Hey guys! I'm back with more
Disney World info, to hopefully help you plan your best possible
vacation. In my last post, I covered how Fastpass+ works, and the
process of booking them. In this post, I'll talk about which
attractions have Fastpasses, and which ones (from my experience) are
the most important. I'll also cover which rides are more suited for
young children. Nabbing the right Fastpasses is essential to getting
the most out of your trip, because no one, especially toddlers, likes
standing in long lines. But with so many options out there, it can
be a little overwhelming to try to decide which three to go for! I'm
going to do my best to give you some more confidence in your
decision, though of course the final decision will be up to you based
on what your child likes and what is most important to your family.
As I stated last time, most wait
times that I mention are going to be based on my own off-season
visits, so if you're planning a peak season trip, the times will most
likely be longer. Also, keep in mind that any ride or show is going
to have the shortest wait times first thing in the morning or late in
the evening, so it is possible to catch some of the most popular
rides without a Fastpass if you can get there early or stay late.
When it comes to shows and
character meetings, the first things you're going to want to do when
you get to any park is grab a map (there is a map on the Disney World
app, but the paper version is much easier to read) and a Times Guide.
The Times Guide will tell you when all the show performances are,
where and when you can find the characters, plus other information
about any attractions with special times (early closings, etc.).
In all honesty, I haven't been to Disney World enough times to experience everything they have to offer. But I have tried to be up front about what I don't know as much about (everything in Animal Kingdom, for instance!), and I have also done a good amount of research for this post on wait times, age level, etc.
This is going to be a long post
with a lot of information stuffed inside! But to try to make it a
little easier on you, I've included a recap at the end of each park
with which Fastpasses are priority.
Magic Kingdom
Unlike the rest of the parks, there is
no tier system for the attractions at Magic Kingdom, which means any
three Fastpasses are up for grabs.
Fastpass+ Available:
RIDES
The Barnstormer – 35” or taller
– a small, outdoor rollercoaster. I've never personally been on
the ride, but off-season wait times seem to average 20-45 minutes.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad –
40” or taller – a mild rollercoaster. Wait times almost always
exceed an hour, so you'll want a Fastpass.
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
– any height – ride with laser guns, fun for all ages. One of
our personal favorites! Wait times are often 45 minutes or more, so
it's definitely a good idea to try to get this one, though it could
be possible to catch it at a shorter time if you keep checking.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant – any
height – wait times often go up to 45 minutes, but slack off later
in the day. There is also a new interactive waiting area to keep the
kids occupied if the wait does get long. I would not use one of my
Fastpasses for this ride.
Haunted Mansion – any height –
even though it's a “silly” ride, it will probably be too scary
for most young children. Wait times are mostly over 45 minutes, so
Fastpass is recommended.
It's a Small World – any height –
one of the most classic Disney World rides, and little ones love it.
Wait times seem to be longer lately than ever before, but still don't
usually go above 30 minutes, so you don't really need a Fastpass for
this one.
Jungle Cruise – any height – a
cheesy but classic boat ride. The ride features animatronic animals,
which are not scary by themselves, but some tour guides may try to
“spook” you a little. Wait times tend to be 30 minutes or more.
Mad Tea Party – any height –
classic spinning tea cup ride. Generally has short wait times,
Fastpass should not be needed.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin –
any height – similar to the Dumbo ride, fun for all ages. Another
of our favorites! Wait times can be long in the middle of the day,
but stay short in the late afternoon and evening. Fastpass should
not be needed.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the
Pooh – any height – fun ride through scenes of The Blustery Day,
great for all ages. You'll feel like you're bouncing with Tigger,
floating in the flood, and more! Wait times tend to be 30 minutes or
more, so a Fastpass is a good idea.
Peter Pan's Flight – any height –
one of the classics, and great for little ones. Wait times almost
always exceed an hour, so Fastpass is a must.
Pirates of the Caribbean –any
height – includes a small drop, and the imagery is a bit scary and
violent, so I'd skip this one with little kids. It's been a while
since I've been on this ride, but Fastpass is probably a good idea on
busier days.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train – 38”
of taller – a mild outdoor rollercoaster, one of the newest
additions. Wait times are almost always over an hour, so you'll need
a Fastpass for this one.
Space Mountain – 44” or taller
– indoor rollercoaster in the dark. A personal favorite of mine!
No huge drops, but still pretty intense. Wait times are almost
always over an hour.
Splash Mountain – 40” or taller
– water ride with a large drop at the end. Wait times are almost
always over an hour, so you'll want a Fastpass to ride this one.
Tomorrowland Speedway – 32” or
taller – some toddlers may be too short to ride, but it is fun for
little ones to be able to drive their own racecar. Wait times are
often at least 30 minutes, but sometimes drop on slower days, so you
could go either way with the Fastpass on this one.
Under the Sea – any height –
fun ride through the scenes of the Little Mermaid for all ages. Even
though it's new, wait times seem to be staying mostly under 30
minutes, so a Fastpass is probably not needed here.
SHOWS
Enchanted Tales with Belle – an interactive re-telling of Beauty and the Beast. I have not seen the show since it changed locations, but others online are recommending the Fastpass because of the low capacity of the seating area.
Mickey's PhilarMagic – a 3D movie that's lots of fun for children and adults. If young children don't like the 3D effect, they can watch without the glasses and still enjoy it. Shows are every 15 minutes and the auditorium is large, so Fastpass is not necessary.
Monster's Inc. Laugh Floor – the humor, though clean and hilarious, is geared more towards adults and teens. Children who have seen the movie may still enjoy the show, though. Shows are every 15 minutes and the auditorium is large, so Fastpass is not necessary.
CHARACTERS
Ariel – located next to the Under the Sea ride in the new section of Fantasyland. Wait times are often 30 minutes or more, but on slower days also frequently drop lower. A Fastpass would definitely be good in busier times, but in the off-season probably not necessary.
Cinderella and Elena – located in Princess Fairytale Hall, in the main section of Fantasyland, next to PhilarMagic. The two princesses are in the same room together. This line can be caught at 25 or 30 minutes, but is usually longer, so a Fastpass would be a good idea.
Mickey Mouse – located in Town Square. I believe this is the new “talking Mickey”, which I have not seen but have heard is a neat experience. Wait times seem to be running an hour or more most of the time.
Rapunzel and Tiana – located in Princess Fairytale Hall, in the main section of Fantasyland, next to PhilarMagic. The two princesses are in the same room together. This line runs much shorter than its neighboring princess line, so I would not use a Fastpass on it.
Tinker Bell – located in Town Square. Wait times are usually only around 15 or 20 minutes, so I would not use a Fastpass for this meet.
No Fastpass+ Available:
RIDES
Astro Orbiter – any height –
similar to Dumbo, but with a great, high-up view of Magic Kingdom.
Wait times are usually 40 minutes or more.
Carousel of Progress – any height
– another classic that I have never done, this is a look at how
technology has changed through the years. It's more of a show than a
ride, though the seats do move, and will probably be a little boring
for little ones. Wait times are very short.
Liberty Square Riverboat – any
height – a 17 minute riverboat ride. I've only been on it once as
a pre-teen and found it pretty boring, but younger children may enjoy
it more. Wait times should not be long.
Prince Charming Regal Carousel –
any height – classic carousel. Wait times rarely exceed 15
minutes.
Tomorrowland Transit Authority
PeopleMover – any height – a fun, relaxing train-type ride that
takes you all around Tomorrowland. The concept is very simple, but
it's still one of our favorites. Wait times can go up to 15 minutes
but you can often walk right on.
Walt Disney World Railroad – any
height – a 20 minute scenic tour of Magic Kingdom. There are 3
different stops around the park, so you can get on or off anytime.
Trains are scheduled to arrive every 4-10 minutes.
SHOWS
Captain Jack Sparrow's Pirate
Tutorial – an interactive show, geared more toward slightly older
children. Learn swordfighting with Captain Jack and Gibbs. There
are 6 shows a day, once every hour.
Country Bear Jamboree – I have
not seen this, but it's a classic show with animatronic singing bears
that people say little children love. Shows run every 17 minutes and
rarely have a wait time longer than that.
Enchanted Tiki Room – another
classic featuring singing animatronic birds. Shows run every 15
minutes and there is never really a wait.
Festival of Fantasy Parade – this
is a newer version of the daytime parade, and we really enjoyed it.
It starts at the entrance to Magic Kingdom, goes down Main Street,
then turns to go through Liberty Square and Adventureland. Most
people recommend picking out a spot to watch at least half an hour
beforehand, but it is possible on slower days to arrive closer to 10
minutes ahead and get a decent spot in some areas. There is only one
showing, and it is at 3 pm.
Hall of Presidents – another show
I have not seen, but I would guess that young children would not be
very interested. Features all of the U.S. Presidents, either as wax
figures or animatronics that give speeches. Shows run every 21
minutes, and the theater has a very large capacity.
Happily Ever After – the
nighttime fireworks, projection, and laser show. You can watch the
fireworks from many places in the park, but if you want to see the
cool projections on the castle you'll have to be right in front of
the castle. You will need to arrive plenty early to claim a decent
spot for this one. The show starts at 7:55 pm.
Let the Magic Begin – if you're
on your game enough to make it to the opening of the park, Mickey and
friends kick off the day with a show in front of the castle at 8:55
am.
Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire –
this is the current show in front of the castle, featuring Mickey and
friends as well as characters from Princess and the Frog, Tangled,
and Frozen. There are 5 performances per day. It's a good idea to
arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of time to get a good view.
Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play
It! Street Party – several parade type floats with characters on
them gather in front of the castle for a dance party, then have a
mini parade back up Main Street when they leave. There are 3
performances per day.
Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse –
this isn't actually a show, but for lack of a better place I'll
include it here. Self-guided walk through of a mulit-level tree
house modeled after the Swiss Family Robinson's.
CHARACTERS
Aladdin and Jasmine – located
near the Magic Carpet ride in Adventureland until evening. Note:
Jasmine and sometimes Aladdin can also be seen in Epcot.
Alice – can be found only in the
mornings near the Mad Tea Party ride in Fantasyland. Though not
listed on the Disney website, some people have reported seeing the
White Rabbit with her. Note: Alice can also be seen in Epcot.
Anastasia and Drizella – can
sometimes be seen in various spots in the main part of Fantasyland.
Buzz Lightyear – located outside
throughout the day near the Space Ranger Spin ride in Tomorrowland.
Note: Buzz can also be found in Hollywood Studios.
Circus Stars – meet Minnie,
Goofy, Donald, and Daisy dressed as circus stars in the circus area
of Fantasyland (formerly Toontown). There are two different queues,
one for Minnie and Daisy and one for Goofy and Donald. Note: All of
these characters can be seen elsewhere, but in different costumes.
Disney Pals – located in Town
Square off and on until early afternoon. Various characters have
been seen, including Pluto, Snow White, Stitch, and Mary Poppins.
Note: All of these except Stitch can also be seen in Epcot.
Fairy Godmother – I have not
personally seen her recently, but I have heard that she can sometimes
be seen in Fantasyland.
Gaston – can be found near his
tavern in the new part of Fantasyland on and off until afternoon.
Merida – located in Fairytale
Garden (to the right of the castle) throughout the day until evening.
Peter Pan – can be found off and
on throughout the day until evening, around the corner behind the
Peter Pan ride.
Pooh and Tigger – there is an
official queue complete with wait time clock right next to the Pooh
ride. They are there most of the day, but the wait times seem to
stay over 30 minutes.
Woody and Jessie – I have not
personally seen them in Magic Kingdom, but have heard that they can
be found in Frontierland, across from The Golden Horseshoe.
Fastpass Recap for Magic Kingdom
DEFINITELY WANT
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
The Many Adventures of Winnie the
Pooh
Peter Pan's Flight
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Space Mountain
Splash Mountain
Meet Mickey Mouse
PROBABLY WANT
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
Haunted Mansion
Enchanted Tales with Belle
Meet Cinderella and Elena
GOOD ON BUSY DAYS
The Barnstormer
Jungle Cruise
Pirates of the Caribbean
Tomorrowland Speedway
Under the Sea
Meet Ariel
DON'T NEED
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
It's a Small World
Mad Tea Party
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Mickey's PhilarMagic
Monster's Inc. Laugh Floor
Meet Rapunzel and Tiana
Meet Tinker Bell
Epcot
The remainder of the parks use a
tier system for their Fastpasses. You may choose one Fastpass from
Tier 1, and the other two from Tier 2.
Fastpass+ Available:
Tier 1 - choose one
RIDES
Frozen Ever After – any height –
a brand new ride, this was my whole family's favorite from our trip!
It has fun animatronics and effects, music, and you get to ride
backwards part of the ride. There are two small drops, but my little
ones were both ok with that. Also, you will most likely get wet.
Wait times are always over an hour, and it's located in the back of
the park so it's difficult to get to first thing in the morning. A
Fastpass is a must.
Living with the Land – any height
– it's been years since I was on this ride, but as an older child I
found it very boring. It's a slow boat ride that talks about plants
and farming, but it somehow always seems to have a pretty long line.
If you want to ride it, a Fastpass is a good idea, but if you have
young children I would skip it.
Soarin' – 40” or taller –
this ride is a lot of fun, and I would definitely recommend if your
children are tall enough or if you want to just ride it yourself.
It's a motion ride that lifts you up in the air, so don't ride if you
have a problem with heights. Lines are always very long, so you'll
want a Fastpass if you can. If you choose to use your Tier 1
Fastpass on something else, you can try to catch Soarin' first thing
in the morning or maybe late in the evening and get a shorter line.
Test Track – 40” or taller –
I haven't been on the newest version of this ride, but I hear it's
still a lot of fun. Kids will enjoy it if they are tall enough, or
adults can enjoy it by themselves. The main part of the ride is
pretty mild, then it ends with an up to 65 mph loop around the
outside of the ride. Fastpass is great for this if you're not
planning on riding Frozen or Soarin', but the wait times do tend to
be slightly shorter for this one. Again, try to catch it first thing
in the morning or late in the evening for your best chance.
SHOWS
Illuminations – this is the
nighttime laser show. First of all, we weren't very impressed by it
the one time we watched, but I know that many people do like it. Second, a Fastpass doesn't get you much,
just a roped off area to stand in. Arrive a little early and skip
the Fastpass for this one.
Tier 2 - choose two
RIDES
Journey Into Imagination with
Figment – any height – this is a silly, colorful ride good for
young kids. It hardly ever has a wait, only 15 minutes or so at the
most, so a Fastpass is not needed. The ride lets out into an
interactive area where kids can run off some energy and play some
games with sound.
Mission: Space – 40” or taller
– a simulation ride of a launch into space. This is a pretty
intense ride, though there are (or at least were on the original
ride; it has been recently redone) two different versions of the ride
to choose from, one milder than the other. Wait times don't seem to
be too awful, but this is probably the only other ride that you would
really want to use a Fastpass on.
The Seas with Nemo & Friends –
any height – a fun little ride through some scenes of the movie,
good for kids. The ride lets out into a real aquarium that you can
walk through at your leisure. Also don't forget to check out the
“mine mine” seagulls outside the entrance to the ride! Wait
times are never long for this ride, so a Fastpass shouldn't be
needed.
Spaceship Earth – any height –
this is the classic ride inside “the big ball”, as we always call
it. A slow moving ride through the history of communication, ending
with an interactive video forecasting your future. The ride itself
could be a little boring for some kids - though my three year old
seemed to enjoy it - but the animated video with your faces inserted
is fun for them to watch. Just make sure they get up high enough at
the very beginning of the ride so that their faces can be seen in the
picture! Wait times for this ride are a bit long when you first
walk into the park, since it's the first ride that you see, but if
you skip it and come back later you should be able to walk right on
without a Fastpass.
SHOWS
Disney & Pixar Short Film
Festival – a 4D showing of Pixar's most popular short films. Shows
are every 18 minutes, so a Fastpass should not be necessary.
CHARACTERS
Epcot Character Spot – meet
Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy all in one room. This is located in Future
World, just behind Spaceship Earth. The line is usually over 30
minutes, so this is a great Fastpass to have. Also, Chip and Dale
sometimes hang out nearby, but are not included in the Fastpass.
Turtle Talk with Crush – any
height – in the same building with the Nemo ride, this is an
on-screen interactive session with the surfer dude turtle from the
movie. A lot of fun for those who have seen the movie in particular.
The wait time for this should not be long enough to warrant a
Fastpass.
No Fastpass+ Available:
RIDES
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three
Caballeros – any height – located inside the Mexico temple, this
is a Small World-esque ride featuring funny video clips of Donald and
the Caballeros. I've heard rumor that this will soon be changed over
to a Coco-themed ride, though, so if you want to see the Three
Caballeros now is your chance! Wait times are usually very short for
this ride.
SHOWS
Each pavilion in the World Showcase
has at least one show, whether it be musicians, acrobats, a street
performer, or a movie. I have not seen most of them, so I won't try
to give overviews. None of them should have long wait times, and
most of the street performers and musicians you'll just kind of
“happen upon”. The only one that I know you should try to find a
seat early for is the Chinese acrobats, who perform 5 times in the
afternoon and evening.
CHARACTERS
Anna and Elsa – located in the
Norway pavilion, in a building called Royal Sommerhaus. Despite the
long wait time for the Frozen ride, the characters' line seems to be
staying at 20 minutes or less.
Alice – located outdoors in the
United Kingdom pavilion. In the instance of rain, it's possible that
her meeting spot may be moved indoors, though I'm not sure of the
exact location. Like many of the characters in Epcot, she comes out
every hour, but they cut the line off after 15 or 20 minutes. Pay
attention to your Times Guide and make sure you get there as close as
you can to the times listed. Note: Alice can also be found in Magic
Kingdom.
Aurora – can be found in the
France pavilion, under a gazebo off to the side. Like many of the
characters in Epcot, she comes out every hour, but they cut the line
off after 15 or 20 minutes. Pay attention to your Times Guide and
make sure you get there as close as you can to the times listed.
Baymax – can be found across from
the Epcot Character Spot in Future World, he can be seen throughout
the day.
Belle – located outdoors in the
France pavilion, right next to the lagoon. In the instance of rain,
her meeting spot should be moved indoors into one of the French
stores. Like many of the characters in Epcot, she comes out every
hour, but they cut the line off after 15 or 20 minutes. Pay
attention to your Times Guide and make sure you get there as close as
you can to the times listed.
Daisy Duck – can be found just
inside the main gate, before you go under Spaceship Earth, on and off
for most of the day. Note: You can also see Daisy in Hollywood
Studios.
Donald Duck – can be found
outdoors in the Mexico pavilion, dressed in a colorful poncho and
sombrero. His meeting spot is a little set back off the main path,
just past the temple. He is there through most of the afternoon and
evening. Note: You can also see Donald in Hollywood Studios, but
not in Mexican garb.
Jasmine – can be found in the
very back of the Morocco pavilion in an indoor location. I believe
that Aladdin joins her sometimes. Like many of the characters in
Epcot, she comes out every hour, but they cut the line off after 15
or 20 minutes. Pay attention to your Times Guide and make sure you
get there as close as you can to the times listed. Note: Aladdin and
Jasmine can also be found in Magic Kingdom.
Joy and Sadness – the main
characters from “Inside Out” are located in Future World, near
Baymax and the Epcot Character Spot. They will be there all day
long.
Mary Poppins – located in the
United Kingdom pavilion. I believe she has an outdoor meeting spot,
but should be moved inside in case of rain. Like many of the
characters in Epcot, she comes out every hour, but they cut the line
off after 15 or 20 minutes. Pay attention to your Times Guide and
make sure you get there as close as you can to the times listed.
Note: You can also sometimes see Mary in Magic Kingdom.
Mulan – located just outside the
temple in the China pavilion. In case of rain, her meeting spot is
moved inside the temple. Like many of the characters in Epcot, she
comes out every hour, but they cut the line off after 15 or 20
minutes. Pay attention to your Times Guide and make sure you get
there as close as you can to the times listed.
Pluto – can be found under a
shelter near the entrance into World Showcase (Mexico side). Like
many of the characters in Epcot, he comes out every hour, but they
cut the line off after 15 or 20 minutes. Pay attention to your Times
Guide and make sure you get there as close as you can to the times
listed. Note: Pluto can also be seen in Magic Kingdom and Hollywood
Studios.
Snow White – can be found in an
outdoor location in the Germany pavilion. She probably has an indoor
spot in case of rain, but I'm not sure where exactly it is. Like
many of the characters in Epcot, she comes out every hour, but they
cut the line off after 15 or 20 minutes. Pay attention to your Times
Guide and make sure you get there as close as you can to the times
listed. Note: Snow White can also sometimes be seen in Magic
Kingdom.
Fastpass Recap for Epcot
DEFINITELY WANT
Tier 1 – either Frozen Ever
After, Soarin', or Test Track
Tier 2 – Epcot Character Spot
Mission: Space
MAY WANT
Tier 1 – Living with the Land
(if not riding any of the above Tier 1 rides)
DON'T NEED
Tier 1 – Illuminations
Tier 2 – Disney & Pixar Short
Film Festival
Journey Into
Imagination with Figment
The Seas with Nemo and
Friends
Spaceship Earth
Turtle Talk with Crush
Hollywood Studios
(Picture courtesy of chicagotribune.com)
As with Epcot, the attractions are
divided into two tiers. You may pick one Fastpass from Tier 1, and
two from Tier 2.
Fastpass+ Available:
Tier 1 - choose one
RIDES
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring
Aerosmith – 48” or taller – an indoor rollercoaster complete
with a speaker system in each car so you can rock out the whole way.
Super fast, and includes a loop. Wait times are some of the longest
in the park, so a Fastpass is definitely a good idea.
Toy Story Midway Mania! – any
height – this is a fun ride for adults and kids. You'll don 3D
glasses and shoot your way through several carnival-type games. A
rope-pull trigger on the guns should make it easy for younger kids to
do the shooting themselves. This ride always has super long wait
times, so Fastpass is a must.
SHOWS
Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
– while not on the same level as a Broadway production, this is
certainly one of the more complex and well-crafted shows of Hollywood
Studios. It runs 25 minutes, has 5 performances a day, and takes
place in an outdoor ampitheater. A Fastpass will get you into a
reserved seating area towards the front of the theater. On busy
days, this could definitely be a good idea, but if you arrive early
enough it shouldn't be a problem to get a decent seat otherwise.
Fantasmic – this is one of
Hollywood Studios' nighttime shows, which I have never personally
watched. It starts at 7 pm and includes pyrotechnics, lasers,
dancing water, and a whole cast of Disney heroes and villains. A
Fastpass will give you first choice of seating in the amphitheater,
which would be a good idea on busy days in particular.
Tier 2 - choose two
RIDES
Star Tours: The Adventures Continue
– 40” or taller – a must for Star Wars fans, this is a 3D
motion ride that takes you on a crazy trip to 3 different worlds.
One of our personal favorites. The wait times don't usually go over
an hour and can definitely be caught shorter, but a Fastpass is still
a good idea for busier days in particular.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror –
40” or taller – Hollwood Studios' landmark ride. From what I've
heard it drops you a varying number of times from different heights
each time. Wait times tend to run pretty high, over an hour
sometimes, so if you're riding this one you'll want a Fastpass.
SHOWS
Disney Jr. Live on Stage – if
your kids watch the Disney Jr. channel, they will love this
interactive puppet show that features Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Sofia
the First, Doc McStuffins, and Jake and the Neverland Pirates.
Seating is on the floor, and the stage with the puppets on it is a
bit high, so the Fastpass that lets you come in first and sit in the
front is really not a good idea. Your view will be better from the
middle or back of the room. There are about 10 shows a day, so it
should be easy to catch.
For the First Time in Forever: A
Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – young fans of Frozen will, of
course, love this show. If you don't have any litle ones with you,
though, it's not really worth seeing, since a large portion of it is
just watching video clips from the movie. On the other hand, the two
hilarious hosts of the show are pretty entertaining to watch (even
when they're standing to the side while the clips are playing!), and
there are some pretty cool effects at the end of the show. Shows
play every hour for most of the day, and the auditorium is huge, so
you should be able to skip the Fastpass for this one.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt
Spectacular – I haven't ever seen the whole show (it got cancelled
after the first scene due to inclimate weather), but from what I did
see and have heard, it's pretty entertaining even if you're not a
huge fan of the movies. You'll see stunts and stage combat both
performed and explained, and it's not scary for kids like the movies
are. This show has 5 performances starting at noon, but doesn't
usually have a wait.
Muppet Vision 3D – a 3D movie
(with 4D experiences like small water splashes) putting you in the
middle of Muppet madness. If kids are uncomfortable with the 3D
aspect, they can most likely enjoy the show just as well without the
glasses on. Show runs 15 minutes plus a 12 minute pre-show while
you're in line, and wait times are usually low.
Voyage of the Little Mermaid – a
very condensed version of the movie told by live actors, puppets, and
video clips. My toddler found Ursula a little bit scary, but the
puppets are a lot of fun and all the kids love seeing Ariel sing and
turn into a human. Shows run every 17 minutes and shouldn't be hard
to get into, so I'd skip the Fastpass for this one.
No Fastpass+ Available:
SHOWS
Disney Movie Magic – this is a
short projection show that is presented on the front of the Chinese
Theater at 7:55 pm, just before the fireworks. It features clips
from many different movies of many different genres, all through
cinematic history.
Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple
– an interactive experience which anyone can watch, but only ages
4-12 can participate in. If your child wants to participate they
must register before the show on a first come first served basis.
Young padawans will go on stage to learn lightsaber skills, then be
tested against real Star Wars villains.
March of the First Order –
Stormtroopers, led by Captain Phasma, march down the main street of
Hollywood Studios. This happens 6 times a day, every hour, and all
you should have to do to see it is be in the right place at the right
time.
Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular –
this is the new projection and fireworks show, which takes place in
front of the Chinese Theater at 8:15 pm. Still shots and clips from
all 8 movies will be projected onto the Theater. Definitely fun for
Star Wars fans. Try to show up pretty early to get as close to the
Theater as possible, as the projections are hard to see from a
distance.
Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away –
a short production that takes place out in the street near the
Chinese Theater. It's more of a presentation of characters than a
show, as not much action actually happens, but it's fun to see a lot
of the characters that you can't see anywhere else in the park.
There are 6 showings, every hour. They draw a decent crowd, but you
can still see relatively well from the back.
CHARACTERS
BB-8 – located inside Star Wars
Launch Bay, which is NOT next to Star Tours, but shares a courtyard
with Disney Jr. No autographs, but you can talk to him and take
pictures.
Buzz Lightyear and Woody – can be
found all day long across from Toy Story Midway Mania. Note: Buzz
and possibly Woody can also be seen at Magic Kingdom.
Chewbacca – located inside Star
Wars Launch Bay, which is NOT next to Star Tours, but shares a
courtyard with Disney Jr. He does not sign autographs, but does
“talk” and pose for photos.
Cruz Ramirez – a life size
replica of the car from the new Cars 3, with moving eyes and sound
effects. She can be found close to Toy Story Midway Mania for most
of the day.
Doc McStuffins – located out in
the courtyard right next to the Disney Jr. show. The Disney Jr.
characters do leave at 6:30, which is earlier than most of the
characters in Hollywood Studios. These meet and greets are listed
just as “Disney Jr. Pals”, so it's possible that who is actually
there may vary.
Jake the Neverland Pirate –
located out in the courtyard right next to the Disney Jr. show. The
Disney Jr. characters do leave at 6:30, which is earlier than most of
the characters in Hollywood Studios. These meet and greets are
listed just as “Disney Jr. Pals”, so it's possible that who is
actually there may vary.
Kylo Ren – located inside Star
Wars Launch Bay, which is NOT next to Star Tours, but shares a
courtyard with Disney Jr. He does not sign autographs, but does talk
and pose for photos.
Olaf – can be found throughout
the day inside “Celebrity Spotlight”, which is just around the
corner from the Frozen Sing-Along show. He does not sign autographs,
but you will be given a “self-portait” and can take photos with
him.
Pluto – located out in the
courtyard right next to the Disney Jr. show. These characters do
leave at 6:30, which is earlier than most of the characters in
Hollywood Studios. Note: Pluto can also be seen at Epcot and Magic
Kingdom.
Sofia the First – located out in
the courtyard right next to the Disney Jr. show. The Disney Jr.
characters do leave at 6:30, which is earlier than most of the
characters in Hollywood Studios. These meet and greets are listed
just as “Disney Jr. Pals”, so it's possible that who is actually
there may vary.
Sorcerer Mickey and Red Carpet
Minnie – can be found all day in a building across from Star Tours.
Note: Mickey and Minnie can be found in Magic Kingdom and Epcot, but
in different costumes.
Fastpass Recap for Hollywood Studios
DEFINITELY WANT
Tier 1 – Rock 'n' Roller Coaster
Starring Aerosmith
Toy Story Midway
Mania!
Tier 2 – Twilight Zone Tower of
Terror
PROBABLY WANT
Tier 2 – Star Tours: The
Adventures Continue
GOOD ON BUSY DAYS
Tier 1 – Fantasmic!
Beauty and the Beast
Live on Stage
DON'T NEED
Tier 2 – Disney Jr. Live on Stage
For the First Time in
Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
Indiana Jones Epic
Stunt Spectacular
Muppet Vision 3D
Voyage of the Little
Mermaid
Animal Kingdom
(Picture courtesy of wdwmagic.com)
The first tier for Animal Kingdom
is made up of the two new Avatar rides, meaning that you can only
choose a Fastpass for one of these two. Your other two Fastpasses
must come from the second tier.
Fastpass+ Available:
Tier 1: choose one
RIDES
Avatar Flight of Passage – 44”
or taller – a 3D motion ride, you'll sit on a bicycle-like seat for
this ride on the back of a mountain banshee. Wait times for these
new rides are very long, so you'll want a Fastpass, but keep in mind
that you can only choose one between the two of them.
Na'vi River Journey – any height
– this is the family-friendly option of the two Avatar rides. A
slow-moving boat tour through Pandora at night, complete with glowing
plants and exotic creatures. Since this is a new ride the wait times
are still long, but if you want to ride Flight of Passage you should
go with the Fastpass for that, instead, since it has the longer wait
times of the two.
Tier 2: choose two
RIDES
DINOSAUR – 40” or taller – a
scary boat ride complete with a small drop (only one that I know of,
but I've never ridden!). The wait times on this one seem to vary
pretty widely, but on slower days mostly stay below 30 minutes.
Expedition Everest – 44” or
taller – an indoor/outdoor roller coaster that goes both forward
and backwards and features the legendary Yeti (may be scary for young
kids). Wait times are often over 30 minutes, so a Fastpass would be
a good idea.
Kali River Rapids – 38” or
taller – ride down a white water river on a 12-person round boat.
At least one small drop (I have never ridden, so I don't know how
many for sure!), geysers, and plenty more ways to get you wet.
Despite being a water ride, it is open year-round. There are lockers
across from the ride which are free for use while you are riding. If
you don't want to get wet yourself, but still want to join in on the
fun, find the bridge that crosses the river and use the elephants
there for free to spray the boats going by. The wait time is almost
always over 30 minutes, so definitely grab a Fastpass for this one.
Kilimanjaro Safaris – any height
– a bumpy ride in an open-air vehicle through an African-like
terrain. You could see many different varieties of animals,
including elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and lions, though you should
keep in mind that these are wild animals in a very large enclosure,
so you could see a lot or not much at all. The wait times can get
very long, though I hear that around sunset is a great time to ride
for short wait times and lots of animal activity.
Primeval Whirl – 48” or taller
– a small, spinning outdoor roller coaster featuring kid-friendly
dinosaurs. Wait times usually only go over 30 minutes on busy days.
SHOWS
Its Tough to be a Bug! – a 3D
show (with 4D effects in the theater) based on the movie “A Bug's
Life”. Loud noises and startling effects may make it too scary for
young kids. Shows run every 9 minutes, and should not have a wait.
Festival of the Lion King – I
have heard great things about this Broadway-style show. Good for
kids and adults alike. Shows run for 30 minutes and are performed
every hour all day long. A Fastpass for this will get you into the
show first for your pick of the seats, so it's good if you like to
sit up front.
Finding Nemo - the Musical – this
is another show that I have heard is fantastic. It uses puppets and
live actors to tell the story of Nemo and his dad, complete with
songs. This is a 40 minute show, which is longer than most of the
attractions in Disney World, so just be aware that it will take up
more of your time than usual. There are 5 performances per day.
Like the Lion King, a Fastpass will get you into the show first for
your pick of the seats...but unlike Lion King, you will want to be
closer to the middle than the front for the best view.
Rivers of Light – Animal
Kingdom's nighttime show, made up of boats, colorful lights, Asian
music and dance, and water fountains. There are 2 performances, at
7:15 and 8:30 pm. With this being a relatively new show, information
on Fastpasses is a bit scarce. The crowds when it first opened were
large, but have probably died down enough now, combined with the two
performances per day, that you should be able to get in even without
a Fastpass. I have heard, though, that the view is a little better
from the Fastpass seating area.
CHARACTERS
Mickey and Minnie – dressed in
their safari outfits, they can be found at Adventurers Outpost, close
to the Tree of Life, until evening. Wait times are often over 30
minutes, so a Fastpass is a good idea. Note: both Mickey and Minnie
can be seen in Epcot and Hollywood Studios, but in different
costumes.
No Fastpass+ Available:
RIDES
TriceraTop Spin – any height –
this ride is just like Dumbo or the Magic Carpet ride in Magic
Kingdom, but with friendly, colorful dinosaurs. You can control how
high or low you fly, or use a joystick to tilt your dinosaur back and
forth. Wait times are usually low for this ride.
Wildlife Express Train – any
height – there's not a lot to see on this 7 minute train ride, but
it's main purpose is to get you out to Rafiki's Planet Watch, where
you'll find a petting zoo and other animal experiences, as well as a
couple of character meet and greets.
SHOWS
There are several different street
performances that take place throughout the park, mostly African- and
Caribbean-style musicians.
CHARACTERS
Baloo and King Louie – located
just across the river behind the Tree of Life until evening.
Doc McStuffins – located at
Rafiki's Planet Watch, which you must ride a train to get to, until
late afternoon. Note: she can also be found in Hollywood Studios.
Donald Duck – dressed in his
safari clothes, he can be found in DinoLand, U.S.A. until evening.
Note: he can also be seen in Hollywood Studios and Epcot, but in
different costumes.
Flik – located on one of the
trails close to the Tree of Life until evening.
Goofy and Pluto – can be found in
DinoLand, U.S.A. until evening. Note: both characters can also be
seen in Epcot, but in different costumes.
Pocahontas – located just outside
the entrance to DinoLand, U.S.A. until evening.
Rafiki – can be found at Rafiki's
Planet Watch, which you must ride a train to get to, until late
afternoon.
Russell (from Up) – can be found
right next to the entrance to It's Tough to be a Bug until evening.
Fastpass Recap for Animal Kingdom
DEFINITELY WANT
Tier 1 – Avatar Flight of
Passage, or if not riding that, Na'vi River Journey
Tier 2 – Kali River Rapids
Meet Mickey and Minnie
PROBABLY WANT
Tier 2 – Expedition Everest
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Rivers of Light
GOOD ON BUSY DAYS
Tier 2 – DINOSAUR
Primeval Whirl
MAY WANT
Tier 2 – Festival of the Lion
King
Finding Nemo the
Musical
DON'T NEED
Tier 2 – It's Tough to be a Bug!
So, obviously you still have a lot
to think about, and plenty of decisions still to make. But hopefully
this well help you narrow down your options and avoid wasting any
Fastpasses on rides with short lines or that your kids won't even
like. Also keep in mind that if you're planning a trip for after
summer of 2018, Toy Story Land will be open in Hollywood Studios with
new rides, and if you're traveling after summer of 2019, Star Wars
Land will be open in Hollywood Studios with a ton of new experiences.
All of the new rides will be super popular for the first 6 months to
a year, so Fastpasses will be a must where available. I will try to
remember to come back and update this post after they open!
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World related!
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