Everything you need to know about DISNEY'S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

Disney parks can be a lot of fun, but planning a visit can be a little overwhelming if it is your first time embarking on a Disney adventure. Today, I am sharing everything you need to know if you are planning to visit Disney's Hollywood Studios.

As with all Disney parks, you are going to want to plan ahead, and buy your tickets in advance. Once you have purchased your tickets, you will be able to use the My Disney Experience App to investigate the park and book your Fast Passes.

You may also want to plan some fun clothes for the day. I always order my boys fun and inexpensive matching t-shirts. They were thrilled with the Star Wars t-shirts I bought for our most recent visit to Disney's Hollywood Studios. Cute, right?

You are also going to want to arrive early. It can take a long time to park, go through security, and make your way into the park. (Tip: You can easily remember where you park by taking a picture of the parking sign near your vehicle.) 

If your kids are between the ages of 4 and 12, you will need to proceed directly to Jedi Training when you enter the park. (Jedi Training is popular, and it fills up quickly, so make sure you arrive early.) When you sign up, they will give you a time to return for the training. My boys have done it several times, and it is always a lot of fun for little Star Wars fans.

Disney Hollywood Studios also has several really fun rides that the children are guaranteed to enjoy. (Make sure to check the height requirements before you arrive at the park. You can use a "parent swap" if you have children that are too short to ride. Just ask one of the attendants when you arrive at the ride.)

Some of our favorite rides at Disney's Hollywood Studios are: Toy Story Mania, Star Tours, Tower of Terror, and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster.

There are also several shows at Disney's Hollywood Studios that are sure to delight. Consult the "times guide" when you arrive at the park, and plan to check out the shows that suit your interests. We love: Voyage of the Little Mermaid, Muppet Vision 3D, Frozen Sing-Along, Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, Disney Junior Live on Stage, and Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away. However, I think our favorites (based on the ages and interests of my boys) were: Muppet Vision 3D, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, and Star Wars: A Galaxy Far Far Away. 

You are also going to want to attend the evening "Fantasmic" show. It is recommended to use a Fast Pass for the show or arrive around 90 minutes early to ensure you get a seat. It really is a magical show, and a great way to end the day! After the show, you can make your way to the Star Wars themed fireworks. They are really impressive.

In addition to the rides and shows, there are also a variety of character "meet and greets". (Consult the "times guide" for character greeting times and locations.) The waits can be long, so pick one or two favorites, and don't forget to take some family pictures. You can use the Disney photographer, or you can ask one of the workers to take a picture with your camera.

It is going to be a long day, so make sure you are prepared, and you are wearing comfy shoes. Bring a backpack, and pack: a lunch, sunscreen, a camera, sweaters, and glow sticks (which are much cheaper outside the park). You'll also want to take a break when you feel the kids need a little "re-charge". We have a tradition of getting Mickey Mouse shaped ice cream sandwiches. :-)

Bring some quarters and pennies too. Penny souvenir machines are scattered throughout the park, and they make fun and inexpensive souvenirs for the kids.

I highly recommend Disney's Hollywood Studios... especially if you have Toy Story and Star Wars fans in your family. Remember to have fun, take lots of pictures, and make many memories!

♥ 
Gina Bell (aka East Coast Mommy)

Disclosure: I received two free tickets in exchange for my honest review of this park. As always, the opinions on this blog are 100% my own.