9 Things You May Have Missed at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

For the last year and a half, any trip to Hollywood Studios has also come with the desire to explore Batuu, as well as attempting to score one of the coveted boarding groups for Rise of the Resistance.  However, there is much at Hollywood Studios to explore and you may have missed or walked past on your recent trips.  Here are nine things that you may have missed and that you should definitely plan to check out on your next trip!

1. Woody’s Lunch Box

One of the newer dining options at Hollywood Studios, Woody’s Lunch Box is easy to overlook since it usually has a meandering line that can intersect with the lines for Slinky Dog Dash and Toy Story Mania which are nearby.  The crowding isn’t helped by the fact that this is only a food counter and there is not any indoor seating, but the lines are there because the food is so good!  Guests can find substantial sandwiches here, as well as tasty snacks, but our favorite menu item are the “lunch box tarts” in various flavors — it is a sweet treat that you can enjoy at any time of the day.  We highly recommend that you use mobile ordering through the app to cut down on the time waiting in line and to avoid the crowds!

2. Grand Avenue Area

This entire area was given a facelift recently with the construction of Galaxy’s Edge — initially it was envisioned only as a holding area for guests coming and going to this area, but we enjoy exploring the area, looking at the storefronts, and just sitting down and relaxing.  There are plenty of benches in the area, as well as a snack cart where you can grab refreshments.  Most people will push right through this area as they head to Galaxy’s Edge or over towards MuppetVision 3D, but take some time and appreciate the smaller details the next time you are in the area.

3. Souvenir Shopping

Many Disney fans love finding their souvenirs at the Emporium at the Magic Kingdom or at the World of Disney located at Disney Springs, but some of my favorite souvenirs and t-shirts have come from the various shops situated alongside Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards.  Guests can find toys for smaller kids, jewelry and watches, unique t-shirts, as well as other various apparel from lesser known and celebrated franchises under the Disney umbrella — recently, we have spied Pixar merchandise celebrating Up and Wall-E, in addition to perennial favorites like Toy Story and the Incredibles!  You’ll definitely want to make sure you save some time in your day to peruse these shops!

 

4. Hollywood Scoops

Located at the end of Sunset Boulevard where guests are forced to make a choice of what thrill ride to tackle first — Tower of Terror or Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Hollywood Scoops serves up cold, delicious ice cream to guests.  Depending on how big your sweet tooth is, guests can choose between hulking sundaes, an old-fashioned hand-scooped cup of ice cream or even a thick, flavorful milkshake.  This is an amazing stop at the end of the day as you’re making plans to leave the park!

5. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy

Given the almost hidden location of this building, it is not surprising that many guests miss this show, but you’ll definitely want to check it out.  The show building is located beyond the entrance to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and immerses guests in the “Cars” universe where fans can see some of their favorites from the entire franchise.  In addition to an engaging show, guests can sit down, cool off, and get out of the sun with a visit to this attraction!

6. Baseline Taphouse

Located at the entrance to the Grand Avenue area of the park, Baseline Taphouse invites guests to grab a refreshing beer or cocktail and take a load off in their unique outdoor seating area replete with umbrellas and shade.  Guests can also additionally grab some small bar bites while enjoying their time here.  This is another great place to relax and recharge after a morning exploring Galaxy’s Edge or while waiting to board onto Star Tours!

7. Quick Service Options

With fantastic table service restaurants abounding at Hollywood Studios, it isn’t surprising that most guests look past the great variety of quick service restaurants when making their food selections at Hollywood Studios.  PizzeRizzo is a great place to grab a personal pizza, salad, or a sandwich while also being able to sit down inside and relax.  While other guests are fond of the ABC Commissary which offers a bevy of unique choices from shrimp tacos or a chicken club all the way to a buffalo chicken grilled cheese or a simple salad.  Backlot Express offers the traditional park fare — burgers, chicken tenders, and cold beverages.  On the other side of the park, guests can find similar options, but also some additional choices at Rosie’s All-American Café, while also enjoying their meals in a shaded outdoor setting.

8. Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge

Located outside and overlooking the central hub area of Hollywood Studios, the Brown Derby Lounge is a fantastic location to sit, relax, enjoy great  drinks, while also doing some people watching.  Guests can enjoy classic cocktails, while guests under the age of 21 can find some delicious and tantalizing mocktails.  The drink menu is extensive, so you might want to take some time to explore the menu before sidling up to the bar and placing your order!

9. Walt Disney Presents

Part museum and part coming attractions, Walt Disney Presents fuses models and exhibits to educate guests about the history of Walt Disney and the Disney Company and the theme parks, while also inviting guests to see what is in the pipeline for both the theme parks and the movies.  We love looking at the models of the various theme parks and attractions, as well as sneaking a peek at the previews of upcoming Disney features!

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or ardent Star Wars fan, a trip to Hollywood Studios should include some additional stops to round out your experience — which of these are you most likely to check out on your next trip?