Ultimate Guide to Hollywood Studios Attractions (2025)
- Practically Perfect Pixie Dust
- Jan 15
- 12 min read
Updated: 13 hours ago
From epic thrill rides and immersive lands to Broadway-style shows and preschool-friendly dance parties, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re racing through the galaxy, singing along with Elsa, or taking a drop into the Twilight Zone, the attractions here blend storytelling and adventure like nowhere else in Walt Disney World.
Not sure which rides are must-dos for your crew? We've broken them all down—thrills, shows, family fun, and hidden gems—to help you plan the perfect day in the park. Make sure to check out Walt Disney World closing and refurbishment list here before you go.
🎁 Planning to visit Hollywood Studios during the holidays? Don’t miss our full guide to Jollywood Nights 2025 - including event dates, tickets, character meet and greets, food, merch, and more!
***Updated 07/08/2025
Hollywood Boulevard
🎢 Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
As you walk down Hollywood Boulevard—the grand entrance to the park—you’ll spot the iconic Chinese Theater. That’s where you’ll find Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, the first-ever ride starring Mickey Mouse himself!
This whimsical, family-friendly dark ride pulls you into a zany cartoon world where anything can happen. It’s full of clever effects, unexpected twists, and classic Disney charm that makes it a must-do for all ages.
Because it's one of the few truly all-ages attractions at Hollywood Studios, the line can get long—but it usually moves quickly. We recommend riding it first thing in the morning or booking a return time with your Lightning Lane Multi Pass to skip the wait.
Echo Lake
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Show Spectacular
Looking for action, explosions, and a bit of movie magic? Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular delivers all that and more. This live stunt show recreates iconic scenes from the Indiana Jones films while pulling back the curtain to show how stunt work is done—complete with fight choreography, fire effects, and plenty of thrills.
It’s a high-energy experience, but heads up: the pyrotechnics and staged combat might not be for everyone. If that’s your thing, though, this 35-minute show is a solid choice. The open-air theater is shaded and has fans (no A/C), so it offers a break from the sun without losing that outdoor vibe. Seating is on hard benches with backs, and the large capacity means you can usually grab a seat even if you arrive close to showtime.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Check the My Disney Experience app for daily showtimes and plan this as a midday break—it’s a great way to rest your feet without slowing down your fun.
Grand Avenue
Star Tours - The Adventures Continue
Tucked in the back of the Echo Lake area as you head toward Grand Avenue, Star Tours is the original Star Wars attraction at Hollywood Studios—and it’s still going strong. This motion simulator ride stars C-3PO and R2-D2, who accidentally end up piloting your ship on a wild, unpredictable journey through the galaxy.
Thanks to a huge library of randomized sequences, characters, and locations, each ride is a little different—so it’s one you can ride multiple times and still be surprised. You’ll wear 3D glasses and experience a fair amount of motion, so guests prone to motion sickness may want to skip this one.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Star Tours typically has a short standby line, making it a great option to ride while waiting for Lightning Lane return windows or when the park is busy mid-day.
🎥 Vacation Fun: An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie
Located between the Frozen Sing-Along Celebration and the Olaf Meet and Greet, Vacation Fun is an 11-minute animated short featuring Mickey and Minnie in their newer cartoon style—just like you’ll see in Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
It’s a lighthearted, charming film that offers more than just laughs—it also comes with air conditioning and comfy seats, making it a perfect mini break from the Florida heat. Since showtimes run continuously throughout the day, you’ll usually only need to wait for the previous screening to finish.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Use Vacation Fun as a chance to cool down, rest your feet, or entertain little ones between bigger attractions. Bonus: the exit features cute photo ops inspired by scenes from the short!
For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration
Calling all Frozen fans! This 30-minute live show retells the story of Frozen with the help of two hilarious “Royal Historians,” who narrate the tale while the film’s most iconic musical moments play on screen. Guests are wholeheartedly encouraged to sing along—yes, Let It Go is included, and yes, you absolutely should.
While Anna, Kristoff, and Elsa do appear briefly, the true stars here are the Royal Historians and the unforgettable music. It’s a great option for families, and the humor is surprisingly sharp—grown-ups might find themselves laughing just as much as the kids.
The show runs continuously throughout the day, and the theater is large and air-conditioned, with comfortable seating. Wait times are typically minimal, but it’s smart to check the next start time in the My Disney Experience app so you don’t arrive just after one begins.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: This is the perfect mid-day break spot—entertaining, indoors, and a great chance to sit down and cool off without missing the magic.
Muppet*Vision 3D
*** Muppet*Vision 3D closed permanently on June 7, 2025. To make way for Monstropolis and the New Monster's Inc. roller coaster. can read more about it in our Saying Goodbye to Muppet*Vision 3D: A Heartfelt Farewell to a Hollywood Studios Classic post.
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
This is the E-ticket attraction in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge—and it’s every bit as epic as you’ve heard. Rise of the Resistance blends cutting-edge ride technology with a deeply immersive storyline, placing you right in the middle of a battle between the Resistance and the First Order. You’ll encounter familiar faces from the newer Star Wars films along the way, but we won’t spoil the surprises—just trust us when we say: ride it if you get the chance.
Despite its thrilling moments, it’s not an overly intense ride. There is a brief simulated drop near the end that can startle some guests, but overall it’s more about immersion than adrenaline, making it suitable for most families.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Rise of the Resistance is the most in-demand ride at Hollywood Studios. Try to ride it first thing during Early Theme Park Entry—or better yet, purchase an Lightning Lane Single Pass (LLSP) to skip the long standby line. But be aware - this is the priciest LLSP at Walt Disney World
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Ever dreamed of flying the Millennium Falcon? Now’s your chance—sort of. On Smugglers Run, you’ll join Hondo Ohnaka on a high-stakes mission to smuggle coaxium from the First Order. Each cockpit seats six guests with assigned roles: two pilots, two gunners, and two engineers.
The pilots steer the ship (and yes, it's trickier than it looks—expect to hit a few space rocks). Gunners blast enemies out of the sky, and engineers work to keep the Falcon in one piece. Your team's performance actually affects the ride outcome, so no two flights are exactly the same.
While it's less intense than Star Tours, the simulator does bounce you around a bit, so be prepared for a few jolts. It’s a thrilling, interactive experience that Star Wars fans of all ages will love.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Wait times can get long, especially later in the day. Ride early or grab a Lightning Lane Multi Pass return time to skip the standby line and secure your spot in the cockpit.
Toy Story Land
Alien Swirling Saucers
Over in Toy Story Land, the little green aliens (and their beloved Claw—ooooooooh) invite you aboard a swirling, twirling ride through space. Alien Swirling Saucers gently whips riders around in figure-eight patterns, with fun music and flashing lights to set the mood.
Think of it as a milder cousin to the Mad Tea Party—less spinning, more gliding. It’s great for younger guests or anyone looking for a quick burst of Toy Story-themed fun. The movements are mostly smooth, though a few unexpected twirls might catch you off guard.
Lines here are typically shorter than those for Slinky Dog Dash or Toy Story Mania, but wait times can still creep up during peak hours.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: If this ride is on your list, try to catch it early in the day, use a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, or swing by in the evening when lines tend to drop.
Slinky Dog Dash
After Rise of the Resistance, Slinky Dog Dash is the most popular ride in Hollywood Studios—and it’s easy to see why! This family-friendly roller coaster sends you zipping through Toy Story Land with Slinky Dog himself leading the way. You’ll twist, turn, and coast over hills with great views of the land below.
In terms of thrill level, it’s a notch above Seven Dwarfs Mine Train but not quite as intense as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, making it a great "starter coaster" for kids and grown-ups alike. Because it appeals to such a wide range of guests and has a relatively low height requirement, wait times can get very long.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: If Slinky Dog Dash is a must-do for your group, grab a Lightning Lane Multi Pass reservation early. If that’s not available, plan to head straight there at rope drop—and be ready to wait.
Toy Story Mania!
Step right up and try your hand at a 3D spin on classic carnival games in Toy Story Mania! Climb aboard with your favorite Toy Story characters and use your spring-action shooter to pop balloons, break plates, toss rings, and aim for bullseyes in a series of fast-paced, interactive mini-games.
This ride is family-friendly with no height requirement, making it a popular pick for all ages—and a competitive favorite among adults, too! Your score is tallied as you go, so be prepared for some friendly rivalry between riders.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Because it’s fun for everyone and doesn’t have a height restriction, the wait time builds quickly. Try to grab a Lightning Lane Multi Pass reservation or head here early in the day to avoid the crowds.
Animation Courtyard
Walt Disney Presents
Ever wondered about the man behind the magic? Walt Disney Presents is a walk-through attraction that feels like a mini museum, spotlighting Walt Disney’s incredible life, legacy, and the vision that led to the creation of Walt Disney World.
Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits, rare Disney artifacts, and a detailed timeline of how the parks—and Walt’s dream—came to life. It’s a quieter, often overlooked space that’s perfect for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the park.
At the end of the exhibit, you’ll usually find a surprise: either a character meet and greet or a sneak peek at an upcoming Disney film.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Walt Disney Presents is a great spot for history buffs, movie lovers, or anyone needing a little air-conditioned downtime. It’s also a great place to stumble across a less-crowded character meet!
Star Wars Launch Bay
If you’re a Star Wars fan, make your way to Animation Courtyard and explore Star Wars Launch Bay—a walk-through experience filled with props, costumes, and memorabilia from across the galaxy. It’s a great spot to soak up the saga’s history and snap some photos with iconic movie artifacts.
But the real highlight? Character meet and greets! You can say hello to BB-8, hug it out with Chewbacca, or face off with Darth Vader. These meet and greets are indoors (hello, air conditioning!) and typically have moderate wait times—though during busy park days, waits can creep up to 30 minutes or more.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Launch Bay is a great stop for Star Wars fans of all ages—and it’s usually less crowded early in the day or late in the afternoon. It’s also one of the best places in the park to cool off while still enjoying immersive theming.
Disney Junior Play & Dance
Got little ones in your group? Head over to Animation Courtyard for Disney Junior Play & Dance!—an interactive dance party that’s perfect for preschoolers. This high-energy show features beloved characters from Disney Junior, with music, lights, and lots of chances to move, groove, and giggle.
The lineup changes from time to time to stay current with fan favorites. Right now, your kids can dance along with Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, Timon, and of course, Mickey Mouse himself!
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: This show is ideal for giving kids a break from long lines and letting them burn off some energy—plus, it’s indoors and air-conditioned!
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
This newly reimagined stage show dives under the sea to bring Ariel’s world to life with live performers, impressive puppetry, and dazzling special effects. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure is a colorful, 20-minute retelling of the beloved film, featuring classic songs like “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls.”
Located in Animation Courtyard, it’s a great all-ages show with plenty of magic packed into a short runtime—perfect for fans of the movie or anyone needing a mid-day break from the sun.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Showtimes are offered throughout the day—check the My Disney Experience app and plan to arrive a few minutes early for the best seats and a breezy break in the A/C!
Sunset Boulevard
Rock’n’Roller Coaster
Ready to rock? Head to the end of Sunset Boulevard for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, where you’ll race through the dark to an Aerosmith soundtrack, launching from 0 to 57 mph in under 3 seconds. With three full inversions, sharp turns, and heart-pounding speed, this is the most intense roller coaster at Walt Disney World.
It’s a must-do for thrill seekers, and because of its popularity, the standby wait often hovers around an hour for most of the day. Height requirements and inversions mean it’s not for everyone, but if you're up for the adrenaline rush, it's a blast.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Rope drop this attraction if it’s high on your priority list—you’ll avoid long waits and save your Lightning Lane Multi Pass reservations for other family-friendly rides.
Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After
🦹♀️ Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever AfterStep into the dark side—just for fun—at Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After, a brand-new live stage production that debuted on May 27, 2025, at Sunset Showcase, right next to Rock’n’Roller Coaster. In this witty and theatrical show, the Magic Mirror calls upon iconic villains like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent to plead their case for being “unfairly mistreated” over the years.
With impressive special effects, catchy musical numbers, and surprise cameos from fan-favorite baddies like Hades, Jafar, Ursula, and Scar, this fresh take on Disney’s most misunderstood characters lets the audience decide—who reallydeserves your sympathy?
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: This show is extremely popular, So check the My Disney Experience app for showtimes and arrive early to make sure you get a good seat!
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
We invite you—if you dare—to step into the haunted halls of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. This spine-tingling attraction plunges you into a dimension of sight, sound… and gravity-defying drops. Yes, you really do fall faster than gravity!
Set inside the eerie Hollywood Tower Hotel, this ride features an immersive queue, haunting special effects, and randomized drop sequences that keep you guessing every time. It’s spooky, suspenseful, and absolutely thrilling—making it a top pick for thrill seekers visiting Hollywood Studios.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Wait times spike early and stay high most of the day. We recommend rope dropping Rock’n’Roller Coaster first, then heading straight here while the line is still under 30 minutes. Later in the day, waits often climb to over an hour.
Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage
Another must-see theatrical production at Hollywood Studios, Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage is a 25-minute, Broadway-style retelling of the beloved animated film. This abridged version hits all the highlights of the story and features fan-favorite songs like “Be Our Guest,” “Gaston,” and of course, “Tale as Old as Time” during a romantic finale.
The show takes place in an outdoor, covered amphitheater at the end of Sunset Boulevard. While the seating is shaded, it’s not enclosed—so there’s no A/C, just fans to keep things (somewhat) cool.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Arrive early for the best seating, as this show is popular and the covered seating can fill up quickly. The rear overflow area offers less shade, especially during midday performances.
Fantasmic!
Fantasmic! is the nighttime spectacular at Hollywood Studios—and it’s a must-see. This isn’t your typical fireworks show; it’s a dramatic, theatrical journey through Mickey’s imagination as he faces off against some of Disney’s most iconic villains.
Set in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater, this grand production features stunning special effects, water projections, lasers, fire, fireworks, and a full cast of Disney heroes and villains. It’s big, bold, and beautifully Disney.
There is a Fantasmic! Dining Package available that guarantees you reserved seating in a prime viewing section. This can be a great option if you want a better seat without having to line up early. However, the amphitheater is enormous, and most seats offer a solid view of the show—so a package isn’t required to enjoy it.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: If you're hoping for center-section seats, arrive about an hour early. But if you're flexible, showing up 15–20 minutes before showtime often lands you a decent spot. During busy seasons, Disney sometimes offers two performances—and the second show is almost always less crowded.
👉 Want to know more about Fantasmic! Dining Packages and other VIP fireworks experiences? Check out our full guide to Disney World Fireworks Dessert Parties and Dining Packages.
🎞️ That’s a Wrap!
Whether you're chasing thrills on Tower of Terror, joining the Resistance, or soaking in the magic of live Disney entertainment, the attractions at Hollywood Studios are showstoppers from start to finish. Be sure to check wait times in the My Disney Experience app, consider using Lightning Lane Multi Passes for popular rides, and build in breaks with indoor shows and cool-down spots.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Want help visualizing your park day?👉 Download our Hollywood Studios Cheat Sheets for at-a-glance attraction lists, ride heights, and pro planning tips!
Pixie Dust Hugs,
Bren, Lyn, and Kim
P.S. Planning your own magical getaway?
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