Toy Story Land Is Opening This Weekend — Here's Everything You Need to Know
Andy has officially left his mark on Walt Disney World. Walking amid his massive footprints underneath towering Tinker-Toys and other goodies hidden throughout Toy Story Land, which opens June 30, guests will get to feel what it’s like to be the size of Buzz Lightyear, and head to infinity — and beyond.
Two new rides, Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers, will bring the trilogy to life alongside Toy Story Mania!, one of the most beloved rides at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 23 years (!) after the original film debuted.
Related: Disney World’s Worst Attraction May Finally Be Closing for Good
The entirety of Toy Story Land feels like it’s made from the remnants of toys Andy has strewn around, giving the space a uniquely playful atmosphere. (Pixar Pier, now open at Disneyland Resort, features Woody, Jessie and Buzz as well only on a smaller scale.)
Here’s what you can expect as the colorful, joyful expansion opens at Disney World.
Those familiar toys will officially have a place to call home.
And, thankfully, it won’t be in Andy’s attic. The former Toy Story Mania! entrance in the Pixar Place courtyard will disappear, instead using a new immersive gateway debuting with the land. Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie will be meeting guests throughout and, in lieu of wandering the walkways, Green Army Patrol will move throughout the land enticing guests to play games and challenges in a sort of on-the-go boot camp. Ride queue lines will also be filled with small nods to the characters, including original packaging and drawings of Andy’s special toys, gathering all things Toy Story into one delightful location.
You can (gleefully!) eat like a kid
Though only a quick-service food kiosk and not a full restaurant, Woody’s Toy Box punches above its weight, offering cheesy brisket melts and monte cristo sandwiches along with banana split yogurt parfaits and a bacon-topped twist on classic toaster pastries. Keep your eyes peeled — and appetite prepared — for crazy concoctions like the s’mores french toast breakfast sandwich and tater tot chili-cheese nachos, both of which are sure to be instant hits.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is finally the park to be at.
After years of construction and closures, the cinematic theme park is the place to visit, and it’s only getting better from here. By the end of next year, Studios will have five new attractions, showcasing the newest in ride development and immersive experiences. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will bring the famed mascots to life in the former home of The Great Movie Ride next summer, and come winter 2019, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will unleash its two tech-savvy rides onto Florida visitors. If you’re planning an upcoming trip and only visiting a few of of Walt Disney World’s four theme parks, be sure you don’t miss this one.
There will be plenty of souvenirs to fill your suitcase.
Much like Pandora — The World of Avatar’s popular take-home banshees, Toy Story Land is going to have some must-buy items, including graphic tees, character sippers and collectible pins. Still, it’s the headbands that will explode across social media, likely rivaling rose gold and millennial pink Minnie ears that have proven popular in the past few months. Little Green Alien headbands with three eyes (that move) and plush Slinky Dog-topped headbands, which already have fans excited, are sure to fly off themed merchandise cart shelves when the land opens June 30.
Toy Story Land’s new rides will test your Fastpass skills.
All three rides in Toy Story Land take FastPass+ reservations, but you’ll have to choose wisely, as selections are “tiered” and guests can only pick one. FastPasses for Slinky Dog Dash run out quickly, which makes it our top choice; be sure to book exactly 60 days out from the start date of your Walt Disney World, Swan & Dolphin, Disney Springs-area or Four Seasons resort hotel reservation, otherwise you may get scooped. (Guests with tickets or annual passes allowing booking 30 days in advance should check back often in hopes of finding a cancellation.)
Whether or not you can reserve your spot in line, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is making it easier to experience the land in the coming months by extending its operating hours and adding Extra Magic Hours both in the morning and at night.