Ten Quiet Places in Hollywood Studios: Top Spots to Reset Sensory Overload in Walt Disney World
Visiting Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios is an exhilarating experience, but for neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, or anxiety, the park's vibrant atmosphere can sometimes lead to sensory overload. Proper planning is essential to ensure an enjoyable visit for everyone. Identifying quiet, calming spaces within Hollywood Studios can provide much-needed respite. Here are ten serene spots we personally use in Hollywood Studios where you can reset and recharge.
1. First Aid Station on Hollywood Boulevard
Located next to the park entrance, the First Aid Station offers a tranquil environment away from the bustling crowds. It's an ideal spot for individuals seeking a quiet place to decompress, and we have used this only as a last resort. The staff is accommodating and understands the needs of guests requiring a sensory break, especially for children.
2. Echo Lake Area
The walkway surrounding Echo Lake provides a peaceful setting with benches and shade. This area is often less crowded, making it a suitable spot for those managing autism in Walt Disney World. The gentle sounds of the nearby water add to the calming atmosphere. This is where you will find Gertie the Dinosaur, and while lots of people walk through this area, it’s generally more laid back with many places to sit in the shade.
3. Animation Courtyard
This area offers open spaces and is typically less crowded (because there is nothing over here other than the Disney Jr Dance Party). It's a good place to take a break and enjoy some quiet time. The courtyard provides a sensory solution in Walt Disney World for those needing a moment of calm from the rush of people in other areas of the park. We often head into the “Walt Disney Presents” theater afterward.
4. The General Area Around Beauty and the Beast Live
Located on Sunset Boulevard, this area really only gets busy when people are exiting the Beauty and the Beast show and grabbing their strollers. While the seating is all across the street, it can sometimes get overcrowded. We have used this area to simply sit on the wall and people watch.
5. Outside ABC Commissary
Commissary Lane offers outdoor seating areas that are typically less crowded during non-peak meal times. It's a comfortable place to sit, have a snack, and unwind away from the crowds. This area supports stress management for those with sensory overload in Walt Disney World. Because it is tucked behind the Frozen show, it’s a quieter path that less people take.
6. Pathway Between Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
This path provides a quieter walk with seating areas. The pathway is shaded and offers a peaceful environment, making it a suitable location for a sensory break. It's an excellent spot to reset and recharge before continuing your adventure, especially from the sensory overload of both ToyStoryLand and Galaxy’s Edge. Depending upon the time of day, you can find some shade here.
7. Tunnel Between Grand Avenue and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
This tunnel offers a quiet and shaded area, providing a break from the sensory stimulation of the park. It's a good place to rest and prepare for the next attraction. The cool environment of the tunnel adds to the calming effect. It’s a cool tunnel, too.
8. Walt Disney Presents Attraction
This indoor attraction features exhibits and a short film about Walt Disney's life. The air-conditioned environment and seating make it a comfortable place to relax. It's also educational, providing an engaging distraction during your break. Hollywood Studios isn’t that large of a park, so when we do need a break, this has been our favorite place to unwind and decompress. The dim lighting and AC helps so much.
9. Muppet*Vision 3D Courtyard
The area outside the Muppet*Vision 3D attraction is often less crowded, with shaded seating available. It's a semi-pleasant spot to sit and unwind, offering a sensory solution in Walt Disney World for those needing a moment of calm.
10. Backlot Express
Located on Grand Avenue, the patio area of Backlot Express offers shaded seating and a relaxed atmosphere. During non-peak hours, it's a quiet place to rest and recharge. The ambiance is enhanced by the surrounding architecture, providing a unique sensory break.
Additional Tips for Managing Sensory Overload
Use Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can help mitigate the impact of loud noises from attractions and crowds.
Take Regular Breaks: Incorporate downtime into your schedule to visit the quiet spots mentioned above.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Keeping energy levels stable can help manage stress and sensory sensitivities.
Communicate with Cast Members: They are trained to assist guests with various needs and can provide information on quiet areas and accommodations.
By identifying these quiet places and planning accordingly, neurodivergent families can create a more enjoyable and manageable experience at Hollywood Studios. Remember, taking the time to reset and recharge is essential for making the most of your visit to Walt Disney World.
Other articles you may find helpful:
The Ultimate Sensory Guide to Hollywood Studios
Top 20 Sensory and Fidget Toys for Stimming and Sensory Needs at Walt Disney World
