What is the Diffference Between Universal Studios Florida vs Disney Hollywood Studios

What is the Diffference Between Universal Studios Florida vs Disney Hollywood Studios

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What is the Diffference Between Universal Studios Florida vs Disney Hollywood Studios

This article is your complete guide to Hollywood Studios vs Universal Studios! Universal Studios Florida and Hollywood Studios are both theme parks inspired by the behind-the-scenes action of the movie industry. One park is in Disney World, and one is in Universal Orlando Resort!

But which is better, Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Universal Studios?  In this guide, we compare Universal Studios vs Hollywood Studios, so keep reading if you want to learn more!

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando, be sure to check out our discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets and Universal Orlando vacation package deals which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Orlando for your next vacation, check out our Universal and Disney crowd calendar!

Orlando Crowd Calendar

Disney Hollywood Studios vs Universal Studios Florida

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Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios are not the same park despite the similar name. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is in Disney World and opened in 1989. It features rides on movies and shows like Star Wars, the Twilight Zone’s Tower of Terror, and Toy Story.

Universal Studios consists of movies themes like Harry Potter, the Mummy, and Transformers. When talking about Universal Studios vs. Hollywood Studios Orlando, both parks contain unique Hollywood features but from a different lens, so they’re unique!

What are the major differences between Universal Studios and Hollywood Studios?

  • Location:
    • Hollywood Studios – Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista, FL (Star Wars and Toy Story rides)
    • Universal Studios Florida – Universal Studios Orlando, Orlando, FL (Harry Potter and Minion Rides)

Well, the biggest difference is that they are located in two completely separate parks and have different themes, rides, and restaurants. Both parks have themes that represent the movies that make both companies amazing, like Harry Potter, Star Wars, and more! We’re going to dive into the major differences below.

Related Page: Is the Universal Express Pass Worth It? 

Lands in Hollywood Studios vs Universal Studios Florida

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As discussed, both parks are themed after the behind-the-scenes action from the movies. However, both parks have different intellectual property on which they base their different rides and lands. We will say that Disney’s Hollywood Studios does have more quality than quantity and is home to the most popular themed land in Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge. However, on the flip side,  Universal Studios is also home to the very popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley.

What are the lands in Disney’s Hollywood Studios?

  1. Sunset Boulevard: 1940s Hollywood with a focus on entertainment with Tower of Terror as a backdrop
  2. Hollywood Boulevard: Classic Hollywood glitz and glamour with the Chinese Theater for guests to take selfies with
  3. Animation Courtyard: Meet characters and discover behind-the-scenes wonders.
  4. Commissary Lane: A street with a variety of dining options influenced by Hollywood’s classic eateries.
  5. Grand Avenue: Urban area inspired by modern-day Los Angeles.
  6. Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge: Transports visitors to the distant galaxy of Star Wars, complete with iconic locations, characters, and rides.
  7. Toy Story Land: Shrink down to toy size and explore Andy’s backyard, encountering larger-than-life playthings and Toy Story characters.

What are the lands in Universal Studios?

  1. Production Central: Hollywood studio backlot.
  2. New York: Iconic New York City streets with restaurants and rides like Revenge of the Mummy
  3. San Francisco: San Francisco landmarks, with restaurants and great views of the Universal Studios Florida waterfront
  4. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley: Shops, restaurants and the iconic Escape from Gringotts Harry Potter ride
  5. World Expo: Small land with a futuristic sci-fi theme
  6. Springfield: Home of the Simpsons: The town of Springfield from The Simpsons with themed restaurants and more
  7. Dreamworks Land: Family-friendly area with classic characters like Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda
  8. Hollywood: The glamorous golden age of Hollywood with plenty of shops and the iconic Horror Make-Up Show

Related Page: Guide to Hotels Near Disney Springs 

Universal Studios vs Hollywood Studios Disney Rides

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We will say one of the coolest things about both parks is they are home to some of the more exciting rides on Universal and Disney properties. Both Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios have a combined five fast-paced roller coasters! (If you count Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts a roller coaster). Each has a mix of rides, but Universal Studios Florida even has classic dark rides, like E.T. Adventure!

What are the rides at Hollywood Studios?

  1. Alien Swirling Saucers: Spin and swirl with the adorable aliens from “Toy Story”
  2. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: Go on an adventure with Mickey and Minnie unexpected twists await at every turn.
  3. Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run: Pilot the iconic Millennium Falcon in this immersive experience set in the Star Wars universe.
  4. Muppet Vision 3D: Laugh along with Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the whole gang in this 3D show full of Muppets
  5. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster:  Aerosmith-themed roller coaster
  6. Slinky Dog Dash: Coaster through Andy’s backyard on the back of everyone’s favorite stretchy toy dog.
  7. Star Tours – The Adventure Continues: Explore the galaxy in this 3D, motion-simulated space flight
  8. Star Wars Rise of the Resistance: Join the Resistance in a daring mission against the First Order in this cutting-edge, immersive attraction.
  9. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror:  Heart-dropping elevator ride at the Hollywood Hotel
  10. Toy Story Mania: 3D, interactive shooting game that takes you through a series of carnival-style tests of skill.

What are the rides at Universal Studios?

  1. Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts: Venture deep into Gringotts Bank and face off against Voldemort and Bellatrix in this captivating 3D dark ride.
  2. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Join Gru and the Minions in a heartwarming and hilarious 3D adventure that transforms you into a Minion.
  3. Hogwarts Express: Board the iconic train linking Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade
  4. Revenge of the Mummy: Brave the ancient curses and vengeful spirits in this indoor roller coaster.
  5. E.T. Adventure: Help E.T. return home on this classic and heartwarming bike ride through the stars.
  6. Fast and Furious – Supercharged: Gear up for a race with Dom, Letty, and the gang in this attraction.
  7. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit: High-tech roller coaster where guests can listen to music while riding
  8. Kang & Kodos Twirl ‘n’ Hurl: Spin with mischievous aliens from The Simpsons
  9. Men in Black: Grab a laser gun and protect Earth from intergalactic threats in this interactive shoot-out adventure.
  10. Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon: Join the late-night host in a whirlwind 3D ride through  New York City.
  11. The Simpsons Ride: Join the Simpson family on a 4D motion simulator adventure
  12. Transformers: The Ride-3D: Battle alongside Optimus Prime and Bumblebee against the Decepticons in this stunning 3D dark ride.

Related Page: Average Cost of a Disney World Vacation 

Early Park Admission – Universal Studios or Hollywood Studios

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When you’re comparing Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios, a big difference is how early park admission works. Both parks offer early entry for select guests, but Universal might have the upper hand here.

At Hollywood Studios, you can get in early if you’re staying at a Disney World hotel, but it only gives you an extra half hour in the park. On the other hand, Universal Studios offers a more flexible early admission option that can last longer, making it a better deal.

If you want to enjoy Universal’s Early Park Admission, you just need to buy discounted multi-day tickets or book a vacation package with a Universal hotel. What’s great is that Universal also extends this perk to non-resort guests who are visiting the parks for more than one day!

Related post: Complete Guide to Early Entry Disney World

Universal Studios Florida or Hollywood Studios Shows

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Both parks have incredible shows, with the main theme of both of them being movies and entertainment. Depending on what you’re looking for could sway which park you’d prefer. Disney World’s Hollywood Studios has more sing-a-long type shows, whereas Universal is known for parades, stunt shows, and behind-the-scenes. Both are fun if you have little kids or are adults who want to catch your favorite characters dancing down the street.

Hollywood Studios Shows

  • Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage: Experience the classic story of Belle and the Beast in a magical musical that brings your favorite characters and songs to life.
  • Disney Junior Play and Dance: Perfect for the little ones, this fun show lets kids dance and play along with their favorite Disney Junior characters.
  • Disney Movie Magic: A must-see for Disney fans, this show highlights iconic scenes and music from Disney movies in a spectacular cinematic display.
  • Fantasmic: Get ready for a nighttime adventure as Mickey’s imagination takes over with fireworks, lasers, and appearances by beloved Disney characters.
  • For the First Time in Forever, Sing along to all your favorite Frozen songs in this fun, interactive show that fans of all ages will love.
  • Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular: Watch incredible stunts and action-packed scenes, giving you a peek behind the movie’s magic.
  • Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy: Join Lightning McQueen for an exciting racing lesson full of laughs and cool special effects.

Universal Studios Shows

  • The Bourne Stuntacular: Step into the thrilling world of Jason Bourne with this action-packed live stunt show that blends stage performance with amazing cinematic technology.
  • Universal’s MegaMovie Parade: Celebrate the fun of Universal Studios with a lively parade featuring characters, music, and dance.
  • Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show: Discover the secrets behind movie makeup with a show that mixes horror and humor, giving you a backstage look at how it’s done.
  • The Blues Brothers Show: Enjoy classic tunes and comedy with Jake and Elwood in this upbeat street performance.
  • Animal Actors on Location: Watch talented animal stars show off their skills and learn about how they bring movies to life.

Each of these shows at Universal Studios provides a unique entertainment experience, blending storytelling, music, and the art of performance.

Related Page: Hotels With Free Shuttles to Universal Orlando 

Universal Studios Vs. Hollywood Studios FAQ

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Q: Is Hollywood Studios Universal?

A:  No, Hollywood Studios is not part of Universal. It is one of the four main theme parks that make up Walt Disney World, which is owned by the Walt Disney Company. Universal owns Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure theme parks, which are both located in Florida.

Q: How far is Hollywood Studios from Universal Studios?

A: As a general rule of thumb, Hollywood Studios is about 20-25 minutes away from Universal Studios by car or shuttle.

Q: Is Hollywood Studios the same thing as Universal Studios?

A: No, Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios are not the same thing. They’re owned by two different companies and are themed differently. You will need two separate tickets to visit either park, and they are located about 20 minutes away from each other.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you maximize your time in the parks. We break down the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando, be sure to check out our discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets and Universal Orlando vacation package deals which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks, be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!