Disney’s Hollywood Studios has partially reopened the seating area at Woody’s Lunch Box, but the changes may not be what guests were hoping for. Instead of adding more protection from the sun, the area now has fewer shaded tables than before. This could be frustrating for families looking for a place to relax and escape the heat while enjoying their meals.
Although part of the seating has reopened, construction walls still surround a significant portion of the area, suggesting that the work is ongoing. However, the reopened section offers no indication that additional shade is part of the plan. This has led to speculation that the updates might focus on less visible issues, such as improving the ground’s drainage, rather than adding new shade structures.
Ever since it opened, Woody’s Lunch Box has been a popular dining spot thanks to its nostalgic Toy Story theme and crowd-pleasing menu. However, it’s also faced criticism for its lack of shade—a common concern in a park where outdoor seating areas can become sweltering during warmer months. Fans were optimistic that the construction might finally address this issue, but the current changes don’t reflect those hopes.
During a recent morning visit, the cooler, cloudy weather made the lack of shade less of a concern at the time. Still, guests noted that the far corner of the seating area, which previously housed a shade structure, remains behind construction barriers. That area has been undergoing updates for quite a while, leaving fans curious about whether the shade will return or be removed altogether.
For now, guests seeking a shaded spot can find a temporary seating area set up in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Located near Alien Swirling Saucers, it provides a more comfortable dining option away from the sun. However, it’s a bit of a detour from Toy Story Land, which may not be ideal for those looking to stay close to the themed atmosphere of Woody’s Lunch Box.
As construction progresses, visitors remain hopeful for additional improvements, but it’s unclear whether more shade will be added in the future. Until more updates are made, guests may want to plan ahead to avoid eating during the hottest parts of the day. Despite the lack of shade, Woody’s Lunch Box remains a beloved spot for its unique setting and fun menu items, making it worth a visit—just be ready for the outdoor seating experience!
