Best Things to Do at Hollywood Studios: My Favorite Rides, Food & Entertainment
As a Florida Annual Passholder who visits Walt Disney World often, Hollywood Studios is one of those parks that somehow keeps evolving. It’s an easy blend of thrills, nostalgia, Disney magic, and immersive lands that make you feel like you’ve stepped directly into your favorite movies.
This park has some intense rides, the best theming, and the coolest entertainment at Disney World.
One minute you’re piloting the Millennium Falcon in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and the next you’re screaming your head off inside a haunted elevator shaft at Tower of Terror. Add in Toy Story Land, yummy snacks, Broadway-caliber shows, and classic Hollywood vibes, and it’s easy to see why Hollywood Studios has become such a fan favorite.
Whether you’re planning your very first Disney vacation or you’re a seasoned park hopper like me, here are the best things to do at Hollywood Studios.
Fun fact: One of the greatest Disney thrills of my life was being there for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for Toy Story Land. Seeing that land open in person (and Tim Allen) was absolutely unforgettable.
Ride Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Let’s just start with the obvious heavyweight: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is easily one of the best things to do at Hollywood Studios.
This isn’t just a ride, it’s a full-blown cinematic experience and one of the most impressive attractions Disney has created. From the moment you enter the queue, you feel completely immersed in the Star Wars universe.
Without spoiling it for you, the attraction combines trackless ride technology, simulators, “practical” effects, and multiple ride systems into one jaw-dropping adventure. Even people who aren’t huge Star Wars fans usually walk off completely blown away.
If possible, grab a Lightning Lane because the wait times stay consistently high. Prices start around $19.
Explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Speaking of Star Wars, don’t rush through Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
This immersive land is packed with hidden details, interactive elements, themed shops, roaming characters, and super cool food and drinks. It feels like stepping onto another planet.
Take time to explore the marketplace, build a lightsaber or droid (if that’s your thing), and ride Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run where you actually pilot the Millennium Falcon itself. Say hi to Chewy for me.
And while you’re there, absolutely stop at Oga’s Cantina for a themed drink and one of the coolest atmospheres in all of Disney World. The music, lighting, sound effects, and interactive bartenders make this one of my favorite Disney dining spots.
Ride Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land
Toy Story Land remains one of the most joyful and colorful areas at Walt Disney World.
The headliner attraction, Slinky Dog Dash, is family-friendly, but still surprisingly thrilling. The smooth coaster twists and bounces through Andy’s backyard with giant toys, oversized building blocks, and fun surprises everywhere you look.
It is impossible not to smile on this ride that transports you back to childhood (if you’re my age!) and engages you with the beloved classic toy.
Every single time I walk through Toy Story Land, I still think back to attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony opening day. It remains one of my favorite Disney memories ever.
Don’t Skip Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Located inside the iconic Chinese Theatre, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is far more fun than many people expect.
This trackless dark ride combines classic Mickey cartoon chaos with adorable animation, catchy music, and a few surprisingly thrilling moments. It’s colorful, immersive, and perfect for all ages. In fact, my granddaughter never misses riding it, no matter how long the wait.
And honestly? “Nothing can stop us now…” will absolutely get stuck in your head afterward.
Brave the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Some rides never lose their magic, and iconic The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is one of them.
This legendary haunted hotel attraction remains one of Disney’s greatest thrill rides thanks to its eerie theming, creepy storytelling, and unpredictable elevator drops. Even after riding it multiple times, I still get butterflies before those doors open.
The attention to detail inside the Hollywood Tower Hotel is incredible. During seasonal park activities, you can watch a holiday light show on the Tower, which is really fantastic.
Ride Star Tours
Before Galaxy’s Edge existed, Star Tours – The Adventures Continue introduced Disney guests to Star Wars adventures, and it’s still incredibly fun.
The 3D flight simulator includes randomized scenes and destinations, so every ride experience feels slightly different. There are a few noteworthy drops and motion moments, but overall it’s a great family-friendly thrill ride.
Catch the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! may be an older Hollywood Studios attraction, but it still holds up.
This live-action stunt show recreates famous scenes from the Indiana Jones films using explosions, fight choreography, audience participation, and behind-the-scenes movie magic demonstrations.
It’s entertaining, nostalgic, and a great break from standing in ride queues.
Laugh and Sing Along at Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
One of the most underrated shows at Hollywood Studios is For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration.
This indoor show combines live performers, humor, sing-alongs, and appearances by Anna, Elsa, and Olaf in a way that’s genuinely funny for both kids and adults.
And yes, everyone will absolutely be singing “Let It Go” together by the end. And need I mention it’s air-conditioned, so you get a break from the intense Florida sun?
Feast on Disney Food Favorites
Hollywood Studios quietly has some really great food if you know where to look.
One of my family’s favorite snacks in the park is the giant Bavarian pretzel with mustard and cheese sauce from BaseLine Tap House. Pair it with a cold beer or soda and you’ve got one of the best relaxing snack breaks in the park.
For a classic Hollywood Studios dining experience, make reservations at The Hollywood Brown Derby and order the famous Cobb salad prepared tableside. It’s iconic for a reason.
And here’s my underrated park-hopper tip: grab a meal at ABC Commissary. It’s air-conditioned, has Coca-Cola Freestyle machines with free refills, and serves surprisingly solid food. The Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese with fries is my go-to order every single time.
Meet Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight
Need a fun photo op? Head to Celebrity Spotlight where you can meet Olaf from Frozen. He’s adorable, hilarious, and one of the cutest character interactions in the park. Forgive me that I don’t have a good photo of him, but this Olaf bronze sculpture at EPCOT will suffice.
Final Thoughts on Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios has evolved into one of Disney World’s most exciting parks thanks to its incredible rides, immersive lands, nostalgic attractions, and surprisingly strong food and snack scene.
Whether you’re exploring Galaxy’s Edge, screaming on Tower of Terror, singing along with Frozen, or grabbing snacks in Toy Story Land, the park truly offers something for everyone.
As someone who visits Disney parks often with my Florida Annual Pass, Hollywood Studios remains one of my absolute favorite parks to revisit because there’s always energy, excitement, and something new happening around every corner.
If you’re planning to visit the other Disney parks, be sure to check out my guides for:
- EPCOT
- Magic Kingdom
- Animal Kingdom
Because every Disney park brings its own kind of magic. Disney Springs, too!
Want more to do in Orlando and its surrounding cities? I’ve got your covered with these posts: