Last Updated on January 21, 2024 by Goya
Disney Hollywood Studios vs Universal Studios: Things to Know BEFORE Planning Your Trip!
Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Florida are two iconic theme park forces that have shaped Orlando into the ultimate family vacation hotspot that it is today.
These two competing theme park resorts are in a continuous race, persistently striving to innovate, improve, and expand in order to stay one step ahead of each other and captivate their devoted fans. It’s quite a spectacle to see how this friendly rivalry spurs each competitor on, resulting in the creation of novel attractions, theme parks, and entertainment experiences that are a delight to all.
The crux of this rivalry is most evident when comparing their most similar parks: Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios Orlando. These two parks, both located in Orlando and just a few miles apart, may seem confusingly similar at first glance, especially for those planning a visit to Orlando. However, they are indeed worlds apart when it comes to the experiences and attractions they offer.
In this post, we will guide you through these two parks, exploring what they share in common, what sets them apart, and the unique experiences you can encounter at each. We’ll break down this analysis into a few categories to help you make an informed decision and get the most out of your Orlando adventure!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios, located in Bay Lake, Florida, is one of the four theme parks within the Walt Disney World Resort. It’s a celebration of the golden age of Hollywood, with attractions that take you behind the scenes of some of your favourite movies making it particularly attractive for adults (as well as kids!).
One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, a thrilling drop ride set in an eerie, deserted hotel. For Star Wars fans, Galaxy’s Edge provides an immersive experience unlike any other, with its impressive Millennium Falcon ride and Rise of the Resistance adventure.
The park also offers live shows like Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage and Fantasmic! and features a lot of character interactions, meet and greets, and kid-friendly rides.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios Florida in Orlando takes you into the heart of pop culture, with attractions based on popular films and TV shows. This park is well-known for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Diagon Alley, where you can step into the magical world of Harry, Hermione, and Ron.
Thrill-seekers will love rides like Revenge of the Mummy and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit (and my facouvirte, the absolutely breathtaking Jurassic World VelociCoaster!), while younger guests can enjoy gentler attractions such as Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.
Universal Studios also offers incredible live shows, including The Blues Brothers Show and Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios vs Universal Studios Florida
When choosing between Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios Florida, there are some important factors to consider like ticket prices, the number of rides and attractions available, and the thrill level of those attractions. Let’s explore them all together:
#1: Theme and Attractions
Disney’s Hollywood Studios, part of the Walt Disney World Resort, is known for its attractions based on beloved Disney movies and franchises. From the intergalactic adventures in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to the animated fun of Toy Story Land, there’s something for every Disney fan. The park also offers thrilling rides like Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (currently closed), alongside family-friendly attractions like Muppet Vision 3D.
On the other hand, Universal Studios Florida, part of the Universal Orlando Resort, delivers excitement with attractions based on popular movies and franchises. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a standout, offering immersive experiences like Diagon Alley and the Hogwarts Express. Other notable attractions include Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Transformers: The Ride-3D.
Star Wars lovers looking for out-of-this-world adventures here on our home planet are sure to enjoy a visit to Kennedy Space Center!
#2: Number of Rides and Attractions
Disney’s Hollywood Studios has more than 40 unique attractions, including 8 exhilarating rides, numerous interactive experiences, and engaging live shows. The park is divided into several themed lands, such as Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
A key highlight of Disney’s Hollywood Studios is its extensive Star Wars selection. Both children and adults can dive into a space-faring journey at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Here, they can steer the Millennium Falcon, engage in combat against the First Order, and even construct their own lightsaber. Beyond the Star Wars universe, the park caters to a wide array of ages and preferences with its diverse range of attractions. Whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping Tower of Terror ride or the fun-filled Slinky Dog Dash, there’s an adventure for every visitor.
Universal Studios Florida boasts over 50 attractions, including 16 thrilling rides, many interactive experiences, and a range of live shows. The park features several immersive lands, like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with Diagon Alley and Springfield, home of The Simpsons.
A standout attraction is the Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Florida’s fastest and tallest launch coaster, offering thrill-seekers a unique experience of racing alongside a pack of velociraptors, making it an unmissable part of any visit to Universal Studios Florida.
#3: Shows and Entertainment
Both parks go beyond rides with a variety of shows and entertainment options. Disney’s Hollywood Studios features live shows or singalongs like Fantasmic!, Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage, Frozen and Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!, along with character meet and greets with your favorite Disney characters.
At Universal Studios Florida, you can enjoy shows like Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show or Race Through New York with Jimmy Fallon. Plus, you’ll get the chance to interact with characters from various franchises, adding to the overall experience.
Entertainment at both parks extends beyond traditional shows and areas, evolving into immersive experiences.
A prime example is Oga’s Cantina at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where guests can plan their next Star Wars smuggling run while sipping their cocktails and enjoying music from droid DJ R-3X, a former Starspeeder 3000 pilot.
#4: Ticket Prices and Line Skipping Options
Ticket prices for both parks vary depending on the season and the day of visit.
As of January 2024, a one-day ticket to Disney’s Hollywood Studios starts at $129, but prices can vary depending on the date (and between adults and children). At Universal Studios Florida, one-day tickets start at $109. Again, prices can fluctuate based on the date and age.
Both parks offer discounts for multi-day tickets and options to skip the lines. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can use Lightning Lanes (individually or via Disney’s Genie+), while at Universal Studios Orlando, you have the Universal Express Pass.
#5: Thrill Factor and Age Suitability
While both parks cater to all ages, they each have a different focus.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios tends to emphasize family-friendly attractions with lower height requirements, making it a great choice for families with young children. So you’ll find mild rides suitable for younger children, like Toy Story Mania, alongside more thrilling rides such as the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
Universal Studios Orlando, meanwhile, offers more thrilling rides perfect for tweens, teens, and adults seeking an adrenaline rush. Attractions like Jurassic World VelociCoaster, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Revenge of the Mummy and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit provide high-speed excitement.
#6: Dining
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, dining is an immersive experience that complements the park’s themes. For instance, the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant is a throwback to drive-in theaters, complete with movie clips and a star-studded atmosphere. The Hollywood Brown Derby is consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the park, known for its iconic status. There’s also Woody’s Lunchbox which offers great breakfast and lunch options.
But my absolute favourite would have to be Oga’s Cantina — a Star Wars-themed cocktail bar:
On the other hand, Universal Studios Orlando also offers a variety of dining experiences. CityWalk, the dining and entertainment hub of Universal Orlando Resort, features a range of eateries from fast food to fine dining.
Some popular dining locations include The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, known for its eclectic steampunk-themed decor and decadent desserts, and Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, where guests can enjoy traditional Mexican dishes while listening to live mariachi music.
While both parks offer unique dining experiences, Disney’s Hollywood Studios stands out for its themed dining that enhances the overall park experience. Universal Studios Orlando, however, offers a more diverse range of cuisine, particularly in CityWalk.
Which is Better: Universal Studios or Disney’s Hollywood Studios?
Both Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios Florida offer amazing experiences, but the best one for you depends on your budget, the kind of attractions you enjoy, and the level of thrill you’re seeking.
If you’re a huge Star Wars fan, love the magic of Disney, and are travelling with young children, then Disney’s Hollywood Studios may be your best bet.
On the other hand, if you’re into Harry Potter, love thrilling rides, and prefer more adult-oriented entertainment, then Universal Studios Florida might be the right choice for you.
With both parks offering incredible experiences that are worth exploring, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories, no matter which one you choose!
LIKE THIS POST? SAVE IT FOR LATER:
