The High-Stakes Strategy of Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios isn’t the kind of park where you can just wing it. While places like Magic Kingdom or EPCOT allow for a bit of wandering, Hollywood Studios requires a concrete plan. Between the massive popularity of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land, the crowds are dense and the wait times can escalate quickly. With major changes arriving this month, including the Muppets taking over Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster and new missions on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, having a strategy is more important than ever.
New Arrivals in May 2026
The park’s demand is about to shift significantly due to several major openings. On May 22, 2026, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run adds the highly anticipated Mandalorian and Grogu mission. This update allows crews to control their destination for the first time, visiting locations like Coruscant or the wreckage of the second Death Star. Shortly after, on May 26, 2026, the reimagined Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets officially opens. Fans can expect a psychedelic makeover of the iconic guitar and a new pre-show featuring the Electric Mayhem.
Additionally, the brand new area known as The Walt Disney Studios begins its phased opening on May 26. This reimagined space includes the new Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! show, making the Animation Courtyard area a primary destination for families once again.
Navigating the Lightning Lane System
To stay ahead of the crowds, you’ll need to master the Lightning Lane system. There are three distinct ways to skip the lines:
- Lightning Lane Multi Pass: Allows you to pre-book up to three attractions before your visit.
- Lightning Lane Single Pass: Required for the most popular ride in the park, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. This is a separate purchase and isn’t included in the Multi Pass.
- Lightning Lane Premier Pass: A premium option that lets you use each available Lightning Lane entrance once per day without the need to select return times.
Eligible Disney Resort hotel guests can purchase these passes up to 7 days before their stay begins. All other guests can purchase up to 3 days in advance. In both cases, the booking window opens at exactly 7 AM Eastern Time.
The Hollywood Studios Tier Strategy
When booking your Multi Pass selections, the park uses a tiered system. You can choose one attraction from the high-demand Tier 1 group and two (or all three) from Tier 2. At Hollywood Studios, the current Tier 1 attractions are:
- Slinky Dog Dash
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
- Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
Tier 2 includes popular favorites like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Toy Story Mania!, Alien Swirling Saucers, and Star Tours – The Adventures Continue. Once you use your first selection in the park, the tiers no longer apply, and you can grab any available Multi Pass experience regardless of its original group.
The 5-Minute Success Plan
Success starts at 6:55 AM. Ensure your Disney account is logged in and your payment methods are updated. At exactly 7 AM, your first priority should be securing your Tier 1 selection. With the Muppets coaster and the new Mandalorian mission drawing massive crowds, Slinky Dog Dash remains the most difficult return time to snag. If you’re staying on-site, use your 7-day advantage to book the most popular rides for later in your trip when availability is higher.
By securing your three initial selections and your Rise of the Resistance Single Pass in those first few minutes, you ensure a day of riding rather than waiting. Don’t leave it to chance; in Hollywood Studios, the early bird gets the Slinky.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.