When the Disney/MGM Studios opened 35 years ago in 1989, it provided an interesting hybrid of a theme park and view behind the scenes. Few early attractions have survived, and Disney has invested a lot in this park lately. It offers plenty of thrills and great headliners, but the split between those and the other options is a bit too large. The top ten are cool, yet there’s a drop-off to the bottom group.
These rankings include attractions currently operating at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Fantasmic! is back, but I haven’t included any nighttime shows because they’re such a separate category. I’ve also skipped character greetings despite some good options in that group. I just ranked the rides and shows that play every day at the Studios. My biggest challenge was choosing slots three to seven. The top two were easy, but the attractions right behind them were difficult to slot.
I hope you enjoy this list and would love to hear your feedback. Leave your comments below and let me know what you think of my rankings!
18. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
When I thought about which ride or show should be at the bottom of this list, I thought about what I considered the most expendable attraction. The obvious answer was Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, which opened near Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in March 2019. The 10-minute show includes a cool Lightning McQueen animatronic on stage, but the wraparound screen can only do so much. It might draw a few guests away from the nearby headliners; however, that’s not enough to make it a must visit.
17. Disney Junior Play and Dance!
It’s important to have shows for the youngest kids, and we made regular stops at the live Disney Junior show when my girls were younger. The current version removes the past story line and focuses on the music and dancing, which seems like the right idea. The cast members are usually way over the top, which is a bit much even for the little ones. Still, it’s a fun way to see familiar Disney characters from shows like Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, and more.
16. Vacation Fun – An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie
I’ve really enjoyed the more recent Mickey Mouse cartoons that originated in 2013. The animation style and offbeat humor work as well for adults as they do for kids. Clips from nine of those shorts are part of Vacation Fun, a compilation presented in the Mickey Shorts Theater. It’s basically a companion piece to Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway nearby. The highlight is actually the lobby, which includes fun photo spots themed to shorts like the amazing Potatoland. This park needs more complementary attractions, so this space is a step in the right direction.
15. Star Wars Launch Bay
This walk-through attraction is the perfect spot for an expansion, but it seems less likely than I’d hope. The Star Wars Launch Bay provides a space to meet Darth Vader, Chewbacca, and BB-8. It also includes movie props and concept art, which is okay for a brief visit. In its current state, the Launch Bay mostly just provides an air-conditioned break on a hot Florida day. There’s definitely more potential for this space.
14. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
I’m not a huge fan of singalong attractions, but I recognize the enduring popularity of Frozen. I’ve enjoyed both movies and think Frozen 2 deserves more attention. I’ve probably seen enough of Olaf and heard “Let It Go” a few many times, yet there’s still a lot to enjoy. The 30-minute show now occupies the Hyperion Theater after beginning in a smaller space. I’d rather see a full live show instead of clips from the film, but this singalong remains popular and helps to draw crowds from the popular attractions.
13. Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
The other long-running show in the Studios, Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage remains popular because so many love the animated film. It’s operated since November 1991 and includes classic tunes like “Be Our Guest”, “Belle”, and “Gaston”. My girls enjoyed seeing this show when they were younger, and I appreciate that Disney has continued to run it for so long. The live-action film brought more fans to this story, and the 1991 movie is a classic. Its ranking is more about my preference for this type of show versus other available options.
12. Alien Swirling Saucers
The Studios needs more attractions for kids, and Alien Swirling Saucers fits that mold. I won’t oversell this Zamperla spinner, which isn’t much different from what many amusement parks. Even so, the cute setting with the aliens from Toy Story creates a zany mood in Toy Story Land. While the spinning could induce motion sickness on some riders, it’s not too thrilling for most guests. It’s smoother than your typical scrambler and more fun due to the small touches. I wouldn’t wait too long for Alien Swirling Saucers, but it’s a good complement to the popular headliners.
11. Walt Disney Presents
This walk-through attraction is difficult to rank because it’s one of my favorite places in the entire park. I love the way it honors Walt and reminds us of Disney’s major technological advances on films and in the parks. Disney has added character greetings and sneak previews into this space, so it’s not as strong as the original One Man’s Dream attraction. The closing film also provides a down-to-Earth look at Walt’s life and challenges through quotes from the man himself. I appreciate that this space exists in the park, especially for younger guests.
10. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
This early Disney/MGM Studios attraction still entertains crowds with its action and high-flying stunts. I still remember seeing an unfinished version during our first visit in June 1989. The 25-minute show officially started in August and remains exciting more than 30 years later. Watching it today, I really appreciate the skills of the stunt performers as they dodge moving sets and explosions. This type of live attraction isn’t as common in theme parks now, so it’s refreshing to still see Indy going strong.
9. Muppet Vision 3D
Jim Henson worked directly on Muppet Vision 3D, and there’s definitely that classic Muppets vibe in this long-running show. I still enjoy the gags from the beloved characters plus having the Statler and Waldorf animatronics above the audience. The only downside is Waldo C. Graphic, who doesn’t hold up so well after repeat visits. It’s worth spending time to watch the full pre-show, which ranks up there with the main event. We’ve heard so many rumors about Muppet Vision 3D going away, so I’m relieved it’s still charming audiences today. Plus, Disney recently added some new projection effects. A good update!
8. Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
I’m regularly surprised at how much I enjoy Star Tours, which has been overshadowed by Galaxy’s Edge. Disney fulfilled the potential of the screen-based simulator with “The Adventure Continues” version in 2011. I’ve also enjoyed having new versions based on the sequel trilogy after each release. It’s unpredictable and fun every time, and that’s so important for any attraction. I’m good with Star Tours continuing to play separate from the Black Spire Outpost. Plus, the latest changes to Disney Plus series like Andor and Ahsoka are cool!
7. Toy Story Mania
I don’t prefer screen-based attractions, but I still enjoy Toy Story Mania. The gaming system allows basically anyone to score well. Competing against my girls in silly games like smashing plates and ring tosses brings a smile to my face every time. The reason it’s not ranked higher is because we’re not moving through a physical space. Despite more limited interactivity, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin feels timeless because of the environment. I ride Toy Story Mania on every visit, and it’s always a fun time.
6. Slinky Dog Dash
I’m glad that Disney added something more than off-the-shelf carnival rides for Toy Story Land at the Studios. This Mack Rides launched steel family coaster provides cool thrills especially at the second launch. Despite a top speed of 40 miles per hour, Slinky Dog Dash packs more punch than you might expect. The Wheezy animatronic at the end is also a nice touch. One downside is the queue, which could use more shade on hot Florida days. Even so, this coaster brings kinetic energy to the overall land.
5. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
It’s easy to talk about what’s missing from Galaxy’s Edge, but there’s still plenty to love there. Smugglers Run includes the massive Millennium Falcon outside, and it sets the stage for the attraction inside. The queue includes cool props, additional ships, and a view from above the Falcon plus audio clips. Before we even get to the ship’s interior, there’s plenty enjoy while in line. The ride vehicle also contains plenty of details beyond the video itself. I hope that Disney introduces more missions to add variability to the experience. With a few small tweaks, Smugglers Run could be even stronger.
4. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
I’ll admit to being a little skeptical about Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway since it replaced the Great Movie Ride. It wasn’t fair to compare the two, and I wish they both could exist at the Studios. Regardless, I had a blast with this gem of a trackless dark ride. The screens help tell the story and drop you right into the cartoon. The technology creates such a colorful and vibrant atmosphere throughout the ride. Runaway Railway perfectly captures the spirit of the Mickey Mouse cartoons; it’s a refreshing addition to the Studios!
3. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
In a similar vein to Smugglers Run, it’s easy to point out a few issues with Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. Aerosmith is a little past its prime, and the Vekoma LSM launch coaster is showing its age. However, any concerns fade away during the exhilarating launch from 0 to 57 miles per hour in 2.8 seconds. The three inversions are fairly tame for coaster enthusiasts, but it’s one of the most thrilling attractions at Walt Disney World. The pre-show (with rare appearances by Chris the roadie!) and sets prepare you well for the excitement. I suspect that Disney will eventually get around to retheming this coaster, which happened recently in Paris. I’m in no hurry for that to happen, though.
2. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
I’ve experienced Rise of the Resistance multiple times, and part of me still can’t believe it exists. It feels like the type of attraction that fans think of when they’re doing armchair Imagineering. Maintenance issues aside, it’s unlike any other theme park attraction. The ride systems, cast member interactions, and innovative technology lead to an incredible mix. I grew up as a Star Wars fan during the original trilogy, and Rise of the Resistance captures that vibe even with different characters. I definitely need to ride it many more times to catch everything .
1. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Nearly 30 years after it opened in 1994, the Hollywood Tower Hotel remains one of Disney’s coolest locations. The mix of a dark ride and drop tower continues to thrill guests; I get chills every time we enter the final elevator shaft before chaos erupts. This version at the Studios is a step above the rest because of the 5th Dimension sequence, which builds the tension and expands the experience. The outdoor queue and lobby space also builds the tension with old music and a worn-out setting. The library and boiler room only add the creepy environment before we even step into the elevator vehicles. It’s brilliant!
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Tomorrow Society Podcast, Episode 174: Improving Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Ranking Walt Disney World’s Roller Coasters
A Visit to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World
Ranking the Attractions at The Magic Kingdom
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Hey Dan! I always enjoy ranking lists, especially with explanations of the reasons why. I haven’t been to Hollywood Studios in a while (2017, I think?) so it’s nice to see an overview of everything they have to offer (I did get to go to Disneyland in January 2020 so I have been on the new Star Wars rides, but not Runaway Railway). I would personally rank Toy Story Mania, Smuggler’s Run, and Rock N Rollercoaster lower, and Indiana Jones, Star Tours, and Slinky Dog higher. I agree that even with all the fancy technology or ROTR, Tower of Terror is still at the top. Disney really shot themselves in the foot by producing three Star Wars sequel movies that are unsatisfying in nearly every way, and failing to produce a real emotional response from its viewers. I remember my husband and I talking about how if ROTR featured scenes from “A New Hope,” it would have struck such a different chord. Seeing an Obi -wan animatronic carefully maneuvering around the Death Star control panels would have given me chills. Like you said, it is still an amazing accomplishment and one the Imagineers should be proud of, but it still lacks some of the excitement. I got more enjoyment out of the original “Back To The Future” ride at Universal because I cared about the characters and felt so involved in the story.
Hi Melanie! Glad you enjoyed the list. I found it really hard to rank the top 10, especially numbers 3 through 7. I feel like those could be interchangeable for me depending on the day, and others like Indy and Star Tours could also jump into the mix. That’s generally a good sign for the park, though it does seem like the bottom choices are too far behind. I only experienced ROTR once, and the first time is a little overwhelming. I agree that the sequel trilogy hasn’t maintained the excitement that there seemed to be early on, so Disney might be kicking themselves for how they did it. You can see a few adjustments when them at least allowing Mando, Grogu, and Boba Fett in Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland. I doubt this will be the last time they start allowing more characters either from the original trilogy or the newer shows in there. The future of Star Wars right now appears to be on Disney Plus, so it will be interesting to see how that impacts the parks. Thanks!
Thanks for always replying, Dan! You’re so good to your readers. And since I’ve been listening to your podcasts, I “hear” your posts in your voice. Thanks for always being classy and positive!
No problem, Melanie! Thanks for all the great comments, and I’m glad to hear you’ve been listening to the podcasts!