Hollywood Studios vs. Universal Studios: Which Park is Right for Your Family?

Affiliate Links may be used on this website, at no additional cost to you. This means I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase. There is no charge to you. Thanks for supporting this website!

When it comes to planning an Orlando vacation, deciding between Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios Florida can feel like choosing your favorite child—it’s almost impossible (sorry, bad joke)! Both parks offer a unique experience, with themed lands, thrilling rides, and attractions inspired by popular movies and television shows. But depending on your family’s interests, one park might suit you better than the other. Make sure to grab your discount tickets through UnderCover Tourist!

Let’s break down the major differences between the two parks to help you decide. Spoiler alert: whether you’re a Star Wars fan, a Harry Potter fan, or someone who just loves family-friendly attractions, you’re in for an unforgettable time.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a magical part of the Walt Disney World Resort, blending classic Disney charm with blockbuster-themed lands. From the Star Wars universe to Toy Story Land, this park offers attractions that cater to all ages.

On the other hand, Universal Studios Florida and its sister park Universal’s Islands of Adventure (part of the Universal Orlando Resort) focus on immersive storytelling from popular movies and television shows. Whether you’re walking through Hogsmeade Village, braving the VelociCoaster, or laughing along with The Simpsons Ride, the universal theme parks are a unique experience packed with thrills.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios, part of the Walt Disney World Resort, is where Disney magic meets cinematic thrills. From exploring the Star Wars universe in Galaxy’s Edge to soaring through the air on the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, there’s something for every member of the whole family. If you’re still deciding which Disney Park to visit, read my guide!

Highlights include:

Galaxy’s Edge

Step into the Star Wars universe at Galaxy’s Edge, a themed land that feels like you’ve walked onto a movie set. One of the most unforgettable experiences is piloting the Millennium Falcon on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run—a family-friendly simulator that puts you in the roles of pilot, gunner, or engineer. But the true crown jewel is Rise of the Resistance, a groundbreaking attraction that combines a trackless ride system, special effects, and live-action storytelling. This ride truly makes you feel like you’re part of the battle against the First Order. Even if you’re not a die-hard Star Wars fan, the sheer scale and detail of Galaxy’s Edge will leave you in awe.

Millenium falcon smuggler run ride — Boarding the immersive Millenium Falcon, Smugglers Run experience.

Toy Story Land

Families with young children will adore the colorful and playful atmosphere of Toy Story Land. Inspired by the beloved Pixar films, this area shrinks you down to the size of a toy. The highlight here is Slinky Dog Dash, a family-friendly roller coaster with twists, turns, and a whimsical charm. Don’t miss Alien Swirling Saucers, a spinning ride that’s fun for all ages, or the chance to meet your favorite characters, like Buzz Lightyear and Woody. It’s a great option for families looking to balance the thrills with more relaxed fun.

Thrill Rides

For those seeking adrenaline-pumping attractions, Hollywood Studios doesn’t disappoint. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith takes you on a high-speed adventure through the streets of Los Angeles to the sounds of Aerosmith’s greatest hits. It’s one of the most thrilling rides in all the Disney parks, featuring corkscrews and loops in the dark. Then there’s the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, located on the iconic Sunset Boulevard. This free-fall drop ride is an absolute must for thrill-seekers, combining eerie storytelling with a heart-pounding plunge.

Live Shows

Hollywood Studios also shines with its live entertainment. Families can sing along to classic Disney tunes at Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, a Broadway-style production that captures the magic of the beloved film. For those who love action-packed performances, the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular offers incredible stunts, explosions, and behind-the-scenes insights into how they’re created. The Frozen Sing-Along Celebration at Hollywood Studios invites fans to sing their favorite songs with Anna, Elsa, and fun narrators. It’s a magical, family-friendly show with laughs, music, and icy effects! And if you’re staying late, the nighttime spectacular Fantasmic! is a must-see, blending water, lights, and characters like Mickey Mouse in a dazzling display.

Frozen Sing-a-long Hollywood studios — Yes, Elsa even makes it snow!

With its perfect balance of thrilling rides, themed lands, and family-friendly attractions, Disney’s Hollywood Studios delivers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.

For fans of Disney’s classic storytelling, Hollywood Studios is a great option to experience magical moments alongside favorite characters like Mickey Mouse.

Highlights of Universal Orlando Resort: Two Parks, One Amazing Day

At Universal Orlando Resort, you’ll find not one but two incredible parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. These neighboring parks make it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds in a single day, especially with the help of an Express Pass to skip the lines. Whether you’re diving into the magic of the silver screen at Universal Studios or experiencing heart-pounding adventures at Islands of Adventure, there’s something for everyone in the family.

Universal Studios Florida: Lights, Camera, Action!

Universal Studios Florida is a paradise for families who love movies. This park immerses you in popular movies and television shows, making you feel like you’ve stepped right onto a film set. With action-packed thrills and jaw-dropping special effects, it’s a destination that delivers cinematic excitement at every turn. Highlights include:

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley: Stroll through the iconic streets of Diagon Alley, ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express to explore even more magic at Hogsmeade Village in the neighboring park.
Thrilling Rides: Test your courage on the fiery Revenge of the Mummy, laugh through the zany chaos of The Simpsons Ride, and enjoy family-friendly fun on Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.
Studio Tour and Behind-the-Scenes Magic: Learn how Hollywood creates its most iconic scenes with interactive, behind-the-scenes experiences. Check out the Bourne Stunt-acular for an incredible show!

Universal’s Islands of Adventure: Thrills and Themed Lands

Next door, Universal’s Islands of Adventure cranks up the excitement with thrill rides and immersive themed lands. This park is perfect for adventure-seekers and features some of the most talked-about attractions in Central Florida:

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade Village: Sip Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks, explore Hogwarts Castle, and take a wild ride on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.
Jurassic World VelociCoaster: The ultimate thrill ride for dino fans, this high-speed coaster combines intense drops, loops, and velociraptors.
The Incredible Hulk Coaster: Feel the rush as this green behemoth launches you into loops and inversions at breakneck speed.

Photo ops in Jurassic Park at Universal Islands of Adventure

Two Parks in One Day

Thanks to their proximity and the Hogwarts Express that links them, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure can be explored together seamlessly. Using an Express Pass, you can make the most of your visit, experiencing the top attractions in both parks without the long waits. From the streets of Diagon Alley to the jungle of Jurassic World, it’s easy to pack a full day with unforgettable moments.

Whether you’re a fan of Harry Potter, a thrill-seeker looking for the next great roller coaster, or a family with kids eager to meet their favorite characters, the Universal parks are a perfect park-hopping experience for your next Orlando vacation.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley

Step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and explore Diagon Alley, a meticulously crafted magical shopping district. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight into the pages of J.K. Rowling’s books. Fans of the series will be awestruck by attractions like Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, a thrilling 4D ride that combines high-tech effects with an unforgettable storyline.

One of the most iconic parts of the experience is boarding the Hogwarts Express, which connects Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade Village in Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Be sure to get a multi-day Universal Orlando ticket or a park-to-park pass to enjoy this magical train ride, as it’s one of the most immersive experiences Universal has to offer.

Thrilling Rides for All Ages

Universal Studios Florida boasts a lineup of rides that appeal to thrill-seekers and families alike:

Revenge of the Mummy: A high-speed indoor roller coaster with fiery effects and mummy animatronics that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Simpsons Ride: A hilarious, motion-simulator attraction that takes you through the chaotic world of Springfield, complete with appearances by your favorite characters like Homer, Bart, and Lisa.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Perfect for young children, this family-friendly 3D ride puts you in the middle of a Minion training session gone hilariously wrong.

For those who want even bigger thrills, nearby Universal’s Islands of Adventure features the Incredible Hulk Coaster, Jurassic World VelociCoaster, and King Kong attractions for adrenaline-pumping adventures.

Dining Options to Suit Every Palate

When it’s time to eat, Universal Studios Florida offers a range of dining options that cater to all tastes. For a quick and fun meal, grab a Krusty Burger in Springfield or treat your family to a whimsical meal at Toadstool Cafe in the upcoming Super Nintendo World. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, there are plenty of fine dining experiences scattered across the resort. Don’t forget to try a glass of Butterbeer while you’re in Harry Potter Land—a must-have treat for Potterheads!

Studio Tour and Behind-the-Scenes Experiences

As a nod to its roots as a movie studio, Universal Studios Florida offers fascinating glimpses into the world of film production. Learn how some of Hollywood’s most iconic scenes were created with behind-the-scenes experiences that showcase the artistry of special effects and set design. From recreating stunts to exploring props and costumes, these tours give visitors a new appreciation for the magic of moviemaking.

With its thrilling rides, immersive lands like Diagon Alley, and countless ways to experience the magic of the movies, Universal Studios Florida offers a unique experience that’s perfect for movie lovers of all ages.

If you’re visiting with Harry Potter fans, or your kids love dinosaurs and superheroes, Universal theme parks will be a highlight of your trip.

Biggest Differences Between the Parks

Both parks offer immersive experiences, but here’s where they differ:

Themed Lands:
- Hollywood Studios excels in its Star Wars universe and Disney charm, while Universal’s offerings include Harry Potter Land, Super Nintendo World, and the prehistoric thrills of Jurassic World.
Thrill Rides:
- Universal wins the intensity game with the Incredible Hulk Coaster, VelociCoaster, and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Hollywood Studios focuses on a mix of thrills and nostalgia with Tower of Terror, Slinky Dog Dash, and immersive experience rides like the Rise of the Resistance.
Dining Options:
- Hollywood Studios offers a mix of fast food and themed dining, like the sci-fi-inspired 50’s Prime Time Cafe. Universal’s CityWalk and in-park dining, such as Toadstool Cafe and Butterbeer stands, are equally impressive.
Overall Experience:
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios is great for families with young children and mixed-age groups. Universal’s parks cater more to teens and adults who crave thrills.
Park Tickets and Extras:
- Universal offers an Express Pass, while Disney has Lightning Lanes. Compare these options when deciding how to maximize your time.

Universal’s Express Pass
Universal’s Express Pass allows you to skip the regular lines for most attractions once per ride or, with the Unlimited version, as many times as you want. It’s a straightforward add-on to your park ticket and doesn’t require advance booking or app reservations. The pass is available for purchase or included with stays at select on-site hotels, offering maximum flexibility to fit your schedule.

Disney’s Lightning Lanes
Disney’s Lightning Lanes operate as part of the Genie+ system, where guests use the My Disney Experience app to select return times for specific attractions. While Genie+ covers many rides, some of the most popular attractions, like Rise of the Resistance, require an Individual Lightning Lane purchase. This system requires more planning and frequent app use during your park day but can help you experience high-demand rides at Disney parks.

Which Option Works Best?

If you prefer a no-fuss approach with flexibility, Universal’s Express Pass is the best option, especially if you plan to tackle two parks in one day.
For Disney visitors who don’t mind a bit of pre-planning, Lightning Lanes offer a great way to hit major attractions while accommodating your family’s personal preferences.
Both systems can save you hours of waiting in line, ensuring more time spent enjoying the parks with your whole family.

Universal Studios: The Thrill-Seeker’s Dream

If your family is all about BIG thrills, Universal Orlando Resort is the way to go. The standout attractions include:

Harry Potter World: Explore Diagon Alley, sip Butterbeer, and brave the Hogwarts Express.
Jurassic World: Don’t miss the VelociCoaster, a high-speed ride through raptor territory.
Studio Tour: Universal brings the magic of the movies to life with interactive experiences.

Hollywood Studios: Disney Magic with a Side of Action

For families who love Disney’s storytelling, Hollywood Studios delivers:

Galaxy’s Edge: Whether you’re a Star Wars fan or not, Rise of the Resistance is a must.
Live shows: Engage with classics like Beauty and the Beast and enjoy street performances on Sunset Boulevard.
Themed Lands: Toy Story Land is a hit with kids of all ages.

Which Park Is Right for Your Family?

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preferences. If your kids dream of meeting Mickey Mouse or exploring the Star Wars universe, Disney parks are a no-brainer. On the other hand, if your family loves high-speed roller coasters, dinosaurs, and the magic of Harry Potter Land, Universal is the great option for you. If you’re still not sure, keep reading about the options here.

Whatever you choose, both parks offer incredible attractions, unforgettable memories, and enough fun to fill several full days. Why not plan your next visit to include both parks? After all, Central Florida is home to some of the world’s most exciting destinations!

Featured