Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Family Rides at Hollywood Studios

Discover the best family rides at Hollywood Studios. From Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway to Slinky Dog Dash, plan your perfect Disney day here.

Making Magic: The Best Family Rides at Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios has transformed over the last few years. Once known primarily for its thrill rides and stage shows, it is now home to some of the most immersive family-friendly lands in the world. Whether you are traveling with a toddler who loves Mickey Mouse or a teenager obsessed with Star Wars, finding the right family rides at Hollywood Studios is the key to a stress-free vacation.

In this guide, we’ll break down the must-do attractions by age group, offer strategies for skipping the long lines, and provide the practical tips every parent needs to know before heading through the turnstiles.

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Top Picks: The Best Family Rides at Hollywood Studios for All Ages

If you only have one day, these are the attractions that define the Hollywood Studios experience for families.

1. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

This is the first-ever ride to feature Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and it is a masterpiece of modern Imagineering. Using trackless ride vehicles and stunning projection mapping, you are "pulled" into a cartoon world.

Why families love it: There is no height requirement, meaning the whole family—from infants to grandparents—can ride together.

Pro Tip: Look for the "Hidden Mickeys" throughout the ride; this attraction reportedly has more than any other in the world.

2. Slinky Dog Dash

Located in the heart of Toy Story Land, this multi-launch coaster looks like it was built by Andy himself using a Mega Coaster Play Kit.

Why families love it: It’s a "Goldilocks" coaster—not too scary, but exciting enough to satisfy older kids. The views of the park from the top are spectacular.

Height Requirement: 38 inches (97 cm).

3. Toy Story Mania!

Step inside a giant toy box for this 4D shooting gallery game. You’ll wear 3D glasses and blast targets to rack up points.

Why families love it: It’s interactive and competitive. Even if a child is too small for coasters, they can sit on a parent's lap (with the restraint) and pull the string to pop virtual balloons.

No Height Requirement.

4. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Ever wanted to fly the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy? In Galaxy’s Edge, your family makes up the flight crew (Pilots, Gunners, and Engineers).

Why families love it: It’s an active experience. Kids love being in control of the ship, even if they crash it into a few space rocks along the way!

Height Requirement: 38 inches (97 cm).

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Rides for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Under 40")

Hollywood Studios can feel "big," but there is plenty for the little ones. Beyond the rides, don't miss the Disney Junior Play & Dance! and Mickey’s Vacation Fun short film.

Alien Swirling Saucers: A spinning ride that is much gentler than the Teacups at Magic Kingdom. (32" height requirement).

Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy: Not a ride, but a high-tech show featuring a life-sized Lightning McQueen that will mesmerize any Cars fan.

*MuppetVision 3D:** A classic 3D show with practical effects (like bubbles and fog) that generally has very short wait times.

Thrills for Older Kids and Teens

If your family is seeking high-octane excitement, head straight to Sunset Boulevard:

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance: More than a ride, this is an 18-minute immersive experience. It features multiple ride systems, animatronics, and a brief drop. (40" height requirement).

Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: A spooky elevator drop. Best for brave kids over 40".

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith: A high-speed launch coaster that goes upside down. (48" height requirement).

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5 Tips for Navigating Hollywood Studios with Kids

1. Use Rider Switch: If you have a toddler who isn't tall enough for Rise of the Resistance but your older child wants to ride, ask a Cast Member for a "Rider Switch." One parent waits with the small child while the others ride, then the parents swap places without waiting in the full line again. 2. Prioritize Toy Story Land Early: This area of the park has very little shade. Try to knock out Slinky Dog Dash and Toy Story Mania! before 11:00 AM to avoid the midday heat. 3. Book Your Lightning Lanes: Hollywood Studios has some of the longest average wait times at Disney World. Using the Genius+ (Lightning Lane Multi Pass) system is highly recommended here to save hours of standing in line. 4. Mobile Order Your Lunch: Places like Woody’s Lunch Box and Docking Bay 7 get incredibly busy. Order your food via the My Disney Experience app at 10:30 AM for a 12:00 PM pickup to ensure you get a table. 5. Take a Midday Break: The "Frozen Sing-Along Celebration" is the perfect place to sit in air conditioning for 30 minutes while the kids are entertained by hilarious historians and Elsa’s snow magic.

Final Thoughts

Planning your day around the best family rides at Hollywood Studios ensures that everyone—from the thrill-seekers to the toddlers—goes home with a smile. Start your day in Galaxy's Edge or Toy Story Land, use the shows to cool off in the afternoon, and don't forget to grab a Mickey Premium Bar along the way!

Plan around shorter lines

Pick your park and dates. We watch every major ride and text you the moment a wait gets short.

Get ride alerts · from $5/dayAlerts for at least 3 rides or your money back.

Frequently asked questions

What ride has the longest wait at Hollywood Studios?

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance typically has the longest wait times, often exceeding 90-120 minutes. It is best to ride this first thing in the morning or purchase an Individual Lightning Lane.

Are there any rides for babies at Hollywood Studios?

Yes! Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and Toy Story Mania! have no height requirements and are safe for infants. Additionally, many shows like the Frozen Sing-Along and Disney Junior Play & Dance are perfect for babies.

Is Slinky Dog Dash scary?

Slinky Dog Dash is a 'family' coaster. It is faster than The Barnstormer but smoother and less intense than Big Thunder Mountain. It does not go upside down, making it a great 'first big coaster' for kids.