food IS a theme park
The early years of Disney’s Hollywood Studios can feel like one big trippy dream. There were celebrities, Power Rangers, a fully functioning animation studio, American Idol, book signings, full prop and warehouse tours… You NAME it.
So, what happened to Hollywood Studios’ identity over the years? Or, better question, did it ever fully have a concrete identity to begin with? We’re exploring the HISTORY of Disney World’s third theme park TODAY, on DFB Guide.
If you’re waiting 65 minutes to ride your favorite attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you want to make sure you get a good seat.
Tower of Terror
On some attractions, one row gives you the best view, the biggest thrill, or the best ride photo, while another leaves you staring at the back of someone’s head (or a giant dog’s head — more on that in a sec). Our team has ridden these attractions more times than we can count, and we’ve got opinions. Here are the Hollywood Studios rides where there really is a “good” seat and a “bad” seat.
If you’ve ever tapped a MagicBand to walk into the parks, open your hotel room door, or grab a Mickey Premium Bar without digging for your wallet, you’ve experienced the work of one inventor in particular.
Tron Lightcycle / Run MagicBand+
Now, John Padgett is launching a new venture called Spaxial, an AI-powered platform designed to make visits to theme parks, cruise ships, resorts, casinos, and stadiums feel more personal. Padgett says the goal is to give front-line employees helpful cues so they can spend more time with guests, not to replace them. So what does that mean for your next vacation?
Walking down Main Street, U.S.A. is becoming a little more magical with Mickey-shaped wreaths, tons of Christmas lights, green and red garland, and sometimes, if you’re really patient, SNOW! Okay, it’s not real snow, but it’s still pretty cool.
Christmas Tree Stroll
If we’re talking all that, Christmas is about to hit Disney World, and with all the decorations, there are tons of snacks to enjoy! Disney just released a guide to all the treats coming, and you’ll want to see them all.
If you’re anything like me, you often prioritize which Disney World rides you’re going to head to first thing in the morning LONG before you actually enter that park. Whether it’s the latest new high-tech attraction, your forever favorite ride, or something new and even seasonal… That’s where November 3rd comes in.
Jingle Cruise
That day the Jingle Cruise makes its 2026 debut, and it’s sure to be a MAJOR morning draw for guests heading to the Magic Kingdom. However, if you’re making a trip this holiday season and staying at Disney World, there’s something you NEED to know.
For four weekends a year, Disney World opens its gates early, letting thousands of people run through the parks, earn medals, and get their weekly miles. Because it happens so early in the morning, runDisney almost feels like a secret club you might not even know exists unless you’re driving around Disney World property at 2 AM.
©Disney
With so many extra people going on Disney World trips at the same time, are the crowds worse? What are the wait times? Are there wall-to-wall crowds of people? The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend just passed, and we’re diving into the crowds to see if it’s busier.
Can you believe in a little over a week, we’ll be looking at holiday decorations in the park and looking forward to all kinds of new holiday snacks and drinks (and we are SO ready)? Yep, Halloween will soon be over, and we’ll be gearing up for the holiday season in Disney World, which, in my opinion, brings some of the BEST food to the parks and hotels. Gingerbread everything? Yes, please.
Chocolate Sugar Skull
Well, before we get too excited, we still have to keep an eye on Disney World restaurant menus because they are constantly changing, so let’s talk about all the menu changes we spotted this week.
If you’ve done Disney World or Disneyland a few times, you probably have your park bag down to a science: ponchos, portable charger, Mickey ears, and blister bandages.
Get ready to set sail!
But a Disney Cruise is a totally different kind of vacation, and your tried-and-true park packing list won’t cover everything you’ll want on board. Between relaxing sea days, stateroom living, port adventures, and cruise-only traditions, there are a handful of items that make a big difference at sea. Here’s what we’d add to the suitcase before sailing away.
Even after a long Disney vacation, we often find ourselves craving the feel of a Disney resort.
©Disney
It doesn’t matter how many times we visit the Disney Parks or stay at the Disney hotels — we’re always longing to return. Fortunately, there are TONS of essentials and souvenirs available online that can absolutely hold you over until your next visit! From special cookbooks to Mickey-shaped kitchenware, it’s never been easier to turn your kitchen into a Disney-inspired wonderland!
Okay, so technically it might be just slightly too early to start celebrating Christmas, BUT it’s certainly not too early to start shopping! The Holiday season is right around the corner, and whether you start celebrating and putting up decorations before Halloween or hold off on all festivities until December starts, it is never too early to start shopping.
©Loungefly
Especially when Loungefly just dropped five new bag designs! [Read more…]
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