Posts Tagged ‘hollywoodstudios’
An introvert’s guide to 2024 Disney Jollywood Nights
Introversion Insight:
Put an introvert in a new, busy, and extroverted environment. How do they fare? It’s natural for them to be quiet, introspective, intimidated, and maybe even a little self-conscious. But with some planning and knowing what to expect (and knowing they’re doing something they’ll enjoy), they can have a pleasant experience.
What is it?
Disney Jollywood Nights is a separately ticketed after-hours event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s themed as “Hollywood glamour meets holiday cheer.” Your ticket grants you six and a half hours inside the park (five hours of actual event time), with a variety of seasonal offerings.
- new for 2024
- entertainment
- characters
- food and beverages
- attractions
- merchandise
- photo opportunities
- event character Ollie
This introvert’s guide to 2024 Disney Jollywood Nights will prepare you for the event so you’ll know what to expect, how to deal with the crowds, and how to get the most out of the event.
When is it?
The event takes place on select nights in November and December:
- Saturday, November 9
- Wednesday, November 13
- Saturday, November 16
- Monday, November 18
- Saturday, November 23
- Monday, November 25
- Saturday, November 30
- Monday, December 2
- Saturday, December 7
- Wednesday, December 11
- Saturday, December 14
- Wednesday, December 18
- Saturday, December 21
Last year, all dates eventually sold out. We’ll see this year, but opt for a Monday or Wednesday, which may be less crowded.
How much is it?
Prices range from $159 to $179, depending on the night. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket on any night.
Tickets can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. They’ll link with your account so you can use your MagicBand or MagicMobile to get into the park.
(If you don’t want to use a MagicBand or MagicMobile, you’ll need to go to a ticket window where they’ll issue a physical card to you. The purchase confirmation email with barcode can’t be used to get into the park.)
On a related note, you don’t need to make a park pass reservation for Disney Jollywood Nights.
Note: A cheaper child’s ticket is not offered for Disney Jollywood Nights; however, children under the age of 3 don’t need a ticket.
Where do I go?
Check in
Event hours go from 7:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. But your ticket actually gets you into Hollywood Studios at 6 p.m., so you have six and a half hours in the park.
Check-in takes place at the park’s main entrance on the right side. This area is typically sectioned off from the left side with temporary barriers. The left side stays open for day guests to enter the park until the park closes at 7 p.m.
Guests may start queuing up around 4:30 p.m.–4:45 p.m. If you want to make sure you’re at the front of this long line of people, I would be at the gate at this time. If you don’t get there early, I’d let the rush subside and be at the gate around 7 p.m.
A Cast Member will place a wristband on you. Throughout the night you may be asked to show your wristband and credential to go on rides or enter lands. You'll be able to grab a printed event guide once you're inside.
If you’re already in the park because you’re using a regular park ticket or Annual Pass, you can visit a wristband distribution location inside the park to check in. Distribution takes place in a couple locations:
- inside Star Wars: Launch Bay
- to the right of Muppet*Vision 3D
Note: You don’t need to go to the front of the park to receive your event guide. They have them at all the distribution locations.
In my experience last year, these locations started distributing wristbands well over two hours before the event’s official start, so I never observed long lines.
Although the official event start time is 7:30 p.m., some locations may open early around 7 p.m. For example, when I attended last year, Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction started selling the popular Christmas Gertie Cookie a half hour early, so I made sure to do this first thing. This is a great way to maximize the limited time you have during the event.
What do I wear?
Disney encourages its guests to don their holiday apparel for this event. In fact, they suggest getting fancy. Think old Hollywood red carpet with a holiday twist. Of course, dressing up is not required. I noticed there was a mix: some guests dressed up, some didn’t.
If you don’t want to dress up because you think it will bring more attention to you, don’t feel obligated. There were plenty of people not dressed up, so you won’t feel like an outsider if you decide to keep it casual.
What’s the plan?
Introverts are planners, so you’re probably already thinking (and overthinking) about what you want to do during the event. You definitely want to have a plan because five hours of event time is not enough time to do it all. If you’ve done any of the other Disney After Hours events, you know what I mean. We’ll go over all the event offerings so you can prioritize your list and know what’s best for you as a D•Introvert.
Generally speaking, for a themed after-hours event, I recommend focusing on event-exclusive offerings. This means you’ll be experiencing the most popular aspects of the night—which attract the biggest crowds.
Crowds are heaviest around Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, and especially The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard area. If you need a break from the crowds, venture toward the attractions that are open during the event. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land were the least crowded in my experience.
You know your limits, but at the very least, I suggest the following things:
- “Glisten!” Skating Spectacular
- Twilight Soiree at the Tip Top Club
- Disney Holidays in Hollywood
- What's This? Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along
New for 2024
With this only being the second year of Disney Jollywood Nights, offerings are bound to change. We have quite a few changes for 2024:
- One hour longer (7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. instead of 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.)
- Ice skaters on Hollywood Boulevard
- Wondermade treat included with your ticket (provided when exiting)
- More character encounters, including these new ones: Baloo and King Louie, José Carioca and Panchito, Bo Peep and Lotso, and The Mandalorian
- New, more spacious location for Holiday Fiesta en la Calle (Animation Courtyard), with appearances from José Carioca and Panchito
- Dance party in Pixar Plaza with Edna Mode and other Pixar pals
- Holiday celebration around Echo Lake
- Ollie and other event merchandise
- Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby accepting reservations
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance standby line instead of virtual queue
- One additional showtime for What's This? Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along
Entertainment
You’ll see below that various locations have live music during the event. In the marketing for Jollywood Nights, Disney says you can “dance the night away.” I don’t know about you, but dancing outside the comfort of my living room isn’t really my thing. The bands are great, and if you feel inclined to dance, perfect. But in my experience, these areas of the park didn’t really turn into dance floors. Phew.
“Glisten!” Skating Spectacular
What: ice skating show set to holiday tunes
When: 8:15 p.m., 9:15 p.m., 10:30 p.m., 11:15 p.m., and 12:15 a.m.
Where: Center Stage area at the end of Hollywood Boulevard
Crowd level: medium to high – With this being a new offering this year, it's popular. You'll have two viewing options. One is near the front where everyone must sit. The other is back farther where everyone stands.
Holiday Fiesta en la Calle
What: street fair with musicians performing Latin holiday tunes and appearances from José Carioca and Panchito from The Three Caballeros
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: Animation Courtyard
Crowd level: low – Last year, the band performed in Commissary Lane, a relatively narrow pathway. Animation Courtyard should help spread out the crowds.
Twilight Soirée at the Tip Top Club
What: band playing postmodern jukebox-style holiday music
When: 7:30 p.m., 8:10 p.m., 8:50 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m., 11:10 p.m., and 11:50 p.m.
Where: The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard
Crowd level: high – You have four things happening in this courtyard: Tower of Terror ride exit, photo opportunity, live band on stage, and pop-up bar.
Tip: Walk back to the Twilight Soirée when the band is on a break. It will be less crowded then. Grab a drink at the pop-up bar while the line is short, get situated just in time for the band to return, and enjoy the music with drink in hand.
There’s something reassuring about being in a space before the masses arrive. I bet you arrive early to events at home and work. You’ve learned you’re more comfortable when others join you in your space instead of you inserting yourself into an existing crowd. The same holds true at Disney Parks.
Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby
What: restaurant with event-exclusive menu and live jazz piano music
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: The Hollywood Brown Derby
Crowd level: medium – You may experience typical restaurant crowds. A later reservation time may be less crowded.
Note: Reservations are accepted for Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby this year.
Sunset Seasons Greetings
What: projection and laser show
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: The Hollywood Tower Hotel (viewed from Sunset Boulevard)
Crowd level: low to medium – Sunset Boulevard is a long street, so guests can spread out while watching the show.
Disney Holidays in Hollywood
What: musical variety stage show hosted by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy
When: 8:15 p.m., 9:15 p.m., 11:15 p.m., and 12:15 a.m.
Where: Theater of the Stars (where Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage normally is)
Crowd level: medium to high – You’ll encounter a long line before the start of each show. As you file in, expect to be seated right next to someone. Later shows may be less crowded.
What's This? Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along
What: stage show and sing-along inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas
When: 7:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 11:30 p.m., and 12:30 a.m.
Where: Hyperion Theater (where For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration normally is)
Crowd level: medium to high – You’ll encounter a long line before the start of each show. As you file in, expect to be seated right next to someone. Later shows may be less crowded.
Tip: Catch the last show at 12:30 a.m. There may be fewer people attending, and when you exit the theater, you'll find many of the guests have already left the park.
Note: This show is technically a sing-along. Audience participation may be a no-go for introverts. Don’t feel pressured to sing along. In my experience, guests were quietly singing along. The place didn’t turn into a Taylor Swift concert or anything. Phew.
Pixar Dance Party
What: dance party with Edna Mode
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: Pixar Plaza
Crowd level: low to medium – With so many other entertainment offerings, not as many guests make their way back here.
Note: This is truly a lively dance party with characters in the mix. For the shy introverts in the room, you may want to be a wallflower.
Echo Lake Holiday Celebration
What: 1990s and 2000s throwback bash with appearances by characters like Max Goof (as Powerline), Chip 'n' Dale (as Rescue Rangers), and Baloo and King Louie (from Talespin).
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: Echo Lake
Crowd level: low to medium – This is a large area, but you'll find crowded spots where the characters are.
Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!
What: nighttime spectacular with fireworks, lasers, lights, projections, and holiday music
When: 10 p.m.
Where: in front of the Chinese Theatre/Hollywood Boulevard
Crowd level: low to medium – The Center Stage area in front of the Chinese Theatre can accommodate a large number of guests. You can also find less-crowded spots on the sides.
Note: Although Fantasmic! isn’t unique to Jollywood Nights, the show is at 6:30 p.m., and since your event ticket gets you in at 6 p.m., you can experience Fantasmic!. If this show is a priority, head there first thing.
Characters
As an introvert, characters have always been a little awkward for me. I don’t always know what to say or how to interact with them.
Even so, having characters has a nice effect on crowds. They disperse the guests throughout the park so that the most popular areas are less congested.
If characters are your jam, here is who you can meet.
Animation Courtyard
- José Carioca
- Panchito
Note: These two alternate.
Pixar Plaza
- Edna Mode
- Frozone
- Joy
- Sadness
- Mike Wazowski
Between Pixar Plaza and Toy Story Land
- Goofy and Pluto
- Donald Duck and Daisy Duck
Echo Lake
- Max Goof (as Powerline)
- Chip ‘n’ Dale (as Rescue Rangers)
- Phineas and Ferb
- Pinocchio
- Jiminy Cricket
- Baloo from Talespin
- King Louie from Talespin
Note: Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket alternate, and Baloo and King Louie alternate.
Celebrity Spotlight at Echo Lake
- Santa Stitch
Grand Avenue
- Mary Poppins
- Bert from Mary Poppins
- Clarice
- Scrooge McDuck
Note: Clarice and Scrooge McDuck alternate. Dr. Strange has been spotted near Grand Avenue as well. He just roams around with no official greeting area.
Santa’s Workshop at Grand Avenue
- Santa Duffy
Red Carpet Dreams on Commissary Lane
- Minnie Mouse
- Mickey Mouse
Entrance to Toy Story Land
- Bo Peep
- Lotso
Note: These two alternate.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- The Mandalorian
Food and Beverages
Devote some time to try the themed, event-exclusive food and beverages! Portion sizes are smaller, but that also means it’s easier to sample a variety of items within a short period of time.
Note: Mobile order is not available during Disney Jollywood Nights.
Twilight Soirée at The Tip Top Club
- 1939 Royale: Teremana Blanco Tequila, Cointreau Orange Liqueur, desert pear, agave nectar, and lime juice topped with Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut
- Top Floor Daiquiri: Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, ube, lime juice, and a splash of shimmer
- Sparkling Pomegranate-Apple Cider: Pomegranate green tea topped with sparkling apple cider (nonalcoholic)
- Sparkling Apple Cider (nonalcoholic)
- Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut
- Amore di Amanti Prosecco
The Tip Top Club has two organized lines. When it gets busy, the entrance to join the lines is actually behind the Joffrey’s kiosk, right as you enter the The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard area. A Cast Member is stationed there with a sign directing you back there. This keeps you out of the main crowd in the courtyard. It works really well to alleviate some of the congestion in this area.
Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby
- Chorizo Arancini: With parmesan dust and salmorejo tomato sauce
- Hamachi Crudo: With caper aïoli, Dijon-avocado mousse, and citrus-champagne vinaigrette
- Jazzy Holiday Slider: Bison and pork, onion jam, dulce gorgonzola, arugula, and a brioche roll
- Pork Belly Bao: Korean BBQ, cucumber slaw, and soy vinaigrette
- Tofu Bao: Seared tofu, cucumber slaw, and soy vinaigrette (plant-based)
- Shrimp Cocktail: With house-made cocktail sauce and spicy avocado spread
- Sticky Chicken Wings: With sweet-and-spicy soy
- Charcuterie: House-made cured meats and accompaniments, blue cheese mousse, and toasted sourdough
- Holiday Mickey Hot Cocoa: House-made hot cocoa topped with whipped cream, caramel-chocolate brownie Mickey ears, and holiday sprinkles (nonalcoholic)
- The Sleigh Bell: Ginger beer, rosemary syrup, pomegranate, cranberry, and lime juice (nonalcoholic)
- Old Fashioned: Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth, and Maraschino Cherries
- Espresso Martini: Stoli Vanilla Vodka, Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur, and Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew
- Peanut Butter Whiskey Cream: RumChata Cream Liqueur and Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
- Sidecar: Courvoisier VS Cognac, Cointreau Orange Liqueur, and sweet-and-sour
- Pomegranate Whisky Sour: Crown Royal Blended Canadian Whisky, pomegranate juice, and sweet and sour
- Hollywood Lights: Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, pineapple, and cranberry
- Vodka Martini: Grey Goose Vodka and Dry Vermouth
- Spiced Pear Martini: Grey Goose Vodka, spiced pear syrup, and lemon juice
- Peppermint Schnapps Sipping Chocolate: Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Peppermint Schnapps
ABC Commissary
- Cauliflower Taco: Chili pepper-lime dusted fried cauliflower on top of a corn tortilla with diced onions, cilantro, and a chipotle cashew “crema” (plant-based)
- Birria Taco: Shredded short rib and Monterey jack served with a beef consommé for dipping
- Chicken Empanadas with Street Corn: Chicken empanadas served with a side of street corn salad topped with chili peppers, lime, and cotija cheese
- Yuca con Chicharrón: Fried pork belly, yuca fries, red pickled onions, and chili-lime seasoning with a yellow pepper aïoli
- Taco ‘bout a Holiday Cookie!: Cranberry cheesecake-filled chocolate cookies dipped in cranberry-white chocolate topped with pistachio whipped cream, gold crispy pearls, chocolate holly leaf décor, and holiday sprinkles
- Mexican Hot Cocoa Cheesecake: Holiday chocolate cookie streusel, whipped cinnamon-chocolate cheesecake, and spiced whipped cream topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a Wondermade Churro Marshmallow
- Mango Chamoyada: Frozen mango beverage with mango-chili-lime sauce topped with chili-lime seasoning (nonalcoholic)
- Mango Chamoyada: With tequila
- Coquito: Coconut cream, coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, Bacardí Rum, and Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum topped with cinnamon
- Oaxaca Old Fashioned: Casa Dragones Blanco Tequila, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, agave nectar, and flavors of chocolate and orange served over ice and garnished with an orange
BaseLine Tap House
- Macaroni and Cheese Croquette: Fried macaroni and cheese with aïoli dipping sauce
- Charcuterie Cup: Toma cheese, blue cheese, chorizo, and salami with a skewer of green olive, cherry tomato, and blistered shishito pepper, cornichon pickles, and a toasted focaccia crostini
- Bavarian Pretzel: With beer-cheese fondue and spicy mustard
- Beer Margarita: Blend of Patrón Silver Tequila, Cointreau Orange Liqueur, and lime juice topped with Scrimshaw Pilsner served over ice
Dockside Diner
- Spicy Pimento-Kimchi Dip: Topped with chives and served with fresh house-made wonton chips
- Samosas: Potato and pea stuffed samosas with curried chickpeas, herb “crema,” and tomato-pomegranate chutney (plant-based)
- Poutine Potato Bites: Topped with gravy, brisket, mozzarella curds, and chives
- Christmas Tree Cookie Stack: Vanilla cookie stack filled with pistachio buttercream, cranberry, and raspberry jam topped with sprinkles and a yellow candy star
- Sandy Claws Dark Hot Cocoa: Dark chocolate hot cocoa topped with cherry whipped cream (nonalcoholic)
- Naughty or Nice: Crown Royal Blended Canadian Whisky and ginger mixed with orange, cranberry, and grapefruit juices topped with fresh cranberries
Epic Eats
- Spicy Korean Chicken Funnel Cake: Spicy fried Korean chicken with a pickled slaw served on a mini funnel cake
- S’mores Funnel Cake: Giant roasted marshmallow with chocolate and marshmallow sauce topped with chocolate curls and cinnamon toast cereal served on a mini funnel cake
- Warm Spiced Chai Cocktail: Twinings Chai Tea, RumChata Cream Liqueur, vanilla syrup, and cinnamon
Fairfax Fare
- Holiday Turkey Popover: Roasted turkey and creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and cranberry chutney in a house-made popover
- Just the Sides’ Popover: Macaroni and cheese and savory collard greens topped with cornbread crumbs in a house-made popover
- PB&J Doughnut: Half-glazed doughnut with creamy peanut butter and grape jelly dipped in dark chocolate and served with house-made salt and vinegar chips (also available at Hollywood Scoops)
- Kermit’s Frozen Banana Shake: Frozen banana and white chocolate with caramel swirls topped with matcha whipped cream and sprinkles (nonalcoholic) (also available at Hollywood Scoops)
- Mistletoe Martini: Tito’s Handmade Vodka and St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur mixed with cranberry juice and topped with fresh cranberries and mint leaves (also available at Hollywood Scoops)
Note: Last year, I observed the longest food line at Fairfax Fare. Even so, it only took 10–15 minutes to get through.
Market
- Buffalo Chicken Spring Rolls: Fried spring rolls served with a house-made jalapeño ranch dipping sauce and fried rice noodles
- Caramel-Apple Cider: Werther’s Original Caramel, apple cider, cinnamon, and Ole Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine garnished with a sugar tuile served warm (nonalcoholic version available)
- In Holiday Fashion: Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon, rosemary syrup, cranberry and lime juices, and cinnamon
PizzeRizzo
- Italian Beef Sandwich: Sliced beef sweet and spicy peppers and Barilla Sweet & Spicy Pepper Pesto served with a side of au jus dipping sauce
- Antipasto Flatbread: Antipasto spread of meats, olives, peppers, onions, Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto, and mozzarella
- Meatball and Polenta: Giant meatball with marinara and creamy cheese polenta
- Caramel-Mocha Napoleon: Layers of puff pastry and caramel mascarpone cream with a whipped coffee crémeux, salted caramel crispy pearls, chocolate curl, and sprinkles
- Cranberry Fizz: Cranberry juice, Sprite, wild cherry syrup, and house-made rosemary simple syrup with a lime (nonalcoholic)
- Snowppino: Lemon sorbet, prosecco, grappa, and rosemary
- Holiday Cheer: Aperol Apéritif, vodka, Sprite, wild cherry syrup, and house-made rosemary simple syrup with an orange slice and rosemary sprig
The Trolley Car Café
- Agent P Croissant: Waffle croissant dipped in caramel-chocolate and topped with mint cream, a chocolate hat, and M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
- Round ‘Em Up Latte: A merry blend of espresso, cookie butter syrup, dulce de leche sauce, and milk adorned with fluffy whipped cream, playful animal crackers, and festive sprinkles (nonalcoholic) (available hot or iced at location in Toy Story Land; option to add spirits)
- Tinseltown Tini: Toast to holiday cheer with our cold brew coffee topped with Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur, Grey Goose Vodka, a hint of cream, creamy vanilla cold foam, and a dash of cocoa (available at location near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror)
Ice Cold Hydraulics
- Duffy Brownie: Coca-Cola fudge-filled cherry-white chocolate chip brownie covered in Coca-Cola buttercream and a caramel-chocolate Duffy paw
- Dark and Snowy: Frozen blend of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey and Coca-Cola topped with sweetened coconut cream and cinnamon
Outdoor vending locations
- Christmas Gertie Cookie: Gertie sugar cookie with a Santa hat
- Gingerbread Bites (plant- based)
Various lounge locations
- Zero-Proof Gingerbread Spritzer: Lyre’s Spiced Cane Non-Alcoholic Spirit, gingerbread syrup, and club soda garnished with a gingerbread bite
- Sugar Cookie Martini: Stoli Vanilla Vodka, Baileys Original Irish Cream Liqueur, and Disaronno Originale Liqueur mixed with milk and sugar and topped with holiday sprinkles
Snack cart across from Beverly Sunset Boutique (Annual Passholder exclusive)
- Frozen Espresso Martini: Frozen Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew, Minute Maid Vanilla Smoothie, SelvaRey Chocolate Rum, and Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur with chocolate sauce and topped with chocolate curls (also available as nonalcoholic cold brew)
Attractions
With everything else going on during the night, you’ll find attraction wait times to be lower than a regular park day. Below are the attractions open during the event. Additional attractions may be available.
Toy Story Land
- Slinky Dog Dash
- Toy Story Mania!
- Alien Swirling Saucers
Sunset Boulevard
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Hollywood Boulevard
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Echo Lake
- Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Grand Avenue
-
Muppet*Vision 3D
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Note: This year, Rise of the Resistance is only available through a standby line during Disney Jollywood Nights.
Merchandise
Event-exclusive and Ollie-themed items are available for purchase. Ollie is the “face” of Jollywood, a character created for this event. More on Ollie below.
You'll find event merchandise at Stage 1 Company Store on Grand Avenue.
Photo opportunities
Disney PhotoPass is included in your Disney Jollywood Nights event ticket. You’ll find PhotoPass photographers throughout the park, as well as specialty image captures like The Muppets Christmas Carol opportunity inside Stage 1 on Grand Avenue (robotic arm camera) and a festive camera array setup inside the Disney Studio Store in Animation Courtyard.
Note: The specialty image captures are more than just smiling for the camera. You'll be asked to act, dance, or move a certain way—all while the people waiting in line watch you. Depending on your comfort level, you may want to duck out—or have some event-exclusive liquid extroversion before going in.
Event character Ollie
Did you know Disney Jollywood Nights unveiled a brand-new in-park character? His name is Ollie, a gingerbread cookie who baked his dreams come true!
“There once was a cookie named Ollie
Who made his way west on a trolley
With oven-baked gleam, he followed his dream
And made all of Tinseltown jolly!”
Although you can’t actually meet him during the event, you can spot references to him throughout the park. With your keen introvert eye, you can turn this into a scavenger hunt of sorts.
How to avoid crowds: attend Disney After Hours
An introvert’s guide to 2024 Disney After Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Introversion Insight:
A lot of people don’t like crowded places, but for introverts, it can be overstimulating. Way too many strangers in one place. (And let’s hope they don’t want to strike up a conversation.)
Disney After Hours is a ticketed event that allows you to visit a Walt Disney World park after it closes for the day. You have 3 hours to do all the things—but with fewer people. They limit the number of tickets sold.
That’s why I think Disney After Hours is worth it and perfect for D•Introverts. Guaranteed lower crowd levels! It’s becoming harder and harder to find a “slow season,” so with these limited-capacity events, you’ll notice a difference.
Avoiding the crowds—my mission in life
What’s included?
This is what you’re paying for:
- Lower wait times for attractions
- No blazing sun at night
- Ice cream, popcorn, and bottle soda/water
- Characters
And what I’m really paying for is a way to experience the park without the crowds.
Who should attend?
If crowds zap your energy, this event is for you. Less people-y for the win.
If you have a rest day during your trip, do Disney After Hours on that day. Sleep in and relax at your Resort during the day and then you’ll be ready for the late night.
If you don’t want to mess with Genie+, Individual Lightning Lanes, or virtual queues for rides, consider Disney After Hours. They’re not used during the event—because you don’t need them.
If it’s your favorite park, try the after-hours event as a different way to experience it.
If you’ve already visited the park on a previous trip, Disney After Hours is a good way to repeat your favorite rides and attractions. If you’ve never visited the park, I don’t recommend Disney After Hours because not everything is open. You won’t receive the full park experience.
If you’re visiting Walt Disney World at a busier time of year, this event allows you to bypass the crowds.
Which park?
At different times during the year, you have four options:
- Magic Kingdom
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- EPCOT
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Let’s talk about Disney After Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2024.
How does it work?
Pick your night
The event takes place on select nights in January through August 2024:
- January 10 and 24
- February 21 and 26
- March 13, 20, and 27
- April 3 and 10
- May 22 and 29
- June 12, 19, and 26
- July 10, 17, and 24
- August 7, 14, 21, and 29
Buy your ticket
Prices range from $145 to $175, depending on the night. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can receive a $30 discount.
Tickets can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. The only delivery method is electronic (mobile). Your tickets will link to your account, and then you can use your MagicBand or MagicMobile to get in.
(If you don’t want to use a MagicBand or MagicMobile, you’ll need to go to a ticket window where they’ll issue a physical card to you. The purchase confirmation email with barcode can’t be used to get in.)
Note: You don’t need to make a park pass reservation for Disney After Hours.
Create a plan
Introverts are planners, so you’re probably already thinking (and overthinking) about what you want to do during the event. You definitely want to have a plan for Disney After Hours. Three hours go by fast. Figure out your priorities. Rides? Characters? Shows? Unfortunately, you can’t do it all. (Oh? Is that a challenge?!)
What’s available during Disney After Hours at Hollywood Studios
Attractions
You have eight options:
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
- Slinky Dog Dash
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Toy Story Mania!
- Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
- Alien Swirling Saucers
Note: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is closed for refurbishment and is not expected to reopen in time for Disney After Hours 2024.
Food and beverages
As mentioned above, ice cream, popcorn, and bottle soda/water are included in your admission. You’ll find them at snack carts on Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, Grand Avenue, and in Toy Story Land.
For purchase, you have limited options:
- Woody’s Lunch Box (mobile order available)
- Milk Stand (mobile order available)
- Oga’s Cantina (walk-up availability)
- Some outdoor bars
Entertainment
Did I mention 3 hours go by fast? If you can squeeze in some shows and characters, here are your options:
- Fantasmic!
- Disney Movie Magic
- Wonderful World of Animation
- Select characters (subject to change): Donald Duck, Duffy the Disney Bear, Thumper, Jiminy Cricket, Goofy, Minnie Mouse, Jasmine, Tiana, Mary Poppins, Penguin Waiter, Pocahontas, Meeko, and Rafiki have been spotted.
Note: Disney PhotoPass Photographers are in the park during Disney After Hours at Hollywood Studios.
Merchandise
Since time is limited, I wouldn’t recommend shopping during the event, but in case you do, here are your options:
- Mickey’s of Hollywood
- Tatooine Traders
- The Market Merchants in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities
- Jessie’s Trading Post
- Tower Hotel Gifts
- Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers (walk-up availability)
- Droid Depot (walk-up availability)
Head in to the park
Your plan is planned. The neon lights of Hollywood Boulevard await.
Event hours go from 9:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. But your ticket actually gets you into Hollywood Studios at 7 p.m., so you have 5.5 hours in the park—2.5 hours with all the regular day guests and 3 hours with just event guests. That’s good to remember because that means you won’t escape all the crowds until later.
Check-in
Check-in takes place at the park’s main entrance on the right side. You’ll see large signs to guide you. Oftentimes there will be a Cast Member out front directing guests as well. You’ll want to stay to the right as the left side will still be in use by guests with regular park tickets.
In my experience, guests started queuing up around 6:30 p.m.
A Cast Member will place a wristband on you. Throughout the night you may be asked to show your wristband to go on rides or walk farther back into the park.
If you’re already in the park because you’re using a regular park ticket or Annual Pass, you don’t have to exit the park to check in and get your wristband. You’ll find a second check-in location at the end of Hollywood Boulevard (at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard).
Tips
- Don’t spend all day at a park and then attend Disney After Hours. You’re asking for an introvert hangover if you do.
- Eat dinner before the event starts.
- Don’t expect to walk on all the rides.
Although, it’s not uncommon to find 10- to 20-minute wait times during Disney After Hours. Wait times typically go down the later it gets. The longest wait I experienced was 40 minutes, and that was for Slinky Dog Dash.
- As much as I like to leisurely stroll through the park, I wouldn’t during Disney After Hours. In fact, I would speed walk.
More After Hours
Need a quiet spot at Walt Disney World? Look for the old smoking areas!
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
On May 1, 2019, Disney Parks banned smoking inside the parks. As a result, all these off-the-beaten-path, tucked-way smoking areas were now empty. Disney inadvertently created what I’m affectionately calling D•Introvert Zones, quiet areas where introverts can take a breather and escape the crowds!
Leading up to the smoking ban, Disney had reduced the number of smoking areas, and as of 2019, eleven areas remained. Some of these areas have been repurposed, but many of them remain accessible and are surprisingly quiet. Let’s go over each area.
Magic Kingdom
Tomorrowland: Near Space Mountain
- Shaded area with benches
- One of the quietest, tucked-away spots in my experience
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
Frontierland: Near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Scenic area next to the water
- Not as tucked away
Because everyone passes this area as they exit Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, it may not be as quiet or empty.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Africa/Asia: Pathway in between
- Scenic pathway
- Covered area with tables and chairs
Tip: Get some fries at Mr. Kamal’s nearby and take it up to this area.
DinoLand U.S.A.: Near DINOSAUR
- Secluded pathway
- Not always accessible
Cast Members are sometimes positioned just to the right of the DINOSAUR entrance, blocking access to this area.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Sunset Boulevard: Near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror exit
- Shaded area with benches
- Tucked-away spot
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
Grand Avenue: End of street before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge entrance
- Mostly standing room
- May be used for character meet-and-greets
EPCOT
World Nature: Across from The Land Pavilion
- Scenic area by water with monorail overhead
- Some benches
World Discovery: Across from Mission: SPACE
- Multiple benches
- Tucked-away spots
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
World Showcase: Between France and United Kingdom Pavilions
- Scenic area by water
- One of the quietest, tucked-away spots in my experience
- May be used for special events
World Showcase: Italy Pavilion
- Mostly standing room
- Not very tucked away
World Showcase: Between China and Norway Pavilions
- Standing room
- Not very tucked away
Tips for a highly sensitive Disney introvert
Introversion Insight:
Not all introverts are highly sensitive. They may just have a hard time with social stimuli. But some introverts do share similarities with highly sensitive people. These individuals process social, physical, and emotional stimuli deeply.
Emotions can run high at Disney Parks, good and bad. If you’re a sensitive D•Introvert, you’re feeling all the feels. You have the ability to recognize and understand emotions. You really should see it as a superpower, but sometimes it can weigh you down.
Let’s talk about situations you might find yourself in while on your Disney Parks vacation, along with ways to manage them.
“Hey, Mr. Grumpy Gills”
Disney has set the bar on guest service, so when they fall short, it’s noticeable. Nine times out of ten you’ll encounter friendly and helpful Cast Members, but it’s possible you might interact with one on an off day.
(Side note: Some of the EPCOT festival booths are operated by a third party, and I’ve noticed some of those Cast Members are not the friendliest.)
If you’re like me, a sour interaction will haunt you for the rest of your park day. Like Beverly, it will leave a bad taste in your mouth. Part of you is thinking about how you could have responded to the Cast Member. Part of you feels chastised in a way. And another part of you is formulating the email you’ll write when you get home.
It’s easier said than done, but don’t let it consume you. Try to be present. If you find yourself ruminating, focus on what’s physically around you: landscaping, buildings, food, or the smile on your partner’s face. I like to get out of my mind and think of the bigger picture. Think of all the positive interactions you’ve had. That one sour interaction doesn’t have to affect your entire vacation.
“You idiots! You fools! You imbeciles!”
If you’ve been to a Disney Park before, you may have witnessed a family in full meltdown mode. And it’s not necessarily because they’re all introverts who have been overstimulated. The crowds, lines, heat, and stress can be intense for anyone.
Emotions may run high, and harsh words may be said. Like the grumpy Cast Member interaction, your instinct might be to brood over a loved one’s hurtful comments. You feel things deeply, to the point where you might think it would be best to just go back to the Resort. That is always an option, but I’d say most of the time, try and brush it off. Know that this person still loves you just as much as they did before the hurtful comments. Clear the air by going on a thrill ride.
“Oh, d-d-dear”
Is Piglet your spirit animal? I can relate to Piglet. I worry. I overthink. I have anxiety. But that all magically goes away when you enter a Disney Park, right? Not exactly. You might be stressing over getting to your next Lightning Lane or dining reservation on time. Maybe it’s finding the stroller parking, exiting an attraction, and then discovering your stroller has been moved. Little things like these might affect you more than other people.
And that’s okay. We learn to manage like we do outside the parks, but one thing that may help is preparation. Being prepared for different park scenarios can give you a lot of peace of mind. My top three suggestions? Read up on park procedures, know the lay of the land, and become familiar with the My Disney Experience app.
“Welcome to Sunnyside, folks”
Sometimes plans change. One minute you’re in the attic, the next you’re at Sunnyside Daycare. Introverts tend to be planners, so I’m guessing you’ve created a well-thought-out and detailed plan for your Disney Parks vacation. Nice work, pal. But how flexible is it? Or should I say how flexible are you?
You might experience a ride going down, a torrential downpour, or a sudden headache. The people in your party may just want to go with the flow and not follow your elaborate plan. I think there are some compromises to be made. Know you can’t do it all. It’s possible you’ll come back for another visit. But as corny as it sounds, I think it’s important to remain proud of your planning. You put a lot of effort into it. You researched everything so now, even if you don’t follow the plan, you can serve as your travel party’s expert.
Six introvert spots with AC at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
Florida can get hot, especially in the summer. I would never tell you not to visit Walt Disney World, but if there’s a time I’d highly discourage you from visiting, it’s in the summer. It’s toasty. But magic can still be found in the sunscreen you’re sweating into your eyeballs.
These restorative niches Susan Cain wrote about—they can be quiet spots—but maybe just as importantly, they are cool spots. Never underestimate the recharging power of air-conditioning.
And it may seem like it’s in short supply at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Sure, you can find AC if you want to go on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, watch For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, dine at The Hollywood Brown Derby, or get in line to meet Minnie Mouse inside Red Carpet Dreams. But what if you just want a quiet spot with AC without rides, shows, restaurants, or characters?
Here are six relatively quiet spots with AC that will help you recharge and stay cool at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Star Wars Launch Bay
- Large indoor area with lots of dark nooks and crannies
- Some benches
- Exhibits to look at
Walt Disney Presents
- Limited benches
- Exhibits to look at
Tower Hotel Gifts
(The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ exit)
- Limited benches
- Merchandise to look at
Note: You’ll be walking against some traffic if you go all the way back inside as most everyone else will be exiting.
Vacation Fun exit
- Limited benches
- Photo ops
Note: The entrance to the exit area is just to the right of the theater’s entrance. Look for the red and yellow doors. When the theater lets out, you’ll be joined by the guests exiting; however, most don’t stick around too long.
Rock Around the Shop (Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith exit)
- No seating
- Merchandise to look at
Note: The entrance is just to the right of the KRNR The Rock Station food truck. You’ll be walking against traffic as most everyone else will be exiting.
Jessie’s Trading Post (Toy Story Mania! exit)
- No seating
- Merchandise to look at
Note: Look for the Pixar Ball in Toy Story Land. The entrance is just to the left of the ball down a long pathway. You’ll be walking against traffic as most everyone else will be exiting.
Honorable mentions
In case you need a restorative niche that has AC as well as liquid courage/extroversion (alcohol), look no further than Tune-In Lounge and BaseLine Tap House. I didn’t list these two earlier because they involve ordering something. (Yes, you can sit inside these establishments and not order anything, but I try to be a courtesy D•Introvert.)
Tune-In Lounge doesn’t have a lot of seating, but it does have retro decor that will transport you to the 1950s. BaseLine Tap House has limited indoor seating and the best background music loop.
Need a quiet spot (with AC!) at EPCOT?
How to survive as an introvert at Walt Disney World
Introversion Insight:
A crowded, lively place is exciting and energizing for some. But for introverts, it can be exhausting. These places actually drain an introvert’s mental energy. This is why conserving and recharging our energy is key.
Disney Parks are busy, crowded places. They can be physically exhausting, but let’s not forget about how mentally exhausting they can be for introverts. Here are some tips for preventing an introvert hangover.
Lay low on the first day
Disney’s Animal Kingdom promotes a message of conservation. What they don’t promote is conserving your energy before you even step foot in a park. But in all seriousness, take it easy on your arrival day. Definitely don’t hit up a park on your first day. Travel days are hard enough. This is the perfect time to charge your social battery for what’s to come.
Ease into it. Ever notice how slow and deliberate you are in life? Keep it up, even when you’re full-on excited to explore the parks. You’ll prevent an early burnout.
Become a photographer
Offer to be the photographer for the group. If you’re the one taking the picture, you’re not in the spotlight. It’s a way to regulate how much attention is on you—or in other words—how much stimulation you receive. The more stimulation received the faster you’ll deplete your social battery.
As you’re walking around the park, watching a parade, and taking in the sights, you can distance yourself from the action by placing a camera between you and the environment. It’s good to be present, of course, but your camera can act as a buffer.
Have an exit strategy
Because introverts tend to be planners, you’ve probably mapped out each day of your Disney Parks vacation. Might I suggest a bit of flexibility? You may go into a park day thinking you’ll be there from open to close, but your social battery may not last.
I like to have an exit strategy in place before entering the park. Here’s an example: “We will leave the park for a midday break at 2 p.m.” If you get to that point and feel like you need a break, do it. If you’re feeling fine, feel free to stay longer. But deciding this up front may help if you’re concerned about how long you can handle the parks.
Know your escape route
Speaking of an exit strategy, do you know all your transportation options if you want to take a break from the parks? A midday break is easiest when you stay on property since you can use Disney’s various modes of transportation. But it can get complicated when you realize they have buses, boats, monorails, and gondolas. Here are your Walt Disney World transportation options from each park to each resort:
You’re going to have a great time!
Best Hollywood Studios quick-service restaurant for introverts
Introversion Insight:
Crowded places can be overstimulating for introverts. Crowded eating establishments add a whole other layer of anxiety. (I still get anxious thinking about the school cafeteria.) Introversion and anxiety tend to be two peas in a pod. Being prepared and knowing how to navigate these situations can help you find your inner peas.
If you’re new around here, a quick-service restaurant at the parks is basically a fast-food or counter-service restaurant. A table-service restaurant is more of a sit-down location with a server. Table service is best for introverts because they seat you, they bring your food to you, and they clean up after you. Easy peasy. But it generally requires a reservation which, depending on the restaurant and time of year, may be hard to secure. No worries, though. You have plenty of quick-service options.
But first, the number one rule for any location—avoid the lunch and dinnertime rush. We want to avoid the masses of hangry guests.
So what makes a quick-service restaurant good for introverts?
Plenty of seating
There’s nothing worse than having your tray of food, carefully balancing everything, and trying to find a place to sit. It feels like all eyes are on you, am I right? We need lots of seating so we don’t have to trek too far or hunt too long.
Different types of seating
Booths, corner tables, and spots along the perimeter are all great for introverts. We want to avoid places with just a bunch of tables close together in the center of a room.
Easy to navigate
Thankfully, most Disney Parks restaurants are organized and set up in a way that’s easy to navigate. Things we pay attention to: where to order, pick up food, and grab utensils, condiments, and napkins. Tip: Always do mobile order if it’s available. (Since the pandemic, that seems to be the company’s preference anyway.) You’ll avoid the ordering line, and the most talking you’ll have to do is telling them your order number at pickup.
Backlot Express, “A Warehouse of Good Eating”
So here it is. The best Hollywood Studios quick-service restaurant for introverts is Backlot Express.
I should first mention that if you don’t understand the theme, you might think Backlot Express is just an old, dark, and cluttered space. I mean, you’re not completely wrong, but you’ll appreciate all the details more if you know the story behind it—and we know introverts love details.
The details
It’s themed like a warehouse you might find on a typical movie studio’s backlot. The restaurant harkens back to the early days of Disney-MGM Studios when actual movie production took place. They want you immersed in the world of moviemaking, including in the behind-the-scenes studio shops like the paint shop, sculpture shop, and model shop.
Who doesn’t want to enjoy their Wookiee Cookie next to splattered paint?!
For those nostalgic D•Introverts, it remains relatively untouched since the park opened.
Spend some time wandering around each shop. You’ll find all kinds of signs, props, and references to movies and TV.
The seating
This restaurant is big—600 seats big. This means you’ll be able to find an empty table quickly and easily. I also want to point out the layout. Because each area is themed as a studio shop, you have multiple tucked-away areas. It’s not just one large dining room. I find myself going to a dark corner table. (It really is fairly dark in there, which may help you decompress.) And if you prefer to dine alfresco, Backlot Express boasts lots of covered patio seating.
The logistics
As soon as you go through the main entrance, you’re greeted with a large open area. You have all the pickup zones in a row. Mobile order is available, and those pickup zones are clearly marked. The drink and condiment stations are prominently themed, so they’re easy to locate as well.
I hope you’ll check out this introvert-friendly restaurant the next time you’re at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Do you think it’s the best quick-service restaurant for introverts at Hollywood Studios? Let me know!
Backlot Express
Type: Quick service
Location: Echo Lake at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
(next to Star Tours – The Adventures Continue)
Price: $15 and under
Hours: 11 a.m. – hour before park close (may vary)
Menu: Lunch and dinner
More introvert-friendly restaurants
Planning a solo Disney Parks trip as an introvert
Introversion Insight:
Put an introvert in a new, busy, and extroverted environment. How do they fare? It’s natural for them to be quiet, introspective, intimidated, and maybe even a little self-conscious. But with some planning and knowing what to expect (and knowing they’re doing something they’ll enjoy), they can have a pleasant experience.
Whether you’re in the area for work, can’t get others to come with you (losers!), or you just need a Disney Parks fix, a solo trip may be a good option. As an introvert, you might think a solo trip is perfect. You can be by yourself (albeit with thousands of other guests). But I found the opposite to be true at first. It was challenging! Here are some things I wish I would have considered.
Knowing yourself
Are you an independent, self-confident person? If you’re used to running around town by yourself in your day-to-day life, a solo park visit may come more naturally for you. But I think for some, it can be intimidating.
Consider how comfortable you are in your own skin because when you’re by yourself—at least for me—there’s a degree of self-consciousness. I don’t typically wear Mickey ears in the parks, but if I did, I might feel insecure about wearing them if it’s just me. I’d want to be with a group where we’re all wearing ears.
And depending on the person, you might all of a sudden be insecure about how you walk or talk. I’m pretty sure the odds of tripping over your own feet are greater when you’re solo! That’s just how it works. But I do become hyper-aware of those things when it’s just me. So then it can be harder to live in the moment and enjoy the parks because I’m overanalyzing. Of course, I’ve gotten better the more visits I’ve made, and everyone is different, right? We all have different levels of confidence and images of ourselves.
But you really do learn about yourself. You figure out your level of comfort in different situations. I think you can grow as an adult. I don’t think we ever stop maturing. You end up navigating airports, transportation, hotels, and the parks all on your own. And for me, it forces me to act like an extrovert. It’s good practice for the noisy extroverted world we live in outside the parks.
I sometimes rely on my spouse to hold up a conversation or let them guide a social interaction, so when I’m solo, this is my chance. I talk to more people. I sometimes find Cast Members are more talkative to you as well if they notice you’re solo.
You also might feel a sense of freedom. I think when you live in a certain place for a while and interact with your same social circle, you get stuck in your ways. You act a certain way around these people. So when you take that solo trip, I feel like you can let loose a bit more.
Navigating the parks
You create your schedule. If you want to stare at all the signs in Africa in Disney’s Animal Kingdom for a half hour, you can. PS: This is something I’ve done, and it’s glorious—so many small details in those signs. But you decide how early you arrive and how late you stay. You also decide when you need a break to go back to the Resort midday. With a group, you’re at the whim of others in your party.
You don’t have to do rides or attractions you don’t like. And on the flip side, you can do the rides or attractions you like, the ones you can’t get your spouse to go on or experience. When I’m with my spouse, we don’t usually stop to enjoy the parades or the streetmosphere performers. But I can easily do that when it’s just me.
You might use those single rider queues. Normally when I’m with a group or even just my spouse, we’ll still ride together and not do single rider. But when you’re solo, you can take advantage of it, which means a shorter wait for the ride, of course, but also less time awkwardly standing in the long regular line with other groups surrounding you.
For me, it could also mean doing rides or attractions I’ve experienced before because I’m familiar with them. The newness of the solo situation may seem overwhelming, so visiting those places I’m already comfortable with can be reassuring.
You can go at your own pace. If you typically get slowed down by a group of people, this is your chance to get your steps in and walk at your normal fast pace. For me, though, it means I can go at a more leisurely pace. I can take in the sights and stop wherever I want. Disney Parks are known for their attention to detail, so I can really spend time noticing those details and spotting hidden Mickeys. As silly as it sounds, I find myself daydreaming a bit more. It’s definitely a more relaxed experience once you get used to it.
One of my goals in life is to avoid crowds whenever possible, and this includes at the parks. What’s nice about a solo trip is you can steer clear of the crowds. You might normally go with someone who only watches the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the crowded hub area. Great view but it’s also very people-y. So when it’s just you, you can opt for a less crowded fireworks spot and be okay with it.
But let’s not forget—everything is now on you to figure out (no pressure!). You don’t have that support of a small group or significant other who would normally act as that buffer where they’re normally the one to talk to Cast Members.
When I get up to the boarding area for a ride, for example, I don’t typically tell the Cast Member how large my party is because I let someone else go in front of me. They more or less lead the way, and I get to tag along. I tend to do that as we’re walking around the parks too. If we hit a bottleneck of people, my spouse is usually leading the way and breaking through the crowd so I don’t have to. Little things like that are now left up to you as a solo traveler.
Eating solo
What’s nice about a solo Disney Parks trip is you can eat whatever and wherever you want. You don’t have to compromise based on what the group wants.
But we should mention eating alone. Are you comfortable eating alone in a public place? This is something that’s a little awkward for me for some reason. And it’s amplified in a sit-down, table-service restaurant. Quick-service restaurants aren’t as bad.
At a table-service restaurant, I feel like all eyes are on me. I start wondering what the other guests are thinking about this guy eating by himself. And a small part of me feels guilty about taking up a table when a server could have a larger group and receive a larger tip. So when I’m on a solo trip, I don’t do table-service restaurants. It’s just quick-service restaurants or snack carts. (I will make an exception for Nomad Lounge because I love that place so much.) But for most meals as a solo traveler, I’ll typically grab it and go and eat while I’m walking around. I won’t always sit down in the seating area of the quick-service restaurant.
Fighting the loneliness
It can be lonely. You’re still creating memories with the parks, but they’re not shared memories with loved ones. I’m a nostalgic person, so I’m always reminiscing about past trips I went on with friends and family. It’s nice to have that connection. So you might miss that connection. But one thing that may help is sharing your solo trip as you’re going along on social media. So even though you’re by yourself, you’ll still feel connected to those in your social media circle.
Packing your essentials
Logistically, remember to pack what you think you’ll need. I’m the type of person who dislikes carrying anything when I’m at the parks. It’s just easier and less stressful for me when navigating the logistics of rides. So If I’m by myself, I don’t have that spouse who brought everything I might need in a bag. I have to remember what to pack and what I’ll use to haul it around with.
Relaxing with some liquid courage
I jokingly refer to alcohol and coffee as my liquid extroversion or liquid courage. But I really do think there’s some truth there. As you might expect, it helps me loosen up, and it gets me out of my head. Introverts tend to spend a lot of time thinking—and overthinking—life. I’ll sometimes say something to a Cast Member and then an hour later I’ll be analyzing what I said, wondering if what I said made sense or if it was really funny or not. So liquid extroversion helps me relax and be present while at the parks, especially if I’m there by myself.
Realizing you’re not the only one
Vacationing solo may not be as common on a non-Disney vacation, but you’ll be surprised by how many solo travelers you’ll see at the parks. You won’t be the only one! That should give you some reassurance.
You’re going to have a great time. You’re going to a Disney Park after all. I’ll fully admit it was weird—at first—to visit the parks by myself. It’s a different park experience, but I think if you can keep these things in mind, you’ll feel prepared and excited about your upcoming solo trip.
Furthering the discussion
I sat down with Matthew of the Imagination Skyway podcast, and we chatted all about solo trips to Walt Disney World. (It was a very non-introvert thing for me to do. Hello, anxiety. But it was a lot of fun too.) I invite you to listen to that episode (and go easy on me) if you’d like more tips on solo visits to Walt Disney World.
How to avoid crowds: attend Disney After Hours
An introvert’s guide to 2023 Disney After Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Introversion Insight:
A lot of people don’t like crowded places, but for introverts, it can be overstimulating. Way too many strangers in one place. (And let’s hope they don’t want to strike up a conversation.)
Disney After Hours is a ticketed event that allows you to visit a Walt Disney World park after it closes for the day. You have 3 hours to do all the things—but with fewer people. They limit the number of tickets sold.
That’s why I think Disney After Hours is worth it and perfect for D•Introverts. Guaranteed lower crowd levels! It’s becoming harder and harder to find a “slow season,” so with these limited-capacity events, you’ll notice a difference.
Avoiding the crowds—my mission in life
What’s included?
This is what you’re paying for:
- Lower wait times for attractions
- No blazing sun at night
- Ice cream, popcorn, and bottle soda/water
- Characters
And what I’m really paying for is a way to experience the park without the crowds.
Who should attend?
If crowds zap your energy, this event is for you. Less people-y for the win.
If you have a rest day during your trip, do Disney After Hours on that day. Sleep in and relax at your Resort during the day and then you’ll be ready for the late night.
If you don’t want to mess with Genie+, Individual Lightning Lanes, or virtual queues for rides, consider Disney After Hours. They’re not used during the event—because you don’t need them.
If it’s your favorite park, try the after-hours event as a different way to experience it.
If you’ve already visited the park on a previous trip, Disney After Hours is a good way to repeat your favorite rides and attractions. If you’ve never visited the park, I don’t recommend Disney After Hours because not everything is open. You won’t receive the full park experience.
If you’re visiting Walt Disney World at a busier time of year, this event allows you to bypass the crowds.
Which park?
At different times during the year, you have four options:
- Magic Kingdom
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- EPCOT
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Let’s talk about Disney After Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2023.
How does it work?
Pick your night
The event takes place on select nights in January through June 2023:
- January 4, 11, 18, and 25
- February 15 and 22
- March 8, 22, and 29
- April 2, 5, and 19
- May 3, 17, 24, and 31
- June 7, 14, 21, and 28
All are on Wednesdays except April 2, which is a Sunday.
Buy your ticket
Prices range from $129 to $149, depending on the night. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can receive a $30 discount.
Tickets can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. You have the option of electronic (mobile) delivery or postal delivery. Electronic is preferred because it links with your account, and then you can just use your MagicBand or MagicMobile to get in.
(If you don’t want to use a MagicBand or MagicMobile and you don’t have your ticket mailed to you, you’ll need to go to a ticket window where they’ll issue a physical card to you. The purchase confirmation email with barcode can’t be used to get in.)
On a related note, you don’t need to make a park pass reservation for Disney After Hours.
Create a plan
Introverts are planners, so you’re probably already thinking (and overthinking) about what you want to do during the event. You definitely want to have a plan for Disney After Hours. Three hours go by fast. Figure out your priorities. Rides? Characters? Shows? Unfortunately, you can’t do it all. (Oh? Is that a challenge?!)
What’s available during Disney After Hours at Hollywood Studios
Attractions
You have eight options:
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
- Slinky Dog Dash
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Toy Story Mania!
- Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
- Alien Swirling Saucers
Note: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is currently in a soft opening period after its long refurbishment. If you're attending Disney After Hours 2023 in June, it may be open.
Food and beverages
As mentioned above, ice cream, popcorn, and bottle soda/water are included in your admission. You’ll find them at snack carts on Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, Grand Avenue, and in Toy Story Land.
For purchase, you have limited options:
- Woody’s Lunch Box
- Anaheim Produce
- Oga’s Cantina (walk-up availability)
- Sunshine Day Bar (full bar)
- Some outdoor bars
Note: Mobile order is not available during Disney After Hours at Hollywood Studios.
Entertainment
Did I mention 3 hours go by fast? If you can squeeze in some shows and characters, here are your options:
- Green Army Drum Corps
- Fantasmic!
- Disney Movie Magic
- Wonderful World of Animation
- Toy Story characters
- Star Wars characters
Note: Disney PhotoPass Photographers are in the park during Disney After Hours at Hollywood Studios.
Merchandise
Since time is limited, I wouldn’t recommend shopping during the event, but in case you do, here are your options:
- Mickey’s of Hollywood
- Tatooine Traders
- The Market Merchants in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities
- Jessie’s Trading Post
- Tower Hotel Gifts
- Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers (walk-up availability)
- Droid Depot (walk-up availability)
Head in to the park
Your plan is planned. The neon lights of Hollywood Boulevard await.
Event hours vary slightly depending on the month you chose.
For January, February, March, and April nights, it goes from 9:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m.
For May and June nights, it goes from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m.
Your ticket actually gets you into Hollywood Studios at 7 p.m., so you have 5 to 6 hours in the park (5.5 hours for January, February, March, and April nights; 6 hours for May and June nights)—half the time with all the regular day guests and the other half with just event guests. That’s good to remember because that means you won’t escape all the crowds until later.
Check-in
Check-in takes place at the park’s main entrance on the right side. You’ll see large signs to guide you. Oftentimes there will be a Cast Member out front directing guests as well. You’ll want to stay to the right as the left side will still be in use by guests with regular park tickets.
In my experience, guests started queuing up around 6:30 p.m.
A Cast Member will place a wristband on you. Throughout the night you may be asked to show your wristband to go on rides or walk farther back into the park.
If you’re already in the park because you’re using a regular park ticket or Annual Pass, you don’t have to exit the park to check in and get your wristband. You’ll find a second check-in location at the end of Hollywood Boulevard (at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard).
Tips
- Don’t spend all day at a park and then attend Disney After Hours. You’re asking for an introvert hangover if you do.
- Eat dinner before the event starts.
- Don’t expect to walk on all the rides.
Although, it’s not uncommon to find 10- to 20-minute wait times during Disney After Hours. Wait times typically go down the later it gets. The longest wait I experienced was 40 minutes, and that was for Slinky Dog Dash.
- As much as I like to leisurely stroll through the park, I wouldn’t during Disney After Hours. In fact, I would speed walk.
More After Hours
“I want to build a lightsaber at Disney, but I’m an introvert.”
Introversion Insight:
Introverts are planners. They want to be prepared for what the world has in store for them. Let’s avoid surprises at all costs, please. They like knowing how to do things, especially around other people. At the same time, doing something new, getting out of your comfort zone, and acting like an extrovert can be a lot of fun.
Are you or your introverted child a little apprehensive about building a lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios (DHS) or Disneyland (DL)? I get you. You’re in the spotlight, and now you have to build something in front of other people? Oof. As a D•Introvert, audience-participation attractions—like Savi’s—can be intimidating.
This is one of those moments in life when you act like an extrovert for the sake of doing something you really want to do. May the Force be with you! And to help you feel more prepared—and reassure you it’s not so bad—I’m going to break down the experience of building a custom lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop in DHS.
Warning: As you might expect, potential SPOILERS ahead!
Check in
Look for a “Gatherer” (Cast Member) standing out front of the workshop and give them your name. You can check in up to 15 minutes before your reservation. Each builder can bring one guest.
Pick your hilt theme
They’ll give you a laminated card that describes the four available hilt themes.
You’re then directed to the courtyard area to review which theme you want. If you want to see physical replicas of each theme, pull out the nearby cabinet drawers.
Purchase your lightsaber
A second Gatherer will come over and direct you to the registers. This is when you’ll need to know which hilt theme you’re purchasing.
You’ll buy your lightsaber and receive credentials and a pin. Go ahead and put the pin on your shirt and head toward the gate to the right of the registers.
Update: If you're building a lightsaber at Disney's Hollywood Studios, full payment is due at the time of booking now.
Get excited (and maybe nervous because that's how you roll)
A Gatherer will let you through the gate into a holding area outside the workshop’s entrance. You’ll wait here a few minutes as it fills in. Everyone in the holding area will be going through the experience at the same time.
When it’s time, you’ll enter the workshop single file, first builder then their guest, second builder then their guest, etc. Be sure your pin is prominently displayed and your credentials are held chest high as you go in.
Build your lightsaber
You’re directed to your building station where you’ll place your credentials. The first thing you’ll do is pick the color of your kyber crystal. Red, blue, green, and violet are available through Savi’s Workshop.
You’ll then be presented with the rest of the components. A Gatherer will explain how many of each component you’ll need. In our experience, there was one Gatherer for every two builders, so you’ll have a mostly devoted person helping you the whole way through.
The actual assembly is fairly easy. For two of the pieces, you’ll need to line up the markings by color, blue with the blue and red with the red. I think the toughest part was fitting the kyber crystal in. You don’t have to worry about connecting the lightsaber blade. The Gatherer will do that for you.
You did it! You just built your custom lightsaber. Now relax, be in the moment, and enjoy the theatrics of it all. At a certain point, you’ll activate your lightsaber (switch it on) and raise it high.
One last thing: They’ll give you a carrying case as you exit. You’ll insert the lightsaber blade first into the case.
Have fun with your magical sword, Trekkie!
Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers
Location: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at DHS or DL
Price: $249.99 (DHS) or $219.99 (DL)
Discounts Available: No
How to Book: Online (DHS or DL), walk-ins may be available
Duration: ~30 minutes
Party Size: Builder with one guest allowed
Park Admission Required: Yes
Cancellation Policy: Up to 1 day before