Visiting Epcot And Hollywood Studios In One Day At Walt Disney World
Visiting multiple Walt Disney World theme parks in one day can be a fun challenge for thrill-seeking travelers who want to maximize their vacation time. If you’re wondering whether it’s feasible to experience both Epcot and Hollywood Studios in a single day, here’s a quick answer: Yes, with proper planning and some sacrifice, you can see the highlights of both Epcot and Hollywood Studios in one action-packed day.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide tips and a strategic one-day touring plan to help you make the most of your time at these two fantastic parks. We’ll cover recommended fast passes, dining options, top attractions to prioritize, best transportation options between the parks, and more.
With smart planning and realistic expectations about what you can actually see in a single day, you can have an epic visit to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
Optimal Time to Visit
When planning a visit to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios in one day at Walt Disney World, it’s important to consider the optimal time to visit. This includes the best time of year to go and the recommended park order and arrival times.
Best Time of Year
The best time of year to visit Epcot and Hollywood Studios largely depends on personal preferences and crowd levels. However, there are a few factors to consider when choosing the ideal time:
- Off-Peak Season: Visiting during off-peak seasons, such as January, February, and September, can result in lower crowds and shorter wait times for attractions.
- Weather: Consider the weather conditions during your visit. Florida can be quite hot and humid during the summer months, so visiting in spring or fall when temperatures are milder might be more enjoyable.
- Special Events: Check for any special events or festivals happening at Epcot or Hollywood Studios during your desired time of visit. These events can enhance your experience but may also attract larger crowds.
It’s worth noting that advanced planning, including booking FastPasses and dining reservations, is crucial regardless of the time of year you choose to visit.
Recommended Park Order and Arrival Times
To make the most of your day at Epcot and Hollywood Studios, it’s recommended to arrive early and have a strategic park order. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
- Epcot: Start your day at Epcot, as it typically opens earlier than Hollywood Studios. Arriving at park opening allows you to experience popular attractions with shorter wait times.
- Hollywood Studios: After spending a few hours at Epcot, head over to Hollywood Studios. It’s advisable to use the Disney transportation system to smoothly transition between parks.
- FastPasses: Utilize FastPasses for high-demand attractions at both parks. This allows you to skip the regular lines and maximize your time.
Keep in mind that park hours may vary depending on the day of the week and season. Checking the official Walt Disney World website or using the My Disney Experience app can provide up-to-date information on park hours, attractions, and wait times.
Remember, even with a well-planned itinerary, flexibility is key. Be prepared to adjust your schedule based on unexpected circumstances or personal preferences. The goal is to have a magical and memorable experience at both Epcot and Hollywood Studios!
Transportation Logistics
Boat vs Skyliner vs Bus
When visiting both Epcot and Hollywood Studios in one day at Walt Disney World, it is important to consider the most efficient mode of transportation between the two parks. Fortunately, Disney offers several options to choose from.
Boat: One option is to take the boat transportation that connects Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the World Showcase Lagoon. This scenic route allows you to relax and enjoy the views while cruising between the parks. The boats run continuously throughout the day, ensuring minimal wait times.Skyliner: Another transportation option is the Disney Skyliner, a state-of-the-art gondola system that provides a unique and breathtaking aerial view of the parks. The Skyliner connects Epcot and Hollywood Studios, as well as other resorts in the area.
This mode of transportation is not only efficient but also adds an element of fun and excitement to your journey.
Bus: Lastly, Disney buses are available to transport guests between Epcot and Hollywood Studios. While buses may not offer the same scenic views as the boat or Skyliner, they are a reliable and convenient mode of transportation.
Buses run frequently, ensuring you can easily make your way between the parks.
Ultimately, the choice of transportation depends on your personal preferences, time constraints, and the overall experience you are looking for. It’s worth considering factors such as wait times, convenience, and the overall ambiance of each transportation option to make the best decision for your day at Walt Disney World.
Parking Strategy
If you prefer to drive to Walt Disney World, it’s important to have a parking strategy in place when visiting both Epcot and Hollywood Studios in one day.
Parking at Epcot: If you plan to start your day at Epcot, it is recommended to park your car at the Epcot parking lot. From there, you can easily explore the park and then take advantage of Disney’s transportation options to get to Hollywood Studios.Parking at Hollywood Studios: Alternatively, if you prefer to start your day at Hollywood Studios, you can park your car at the Hollywood Studios parking lot. After enjoying the attractions and entertainment at the park, you can then utilize Disney’s transportation options to make your way to Epcot.
It’s important to note that parking at Walt Disney World is subject to a fee, which is currently $25 per day for standard parking. However, if you are staying at a Disney resort, parking is complimentary.
Regardless of which park you choose to start your day at, having a well-thought-out parking strategy can save you time and ensure a smooth transition between Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Remember to factor in transportation times and potential wait times when planning your day.
Top Attractions at Each Park
Epcot must-see rides and shows
Epcot, known for its celebration of human achievement and international culture, offers a diverse range of attractions. One must-see ride is Soarin’ Around the World, where visitors can experience the sensation of flying over famous landmarks in different countries.
The breathtaking views and realistic movement make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Another popular attraction at Epcot is Test Track, where guests can design their own virtual concept car and then test it out on a thrilling high-speed race. It’s a great way to unleash your inner car designer and feel the adrenaline rush of a race car driver.
For those interested in science and technology, Spaceship Earth is a must-see. This iconic geodesic sphere takes visitors on a journey through time, exploring the history of human communication and innovation.
It’s educational and entertaining, offering a unique perspective on our past, present, and future.
Hollywood Studios headliners
Hollywood Studios is the place to be for all movie buffs and fans of Disney’s blockbuster franchises. One of the top attractions at this park is Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Step into the Star Wars universe and immerse yourself in a fully-themed land, complete with interactive experiences, thrilling rides like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, and even a chance to build your own lightsaber.
For those who love Pixar films, Toy Story Land is a must-visit. Join Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the gang in this whimsical land where you can shrink down to the size of a toy and experience attractions like Slinky Dog Dash and Toy Story Mania! It’s a nostalgic and fun-filled adventure for kids and adults alike.
And of course, we can’t forget about Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, the first-ever Mickey-themed ride. Step into the cartoon world and join Mickey and Minnie on a wacky adventure through a series of whimsical scenes.
With its innovative technology and catchy theme song, this ride is a hit with Disney fans of all ages.
For more information on Epcot and Hollywood Studios attractions, you can visit the official Walt Disney World website at https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/.
Dining Considerations
When visiting Epcot and Hollywood Studios in one day at Walt Disney World, it’s important to plan your dining options carefully. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Quick-service vs table-service
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to opt for quick-service or table-service dining. Quick-service restaurants offer a faster dining experience, with counter service and a limited menu.
This can be a great option if you’re short on time and want to maximize your park experience. On the other hand, table-service restaurants provide a more relaxed dining experience, with a sit-down meal and a wider variety of menu options.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely meal and don’t mind spending a little extra time, table-service restaurants can be a great choice.
Best in-park restaurants
Both Epcot and Hollywood Studios offer a range of dining options within the park. Here are some of the best in-park restaurants to consider:
- Le Cellier Steakhouse in Epcot’s Canada pavilion offers delectable steaks and a cozy atmosphere.
- Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant in Hollywood Studios is a unique dining experience where you can enjoy your meal in a retro-style car booth while watching classic sci-fi movie clips.
- Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland is a must-visit for fans of Beauty and the Beast, with its stunning castle setting and French-inspired cuisine.
Remember to make advance dining reservations for table-service restaurants, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. This will help you secure a spot and avoid long wait times.
For more information on dining options and to make reservations, you can visit the official Walt Disney World website here.
One-Day Touring Strategy
Recommended Fast Passes
When planning a visit to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios in one day, it’s important to make the most of your time and prioritize which attractions you want to experience. Fast Passes are a great way to save time and avoid long lines. Here are some recommended Fast Passes for each park:
- At Epcot, don’t miss out on Soarin’ Around the World, Test Track, and Frozen Ever After. These attractions are extremely popular and tend to have long wait times. By securing Fast Passes for them, you can skip the lines and enjoy the rides with minimal wait.
- At Hollywood Studios, make sure to grab Fast Passes for Toy Story Midway Mania, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, and Star Tours: The Adventures Continue. These attractions are top favorites among visitors and can have long queues.
Step-by-step Touring Plan
Here is a suggested step-by-step touring plan to make the most of your day at Epcot and Hollywood Studios:
- Start your day at Epcot. Arrive early and head straight to Soarin’ Around the World. This attraction tends to have long wait times, so securing a Fast Pass will save you valuable time.
- After Soarin’, make your way to Test Track. Use your Fast Pass for this popular ride and enjoy the exhilarating experience of designing your own virtual car.
- Next, head to Frozen Ever After. This enchanting ride based on the hit movie Frozen is a must-do for Disney fans of all ages. Utilize your Fast Pass to skip the line.
- Take a break and grab a bite to eat at one of the many delicious dining options in Epcot.
- After lunch, make your way to Hollywood Studios. Start with Toy Story Midway Mania, as this attraction tends to have long wait times throughout the day.
- Use your Fast Pass for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. Feel the adrenaline rush as you race through the dark with Aerosmith’s epic music blasting in the background.
- Wrap up your day at Hollywood Studios with Star Tours: The Adventures Continue. This thrilling Star Wars-themed attraction takes you on an intergalactic journey through a galaxy far, far away.
Remember, this touring plan is just a suggestion. Feel free to adjust it based on your preferences and the Fast Pass availability. Also, make sure to check the park schedules and plan your visit accordingly to catch any parades, shows, or fireworks displays happening during your visit.
Have a magical day!
Conclusion
Visiting both Epcot and Hollywood Studios in one day is an ambitious goal, but with savvy planning, it can absolutely be done. By optimizing your time and following this strategic touring plan, you’ll be able to experience many of the top attractions at both parks and create magical memories that will last a lifetime.
With realistic expectations about how much ground you can cover in a single day, you’re sure to have an unforgettable vacation visiting two of Disney World’s best and most unique theme parks.
