Guys – it’s finally here. After all the waiting, and crossing days off a calendar, the time has finally come, when we can step into Toy Story Land, and shrink to the size of a toy, to play in Andy’s backyard. My favorite thing about the Disney company, is when they come up with concepts for their theme parks, they’re fully immersive. When you go to Cars Land at Disney California Adventure, you truly step into the movie. When you go to Pandora, you’re truly transported to a different world. When you walk around World Showcase, you really feel like you could be on the streets of Paris (if Paris has 90 degree heat). Toy Story Land is no different – the Imagineers have managed to create a lush, overgrown space that feels like a backyard that a child truly plays in with his toys. We were very fortunate to be invited by Disney this past week to come experience all this new land has to offer – they graciously provided us with food, fastpasses, tickets, and a chance to interview the Imagineer who helped design this incredible new land. Today, we’re bringing you our guide to the land as a whole.
The Rides
Toy Story Land brings two new rides to Hollywood Studios, Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers. It also brings a new entrance to Toy Story Midway Mania (and a significantly lower wait time!). Slinky Dog Dash is a rollercoaster, and the big ticket attraction in the land. We think it’s similar to Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, as far as the thrill factor, and it’s a ton of fun. If you can, we recommend experiencing it both during the day, and at night, as the lights on the track make it a different experience. This is going to have the longest lines in the park currently, so try to either get a FastPass+, use Extra Magic Hours, or head there first thing in the day. Alien Swirling Saucers is friendly for all ages, and is more similar to teacups at Magic Kingdom. The music and upbeat energy make it a ‘can’t be missed’.
The Merch
Toy Story Land has brought a ton of great, original merch that any dedicated Disney fan is going to want to own. So far, it seems the most popular are the ‘Slinky Dog Ears’, which are similar to ‘Minnie Mouse’ Earbands, but instead of ears, ‘Slinky Dog’ sits atop your head (and, I mean, who wouldn’t want that on your head). Coming it at a close second in popularity is ‘the claw’ alien cups, which can be bought individually, or with a drink inside.
The Food
GUYS – Woody’s Lunch Box is fantastic. It’s exactly what Hollywood Studios has needed in the Quick Service Department, and you can find me here for forever, eating ‘Totchos’ (TATOR TOT NACHOS). But in all seriousness, the attention to detail in this quick service restaurant is perfect, and the food is fantastic. I loved everything I tried, especially the brisket sandwich, totchos, and breakfast bowl. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, the adult lemonade is great.
Toy Story Land is a great addition to Hollywood Studios. We’re excited for what it brings to the park, and we can’t wait for many repeat rides of Slinky Dog Dash in the future.