There’s a shift happening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and not in a good way.
We’re hearing from more and more Disney adults who are feeling over it when it comes to certain trends in the park. Whether it’s the vibes in Galaxy’s Edge, endless construction, or subpar food options, something just feels…off. If you’ve walked through DHS lately and found yourself thinking, “This used to be better,” you are absolutely not alone.
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The Galaxy’s Edge Magic Isn’t What It Used to Be
For a while, Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios felt like stepping onto another planet. The Cast Members were in it. They greeted you with “Bright Suns,” they used credits instead of dollars, and if you dared mention Earth things like “bathrooms,” they’d kindly redirect you to the “refreshers.”
But lately? The immersion is fading. At Disneyland, the Batuu magic is still going strong—CMs are chatting in character, staying in-world, and helping the land feel alive. At DHS, though, it’s starting to feel more like just another Star Wars-themed area than a functioning outpost in a galaxy far, far away. The Cast Members are still friendly, of course, but the little details that made the land feel so immersive just aren’t as consistent anymore. And Disney adults notice. We remember when this land opened and how wild it felt to be part of that world. It’s hard not to miss that energy.
Construction Fatigue Is REAL
We get it. Parks evolve. Things change. But it’s starting to feel like half of Hollywood Studios is always behind a construction wall. Right now, the entire Muppets Courtyard is shut down as Disney works on the upcoming Monsters, Inc. land. Cool idea? Sure. But when that whole corner of the park is closed off, it really messes with the flow—and that section had some good spots to chill and escape the crowds.
A lot of Disney adults are already tired of the construction without clear timelines. And it’s not just about the blocked paths. It’s the noise, the crowds cramming into fewer walkways, and the general vibe shift when huge parts of the park feel like a worksite. We’re all for exciting new lands, but DHS already feels like one of the more compact parks. Cutting off major sections just makes it feel more crowded, more chaotic, and honestly less fun.
The Quick Service Struggle Is Getting Old
This one’s been an issue for a while, but it’s worth repeating: the quick service dining scene at Hollywood Studios needs help. Yes, there are a few solid options—Docking Bay 7 and ABC Commissary come to mind—but a lot of the offerings are just not it. Backlot Express is fine if you’re looking for basic chicken tenders and burgers, but it’s not something to get excited about.
And let’s talk about seating. Too many of the quick service spots have outdoor seating only, which might be okay in the cooler months but feels like a punishment during Florida summer. Who wants to sit in direct sun trying to eat soggy fries and lukewarm nachos? No one. That’s who.
For a park that gets packed and has guests rope-dropping at sunrise, there should be more decent, indoor, air-conditioned food options that don’t require a reservation. Right now, if you didn’t snag a table service spot in advance, your options are limited—and that’s not cutting it for a lot of regulars.
The truth is, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has some of the most popular attractions on property. Rise of the Resistance, Tower of Terror, Slinky Dog Dash—there are heavy-hitters here. But between the fading immersion, the constant construction zones, and the food that’s just barely average, a lot of Disney adults are feeling like the park isn’t living up to its potential right now.
And to be clear, it’s not about hating on change. It’s about caring enough to want better. We remember what this park was like a few years ago. We know how magical Galaxy’s Edge felt when it first opened. We know the impact that great theming and thoughtful food options can have on a day in the parks.
So here’s hoping Disney is listening. Because we’re not asking for anything over-the-top—just to bring back the things that made this park feel special to begin with.
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NEW Permits Filed for Animation Courtyard Overhaul at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
What trend are you done with at Hollywood Studios? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
The original Hollywood Studios was all about live entertainment with the talented Citizens of Hollywood who interacted with each other and with guests. They made the park so fun that we purposely went to DHS multiple times to catch as many performances as we could!
Yes, we agree that there are too few indoor quick-service places to eat and cool off!
Newsflash-It’s NOT just “Disney adults” who are annoyed with things. I am an adult, I go to Disney, but am well aware that it’s also a place for families, for anyone. All of these things bother any age or demographic.
It’s a problem across at least 3 of the parks. I remember when Pirates CM would you greet you with Ahoy and maintained their persona and told dumb pirate dad jokes with each other. The cultural reps in Epcot are all but gone except for a few here and there. Talking to them about home was so on keeping with the countries you were in.
And construction fatigue IS real. They really no longer try to mask it. You just have these walls and hear the noise and ick.