By Matt O’Hern
Disney-MGM Studios, now known as Disney’s Hollywood Studios, emerged as a groundbreaking addition to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Conceived during the 1980s, the park was a collaboration between Disney and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios (MGM), aiming to immerse visitors in the magic of Hollywood filmmaking.
On May 1, 1989, Disney-MGM Studios officially opened its gates, offering guests a glimpse into the glamour and excitement of the entertainment industry. The park’s design mirrored a working studio lot, complete with sound stages, backlots, and production facilities, providing visitors with an authentic behind-the-scenes experience.
One of the park’s inaugural attractions, the Studio Backlot Tour, took guests on a journey through the filmmaking process, showcasing special effects, props, and sets from iconic movies. The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! and the Great Movie Ride further immersed guests in the world of cinema, bringing beloved films to life.
In subsequent years, Disney continued to expand and refine the park, introducing new attractions like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, and Toy Story Land. The park underwent a name change in 2008, becoming Disney’s Hollywood Studios, reflecting its broader focus on the magic of movies beyond the MGM partnership.
Today, Disney’s Hollywood Studios remains a beloved destination for movie enthusiasts and theme park aficionados, offering immersive experiences, thrilling rides, and a nostalgic journey through Hollywood’s golden age.
