Hollywood Studios for first-timers (including 1 skeptical DH)

[OhanaMomma]

I have not been in many years, but from my extensive research, I have heard that with an effective itinerary and strategic FPP planning, you can knock out this park in a half day or so. Not because of the construction, per se, but because it is a smaller park than the others by nature. BUT I think that you absolutely must stay until evening so you have the opportunity to see Fantasmic, no matter when you finish with the rest of the park. DHS was by no means my favorite park last time I went, but Fantasmic is my all-time favorite show. Last time my family was there, we park-hopped back to DHS one evening specifically to watch it again.

So, to see Fantasmic, is a FP pretty much required? I have heard really good things about it, but I have also heard it is hard to see if you don't arrive at least an hour early, even with FP?

 

[Micca]

TOT is the best ride in all of WDW

While I'd argue that HM is the best, TOT is certainly a contender for best ride on property. The theming of the attraction is absolutely the best on property.

I agree that the Frozen singalong is outstanding (and I'm a "Frozened-out" grandparent of two little girls.) Not sure if anyone mentioned the dining opportunities that are a lot of fun--Sci-Fi Dine In theater and the 50s Prime Time both have a number of fans here on the Dis. FWIW I had the best burger I've ever had at WDW at Sci-Fi a couple of weeks ago.

 

[Elizabeth Smith]

So, to see Fantasmic, is a FP pretty much required? I have heard really good things about it, but I have also heard it is hard to see if you don't arrive at least an hour early, even with FP?

When my family went, it was back in the days of the old fast pass system and I don't even think Fantasmic was a fast pass attraction. However, I do recall us arriving incredibly early for the show, even back then. From everything I understand, in order to have a seat, and not just stay standing (and you may not even be able to stand and watch), you have to have a FPP and/or arrive really early. Which, as I said earlier, shouldn't be a problem since you should be able to wrap up everything else in DHS with time to spare.

 

[LisafromIndiana]

Now there is also the Pixar live music show where you can get both the Pixar and Fantasmic voucher with a dining package. I have a DS, so may be a little different, but he went on RnR for the first time when he was 7. I was so NERVOUS about letting him ride as he was just barely tall enough...but the really awesome CM working the ride assured me it was going to be a great experience for him, and damn was he RIGHT! My son still talks about his first upside down roller coaster ride on RNR and I believe it did a lot for his confidence, and mine . Gotta love the Disney Magic!

 

[OhanaMomma]

This has all been incredibly helpful! Thank you all again!

 

[djc9699]

We spend at least a day and 1/2 at HS every time we go. Your daughters are a good age for Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage and we enjoy the Muppets, Frozen Sing-a-Long, and even Voyage of the Little Mermaid. To me, HS is a good park after a full day of walking and standing because you can walk and sit to watch shows. We also love 50's Prime Time so we have to eat there every trip.