Disney's Hollywood Studios for kids

This park was formerly known as MGM Studios at Disney but after their existing contract was up Disney opted out and went with the Hollywood Studios name.  Therefore in your searches online you might find some useful information by searching for MGM in Orlando because the park other than the name is the same.  This is typically a half day to one full day park for us and definitely not as much to do as Magic Kingdom or Epcot but still some really fun stuff.  Let's presume the same criteria as my previous theme park posts with kids under the age of 10.

1.  If you have boys or adventuresome girls Star Tours is a must do at this park.  It is modeled after the famous Star Wars saga and the ride is a virtual simulator ride that never moves but gives the appearance of riding a light speed space ship.  If you are motion sensitive at all take a pass on this one and your kids must be 40" tall or they will not allow you on.  In the early summer they have Star Wars weekends which is a blast and I will cover this topic another day!

2.  If you have small kids especially girls The Voyage of the Little Mermaid is a cute little live show and my kids love it.  Smaller children will also really enjoy Playhouse Disney live onstage which is a super interactive show with some of you favorite Playhouse Disney characters and lots of singing and dancing.  The 3-D Muppets is a blast and one of our family favorites, very kid friendly, but fun for all ages.

3.  For the boys and men this place is for you because it has two shows made for guys.  The Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular is loads of fun and they pick people out of the audience to go on stage and perform.  My wife and I have both been chosen on separate trips and it was hysterical.  Then there is Lights, Motor, Action which is a live stage show with fast cars, jet skis, fire, and explosions (need I say more)!  These are both must sees for everyone but especially the boys who desire lots of action.

4.  The characters to see here are wide and diverse from CARS, Power Rangers, Kim Possible, and all the latest characters from the newest Disney movies (UP, Bolt, etc.).

5.  A nighttime spectacular known as Fantasmic is also a must do for everyone but here is something most will not tell you.  The show gets very dark at times and can frighten little kids so be careful and know your child's personality.  If they are small and frighten easily be prepared.  It is not intended to be a scary show but Disney does everything to the extreme and it can be loud and dark at times.  However if they can get passed that this show is incredible!!!!!  I recommend reserved seating by doing the Fantasmic dining package.

6.  Hollywood Studios also gets an honorable mention for two of the best thrill rides anywhere.  Rock 'n' Rollercoaster is where insane speed meets Aerosmith music via a roller coaster.  One of the best first five seconds of your life.  Holllywood Tower of Terror is simply a free fall ride disguised as an elevator shaft with a theme of "Twilight Zone".  I consider both Disney masterpieces, but as far as this article it is not kid friendly (although my 10 year old loves it and has for a couple of years) most children would be intimidated by these rides.  You must be 40" to ride Tower of Terror and 48" to ride Rock 'n' Rollercoaster.

This is last but should be first and it is Toy Story Mania.  This is the longest and hardest attraction to see at Hollywood Studios.  You must arrive at opening to get on this attraction and if the line is too long grab a fastpass to ride later.  Typically by lunchtime all the fastpasses for this ride are dispersed and your stand by time will be pushing 2 hours easily if it is a crowded day!  The ride is 3-D and is modeled after a Midway arcade.  It is a blast and the kids and adults will love it.

The only drawback to this park is the food.  Most of the counter service meals are average at best and the table service meals are also very average.  However the atmosphere at Hollywood Studios is fun and exciting definitely worth the day trip.