Revealed: the hidden history of disney hollywood studios you never knew
What To Know
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood, a period from the 1920s to the 1960s characterized by the rise of the film industry.
- The park’s architecture and attractions capture the glamour and excitement of this era, from the Hollywood Boulevard entrance to the iconic Tower of Terror.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a testament to the enduring legacy of the golden age of Hollywood.
Walt Disney World’s Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a captivating theme park that transports visitors back to the golden age of Hollywood. Immerse yourself in the captivating history of this beloved park, from its humble beginnings to its present-day cinematic splendor.
The Early Years: MGM Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios was originally conceived as a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). Construction began in 1987, and the park opened its gates on May 1, 1989, as MGM Studios.
Acquisition by Disney
In 1994, The Walt Disney Company acquired full ownership of MGM Studios. The park underwent a significant transformation, with new attractions and areas added to align with Disney’s cinematic heritage.
The Golden Age of Hollywood
Disney’s Hollywood Studios pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood, a period from the 1920s to the 1960s characterized by the rise of the film industry. The park’s architecture and attractions capture the glamour and excitement of this era, from the Hollywood Boulevard entrance to the iconic Tower of Terror.
Themed Lands
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is divided into themed lands that represent different aspects of the film industry:
- Hollywood Boulevard: The park’s main thoroughfare, lined with shops, restaurants, and the iconic Chinese Theater.
- Sunset Boulevard: Home to the Tower of Terror and the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.
- Echo Lake: A charming area featuring the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
- Grand Avenue: A nod to early Hollywood with the Muppets Courtyard and the Star Tours – The Adventures Continue attraction.
- Toy Story Land: A whimsical land based on the Toy Story films, featuring the Slinky Dog Dash and Toy Story Mania!
Notable Attractions
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to a wide range of attractions, including:
- Tower of Terror: A thrilling drop tower ride themed after The Twilight Zone television series.
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith: A high-speed indoor roller coaster featuring music by Aerosmith.
- Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!: A live-action show showcasing thrilling stunts inspired by the Indiana Jones films.
- Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: A immersive land that transports guests to the Star Wars universe, featuring the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Recent Additions
In recent years, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has expanded with new attractions and areas:
- Toy Story Land (2018): A dedicated land based on the Toy Story films.
- Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (2019): A highly anticipated land that brings the Star Wars universe to life.
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (2020): A family-friendly indoor roller coaster featuring Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
A Legacy of Cinematic Immersion
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a testament to the enduring legacy of the golden age of Hollywood. Through its immersive attractions and themed lands, the park allows guests to step into the world of their favorite films and experience the magic of cinema.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did Disney’s Hollywood Studios open?
A: May 1, 1989
Q: What was the park’s original name?
A: MGM Studios
Q: What is the most popular attraction in Disney’s Hollywood Studios?
A: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Q: What is the theme of Hollywood Boulevard?
A: The golden age of Hollywood
Q: Which land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is based on the Toy Story films?
A: Toy Story Land
Q: What is the name of the live-action stunt show in Echo Lake?
A: Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
Q: Which attraction allows guests to ride the Millennium Falcon?
A: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Q: What is the newest attraction in Disney’s Hollywood Studios?
A: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Q: What is the iconic drop tower ride in Sunset Boulevard?
A: Tower of Terror
Q: Which land in the park features the Muppets Courtyard?