The Perfect Travel Guide for Women Who Need a Little Magic Again
And 2026 happens to be a fantastic year to plan a visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The park is in a transformation stage — new openings, refreshed favorites, and some big expansions underway. Here’s the honest, up-to-date rundown to help you plan wisely.
✨ What’s New and Fresh in 2026
Hollywood Studios is polishing itself for a new era of storytelling. In 2026, you’ll find:
🎥 The Walt Disney Studios (formerly Animation Courtyard)
This newly re-imagined area will celebrate the art of Disney animation. Inside “The Magic of Disney Animation,” you can expect hands-on creativity, animation-style storytelling, and chances to meet beloved characters from Disney’s animated films. A great option for a slower-paced, immersive moment in your day.
🎸 Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets — Opening 2026
Same thrilling coaster you may know — totally new Muppet-styled twist.
Expect music, mayhem, and that wild Electric Mayhem energy. If you still like a good adrenaline rush — this one’s for you.
🚀 Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Updated Missions — Starting May 22, 2026
For fans of The Mandalorian, this refresh brings Din Djarin and Grogu into the story. If you’ve done the ride before, it’s now worth doing again.
🏗 Construction in 2026: What to Expect
A Monsters, Inc.-themed land is actively being built — including a brand-new ride concept for Disney. It won’t be open yet, so expect some closed-off pathways and construction walls, especially in the former Muppets area.
The trade-off?
You’re getting ahead of the crowds who will flood the park once that land officially opens.
🎢 The Attractions That Make Your Day Magical
Whether you’re bringing teens, girlfriends, or embracing a solo adventure, these are the backbone of the park — and still top-tier:
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Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance — one of the most ambitious attractions Disney has ever created
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The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror — chilling, thrilling, nostalgic
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Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway — whimsical and delightful at any age
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Slinky Dog Dash — pure fun with a smile-on-your-face coaster
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Toy Story Mania! — lighthearted game-style fun
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The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure — a great mid-day break + classic Disney magic
It’s a solid lineup — especially when you plan smart.
🧭 Tips for Women Who Want to Maximize Joy (Not Exhaustion)
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Don’t rush from ride to ride — mix shows with thrills
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Arrive early for Slinky Dog Dash or Rise of the Resistance
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Choose one big “new” thing as your priority for the day
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Give yourself permission to enjoy every moment — the laughs, the snacks, the silly photos
This isn’t about pushing yourself — it’s about treating yourself.
💫 Why Hollywood Studios in 2026 Just Makes Sense
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You get brand-new experiences
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You avoid the “grand-opening chaos” of future years
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There’s still plenty open right now to fill a full and fabulous day
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It’s a sweet spot between nostalgia and what’s next
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to go — 2026 may be exactly when you need this.
Ready to start planning?
Contact me at mspanostravels@gmail.com
— Michelle Spanos
Travel Agent and lover of a good size locker at a theme park.
