Toy Story has played a major role at Walt Disney World for decades, from the installment of its first themed ride at Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom in 1998 to the opening of Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios 20 years later in 2018.
And if you’re like me and consider Pixar’s first feature film to be your favorite, you’ll want to round up the toys and check out these rides, attractions, resorts and eats on your next Walt Disney World trip, and don’t forget to take note of my magical tips!
1. Toy Story Land
Every Toy Story fan should visit Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios at least once (or several times per trip, if you’re like me). This colorful land will transport you from the Animation Courtyard to Andy’s backyard and shrink you down to the size of your favorite toys.
Not only does the land feature three rides, merchandise stands, a quick-service eatery and an upcoming table service restaurant set to open in 2022, but you’ll also notice dozens of little details that only Pixar and Disney can supply.
Get greeted by the 20-foot-tall Woody figure on your way in, follow Andy’s giant footsteps down to the rides, and don’t forget to snag a selfie with the famous Luxo ball!
2. Toy Story Mania, Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers
Ride like the wind, Toy Story lovers! Toy Story Land has three rides featuring all of your favorite toys!
First up is Toy Story Mania, and you’ll need your moving buddy for this one! Hop in a car, throw on your glasses and battle it out in carnival-style games hosted by your favorite Toy Story characters. It’s probably the most fun ride at Walt Disney World and one I get quite competitive on. But remember… play nice!
Next is Alien Swirling Saucers, located by the 14-foot-tall Buzz Lightyear figure. Usually the least long wait of the rides in Toy Story Land, this one will allow you to be a passenger of the aliens’ saucers. And don’t forget to keep your ears peeled for some familiar tunes that might tug at your pull strings!
Magical Tip: Be on the lookout for a Hidden Mickey in this ride’s queue!
Last but certainly not least — in fact, it should be your first stop if you arrive at park opening to avoid long wait times — is Slinky Dog Dash. This rollercoaster will bring riders 38 inches and over on a fast-paced ride past familiar toys, with fun scenes of all of Andy’s background at every turn. The ride will end with a surprise sing-along, so get Mr. Mike ready!
Magical Tip: As you wait in the queue, take note of the intricate details and even some Toy Story and Pixar Easter eggs!
3. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
You’ll be traveling to infinity and beyond on this ride! Much like Toy Story Mania, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is a competition and the aim of the game is to hit the targets that Zurg has planted. If you’re on vacation with any space rangers in training, you won’t want to miss this ride, located in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom.
4. All-Star Movies Resort
If you’re as Toy Story-obsessed as I am, you’ll want to top off your trip in Andy’s bedroom!
This value resort features an entire section themed around the Pixar classic. You’re first greeted by RC, which is a crucial photo opportunity for all ages. To say I’ve ridden in RC is a big deal, okay?
The minute you walk through Andy’s big bedroom door, you feel like one of the toys amongst Rex, Bo Peep and a larger-than-life Woody and Buzz!
This is where I stayed last time I went falling with style down to Walt Disney World, and while the resort itself feels a bit outdated, being surrounded by characters like Woody and Buzz, Lady and Tramp and dozens of the 101 Dalmatians made for a more immersive experience.
Magical Tip: Staying somewhere else but still want to see this resort? It’s only a short bus ride away from the parks and definitely worth the visit!
5. Woody’s Lunch Box
While we patiently wait for the opening of Roundup Rodeo BBQ, quick service eatery Woody’s Lunch Box is still a must during your playtime in Toy Story Land.
Woody’s Lunch Box stands in the shape of Andy’s Woody’s Roundup lunch box, with colorful tables and chairs, including some Andy made from Babybel cheese packets.
I peronally think breakfast is best enjoyed here, where they serve a delicious breakfast bowl full of potato barrels and scrambled eggs smothered in gravy, as well as their signature tarts in a variety of sweet and fruity flavors.
If you would rather break here for lunch, they offer a BBQ brisket melt, smoked turkey sandwich, Totchos, and my personal favorite, the grilled three-cheese sandwich with a side of potato barrels.
And every meal must be topped off with Frozen Mystic Portal Punch, which can be served in a Souvenir Alien Sipper for an additional cost.
Woody’s Lunch Box does also serve alcoholic beverages for the grown-up toys, including Bud Light Lager, Blue Moon Belgian White Ale and what they call “Grown-Up’s Lemonade.”
6. Once Upon A Toy
Once Upon A Toy has become a Toy Story-themed toy store located in Disney Springs. Before you even walk inside, you’ll be greeted by figures of Buzz Lightyear and Mr. Potato Head that are perfect for a photo opportunity.
Among all of the toys and Disney merchandise for sale in the store, you’ll see toys come to life on the ceiling, including aliens being carried and Woody ready to round up the troops.
Magical Tip: Son of a building block! While you’re at Disney Springs, don’t forget to pop over to the LEGO Store to see an iconic Toy Story moment recreated with LEGOs!