What To Do At Disney’s Hollywood Studios After Dark



Buzz Lightyear

Many guests aim to arrive at the Disney parks as soon as they open in the morning. It’s true that mornings give guests an advantage for their day as lines are shorter and other guests can be slow to begin their days. Daytime at the parks gives guests entertainment like parades, shows, and roaming performers. But what about Disney after dark? Once night falls, the magic doesn’t end! In fact, there are plenty of things to do in the Disney parks once the sun goes down. If you have a trip to Disney’s Hollywood Studios planned, then check out what you can do after dark.

Watch Fantasmic! Nighttime Spectacular

Fantasmic! is Hollywood Studios’ crown jewel of nighttime entertainment. This deluxe stage show runs twice nightly, currently at 9pm and 10:30pm but these times are subject to change. Watch as Mickey finds the Sorcerer’s Hat and fights a battle against evil. Guests can see all of their favorite characters during this spectacular show including Moana, Anna and Elsa, Ariel, and so many more. Guests can also witness the Disney villains in action during this exciting and magical stage show experience.

Mickey Mouse Fantasmic
Mickey Mouse Fantasmic. Photo: Emily Murray

Enjoy the Wonderful World of Animation Projection Show

While Disney’s Hollywood Studios currently does not have a fireworks show, they do have a projection show on the Chinese Theater. Guests can watch The Wonderful World of Animation come to life at 9pm during this 12-minute-long projection show. This is a low-key way to end your day at Hollywood Studios while you watch a tribute to animation and Disney films.

Wonderful World of Animation
Wonderful World of Animation. Photo: Disney

Revisit Areas for Enhanced Lighting and New Experiences

Areas of the park like Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land can look completely different at night. There are also attractions like Tower of Terror that can feel different after dark. Once night falls, walk around the park and revisit areas that you only saw during the day. You might be surprised at how different they feel.

Tower of Terror
Tower of Terror at Night. Photo: Disney

Enjoy Lower Wait Times on Popular Attractions

Many guests don’t realize that nighttime is a great time to take advantage of some shorter wait times for popular attractions. Guests can get in line for attractions right up until the minute the park closes. By getting in line right before closing guests are able to experience shorter wait times as the Lightning Lanes are empty after park hours. This makes the standard line move twice as fast! After dark is a great time to hop in line for popular attractions.

Rise of the Resistance
Rise of the Resistance. Photo: Disney

Take Your Time Exiting the Park

Don’t rush out of the park once it closes at night! Take your time leaving and soak in all of the nighttime atmosphere. This is also a great time to take photos with nearly empty backgrounds!

Jollywood
Decor at Disney’s Jollywood Nights.

Do you enjoy staying at the parks after nightfall? What is your favorite thing to do at Hollywood Studios after dark? We want to hear from you in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.

Written by

Megan Woodard


Contributing Writer

Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her family. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.

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