure there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a movie buff, a thrill seeker, or a foodie; you’re guaranteed a great time. Here are the seven areas of Hollywood Studios, and some important information you should know about each!
1. Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood Boulevard. Photo: @amberdisneyfreakNamed after the actual Hollywood Boulevard in California, this area is the entrance to the park, and really emulates that Hollywood feeling. It’s packed with references and even exact replicas of stores and buildings in Hollywood. The entrance resembles the Pan-Pacific Auditorium, and right as you enter there is a recreation of the Crossroads of the World tower, topped with a spinning Mickey Mouse. As you make your way down the boulevard, you’ll find plenty of shops selling Disney merchandise. Standing tall at the very back is an exact replica of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, where inside you’ll find Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, an exciting dark-ride based on the Disney Mickey Mouse animated series. Lined with palm trees and jumping with entertainment and parades, Hollywood Boulevard is the staple of this theme park for sure.
2. Echo Lake
Echo Lake. Photo: @blogmickeyEcho Lake is based off of the man-made Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, California. In Disney, however, it is a mini lake off to the side of Hollywood Boulevard. It was included in the park because the original Echo Park Lake served as a backdrop for many older films. The Echo Lake section includes a plethora of eateries including sit-down restaurants, quick-service stands, bars…etc. While there aren’t many attractions in this area, the ones that are there really make their mark. For example, the famous Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is located here. This is a fast-paced, action-packed performance. For a more chill form of entertainment, you can head to the Mickey Short Theater. Echo lake is the perfect stop for a long day in the park as you can take the time to sit and relax while enjoying food or entertainment.
3. Animation Courtyard
Vampirina. Photo: @mymickeyvacationAs you can tell from the name, Animation Courtyard contains attractions based on none other than Disney’s Animation Studios. Just to the side of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway stands a square arch, the entrance to this area of the park. We’d say Animation Courtyard is more geared toward children, as it hosts a popular Disney Junior character meet and greet, starring Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, and Fancy Nancy. In addition to the meet and greet, there is a Disney Junior sing-along show! Most notably, Animation Courtyard was home to the Voyage of the Little Mermaid attraction, a dearly missed attraction that is likely closing. Although Disney has not yet officially announced the closure of this attraction, all signs point to this devastating news. All of us Disney fans hope, however, that it will reopen with amazing changes, or as something entirely different and new.
4. Grand Avenue
Muppet Vision. Photo: @samsdisneydiaryPreviously known as “Muppets Courtyard,” Grand Avenue is home to an attraction that all Disney-goers know and love: “Muppet*Vision 3D.” This area of the park is inspired by downtown Los Angeles, and is bursting with vibrant colors and fun building designs. Though, we do have to warn you the worst restaurant probably on all of Disney property is located here. If you see that the wait for PizzeRizzo is short, there’s a reason. We highly advise you take a trip back on over to another section of the park. All in all, Grand Avenue is a quick stop for some fun entertainment, but is otherwise nothing all that grand.
5. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Green and Blue Milk. Photo: @onceupon_thesteidlesUnlike how we just described Grand Avenue, Galaxy’s Edge is the place to be. The architecture in this location is absolutely stunning and so impressive. It is definitely one of the most Instagram-able sections in all of Hollywood Studios. Featuring attractions like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, this section is like a theme park in itself! Rise of the Resistance being almost 20 minutes long, Disney-goers used to have to join a virtual queue to even make it on the ride. This just speaks volumes about its popularity. Not to mention the restaurants and bars in Galaxy’s Edge are top tier. This is also where you can find the famous Green and Blue Milk from Star Wars. If you’re headed to Hollywood Studios, Galaxy’s Edge is a must-do. This area of the park is buzzing from open to close!
6. Toy Story Land
Slinky Dog Dash. Photo: @themeparkalexAnother main attraction at Hollywood Studios is Toy Story Land. Who doesn’t love Toy Story? To have an entire section of the park dedicated to those stellar movies is a must, and the rides and attractions are a blast! They range from interactive dark rides, where you’ll compete against your party to win in a laser blasting competition, to a thrilling roller coaster based off of Slinky the Dog, to children’s spinning rides. This land is nothing but fun, bursts of color and animation, and all-around excitement. Not only that, but there are amazing quick-service restaurants located in Toy Story Land. Woody’s Lunch Box is an absolute must for a snack during the day! Do not skip this section of Hollywood Studios, you’ll miss tons of fun!
7. Sunset Boulevard
Tower of Terror. Photo: @kaseyskravingsLast but certainly not least is Sunset Boulevard, featuring the park’s most famous and thrilling rides! On Sunset Boulevard you’ll find the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, a drop ride that reaches a height of almost 200 feet. This is also where you can ride the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster featuring Aerosmith. This is an indoor dark coaster with a handful of inversions, corkscrews, and speedy drops. You can also find live entertainment here, delicious food, and shops. This was the perfect ending to our list, as it can be the perfect way to end your day in Hollywood Studios, saving the best for last!
There you have it, the seven sections of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Now you have enough information to plan your day in the park. You’ll know your way around like a pro. Remember to plan your day according to the park layout and you should be able to hit every section you please!
