We decided to visit Orlando since a family member was in the Disney College Program, making it the perfect excuse for a trip! Although it was the busiest time of year, as a teacher with school-aged kids, it was the only time we could get away for an extended vacation. We stayed on property at Coronado Springs Resort, which offers Deluxe Hotel amenities at a Moderate price—perfect for our needs. The resort’s perks, like Early Entry and free shuttle transportation to the parks, were especially convenient.

Hollywood Studios became our teens’ favorite park. They loved the rides, the vibe, and the theming. The Aerosmith Rockin’ Roller Coaster (soon to be rethemed to the Muppets) was their top pick. We visited during New Year’s Eve, opting to skip the fireworks and shows at EPCOT and Magic Kingdom, in favor of enjoying shorter lines at Hollywood Studios. This strategy allowed us to ride Tower of Terror and Aerosmith multiple times that night- in fact, we were the last ride of 2023 and the first of 2024!

Our Hollywood Studios Strategy:

1. Rope Drop Rise of the Resistance and Smuggler’s Run (they’re close to each other).

2. Purchase Genie+ or Lightning Lane for Aerosmith and Tower of Terror, or go when other park events are happening.

3. Mickey’s Runaway Railway and Slinky Dog Dash were high priorities for us, so we Rope Dropped them on another day.

Oga’s Cantina was a highlight of our trip. Though the drinks were pre-made and very sweet, being in the Star Wars Cantina made it worth it.

Sci-Fi Drive-In was a fun experience with unique theming and some of the best milkshakes we’ve ever had. We sat in “cars,” ordered burgers and shakes, and watched a black-and-white sci-fi movie. However, the seating made it hard to converse with the rest of our group, especially with five of us.

Hollywood Studios definitely delivered, and we had a blast making the most of our time there!