- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Categories: Active Life Amusement Parks Hotels & Travel Tours Active Life Leisure Centers Amusement Parks, Tours, Leisure Centers [Edit]
351 S Studio DrLake Buena Vista, FL 32830
(407) 939-6244
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 8 am - 10 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
167 reviews for Disney's Hollywood Studios
Review Highlights
"My favorite rides are Tower and Rock N Roller Coaster."
(in 29 reviews)
"Toy Story Mania (so worth the long wait."
(in 33 reviews)
"Tower of Terror - my absolute favorite ride."
(in 110 reviews)
Loading...
167 reviews in English
-
Review from Fannie S.
1/30/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Nostalgia Lane!!!
We had to ride (and play) Toy Story Mania, twice and tried the Muppet Vision 3-D (for us, it was like a continuation of the movie we just saw in December...lol).
I was tempted to try Star Tours but had to pass on it. We ran out of time to deal with the lines of Tower of Terror (but I'd been on it at Disneyland before.)
We watched a few shows--Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show, Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage (yes, it was my favorite Disney movie, shut up), Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
We learned a bit from the Great Movie Ride, Studio Backlot Tour, and Walt Disney: One Man's Dream.
We were greatly amused and entertained by Stone Granite and other Hollywood actors. Hollywood Matchmaking Game--Bwahaha. -
Review from Kathy D.
1/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
The ride worth going here is Toy Story Mania!! The line can get really long, so if you are staying on property and plan a day for Hollywood Studios, make sure the first thing you get to the park is get that fast pass for Toy Story Mania. You won't regret it!
If you're here during Christmas times, the Christmas light show is an amazing setup. Definitely a must see.
Some attractions that get underrated is the Studio Back Lot tour and The Great Movie Ride. They are great rides, and also a good time to sit down and relax!
Also there is a drawing class in the animation area. Its a great way to learn how to draw some of the disney characters. Its a hidden area, I don't think not too many know about. They also have tons of characters that you can take pictures with as well.
Also make time to check out the Fantasmic Show at the end of the day. Its a great ending to a fun day! -
Review from Jennifer A.
San Diego, CA
1/23/2012 2 Check-ins Here
The best thrill rides. Fun!
Highlights
- Tower of Terror
- Rock n Roller Coaster
- Star Tours
- Fried chicken at 50's Prime Time
Also saw the Beauty and Beast show that was alright, but compared to other Disney stage productions...meh.
Things I missed was the American Idol show and Toy Story ride (but we have that in California Adventure park...it is cool)
I feel like it's smaller than the other parks, but I definitely enjoy the rides the best! -
Review from Nicholas M.
Alexandria, VA
2/6/2012
This is one of my favorite Disney parks; I went recently with my GF and we spent our first day there.
There were so many good rides and shows that it's almost too hard to name.
Definitely see The Backlot Tour and the Great Movie ride. -
Review from John L. H.
New Orleans, LA
Hollywood Studios was my least favorite park.
The are when you first enter is cool. It hearkens back to the old days of Hollywood. There are actors and actresses strolling the street and there is even a keystone cop or two. The cop was particularly interesting as was his pistol (a banana ).
The park has rides and shows, but didn't seem as well thought out as the other parks.
This park did seem to have more live shows going on than in other parks. There was a large stage with a kids band and dance group, a simulated movie dance party that kids loved and other various shows happening throughout the park.
On our seven day Disney vacation we only came here once. I would probably return, but maybe only for one day again.
Note: if you like being scared half to death, the Tower of Terror is here. I don't, so I can't comment on its terrorizing quotient.Listed in: Disney World
-
Review from Rhea P.
12/12/2011 3 Check-ins Here
this is the smallest of the parks to me anyway. I think sometimes we get so used to having so many different attractions available that we forget all of the work that goes into making a theme park.
This park is small, however a good time can be had I especially enjoyed the Aerosmith roller coaster simply because I am a Steven Tyler fan. The music was awesome, as well as the speed in which the ride starts.
We made massive fun of the horrible uniforms in this park. There are really no words. The live music show I heard just a little bit of it. It was classic corny Disney, however it was nice. I love live music.
I even had the opportunity to bump into someone from Disney research who asked me some questions and asked for my park ticket. It was a great time - there's no doubt about it. However it is not my favorite Disney Park. -
Review from Patty W.
There's nothing wrong with being a kid at heart. The fun can be endless if you make it that way. The rock and roll roller coaster is a must do. Aerosmith totally jams out the whole experience :) There are other rides that you can shoot targets and get points for as well as enjoying the making of movies. The Indiana Jones stunt and Lights Motor Action shows are entertaining. The back lot tour is informative and I can't believe I have never been on it out of all the times I've been there. I guess there is a first time for everything. One man's dream is a must see. Walt Disney rocks! Of course, I ate like a pig during our visit here. Vacations can tend to do that. A margarita, turkey flatbread sandwich, and apple slices were some of the items I consumed and they were all yummy. Plus, we got upgrades to 3-day passes for the both of us for only $50. SCORE!!
-
Review from Aaron T.
1/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
Was a bit let down with Hollywood Studios. Having spent a considerable amount of time in Anaheim I'd compare it to California Adventure and it falls a bit flat in the comparison. Same shows but not as many rides and not nearly the same atmosphere. Its a smaller park and I agree with other Yelpers that the place just not seem as well thought out as other Disney Parks. Glad we went, but would probably not return anytime soon at least until the my kids are a bit older.
-
Review from Steve F.
Lawrenceville, GA
1/22/2012 2 Check-ins Here
This was truly entertaining and worth the wait to do it once. You then want to do it again as you will believe you can beat your previous score. Truly enjoyable!!!
-
Review from Heather L.
Des Plaines, IL
1/15/2012 3 photos
Hollywood Studios was by far our absolute favorite of the Disney parks. We had a five day park hopper and spent a full day and 2/3 here. But first, let me put my review in context because Disney can be a lot of different things for different pple based on the age of your kids. I have a third grade girl and a fifth grade boy. We traveled mid January 2012 when the kids were supposed to be back in school and enjoyed great temperatures of 75 degrees with few lines. The park had shorter hours and the Fantasmic Show was only showing on Sunday night and not to be missed.
I have always loved old movies and tv shows so this was right up my alley as well. And of course, my hubbie loves the action flicks so something for everyone-especially the older elementary school kids and their parents.
There was not a single attraction or ride here we did not love. And I mean that. I can't say that about any other park. This was the best.
Must sees:
1) Fantasmic!!!!!!! This brought me to tears. It was soooo amazing. The water, the floats, the lighting, the Fantasia theme. OMG! It's like the Bellagio Fountain for kids and better. More on this later. This was my favorite of the three nighttime extravaganzas Resort wide. Sit in the middle away from any poles. There is a lot of action dead center on top and you don't want your view obstructed.
2) Indiana Jones Stunt Show: A behind the scenes look at stunts in action and it's funny too.
3) Star Tours: My son loved this the best and went on it four or five times. It is different throughout the day and we never saw the same exact ride twice. This is a simulator ride.
4) Tower of Terror: Standing in line is almost as fun as the ride itself. Old looking Hollywood hotel with cobwebs. The anticipation is worse than the ride and some little kids got scared in the creepy boiler room right before you go on the ride. But the ride itself is not that bad. You sling shot up and down but it's enclosed so no real fear of heights.
5) Lights, Motors, Action!: This was the most amazing car stunt show ever. Really talented drivers in near misses. I left this show thinking Disney should charge more. Incredible!
Ok, this was supposed to be a Top Five but there's too much you have to see!
6) Rock 'n' Roller Coaster by AerosSmith: This is an indoor roller coaster that does cork screws and goes very fast. I especially liked that it was smoothe and you didn't have a headache afterward from your head slamming back and forth.
7)Toy Story Mania: This is like a midway shooting game but it's a ride and very fun. Better than the Buzz Lightyear at Magic Kingdom.
8) Sci Fi Dine-In Theatre: My son really likes old corny sci fi movies. They don't show full movies here just previews and old drive in commercials and it is only on a 50 minute loop so by the time you are enjoying your shake for desert you will have seen it all. But you sit in these mini 50's cars in a darkened room and have a waitress serve you and the food is very good. I loved my reuben $12.50 and Mars Martian Kahlua shake $10.50 (bit pricey), and my husband ordered this very obnoxious Picnic Burger with a huge burger with two grilled hot dogs on top. But it was a tasty burger $15.99. Kids had mac and cheese and pizza off the kid menu for a bout $7 each. Total bill was around $70 but we didn't eat another meal all day. Make reservations as it fills up.
9) Muppet Vision 3D Movie: If you're a fan and we are, this is a must see.
10) Magic of Disney Animation: My son really likes to draw so he did this twice. An instructor walks you through drawing a character and it's now my favorite souviner of the whole week.
Notable mentions: Backlot Express - not just for the stunt show but also to see the actual costumes in the museum after the tour and for the girls the Voyage of the Little Mermaid, it's like a 17 minute Broadway quality production. My son hated it but daughter loved it. For the adults, the history of Walt Disney is interesting in Walt Disney: One Man's Dream. Makes me want to learn more and I wished they had had a biography for sale. It's mostly picture books.
Back to Fantasmic! The first day we went we had lunch reservations at Mama Melrose's. There is a package you can buy for $12 per child and $35 per adult. This includes an appetizer, entree and desert as well as priority seating to Fantasmic. You can order anything off the menu so we got the calamari, steak and I had the best of all the deserts, the amaretto cheesecake. Though my daughter loved her spaghetti and meatball chocolate cupcake. You still need to get to Fantasmic a few minutes early to avoid said pole but not a full hour early like everyone else. It's a great deal and the food was very yummy with excellent service. The calamari and steak were cooked perfectly. With 4 draft Moretti's at $7.25 each we spent $155 - pricey by normal standards but not by Disney standards.
Loved it, loved it, loved it! -
Review from Kathryn S.
Miami Beach, FL
12/31/2011 1 Check-in Here
There's nothing in the world like a trip to Disney World, and Hollywood Studios is no exception! One of my favorite parks in Disney World, it boast some of the best rides. I love the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, the Great Movie Ride, and Rockin' Roller Coaster. Also, let us not forget that magical time of the year called Star Wars Weekend. Hollywood Studios is a great time without the huge crowds of Magic Kingdom.
-
Review from David O.
Disney does this tourist trap BS pretty well. I gotta give them props. It's clean. The employees are helpful and even seem to enjoy working there. Yeah, I'm not used to that either. That stuff makes a difference.
The Jedi training show was amusing. Kids learn light saber moves and then fight Darth Vader. I wish my niece did it. Talk about blackmail material. The real Darth Vader would decapitate those kids though. Just sayin'.......
This park had decent rides. The Toy Story ride was a lot of fun. If the wait wasn't super long and fast passes gone, I'd ride that one multiple times. Tower of Terror was pretty fun if you like being thrown up and down like a rag doll. Good thing I do.
3D Muppets? I loved me some Muppets back in the day.
Probably 5 star for kids. -
Review from Wesley S.
1/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
Hollywood Studios, Formerly MGM Studios, is a fantastic place to go if you really like film. This park has shows and rides documenting the journey of the silver screen from it's onset into today. Some of the more exciting rides include Aerosmith's Rock and Roller Coaster and the Twilight Zone's Tower of Terror. The show Hollywood Studio's has on most nights is awesome and is called Fantasmic, documenting Mickey Mouse's journey in Fantasia with some cool cameo's from the other dubious Disney Villians. This is one of Disneyworld's best shows. If you like the shows, Hollywood Studios has a bunch of them from Ariel to Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular. I always found this park to be a great place to go with the family or in the morning to ride the thrill rides if you are park hopping. In any rate, another Disney Classic. Thanks for reading and enjoy.
-
Review from Mia L.
10/25/2011 3 photos
Yes! I LOVE this place! So this park is more "movie-based." It focuses on Disney movies and movie production in the most fun and colorful way possible. They have some great attractions.
Here are my favorites:
Hollywood Tower of Terror--It's kind of creepy how they take you back to the "Twilight Zone" and drop you from stories high. The line is long, but if you like thrill rides, this is one of the good ones throughout the entire park. It's set up like a hotel, you go up in an elevator, the doors open so you could take a peak outside, and then you get dropped. Lol. Sounds kind of simple, but I hope you get the drift!
Aerosmith Rock and Roller Coaster--I love roller coasters! This is an indoor coaster with awesome lighting and sound. I highly recommend this! Yeah this is a must! The wait is long, but what the heck...you're there and it's one of the best rides in the park!
Light, Motors, Action Extreme Stunt show--This was pretty awesome. I mean I'm not even to cars and I thought it was neat! This is am outdoor show, you sit on bleachers, and watch cars do these ridiculous stunts! It's a thrilling experience!
The American Idol Experience--The judges are...well idk who they are...but they act like AI judges! The stage and audience is set up like the real AI show. They choose guests of the park who audition to perform. They sing their hearts out for you/the audience. The judges give their input. It really seems like a live taping of AI lol. The voting is similar too. It's pretty neat and fun! It's indoors so if it's hot out, this would be a great way to cool off.
The Great Movie Ride--This may be more for adults because they have some old movies featured on this ride. This ride slowly takes ou on a sort of journey through classic movies. Your guide talks you through the ride and even participates in some of the action scenes you will go through.
Voyage of the Little Mermaid--This is a show...not a ride! For some reason, everytime I go here, I expect it to be a ride lol...maybe because of the word "voyage" being a part of it. I love the Little Mermaid and the songs in the movie. They had this attraction when I was little, and I'm glad they still have it. Great for kids! I think we all had to stand though...I don't remember. Correct me if I'm wrong.
There's so much more to this place. Those were just my highlights. The cons include: waiting in lines, pricing, the heat (depending what time of the year you go), and the crowds...it could get packed! -
Review from Jennifer C.
Queens, NY
1/3/2012
This is by far the smallest out of all Disney parks. It definitely does not require a full day, so grab a park hopper and head to either Animal Kingdom or Epcot. The park has pretty good rides, but it is mostly shows. Be sure to go on the Tower of Terror, Rock n Roller Coaster, and watch the Indiana Jones show. We spent only about 4 hours here and just decided to return to Epcot for dinner and fireworks.
-
Review from Rachel C.
10/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
I want to love this park so much, and I do like it, it's just not love! There are two major things I love about this park though...Rockin' Roller Coaster and Tower of Terror. I would never go to Disney and not go to this park...but I want more thrill rides!
I get that Disney is supposed to be a family affair, but families want thrills too! Obviously I'm not a theme park designer, so I don't understand the logistics behind creating and building thrill rides, but I'm disappointed they haven't built more in this particular park. They obviously do it well, but I'm getting greedy and impatient and I want more! But for now...I'll keep riding my favs and hope for more thrilling days at the park!
For tips, definitely head straight to either R n' R or Tower when you first get into the park so you can grab a fast pass. You can't have two fast passes at one time, so I'd grab one and then get in line for the other.
The new American Idol show is also pretty fun. You can actually audition for the many shows they run each day. If you actually win your "show" you move on to the final performance of the day at 7pm. If you win that one you get a pass that lets you skip the lines at a local AI audition of your choice. Pretty sweet deal if you ask me!
The other fun show is the LIghts, Motor, Action! They show you what happens behind the scenes of an action movie. It's definitely interesting and keeps your attention (even little ones) the entire time!
If you're planning on going here I'd make this a park hopper day and combine this park with Animal or Epcot. You don't need to spend all day here. Have fun!!Listed in: Walt Disney World
-
Review from Lauren E.
10/24/2011
I expected a lot more from Disney's Hollywood Studios and thought that Animal Kingdom would be my least favorite; however I was underwhelmed by what this park has to offer.
A show-heavy park, Hollywood Studios was the only park where I wasn't thinking, "OMG, I'm at Disney World!" In terms of rides, there is not much going on here. Tower of Terror and Rockin' Roller Coaster were too much for me. The one ride I was looking forward to, Toy Story Midway Mania, had 1-2 hour waits, and they were out of Fast Passes by noon (despite being open until 1 am). So I didn't bother waiting and didn't get a chance to ride Midway Mania.
The only two rides I went on were Star Tours and the Great Movie Ride. Star Tours is a Star Wars-themed motion simulator ride, and I enjoyed it. The Great Movie Ride is good for older park-goers. You sit in a giant cart that holds twenty-something people and ride through various famous movie scenes. You ride along with a narrator who interacts during different scenes (it changes from ride to ride). Movies include the Wizard of Oz, Casablanca and Singin' in the Rain.
Those who are fans of American Idol like me will appreciate the American Idol Experience. While I can't offer info about the audition process, what I can say is that park-goers can audition and have the opportunity to win front line access at a future American Idol audition. American Idol Experience has various showtimes throughout the day. The winner of each moves on to compete in the finale at end of the day.
The Indiana Jones stunt show was pretty interesting. Just a warning that this is an outside theater and will be hot if the fans aren't running (especially since fire is a part of the show).
One of the redeeming factors of this park is Fantasmic. One of my favorite Disney park shows next to the Main Street Electrical Parade at Magic Kingdom.
If this is your first time at Disney, go for the experience; otherwise, I would pass Hollywood Studios and save the day for Magic Kingdom or Epcot. -
Review from Karen F.
10/5/2011
Not worth the time.
Not worth the money.
Not good for younger kids (Unless you can get into the Toy Story thing - but we couldn't - the wait (and fast pass return time) was too damned long.
Many attractions (3 big ones) were closed the day we went.
Even so - the highlight was "the Muppet Show" in 3-D.
Not worth it.
Go to Magic Kingdom or Epcot or even Animal Kingdom before you come here.Listed in: Flam gets DIZZY on DISNEY
-
Review from Robert O.
10/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Our family was least impressed with this Disney playground. Perhaps it is because our children are still young. Perhaps it is because we aren't movie buffs (I've never seen E.T. or Raiders of the Lost Ark). Whatever it was, our day here was not as exciting as we had hoped.
The Disney Junior area was okay. We enjoyed the live show with all the characters. The parade was fun. We liked the Toy Story characters. My daughter was able to secure a lot of autographs in this park.
But there weren't many appealing rides. The rock and roll rollercoaster did appeal to us, but the lines were so lengthy, we bailed. We did not do the haunted tower with the young children.
To cap it all off, right before we left, my daughter traded a special pin I had purchased her for some ho-hum pin. Yeah, that will forever be etched in my mind as the capper to a less than stellar day. :) -
Review from Tyler R.
9/28/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Be prepared to wait. Be prepared to wait a lot - but be entertained while you are in line. If you were lucky enough to get a fast pass, all hail the king/queen of busting a move super early in the morning.
We busted no such move, and therefore, had to wait just shy of an hour to ride. Worth. Every. Second.
We rode just about every ride in Disney & Universal during our trip, and this was in the top two. (Tower of Terror has a very special place in my heart.)
Not only is it funny, it is interactive and if you are extremely competitive...you have a lot of chances to rack up points. I was amazed at the accuracy and the ease of play. I knew exactly what I was hitting and missing - unlike other rides (cue: Men in Black @ Universal) where I was blindly shooting at monsters and walls and other people, not really knowing what I was hitting or what I was getting points for.
When I come back, Toy Story is definitely the first ride I am going for - and I'll be doing my best to get there in time to get a fast pass. -
Review from Sarah S.
11/13/2011 3 photos
Many think of Disney's Hollywood Studios (known as MGM Studios until 2008) as the more teen geared park at Disney World, but I think it has a great mix for all the ages.
My favorite things in this park are Toy Story Mania (go here first if this is a priority because the wait gets out of control!), Muppet Vision 3-D (I'm wondering if waits will get longer for this with a newly released Muppets movie), Rock N Rollercoaster (indoor coaster at top speeds blasting Aerosmith), Tower of Terror (scares the heck out of me but there's nothing like it!), and the Beauty and the Beast show (depending on the singers that day). A new shows that I love is the American Idol Experience! If you are into reality shows and more specifically American Idol, you will love this show! How good it is really depends on the talent though!
Since the park first opened in 1989, they have added many cool things! Parades and night time shows! This park is just awesome mixing Hollywood Glam and Disney fun! I love the old timer Hollywood characters walking around the park! I'm big into taking pictures with characters when I go to Disney World and I can find the greatest variety of characters at DHS..
If you eat at any of the table service restaurants, you'll get a good meal! Sci Fi Dine In and 50s Prime Time Cafe will both give you a fun and unique experience! Every restaurant is pretty good though! They have decent counter service places at DHS, too.
My favorite hidden secret is standing under the Singing in the Rain umbrella in the Streets of America! Just do it. ;) -
Review from Chris B.
Red Hook, NY
Updated - 11/13/2011
Unlike the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland, California, this is only a stage show. It is comprised of three parts. You'll see how earthquakes and fiery explosions and other dramatic events are filmed. The theater contains 2000 seats and rarely fill up completely. It also shows how other movie stunts and special effects are performed.
Another motion simulator ride that I did not partake to, was Star Tours. it is very turbulent and for people who don't like motion simulators, it's an easy miss.
Jim Henson's Muppet Vision 3-D is one of the best stage shows(theater) in the whole Disney parks system. Not only does it feature some great 3-D graphics, but you actually feel like the items full pop out at you in the face.
Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure isn't much to talk about. It's not really a show, it's not a ride. You walk through it-while feeling like an ant, and you can take pictures of your kids. Many picture-taking spots are available.
If you wanna' know a little more about the man who started this whole area, head over to "Walt Disney: One Man's Dream" exhibit. It has several exhibits dealing with his life. http://youtu.be/bTGhqs... & http://youtu.be/DapLgY...
Opening just a few years ago, Toy Story Mania, their newest exhibit has been their newest big hit. As you ride in a four person car/vehicle, you use a play-like shooter to shot at objects on screens in front of your vehicle. Take special note of some of the games featured in the opening queue area, and take note of Mr. Potato head. He easily recognizes everything he sees and hears, and can instigate attention, if he realizes no one is paying attention to him(or is talking-therefore will be given a reply-I totally loved this feature.) Pick up your 3D/4D glasses as you enter, to get the full effect.
Found this video, after I posted the initial review. The new playland opened in late 2010.... http://youtu.be/oJj36R...
Although the parade is short, it features some of the major characters. It's very uplifting in music, and at places, it's interactive too. Pixar Pal's Countdown to Fun is very interesting, and a lot more interesting than the previous parade. It also has more vehicles in the parade, too. If you've ever seen Pixar's Play Parade at Disneyland's California Adventure several years ago, this new parade(started in January 2010), will be an exact duplicate of that parade(it even has the same soundtrack too). http://youtu.be/YoFW-s...
There is one area of the park, during the Christmas holidays, that hosts a separate area that has over five million Christmas lights(known as the Osborne Spectacle of Lights). Although best viewed after dark down the Streets of America, pick up a Park Times guide just inside the main entrance.
If you're not coming during the Christmas season, but are planning to Stay until park closing(or at night), they also have a nighttime fireworks display. Although a lot less lit-up, I myself, haven't seen this spectacular, Fantasmic, in PERSON. However, several YouTube videos describe the experience. You'll find this viewing area close by to the Tower of Terror(although walkway is of a separate entity than this attraction.)
Although shopping can be done in more places than what is shown at the nearby Animal Kingdom, it does have it's drawbacks. Take a look and ask a park rep for information on where your products can be found.
Food and sit down places range widely. Although the two best places can be found in this park for thematic dining ( 50s Prime Time Cafe( http://youtu.be/A6pVSc... ) and Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater) they do have places that make you(and your family) feel rich and glamorous(Hollywood and Vine). You must make a reservation up to four months, before visiting, to make a reservation. It gets that booked at both of these places. Other food vendors just stock the deserty items.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
11/12/2011
Despite this park not being broken up by "lands" like all the other parks, I actually enjoyed most… Read more »
-
-
Review from Janene H.
Updated - 10/3/2011 3 Check-ins Here
What an awesome ride! No wonder the line gets so long. The cars only seat four (two on each side) so loading is a little slow. Still, it's a fun, virtual, 4D carnival shoot 'em ride. Your car spins you from scene to scene where you score points. Some items are worth more points than other. The whole set up is just a blast and does take some degree of skill. In fact, there are entire blog and websites devoted to the strategies of the game. For us, it's always a fun competition when we ride this ride.
As others have said go here first, get a fast pass then wait in line. Come back in the afternoon to ride again. The wait is usually 45-60 minutes. The line moves pretty fast and is mostly indoors. Potato Head entertains you for part of the queue, so the line isn't too bad.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
-
2/13/2011
This park definitely needs a little TLC from Disney! The cast members are still spot on and there is… Read more »
-
-
Review from Kate B.
Canton, MI
11/13/2011
This is probably the fourth best park at WDW. We saw Fantasmic( you have to be jammed into a crawling mosh pit for an hour before you can get to your seats for the show,) It's okay-I wouldn't see it again. Our companions said that we wasted two hours we could have used elsewhere.
We went there as part of a Park Hopper that allowed us to combine AK and DHS in one day. We got lucky and ate at Hollywood Brown Derby and saw Little Mermaid, which was good. Wanted to see Beauty and the Beast and the Muppets 3-D but we didn't have time. I don't feel that I have to go back.
Tower of Terror wasn't as scary as people say-check it off the "did it, done" list. Using the Single Rider lane at Rock n Rollercoaster backfires because the Cast Members wait until there is an odd-number party in the regular queue before one of us gets "liberated' from the line! (And I think the Cast Members enjoyed torturing us by making us wait!). The ride is over too fast! Best part of the ride is a kickin' gift shop that you can only access by riding. They had the coolest dog tags there!
Oh, and the park loses stars for the horrible Playhouse Disney acts on the center stage. They made it impossible to sit outside and enjoy the scenery!Listed in: Orlando 2011
-
Review from Katey G.
10/25/2011
I was stuck on Rockin Roller Coaster, with little information, for over half an hour. Kids were screaming, and the woman in front of me damn near had a panic attack. To add insult to (non)injury, we weren't let out until we promised to put away phones and cameras. Dude, I have been strapped into a plastic seat for 40 minutes. Let me out. The response was completely insensitive and I was completely done with the park after that. (It was the first ride I got on, too).
This sort of thing seems to happen all the time on this coaster. Be careful! Wait times include the waiting at the end, as well.
The star goes to the people in guest services who helped us find our friends who didn't ride the ride, and assumed we had left the park. -
Review from Bob Y.
Manhasset, NY
Updated - 12/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Nice place to visit if done early. The toy story ride is very busy. They have the American idol show every hour.
1 Previous Review:
-
12/28/2011
Great ride. Get the fast pass ASAP. Went on it twice.
-
-
Review from Stefanie M.
Naples, FL
10/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
Hollywood Studios was not always a "go to" Disney park for me, but over the years it has grown on me. The must dos are Tower of Terror, Rockin' Roller coaster, Star tours, Toy Story Mania, and Indiana Jones. Everything else is fun, but in a take-it-or-leave-it sort of way. This is a great park for everyone (kids, parents, grandparents) as there is something for everyone.
When you first get to the park, go to Toy Story Mania and get a fast pass if you can otherwise you are looking for a llllooonnngg wait (but in my opinion it is worth the wait). Then hit up Star Tours. Check on Tour and Rockin' roller coast and see which line is shorter (hint: they are right next to each other). If the lines are long wait for the Fantasmic show and go then (you are not missing much and they offer two showings).
The food in the park is fine. My favorite is eating at the SciFi Theatre (save yourself the time and make a reservation). -
Review from Jack R.
12/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is a great park to spend the whole day at. It has some great rides and show. I have been there many times and still haven't seen and done everything there. There is always something new to do and explore. Great for adults and kids. You have to ride Tower of Terror at least two or three or more times because it is a different ride each time. The Great Movie Ride that is a ride and a show at the same time. Back lot Tour is a fun ride to he how movies are made. Then there is the Stunt Show that is just crazy fun and amazing. Also you cant forget the Toy Story 3-D ride but you diffidently want a fast pass for that one. The best time of the year to go is a round Christmas to the light show that is just unbelievable. When you go you need to take your time to see and do everything and also get a map and show times to make sure you get to do everything.
-
Review from Hang T.
San Jose, CA
10/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Out of all four parks, I think I liked this one the least. It was geared more towards the kiddies so if you have no kids in your party, you might want to skip it.
The Star Wars ride was closed, the line to see Buzz and Woody was humongous, and there were mainly movie sets around you.
I enjoyed the Beauty and the Beast show, but that's about it. I wasn't a big fan of all the movie memorabilia so I didn't enjoy it very much, but I'm sure the kids will. I believe it is the smallest out of all the parks.
The one ride I do recommend is the Tower of Terror. Loved it! -
Review from Kim N.
9/30/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Hollywood Studios aka MGM is what it used to be called. Is a good compromise for kids and adults.
There is the Muppet 3D movie was is fun for both kids and adults. I love the muppets and there are good 3D effects.
Indiana Jones is ok, it is more of a stunt show and how to from the Indy movies more than sceens from the movies.
The Star Wars ride is one of the best rides in the park. You sit in a shuttle type pod with a movie screen and there are 58 different adventures you can go on. They just cycle at random so you can ride it 58 times and get a different one each time.
There are some good places to eat and lots of snack areas.
The Tower of Terror is a great ride another one of my favorites. This is also were you find the Back lot ride and Aerosmith Roller Coaster and the Haunted Mansion.
This is one of the smaller parks so it is pretty easy to get through in one day. -
Review from Albert W.
9/14/2011 2 photos
Honey I shrunk the Kids seemed gay (and outdated), so I pretended I was in "A Bug's Life" instead. Indiana Jone's Stunt show was not to be missed as it was really quite impressive and in terms of people getting hurt, you could tell these people were all pros. Lights, Motors, Action was good too and they explained how cars are modified in movies - cars that are retrofited backwards, and 4 gears to do quicker spins... all cool but at the same time somewhat disillusioning.
Sounds Dangerous (Drew Carey), Backlot Tour, Journey into Narnia, were all under maintenance/ construction so it's a pretty big fail in my book. Toy Story Mania was the best and the Tower of Terror is not to be missed. Star Tours was sort of dissappointing. -
Review from Robert S.
Reno, NV
8/29/2011
This was my least favorite park out of the four major Disney Parks. The spacing is way too tight and the huge shows create MAJOR traffic jams for everyone in the area of the shows. This was so off putting we actually passed on the Lights Motors Action! stunt show. This and the Disney Junior Live on Stage shows were the only ones we passed on. Sounds Dangerous and Voyage of the Little Mermaid were both down. But pretty much everything else we did!
Not gonna do a run down of each attraction. But I will give a few notes...
Must see... Rockin' Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith. A great idea realized for an "attraction" and a roller coaster. Has to be the best "amusement ride" in WDW.
Must pass... Journey Into Narnia: Prince Caspian. Lame advert for a Movie that has been out on DVD for a long time.
Must see... Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! Quality...just good quality fun!
Must pass.... "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" Movie Set Adventure...unless you are there on a totally dead day, pass this up and instead just use that time to stand in line for Toy Story Mania. The walk through on that ride blows away the DCA version.
I think this park has some major design problems and problems inherent with the "shows" it relies upon. Fantasmic, the aforementioned Lights Motors Action and Indy all bring in huge crowds of people who hurry up and wait. As with any group of people they get more and more cranky with each moment, which I am sure wears on the cast members that work here. So here the grump factor from cast members was a little higher too. I honestly don't know how they could fix the situations, maybe let people get "fast passes" to shows when they walk into the park for specific shows?
Another must "do" is the Hollywood and Vine Breakfast or Lunch Buffet. The variety was impressive and the service was just excellent. Hopefully they will put Phineas and Ferb in there soon because really they wouldn't have an open seat if they did. I can't recommend the dinner because I haven't had it.
Longest wait. 1:10 for Phineas and Ferb photo op.
In all this would get a 3.5 stars but they get the "round up" because of a few great cast members and the flawless return of my license when I left it at the Turkey Leg Stand.Listed in: 14 Days of Disney Fun!
-
Review from Chris K.
8/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
Least favorite of the parks...probably because of the age of our kids (3 and 1). The Toy Story Mania wait time is absolutely absurd. We came at about 2 and Fast Passes were done for the day and weren't willing to wait 90 minutes in line. If you want to ride Toy Story you have to either go first thing or get a Fast Pass before lunch. We did enjoy the live shows (Beauty and the Beast, Playhouse Disney, Fantasmic, Little Mermaid). The shows are really well done and Fantasmic is not to be missed.
The Honey I Shrunk the Kids Playground is fun, but sort of a nightmare because there are lots of hiding places and it can be hard to find your kid.Listed in: Walt Disney World!
-
Review from Kimberly K.
Manhattan, NY
6/7/2011 30 photos
Short on time?
Here are 5 Must See Attractions:
(NOT in a specific order)
1. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror- I think my heart just ripped out of my chest and plopped into someones lap? This ride is insane! You won't have the same experience twice because each elevator has a different ride sequence. (Use FASTPASS SERVICE)
2. Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith- You're at a standstill and then all of a sudden Zoooooom....Weeeeeee. This isn't like other roller coasters where you're slowly moving up and then there is a fall. You go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 2.8 seconds. (Use FASTPASS SERVICE)
3. The American Idol Experience- If you're like me, and have only watched American Idol on TV, this is definitely a cool experience. You can either audition and get a chance to be on stage or be in the audience and vote for who you think should be the next American Idol! or shall we say Hollywood Studios Idol?
4. Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show- Watch stuntmen choreograph and film complex vehicle stunts live! Lots of explosions, cars flying left and right, and madd driving skills.
5. The Great Movie Ride- Are you ready to be transported into movies such as Mary Poppins, The Wizard of Oz, Alien, and Raiders of the Lost Ark?
{My Fave Cheap Eats} ABC Commissary- Plenty of seating available. Air conditioned. They've got the usual burgers, fries, hot dogs, and chicken tenders. What's cool about this place is that they offer chicken curry with rice. Their curry isn't the best, but if you're like me and sick of eating hot dogs and burgers, this is a treat.
{Note} If you've got some extra time, try to hit the Muppet Vision 3-D attraction, Toy Story Mania (Use FASTPASS SERVICE), and the nighttime musical Fantasmic!
Have a Blast!Listed in: Disney Magic
-
Review from Jen B.
7/25/2011
More amazing Disney-style detailing in all of the sets and the shops and the rides. These folks have amusement parks down to a science. I'm sad that I didn't get to spend more time here, but will spend more time here the next time we are in the area. This was the second half of our day and we just wanted to squeeze in a few more attractions.
We road the Tower of Terror which we loved and then watched the Muppet Movie in 3D which we also loved. But then it was time for the park to close. If they were open 24 hours a day, I bet they would still have a line waiting to ride the bigger attractions!! -
Review from Johnna B.
6/24/2011
Star Wars weekend was a bit disappointing with Star Wars characters dancing to hip hop and whatnot, but overall it's still magical and the guest services are really good. I needed to get my husband something in the park as a surprise and they let me do so without having to get a pass before I had to catch a plane. They even somehow made the boat wait for me, which was seriously too cool.
The Star Tours ride was fun but I admit I closed my eyes about halfway through. But I was still sad about the Chewbacca doing the electric slide, it just seemed so wrong so I gotta take a star back.Listed in: Um, How Did I End Up in Disney…
-
Review from Gerald H.
Orlando, FL
Osborne spectacle of lights
-
Review from Diana H.
Pasadena, CA
6/3/2011
*4.5 stars*
Much better than its equivalent in Anaheim, California Adventure. 5 stars for the Rock'n roller coaster. This ride alone is worth a visit to this park. It feels like an edgier rocked out version of the beloved Space Mountain ride. Hollywood Tower of Terror is a great ride as well for the more advanced Disney thrill seekers. They also do a great job with the stunt shows including fully choreographed car chase sequences. Beware of the crowds since Star Tours just re-opened. The Beauty and the Beast show was also fun for those Belle fans out there. -
Review from Hailey H.
9/4/2011 2 Check-ins Here
One of the best rides at hollywood studios.
It is the reason we get up and make it to the park at opening! It seems like everyone has the same routine these days- run, get a fast pass, then run and get into line. The last time we grabbed a fast pass after we had gone on once (maybe 9:30ish) - our time was for 1:40pm. By the time we got off the ride with our fast pass (not even 2pm) all the passes for the day were gone (and that was after a slow morning at the park). So even though it is what the masses are doing, it might be safe to go along with them if you want to ride more than once.
The ride itself is amazing, but even the scenery while you wait in line is great - lots of things to look at. Once on the ride, you spin around in 3d glasses to multiple "games" in your car and launch anything from darts to arrows to rings with your rocket gun. (computerized of course, nothing actually comes out) They did update after toy story 3 came out to include more characters, but I don't think I noticed anything more recent than last years updates.
We never get anything close to the high score of the month or the day (but there are websites out there if you feel like bumping up your own) Definitely makes the buzz lightyear in tomorrowland seem a bit outdated, but be ready to wait in line! -
Review from lauren S.
Updated - 8/31/2011 6 Check-ins Here
I really like this park because
- it's not too oversized
- they serve alcohol
- it's easy to navigate
- there's plenty to do for both children and adults
- they've kept their nostalgia by keeping some of their classic rides (i.e., The Great Movie Ride, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, The Backlot Tour, etc.)
Obviously you want each and every park to be accommodating to people of all ages and I feel that Disney's Hollywood Studios does this perfectly.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
8/31/2011
Get ready to wait!!!
It's worth it!
4D interactive ride that your kids will love! My nephew had the… Read more »
-
