When you step into Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the checklist of things to accomplish are already on top of mind. From the attractions, character interactions and everything in between…a Disney Park is a living and breathing experience that you have to take in on foot and with your own eyes.
Just a quick note before we get into the list, but as the park goes through it’s construction and expansion phase, things may come and go. I’ll always do my best to keep this updated:)
THE KEY UNDER THE MAT
Stop into Muppet*Vision 3-D and you’ll see a sign that says “Back in 5 minutes, the key is under the mat.” It’s a simple piece, but the Muppet comedic style is all over it! And yes…lift up the mat…
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ODE TO THE BEGINNING
In the patch of grass in front of Echo Lake is the dedication to the park. Back in 2008, when the park was rebranded as Disney’s Hollywood Studios from the original Disney MGM Studios, the plaque was unveiled with the new branding surrounding the initial plaque.
Pretty cool to step back in time with a hidden gem that’s in plain sight.
DON’T PULL THE ROPE
The hidden gem for Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular is located right beside the entrance. Just look for the rope and then the sign that tells you not to pull the rope.
When’s the last time that you listened to a sign?
MAROON STUDIOS
When standing next to Min & Bill’s, turn around and look above the Peevy’s beverage location and you’ll see a billboard with Roger Rabbit, Jessica Rabbit and Baby Herman!
I still miss being able to meet Roger Rabbit in the parks…but this is still more than some other Disney movies get;)
STITCH’S OF HOLLYWOOD
I have a full article about the Stitch takeover, but it’s such a cool hidden gem to search for. PLUS…you can’t go wrong with more fun for your instagram feed than finding #JediStitch or #BellHopStitch
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PIN TRADING
As the Disney Pin Trading program continues to evolve, you’re able to find uniqueness by way of the trading “boards”.
An example is the snare drum at Rock n Roller Coaster, which usually has a couple hidden gems due to the fact that it’s in a store and not on the regular guest path.
Related Article – The Best Pin Trading at Disney World
HANDPRINTS GALORE
In the courtyard of the Chinese Theatre is a plethora of famous folks and their handprints (similar to the original Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood), so spend some time wandering and try to go back to the late 80’s /early 90’s for some flashbacks on who was a hot celebrity back then!
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PIZZERIZZO FUN DETAILS
When Pizza Planet closed to make way for a Muppets-themed quick service restaurant, the Imagineers added a number of fun details that are better to explore in person than write in this article.
Let’s just say that the neon sign has a hidden message AND there’s also a reference to the former tenant in the signage #BestPizzaOnThePlanet
Related Article – Disney Restaurants we will only do Once
REX’S MERCHANDISE BOX
Take a look at the price tag of the box that Rex was sold in while you’re walking through Toy Story Land and you’ll see the numbers 11/22 and price $19.95….aka the original release date for Toy Story.
Related Article – Toy Story Land Tips
Hope that you had fun with this introduction to the Hidden Gems of Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
Remember that any Disney theme park around the world is filled with nods, hat tips and full-out homages to anything that the Imagineers want to include. It’s part of the reason why Disney fans have so much fun finding something new to share with their friends!
If there’s something I should add to this list, please let me know! I’m always adding things to articles:)