Amy MayoOverview: Disney Hollywood Studios Visit with Kids
Disney Hollywood Studios is a popular destination for families with young children. With its exciting attractions and fun-filled activities, it’s no wonder that the park is a favorite among kids. However, planning a visit to the park with kids can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the dos and don’ts.
To make your visit to Disney Hollywood Studios a success, it’s important to know what to do and what not to do. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the dos and don’ts of visiting the park with kids. From choosing the right attractions to avoiding crowds, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make your visit to Disney Hollywood Studios a memorable one.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned park-goer, this guide will help you plan your visit to Disney Hollywood Studios with ease. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the park with your little ones.
Planning Your Visit
Planning a trip to Disney Hollywood Studios with kids can be a fun and exciting experience. With so much to see and do, it’s important to plan ahead to make the most of your time at the park. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when planning your visit:
Do: Plan Ahead
Before heading to Disney Hollywood Studios, it’s important to plan your visit in advance. This includes purchasing tickets, checking park hours, and making any necessary reservations. Guests can use the My Disney Experience app to view park maps, check wait times for attractions, and make dining reservations.
Don’t: Forget Your Tickets
Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance and bring them with you to the park. Guests can also use the My Disney Experience app to view and manage their tickets.
Do: Arrive Early
To make the most of your day at Disney Hollywood Studios, plan to arrive at the park before it opens. This will give you time to get through security and be ready for the rope drop, which is when the park officially opens.
Don’t: Visit on Weekends
Weekends tend to be the busiest times at Disney Hollywood Studios, so it’s best to plan your visit for a weekday if possible. This will help you avoid long lines and crowds.
Do: Use the My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app is a great tool for planning your visit to Disney Hollywood Studios. Guests can use the app to view park maps, check wait times for attractions, and make dining reservations.
Don’t: Skip the Map
Be sure to pick up a park map when you enter Disney Hollywood Studios. This will help you navigate the park and find your favorite attractions.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can plan a fun and memorable visit to Disney Hollywood Studios with your kids.
Understanding the Park Layout
Disney Hollywood Studios is a theme park that is divided into several themed areas, each with its unique attractions, dining options, and entertainment. Understanding the park layout is essential to make the most of your visit to this park. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
Do: Plan your visit ahead of time
Before you arrive at Disney Hollywood Studios, take some time to study the park map and plan your day. Identify the attractions, shows, and dining options that you want to experience, and prioritize them based on your interests and preferences. This will help you navigate the park efficiently and avoid long wait times.
Don’t: Miss out on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land are two of the park’s most popular areas and for a good reason. They offer immersive experiences that transport visitors to the worlds of Star Wars and Toy Story, respectively. Make sure to visit these areas early in the day to avoid crowds and long wait times.
Do: Take advantage of FastPass+
FastPass+ is a free service that allows visitors to reserve a spot in line for select attractions, shows, and character meet-and-greets. This can save you a lot of time and frustration, especially during peak hours. Make sure to book your FastPass+ reservations ahead of time, as they can fill up quickly.
Don’t: Forget about the other Disney parks
While Disney Hollywood Studios has a lot to offer, don’t forget about the other Disney parks, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and the water parks. Each park has its unique attractions and experiences, and it’s worth exploring them all if you have the time.
By understanding the park layout and following these dos and don’ts, you can make the most of your visit to Disney Hollywood Studios and create unforgettable memories with your family and friends.
Attractions and Rides
Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a variety of attractions and rides that are suitable for kids of all ages. From thrilling rides to immersive experiences, there is something for everyone. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting the park with kids.
Do’s
- Toy Story Mania: This interactive ride is a must-visit for kids who love the Toy Story franchise. The ride takes you through a series of carnival games, where you can shoot targets and rack up points. The ride is suitable for all ages and is a great way to spend some time with your kids.
- Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway: This ride is perfect for younger kids who love Mickey and Minnie. The ride takes you on a journey through a cartoon world, where you’ll encounter all your favorite characters. The ride is suitable for all ages and is a great way to introduce your kids to the world of Disney.
- Slinky Dog Dash: This roller coaster is a great choice for kids who love a bit of thrill. The ride takes you on a journey through Andy’s backyard, where you’ll encounter all your favorite Toy Story characters. The ride is suitable for kids who are at least 38 inches tall.
Don’ts
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: This ride is not suitable for kids who are easily scared. The ride takes you on a journey through an abandoned hotel, where you’ll encounter supernatural forces. The ride is designed to be scary and is not recommended for kids under 13.
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance: This ride is not suitable for kids who are afraid of the dark or loud noises. The ride takes you on a journey through a galaxy far, far away, where you’ll encounter Stormtroopers and other Star Wars characters. The ride is designed to be immersive and intense and is not recommended for kids under 7.
- Thrill Rides: While some kids love the thrill of a roller coaster, others may find them too intense. Make sure you know your child’s limits before taking them on a ride that may be too scary for them.
Overall, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a great selection of attractions and rides for kids of all ages. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your kids have a fun and safe time at the park.
Character Interactions
One of the most exciting things about visiting Disney Hollywood Studios with kids is the opportunity to meet and interact with beloved Disney characters. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind for a successful character interaction experience:
Dos
- Do bring a camera or smartphone to capture the moment. Disney cast members are happy to take photos for you, but it’s always a good idea to have your own camera as well.
- Do arrive early to character meet-and-greets, especially for popular characters like the Disney Princesses. Lines can get long, and characters may need to take breaks throughout the day.
- Do engage with the characters. Ask them questions, give them high-fives, and take part in any activities they may have. This will make the experience more memorable for your kids.
- Do consider getting autographs. Many characters will sign autographs for fans, and it’s a fun way to remember the experience.
Don’ts
- Don’t force your child to interact with characters if they’re scared or uncomfortable. It’s okay to watch from a distance or skip certain meet-and-greets altogether.
- Don’t touch the characters without permission. While some characters may give hugs or handshakes, others may not be able to due to their costume or character restrictions.
- Don’t rush the interaction. Take your time to fully enjoy the experience, and be respectful of other guests who are waiting in line behind you.
- Don’t forget to thank the characters and cast members for their time and effort. A little bit of gratitude goes a long way.
Overall, character interactions at Disney Hollywood Studios can be a highlight of your visit with kids. Just remember to be respectful, patient, and have fun!
Dining and Restaurants
Disney Hollywood Studios offers a wide variety of dining options suitable for families with kids. The park has several restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. Visitors can choose from quick-service eateries to table-service restaurants.
One of the most popular dining locations in the park is the Hollywood Brown Derby. This restaurant offers a fine-dining experience with a classic Hollywood ambiance. The menu features American cuisine, including steaks, seafood, and salads. The Hollywood Brown Derby is a great option for families who want to have a special meal during their visit.
To make the most of their dining experience, visitors are encouraged to make dining reservations in advance. This ensures that they can secure a table at their preferred restaurant and time. Guests can make reservations up to 60 days in advance by using the My Disney Experience app or by calling the dining reservation hotline.
Menus at Disney Hollywood Studios restaurants are carefully crafted to cater to different dietary needs. Guests can find vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options at most dining locations. Visitors are encouraged to inform their server of any dietary restrictions or allergies when ordering.
For families staying at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, there are several dining options available. The resort has a food court that offers a variety of quick-service options, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches. Guests can also enjoy a character breakfast at the resort’s dining location, which features classic Disney characters.
Overall, dining at Disney Hollywood Studios is an enjoyable experience for families with kids. With a variety of restaurants and menu options, visitors can find something to suit their tastes and budget. Making dining reservations in advance is recommended to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Shows and Entertainment
Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers a variety of shows and entertainment options that are perfect for families with kids. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
- DO arrive early for shows to secure a good seat. Some shows, like Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, fill up quickly.
- DON’T miss out on the live entertainment offered throughout the park. From the Citizens of Hollywood to the March of the First Order, there’s always something fun to watch.
- DO plan to see Fantasmic!, the nighttime spectacular featuring Mickey Mouse and a cast of Disney characters. This show is a must-see and is sure to be a highlight of your visit.
- DON’T forget to check the schedule for fireworks shows, like Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. These shows are a great way to end your day at the park.
- DO take advantage of FastPass+ reservations for shows and entertainment. This will help you save time and avoid long waits in line.
- DON’T be afraid to ask a Cast Member for recommendations on which shows and entertainment options to see. They are knowledgeable and can help you make the most of your visit.
Overall, the shows and entertainment at Disney’s Hollywood Studios are a great way to experience the magic of Disney with your family. Just remember to plan ahead, arrive early, and have fun!
Using the Genie+ and Lightning Lane
Disney’s Genie+ and Lightning Lane services are designed to make the park experience smoother and more convenient for visitors. However, it is important to use these services wisely to make the most of your day at the park.
The Genie+ service allows visitors to make reservations for certain attractions throughout the day, while the Lightning Lane service allows visitors to skip the regular line at certain attractions. It is important to note that the Genie+ service does not include all attractions, and some attractions may require an additional fee.
When using the Genie+ service, visitors should plan ahead and make reservations for popular attractions early in the day to ensure availability. It is also important to note that visitors can only make one reservation at a time, and must use that reservation before making another.
The Lightning Lane service can be a great way to skip long lines and save time, but it is important to use it wisely. Visitors should prioritize which attractions they want to use the Lightning Lane for, and be aware that some attractions may have longer wait times for Lightning Lane than the regular line.
Overall, using the Genie+ and Lightning Lane services can greatly enhance your experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. However, visitors should be mindful of wait times and availability, and use these services strategically to make the most of their day at the park.
Do’s and Don’ts
When visiting Disney Hollywood Studios with kids, there are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to ensure a fun and safe experience for everyone.
Do’s
- Plan ahead: Make a rough itinerary for the day, including which attractions and shows you want to see. This will help you make the most of your time and avoid long wait times.
- Use the Rider Switch program: If you have young children who can’t ride certain attractions, take advantage of the Rider Switch program. One parent can wait with the child while the other rides, and then they can switch without waiting in line again.
- Take breaks: The park can be overwhelming for kids, so be sure to take breaks throughout the day. Find a quiet spot to sit and rest, or take advantage of the many shaded areas.
- Meet characters: Disney Hollywood Studios has many character meet-and-greet opportunities, so be sure to take advantage of them. Kids will love meeting their favorite Disney characters in person.
Don’ts
- Don’t skip sunscreen: The Florida sun can be brutal, so be sure to apply sunscreen regularly throughout the day. Don’t forget to reapply after water rides or sweating.
- Don’t ignore height restrictions: Many attractions at Disney Hollywood Studios have height restrictions for safety reasons. Don’t try to sneak your child onto a ride they’re not tall enough for.
- Don’t overdo it: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the park, but don’t try to do everything in one day. Pace yourself and remember that you can always come back another time.
- Don’t forget to hydrate: It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially in the Florida heat. Bring refillable water bottles or take advantage of the many water fountains throughout the park.
Remember that Disney Hollywood Studios is subject to change, so be sure to check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information. With these do’s and don’ts in mind, you and your kids are sure to have a magical day at the park.
Additional Information
When planning a visit to Disney Hollywood Studios with kids, there are a few additional things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Disney Springs
While not located within Disney Hollywood Studios, Disney Springs is a popular shopping and dining destination for many visitors to the Walt Disney World Resort. If you have some extra time before or after your visit to the park, consider stopping by Disney Springs for some family-friendly fun. With a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, there’s something for everyone at Disney Springs.
Wait Times
One thing that can be frustrating for families with young children is long wait times for attractions. To minimize the amount of time spent waiting in line, consider using FastPass+ reservations or arriving at the park early in the day. It’s also a good idea to have a plan for which attractions you want to visit ahead of time, so you can make the most of your time in the park.
Pushed
While Disney World is generally a safe and friendly place, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your children at all times. Crowded areas like the park entrance and popular attractions can be especially hectic, so it’s important to stay together as a group and be mindful of other guests.
Rain
Florida is known for its unpredictable weather, and rain can sometimes put a damper on your day at Disney Hollywood Studios. Be sure to bring rain ponchos or umbrellas, as well as a change of clothes and shoes, just in case. Many attractions are also indoors, so consider visiting those during a sudden downpour.
By keeping these additional tips in mind, families can make the most of their visit to Disney Hollywood Studios and create lasting memories together.