Hollywood Studios has become my family’s favorite park at Walt Disney World. We always spend multiple days of our trip returning for more and have learned how to structure our day to ensure we have the best day possible.
Are you planning a trip to Hollywood Studios but don’t know where to start? Keep reading to learn more about the 3 mistakes you should never make when visiting! If you’re already working with a Smart Moms Travel agent, she can help you strategize your perfect day. If you aren’t already working with a Smart Moms agent, reach out to me here for free travel planning help and more details on planning a perfect Hollywood Studios itinerary.
Mistake #1: Skipping Genie+
- I know Genie+ is an additional cost to your trip and can be complicated but I would never do Hollywood Studios without it. The sheer number of attractions and shows included with Genie+ at Hollywood Studios make it worth it, and your travel agent can help you with all of your questions! This park offers so much to do that you’ll want Genie+ to help you make the most of your day. And as a bonus, Genie+ also includes all of your ride photos and you want your ride photos from this park!
Mistake #2: Not getting Slinky Dog Dash with your first Lightning Lane selection
- Trust me. Even if you plan to rope drop, I would get Slinky with my first Lightning Lane selection and rope drop the Galaxy’s Edge rides. Not only does SDD (Slinky Dog Dash) have massive wait times if you don’t have a lightning lane (85 minutes on average) it will also RUN OUT of lightning lane options, so if you do not get it early it’s very likely you won’t be able to get it with Genie+ at all. Get Slinky Dog first. Just do it. You won’t regret it.
Mistake #3: Missing Fantasmic
- Fantasmic at Hollywood Studios is unlike any nighttime show offered at Walt Disney World. With special water effects, pyrotechnics, music, stunts, and of course, Mickey, you will not want to miss it! This show typically runs twice each night, 7:30 and 9:00 but check your app for specific times for your trip. You can arrive as early as 90 minutes before showtime and there are bathrooms and refreshments located inside the amphitheater. No matter where you sit you’ll be able to take in the magic of the show. If you have younger kids I would suggest trying to catch the early show. If you and your kids can make it to the later show it is usually less crowded and gives you time to squeeze in a few more rides up until the park closes.
Along with avoiding these top three mistakes, I also suggest purchasing an individual lightning lane for Rise of the Resistance and rope-dropping the Galaxy’s Edge area to take it in without the full level of crowds. Grab a breakfast Ronto Wrap or maybe a Blue Milk and live your best Star Wars life. Just make sure to swing back by once it gets dark because Galaxy’s Edge takes on a whole new personality at night!
If you have Star Wars fans, Toy Story fans, and thrill seekers in your group, Hollywood Studios is the park for you. By avoiding these top mistakes I think you’ll have a magical day creating memories with the people you love!
