21 Things To Do in Hollywood Studios that Aren't Rides

Hollywood Studios is probably best known for its rides, live entertainment, and character meet & greets, but there is so much more to see and do around the park. From exploring Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge to watching live shows, hunting for unique merchandise, and stopping for an ice cream, you can easily spend hours here without getting on a single ride.

Here are 21 of my favorite things to do in Hollywood Studios that aren't rides!

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#1: Meet a Character

Hollywood Studios has a ton of character meet & greets, including many characters you can't find anywhere else in Walt Disney World. A few of my favorites include Buzz Lightyear, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, Edna Mode, Stormtroopers, Sulley, The Mandalorian, Mrs. Incredible, and Stitch.

Meet & greet locations and times can be found in the My Disney Experience app. Some of the more popular characters can have fairly long waits, so if there's someone you really want to meet, I'd recommend checking their schedule ahead of time and getting there early.

#2: Watch a Live Stage Show

Hollywood Studios has more live stage shows than any of the other Disney parks, and each one has its own story and vibe. I've watched all of these several times and have really enjoyed them all. Some of my favorites include Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage, Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After (the newest show, and especially cute if you're a fan of the villains), Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular (this one is my favorite-I love, love, love grabbing an adult beverage from the nearby Baseline Tap House and watching the show), and The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure.

Note: Most of these shows don't run all day, and several have their final performances in the afternoon. If there's a particular show you want to see, I recommend planning it into your morning or early afternoon rather than assuming you can catch it later. Current showtimes and locations can be found in the My Disney Experience app.

#3: See Fantasmic!

Fantasmic! is Hollywood Studios' main nighttime spectacular. Rather than a large fireworks show like you'll find at some of the other parks, Fantasmic! takes place in an outdoor amphitheater and combines stadium-style seating, boats, water effects, projections, characters, music, and plenty of Disney magic.

The show usually begins around 8:30 PM, although guests often start lining up around 8:00 PM. Accessible ramps and wheelchair seating are available, so guests who need accessible seating should let a Cast Member know when entering the theater.

#4: Catch the Street Entertainment

When you're roaming around Hollywood Studios, it's nearly impossible not to stumble across some kind of street entertainment. From the Green Army Drum Corps marching through Toy Story Land to Stormtroopers searching Batuu for the Resistance, these little performances and character encounters can pop up throughout your day.

They're especially fun because you don't necessarily have to plan around them-you can simply happen upon them while exploring the park. Current entertainment times and locations can be found in the My Disney Experience app.

#5: Explore the Theming in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

Aside from all of the experiences, food, shopping, and characters in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, the theming deserves its own section because, lemme tell you, it is on point!

Once you enter Batuu, there are details EVERYWHERE, both big and small. Some are obvious, like the recreation of the Millennium Falcon, while others are much easier to miss. Look down at the ground to spot the footprints of some of your favorite characters, peek into corners to find old, rusty droids, wander through the marketplace, and check out the shops for everything from strange alien artifacts to your very own porg.

Look up, look down, look side to side, and you'll almost certainly find something you hadn't noticed before. If you take the time to explore instead of simply walking from one attraction to another, it's surprisingly easy to forget you're in a theme park and feel like you've actually stepped onto Batuu.

#6: Build Your Own Droid or Lightsaber

If you have a Star Wars lover in your family, there are two very cool interactive experiences you can do in Galaxy's Edge: building your own droid at Droid Depot or creating a custom lightsaber at Savi's Workshop.

Both experiences are highly themed and include their own little storyline. You'll choose your own parts, assemble your creation, and then get to take it home with you afterward, making these experiences part activity and part souvenir.

The Droid Depot experience starts at $129.99, with additional add-ons available, such as personality chips. The lightsaber-building experience starts at $274.99 per lightsaber, plus tax.

Both experiences should be booked in advance, and full payment is due at the time of booking to hold your spot. Reservations can fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons, so don't wait until the last minute if this is something you really want to do.

#7: Try Star Wars themed Food & Drink

ronto roasters andoan fruit with muja sauce and coruscant cooler

Not only is Galaxy's Edge themed to the nines, but the food is, too! Almost everything you eat and drink in Batuu feels like it belongs in the Star Wars universe.

You can try the Blue or Green Milk (which can also be ordered with alcohol-I still haven't gotten up the nerve to try that one ), grab the sweet-and-spicy Outpost Mix from Kat Saka's Kettle, or head to Docking Bay 7 for an Endorian Fried Chicken Tip-Yip.

Or, if you're like me, head straight to Ronto Roasters for my absolute favorite: the Ronto Wrap. I get one on almost every Hollywood Studios visit, and one of the reasons I love it so much is that it can be made gluten-free!

Find my full Ronto Wrap review here.

Find my Ronto Wrap recipe here.

#8: Grab a Cocktail at Oga's Cantina

Oga's Cantina is Disney's modern take on the cantina from the Star Wars films, complete with a DJ droid spinning a club-style mix in the corner. Am I a little bitter that they didn't use the original cantina band? A smidge, yes. But it's still a really fun experience.

Like the other themed bars in the park, you'll need a reservation to get in, and you may be seated with another party. And I say seated loosely because getting an actual chair is very hit or miss. Many of the tables are standing-height, but if you have a disability or otherwise need a seat, let a Cast Member know and they can assist you.

The drinks are probably the biggest draw, with fun Star Wars-inspired cocktails and mocktails. One of the more elaborate options is the Kamino Cooler, made with Tito's Handmade Vodka, Bols Blue Curaçao Liqueur, passion fruit syrup, DOLE pineapple juice, and lime juice, served in a souvenir DJ R-3X mug for $49.

You can also order a few small snacks, such as the Happabore Sampler with cured and roasted meats and cheeses ($24), Batuu Bites with blue corn, barbecue and curry spice chips, lotus root, green bean chips, and herb dip ($13), Umbaran Cheese Roll ($13), or the Thruster Roasted Bantha Flatbread ($19).

The menu does change from time to time, so check the current menu before your visit if there's something specific you're hoping to try.

Find the full & current Oga's Cantina menu here.

#9 Explore Toy Storyland

Just like Galaxy's Edge, Toy Story Land is all about the theming, and it's worth taking some time to explore even if you aren't getting on any of the rides.

The idea is that Andy has taken all of his favorite toys outside and you've been shrunk down to their size. You'll find giant toy blocks, Lincoln Logs, Tinkertoys, Play-Doh, board game pieces, and all kinds of other oversized details throughout the land.

Take a little time to look around rather than simply rushing from one attraction to the next. Once you're surrounded by giant toys, it's pretty easy to feel like you've been shrunk down and dropped into Andy's backyard.

#10: Eat at a Themed Restaurant

Hollywood Studios has some of the best themed restaurants in Walt Disney World, and three of my favorites are Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, 50's Prime Time Café, and Roundup Rodeo BBQ.

At Sci-Fi Dine-In, you're transported to an old-fashioned drive-in theater where you sit in little car-shaped booths while scenes from classic black-and-white science-fiction movies play on the big screen. How fun is that?!

50's Prime Time Café takes you back to Mom's kitchen in the 1950s, complete with retro decor and servers who stay in character. Don't be surprised if you get a little sass or a reminder to keep your elbows off the table!

Roundup Rodeo BBQ is a newer addition and takes you into a colorful Toy Story-themed rodeo. The meal is served family-style with a variety of meats and vegetable sides. And remember: you're a toy, so if Andy comes in, freeze!

Reservations are highly recommended for all three and can be made through the My Disney Experience app, generally up to 60 days in advance.

#11: Have a fancy meal at Hollywood Brown Derby

Themed after the iconic 1926 Brown Derby restaurant in Los Angeles, Hollywood Brown Derby is one of my favorite places to go when I want a proper sit-down meal at Hollywood Studios. The restaurant is known for its signature Cobb Salad, but the menu goes well beyond salads with upscale dishes and an extensive wine and cocktail list.

It also has a lovely outdoor patio and full bar service. Just be warned: you're definitely paying for the experience, and you can expect fine-dining prices here.

If you want the atmosphere and an adult beverage without committing to the full meal, there's also a walk-up bar on the patio. They make a pretty darn good Old Fashioned, so that's another option if you're just looking for somewhere to stop for a drink.

#12: Have a Character Meal at Hollywood & Vine

Hollywood & Vine is a buffet-style character dining restaurant with a retro Hollywood diner theme. Here you can meet Minnie Mouse and her friends while enjoying an all-American buffet with plenty of options for both kids and adults.

Prices start around $44 for children and $64 for adults, with alcohol and specialty beverages available for an additional cost.

One of my favorite things about Hollywood & Vine is that the characters sometimes dress in seasonal costumes depending on the time of year. The Halloween outfits are particularly cute and generally appear from late August through October.

Reservations are required for this character dining experience and can be made through the My Disney Experience app.

#13: Grab a Drink at Baseline Taphouse

This is another stop I make on almost every Hollywood Studios visit. Unlike some of the other bars around the park, you don't need a reservation to visit Baseline Tap House-you can simply walk up and grab a drink.

They serve a selection of draft beers, wines, and cocktails, usually including several local options. There are also a handful of small snacks available, such as a soft pretzel and charcuterie.

There's indoor seating, but I particularly love the outdoor patio. It's shaded, comfortable, and a surprisingly nice place to take a break from the park. I've even sat out there in the rain to finish my drink, which may tell you how much I like this place.

#14: Grab an Ice Cream at Gertie's

Who's Gertie, you may ask? She's the big green dinosaur sitting in the pond near 50's Prime Time Café and the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. And because she's tucked into a slightly quieter part of the park, a lot of people don't realize that her belly contains a little ice cream stand!

The options are pretty simple-vanilla, chocolate, or a swirl, served in either a cup or cone, but sometimes that's exactly what you want. It's a great little stop when you need something cold, especially after spending time exploring the nearby attractions. And honestly, getting ice cream from inside a giant dinosaur is a pretty fun Disney experience all by itself.

#15: Visit Walt Disney Presents

History lovers will love this little walk-through interactive exhibit tucked inside Hollywood Studios. Walt Disney Presents takes you through pieces of Disney history, with displays covering everything from Mickey Mouse to the Disney parks and Walt's life.

You'll also find Walt Disney: One Man's Dream, a short film and exhibit experience that gives you a look at Walt's life and the history behind the company.

And if you're a Pixar fan, keep an eye out for Sulley, who has a character meet & greet here at various times throughout the day. It's a nice little stop that doesn't require a huge time commitment, especially if you need some air conditioning!

#16 Hunt for Park Exclusive Merchandise

You may have noticed that a lot of Disney merchandise is available across all of the parks, but Hollywood Studios (and EPCOT) tend to have some of the best park-specific offerings.

Of course, you'll find plenty of Star Wars and Toy Story merchandise, but there are also some really fun Hollywood Studios-specific gems. I've seen everything from a Gertie mug to replicas of Indiana Jones' iconic hat and whip.

And if you're a spooky fan like I am, don't skip the Tower of Terror gift shop! It's one of my favorite places to browse for merchandise with a little more of a creepy, old-Hollywood vibe.

#17: Go Pin Trading

One of the first things you'll see when walking into Hollywood Studios is a pin-trading stand and shop, and it's a great place to start your collection or add to one you already have. You'll find several Hollywood Studios-exclusive pins here, along with plenty of other Disney designs.

You can trade with Cast Members at the pin shop and at many of the other merchandise locations throughout the park. You'll also find Cast Members carrying special trading boards around the park. Keep an eye out for a Cast Member holding a black board, usually near the entrance or exit of a major attraction or restaurant.

If you're already a pin collector, Hollywood Studios is definitely a fun park to browse because there are so many opportunities to find something specific to your trip.

#18: Try Some Park Exclusive Snacks

I know we already mentioned all of the Star Wars-themed snacks, but Hollywood Studios has several other sweet and interesting treats that you can only find here!

Ever heard of the famous Carrot Cake Whoopie Pie? You can find this sweet treat at Trolley Car Café, and it's a Hollywood Studios classic. Another one I used to absolutely love before I had to switch to gluten-free (silly autoimmune disease) is the Jack-Jack's Num Num Cookie, a big ol' chewy chocolate chip cookie that's basically a meal in itself.

There's also the Bouncin' Mini Churros at Ice Cold Hydraulics, featuring savory churros topped with Coca-Cola and bourbon candied bacon, Sriracha aioli, and scallions for $9.29. I haven't tried these myself yet, but I've seen several other people get them, and they certainly look interesting!

Menus change from time to time, so check the current offerings before your visit if there's a particular snack you're hoping to track down.

#19 Collect Pressed Pennies

This is something I've been doing since I was very small, and I've now collected hundreds of them! Hollywood Studios has pressed-penny machines scattered around the park, including locations near many of the major attractions.

If you're really into collecting, there are even websites dedicated to tracking down the locations of pressed-penny machines throughout Orlando, so you can turn it into a little scavenger hunt during your trip.

One important update if you're a longtime Disney visitor: the machines aren't quite like they were in the good ol' days. You no longer put in a penny and two quarters. Most machines now cost around $1-$2 per pressed coin, while some offer a complete set for around $8, and many machines now accept cards instead of cash.

#20 Take PhotoPass Photos

PhotoPass is generally an additional add-on when purchasing your Disney park tickets. If you have the Memory Maker package, currently priced at $185, you can download photos taken at PhotoPass locations throughout Walt Disney World.

Photographers are generally stationed in front of iconic locations, such as the Chinese Theater, and some locations offer fun Magic Shots or character photos. A Cast Member takes the photos with a professional camera, so you don't have to worry about trying to balance your phone while getting the perfect shot. (And selfie sticks aren't permitted in the parks anyway.)

Some of the PhotoPass opportunities you'll find around Hollywood Studios include:

Chinese Theater
Hollywood Boulevard
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
Toy Story Land
Magic Shots
Character photos

One of my favorite things about using PhotoPass is that everyone actually gets to be in the vacation pictures instead of having one person stuck behind the camera the entire trip.

#21 Take a Ride on the Skyliner

Okay, okay. This isn't technically inside the park, but the Hollywood Studios Skyliner station starts right outside the park, and I'm going to call this one transportation rather than a ride.

I love, love, love the Skyliner and often take it from Hollywood Studios to EPCOT or vice versa. The gondolas are smooth and relaxing, and you get some really lovely views of different parts of Disney property along the way.

If you've got some extra time and aren't in a hurry to get somewhere, it's honestly a pretty pleasant way to end your Hollywood Studios day.

What is your favorite thing to do in Hollywood Studios? Let me know in the comments below!

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