5 most underrated attractions at Hollywood Studios

We had a great time last week discussing the most underrated attractions at the Magic Kingdom, so this week we're doing the same at Hollywood Studios.

Hollywood Studios is the home to the Tower of Terror, Rockin' Rollercoaster, Fantasmic, and Toy Story Mania. But there are a lot of "nook and cranny" attractions and shows that you should check out, even if they're not super crowded, or don't seem they're worth the time at first glance. Here's our list of the Top 5 Most Underrated Attractions at Hollywood Studios.

5. Great Movie Ride. Before the Sorcerer's Hat was erected, the Great Movie Ride was the first thing people saw after entering Hollywood Studios, and oftentimes, the first thing people rode for the day. But these days, people usually run past it for a Toy Story Mania Fastpass, or veer off to the right to ride Tower of Terror or Rockin' Rollercoaster. We say -- ride the Great Movie Ride, no matter how outdated the pre- and post-show movie reel may be!

4. Backlot Tour. Many say that this attraction has lost its luster over the years. Production at Hollywood Studios has dwindled over the years, so odds are you won't see any "real" Hollywood magic going on. But we still love Catastrophe Canyon and couldn't imagine a trip to the Studios without a whirl on the Backlot Tour tram.

3. One Man's Dream. This is a great attraction to check out while waiting for your Fastpass window, or need some time in some air conditioning and out of the sun. If you are at all interested in Disney history, this gallery will be a mecca of information for you. It was recently spruced up in fall 2010, so stop by and carve out 30 minutes or so to take it all in.

2. Voyage of the Little Mermaid. Compared to Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage or Finding Nemo: The Musical, Voyage of the Little Mermaid may in fact be the best of the three live stage shows. The unique puppetry and engaging storyline draw you in and make you want to stay Under the Sea with Ariel, Flounder and Sebastian. if you haven't seen it yet, make a point to.

1. The Magic of Disney Animation & Animation Academy. This is an attraction that's changed a lot over the years. There's a film starring Mushu, a demonstration, and a self-guided walking tour, all of which are interesting. But the big star here is the optional Animation Academy, where you can learn to draw a Disney character. Highly recommended!

So what's your list of most underrated attractions at Hollywood Studios? Leave a comment below!

Mase wrote on Mon, 03/14/2011 - 14:41:

Mase's picture

Hollywood Studio's is my favorite park out of the 4 by far. I always enjoyed everything you can do there, and love the atmosphere of it all. Just screams fun at you. To some... I think underrated can mean a lot of things. Like hidden gems. I think the 5 that were picked are very good. Havent done 2 out of them though... but I think just because the Tower of Terror is there... doesnt mean everyone rides it. A lot dont ride it because it drops. To me... its borderline underrated. I think everyone needs to ride it just for the shere atmosphere of it all, and the effects you see in it. Every year I try to get my wife on it, and I cant get her on it. So thats why I kinda deem it underrated.

But when we go back in November... ill have to try that Little Mermaid thing.

Kristen H wrote on Mon, 03/14/2011 - 23:15:

Kristen H's picture

Mase -- great thoughts. I generally don't consider Fastpass-needed or Fastpass-recommended attractions as underrated, but I definitely agree that everyone needs to try Tower of Terror at least once. The detail in the queue alone is enough -- I suppose one could chicken out just before getting strapped in and still get a great look at the atmosphere!

Mase wrote on Tue, 03/15/2011 - 05:09:

Mase's picture

Yeah... right after the video, you can exit out. I have tried to get my wife to just do that... and she doesnt trust me... lol

Kristen H wrote on Wed, 03/16/2011 - 04:46:

Kristen H's picture

Awww -- she's really got to try it once! I don't think Tower of Terror is nearly as scary as Rockin' Rollercoaster or Mission: Space.

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