Exploring Hollywood Studios: A Dive Into Disney World’s Third Theme Park
Hollywood Studios: A Star-Studded History
Hollywood Studios opened on May 1, 1989, originally called Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park. This park originally opened as part of a licensing deal with MGM, the legendary media company behind films like The Wizard of Oz. However, this collaboration wasn’t without drama—MGM filed a lawsuit claiming Disney violated their agreement by building a working movie studio. Despite the legal battles, the park launched successfully.
By 2008, the park was officially rebranded as Hollywood Studios, shedding its MGM identity but keeping its glitz and glamour. Dedicated to the golden age of Hollywood, the park boasts attractions inspired by film, television, and theater, with icons like:
The Earffel Tower (removed in 2016).
The Great Movie Ride’s Chinese Theater, now home to Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
The Sorcerer’s Hat, which briefly served as the park’s icon from 2001 to 2015.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, the park’s current icon and a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
Hollywood Studios Today: Seven Themed Areas
Hollywood Studios now features seven themed lands that immerse you in Hollywood glamour and beyond. Here’s what makes each area special:
Hollywood Boulevard
Modeled after real Hollywood streets.
Home to the iconic Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant and plenty of celebrity sightings.
Echo Lake
A charming water-themed area inspired by a Los Angeles neighborhood.
Dining highlights include 50’s Prime Time Cafe and the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant.
Grand Avenue
Features MuppetVision 3D and recreates the Figueroa Street Tunnel from LA.
The area featuring MuppetVision 3D will soon be replaced by the upcoming Monster’s Inc land!
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Opened in 2019, this immersive land offers attractions like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Don’t miss Oga’s Cantina or building your own lightsaber!
Toy Story Land
Opened in 2018, it’s perfect for families with attractions like Slinky Dog Dash and Woody’s Lunchbox, a quick-service spot where you can grab my favorite vegan grilled cheese EVER and one of my favorite things to eat on Disney property.
Animation Courtyard
A mix of meet-and-greets and Disney Junior experiences for younger visitors.
Sunset Boulevard
This area boasts The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, and multiple show venues, including the upcoming Villains Show (fall 2025).
Ride Highlights: Thrills and Nostalgia
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: This dark ride blends storytelling and thrills with its iconic drops. Plus, it’s a fantastic spot for memorable photos!
Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster: Zoom from 0-57 mph in 2.8 seconds on this indoor roller coaster featuring Aerosmith hits (but soon to be rethemed to the Muppets!)
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway: A whimsical, trackless dark ride filled with Hidden Mickeys and classic Disney charm.
My Hollywood Studios Favorites
To wrap up, here are some of my top picks:
Favorite Ride - Tower of Terror
Favorite Show - Fantasmic
Favorite Quick Service Restaurant - Woody’s Lunchbox
Favorite Table Service Restaurant - Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano
Favorie Character to Meet - Ariel