It’s time to make another stop into Disney’s Hollywood Studios where construction continues in earnest on three BIG projects! Plus we’ve got a little merchandise and menu update! Come along with us, superstars!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Entrance Construction
There’s progress on construction right at the entrance to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but there’s a bit of debate about what this will be.
The cast member we spoke to this week said it’s extra bag check space in anticipation of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. But back when construction first began, a different cast member said it was tram drop-off and pick-up.
It’s a significant size, so we’re anxious to see it take shape, and we’ll keep checking with cast members so we can get a consensus on what this will be.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Bus Station Progress
If you’ve been to Disney’s Hollywood Studios since construction began on the bus station, you know how much everyone is looking forward to these opening up!
The bus stop now has the classic Hollywood Studios teal paint, highlighting some of the design details. The old Hollywood feel is in keeping with the park entrance.
Gate numbers are up, as are flags. There are 40 stops spread across four sections.
There’s still some painting to be done on Gates 1-8, but it appears the resort signs are installed (under black wrapping).
Of course, until the bus station is completed, guests can enjoy a leisurely, 1+-mile walk to and from the temporary bus stop. (Please hurry, Disney!)
Disney Skyliner Progress at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Station
In other transportation news, the Skyliner continues to progress! Gondolas are lined up at the Hollywood Studios station still wrapped in their white protective wrapping.
If you follow us on Instagram or Facebook, you know Skyliner has been testing actual gondolas recently.
You’ve got to see these things in action! Click here!!
Doors appear on the narrow end of the gondola and while in station, the doors are open!
Compare the real life entity to the mock-up that was shared at Destination D in November. This gives us a little perspective on the design.
Guests can also see Skyliner gondolas on the track. We gotta say, this is a cool view.
Gondolas from below give us a little idea about the overall design. It appears there will be a black piece to cover the gap as riders board their gondolas.
Is anyone else excited to see what the designs are beneath the wrap? Open those presents, y’all!
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy Progress
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
is set to welcome racers later this month (see details here!!), and progress continues on the attraction.
There’s now a sign for Cruz Ramirez. It appears to be the same signage and structure from her old meet-and-greet.
The entrance to the Academy and Sunset Showcase is still behind the hedges — but we’ll be there when they wave the start flag!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Merchandise News
The Keystone Clothiers shop on Hollywood Boulevard is closed.
Signs on the doors direct shoppers to Mickey’s of Hollywood and Once Upon a Time.
Legends of Hollywood is closed, too, with expansion into the old Planet Hollywood Store on-going.
We did find some fun new merchandise at other merchandise locations in Hollywood Studios. These Flower Minnie Ears are ready for spring!
They are loaded with fake flowers in various shades of rose gold, blush, and ivory.
The fabric covering on the headband and the ears is light pink to complement that floral design.
And we are LOVING this ‘The Most Magical Place On Earth’ Towel! Yes, please, we’d like this sent to our resort for pick-up, thank you!
This ‘Where Dreams Come True’ Lanyard is also speaking to us. We love the subtle floral/filigree design.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Menu Updates
Joffrey’s locations
are featuring a new Seasonal Beverage: the Frozen Flame.
The combination of strawberry and passion fruit sounds super refreshing.
Trolley Car Cafe’s Starbucks is serving up the Cloud Macchiato in two iced varieties: Caramel and Cinnamon.
You can also pick up a Lemon Cake Pop here. (Still no cupcakes to be had at Trolley Car since the arrival of new pastries a few weeks ago. Click here to see those pretty plated pastries!)
We recently gave you a heads up to save 20% on Disney’s Hollywood Studios merchandise with a receipt coupon that’s appearing at several quick service locations in the park. Look for this monstrous sign when you order, then be sure to keep your receipt!
The receipt then instructs you to present it at any merchandise location at Hollywood Studios to receive 20% your total purchase. Some exclusions apply, so be sure to peep that fine print!
Disney recently dropped a TON of info about Galaxy’s Edge! Click here for our Cliff’s Notes, and use the links in the post to explore everything from Galaxy’s Edge attractions and food to merchandise and costumes!
And check out our video coverage of Galaxy’s Edge by clicking below!
Keira says
Lack of details for Lightning McQueen is killing me.
We’re going in early April and I don’t know whether to keep a Fastpasses open for it!!!
DFB Sarah says
Keira, we’ll review it when it opens, but that might be too close to your trip to be helpful. Have a wonderful time, Lightning McQueen or not!