Exclusive access unleashed: is disney hollywood studios after hours worth the late-night splurge?
What To Know
- With a limited number of guests allowed in the park, After Hours events offer a more intimate and relaxed experience.
- Get to the park early to secure a good spot for the fireworks show and to take advantage of the shorter wait times at the beginning of the event.
- However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to have more time and flexibility, it may not be the best choice for you.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios After Hours is a special event that takes place on select nights at Walt Disney World Resort. The event offers guests the opportunity to experience some of the park’s most popular attractions with shorter wait times and smaller crowds. But is Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours worth it? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the benefits, drawbacks, and everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Benefits of Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours
- Shorter Wait Times: After Hours events typically have significantly shorter wait times than during regular park hours. This means you can experience more attractions in a shorter amount of time.
- Smaller Crowds: With a limited number of guests allowed in the park, After Hours events offer a more intimate and relaxed experience.
- Exclusive Access: After Hours guests have access to exclusive experiences, such as character meet-and-greets and special photo opportunities.
- Unlimited Snacks and Drinks: The event includes unlimited popcorn, ice cream, and select beverages, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to refuel throughout the evening.
- Special Fireworks Show: The event concludes with a special fireworks show, “Wonderful World of Animation,” which offers a unique and unforgettable finale.
Drawbacks of Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours
- Limited Time: After Hours events typically run for only 3 hours, which can limit the number of attractions you can experience.
- Cost: The event is an additional cost on top of regular park admission, which can add up for larger groups or multiple visits.
- Limited Attractions: Not all attractions in Hollywood Studios are open during After Hours events, so you may miss out on certain experiences.
- No FastPass+ or Genie+: FastPass+ and Genie+ are not available during After Hours events, so you’ll have to rely on the shorter wait times to experience attractions.
- Weather Dependence: After Hours events are subject to weather conditions, and they may be canceled or shortened due to inclement weather.
Is Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours Worth It?
Whether or not Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours is worth it depends on your individual preferences and budget.
Consider it:
- If you want to experience shorter wait times and smaller crowds
- If you’re interested in exclusive experiences and special fireworks
- If you’re willing to pay for the convenience and extra value
Don’t consider it:
- If you’re on a tight budget
- If you prefer to experience all of the park’s attractions
- If you’re not interested in the limited time frame or weather dependence
What’s Included in Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours?
- Access to select attractions with shorter wait times
- Unlimited popcorn, ice cream, and select beverages
- Exclusive character meet-and-greets and photo opportunities
- Special fireworks show, “Wonderful World of Animation”
Tips for Maximizing Your Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours Experience
- Arrive Early: Get to the park early to secure a good spot for the fireworks show and to take advantage of the shorter wait times at the beginning of the event.
- Plan Your Itinerary: Decide which attractions you want to experience and prioritize them. Consider using the My Disney Experience app to track wait times and make dining reservations.
- Take Breaks: Don’t try to cram everything into the 3-hour time frame. Take breaks to enjoy the snacks and drinks, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere.
- Bring a Camera: After Hours events offer plenty of opportunities for unique photo opportunities. Bring a camera to capture the memories.
- Consider the Weather: Check the weather forecast before the event and dress accordingly. After Hours events are subject to weather conditions, so be prepared for possible rain or heat.
Final Thoughts: Is Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours Worth It?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours is worth it is a personal one. If you’re looking for a more intimate and convenient way to experience the park, it can be a great option. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to have more time and flexibility, it may not be the best choice for you.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: What attractions are open during Disney Hollywood Studios After Hours?
A: Most major attractions are open, including Toy Story Mania!, Slinky Dog Dash, Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
Q: Can I use FastPass+ or Genie+ during After Hours events?
A: No, FastPass+ and Genie+ are not available during After Hours events.
Q: Is it worth it to purchase the After Hours event if I’m staying at a Disney Resort hotel?
A: Disney Resort hotel guests receive a discount on After Hours events, so it can be a good value if you’re already staying on property.