By Edwin Hickman
As Valentine’s Day is upon us, we recognize it as a celebration of love and affection and sharing with the ones we love. For some, a simple card or gift is enough, while others like to go out and do something for this celebration. This year, my girlfriend and I went to Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, FL. Marketed as the “most magical place on Earth,” it can be great location to spend time with that special someone. Whether your significant other is a fan of Disney, movies in general, or just enjoys going out, Hollywood Studios has a lot to offer.
Hollywood Studios is a special place to my girlfriend and I, as our initial visit there was our first time traveling together. Each of Disney’s parks have their own unique appeal: Hollywood Studios’ appeal is the atmosphere of old school movie magic, along with the general enjoyment of Disney. It can invoke feelings of nostalgia, enjoyment, and romance in those who visit.
Hollywood Studios is home to a great selection of restaurants, all perfect for dates. These dining spots recreate a romantic feeling of old school Hollywood movies. Some options include the 50’s Prime Time Café, Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, and the Hollywood Brown Derby. My personal favorite and recommendation is the Sci-Fi Dine In Theatre Restaurant. This restaurant is meant to evoke the feeling of visiting a 1950’s drive-in theatre at night. The booths you sit in are designed to look like 1950’s convertibles, the interior of the restaurant recreates a starry sky, and a large screen plays old science fiction movies as you enjoy your meal. I recommend this one for a multitude of reasons. For personal reasons, it is a favorite of my girlfriend and I, but there are reasons everyone can enjoy. The general atmosphere is intriguing yet relaxing, the theme of the restaurant is a unique gimmick and suits the park, and the food is hearty and enjoyable. The Sci-Fi Dine In Theatre is located in the Echo Lake section of the park.
Valentine’s Day or not, the most prominent part of an amusement park like Hollywood Studios is the rides, and I’d recommend going on as many as you can. They are genuinely fun to experience and can be a great time to spend with your date. Two rides I recommend are Star Tours – The Adventure Continues and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. Star Tours is a flight simulation ride that takes riders through the various worlds of Star Wars in an immersive audiovisual experience. Meanwhile, the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is a launched roller coaster that features music from Aerosmith and uses linear motor electromagnetic technology to send riders through the track at unbelievable speeds. Both rides, though different, are incredibly fun and are definitely worth the wait (get FastPass if possible, though). Star Tours is located in the Echo Lake section of the park, and the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is located in the Sunset Boulevard section.
To end the evening, I recommend enjoying one of the shows that Hollywood Studios has to offer. One show is Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular, a light show that celebrates the legacy of the Star Wars series. While I love Star Wars, I’d personally recommend Fantasmic! Show and Fireworks for a nighttime viewing. It is a classic staple of Hollywood Studios and an impressive show. The show stars Mickey Mouse and features him facing off against iconic Disney villains. There are many impressive elements including fireworks, pyrotechnics, lasers, and water effects. Overall, it’s a wonderful experience that everyone should attend at least once. Fantasmic! is located in the Sunset Boulevard section of the park.
Ultimately, these recommendations are only a small fraction of what Hollywood Studios has to offer. If you’d like to check out more of the park, there is plenty more to explore. These recommendations offer a great day in the park, whether you’re alone, with friends and family, or spending time with that special someone. Whatever your reason, there should be nothing but fun waiting for you in the most magical place on Earth.
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