Toddler Blockbuster Hits: MGM...sigh...Hollywood Studios

Before I start this post, I really have to just face it. It's Hollywood Studios, not MGM and it's not going to change back. That won't stop me from calling it MGM in my head, but it's certainly going to be as confusing to newbies as using Dixie Landings to talk about Port Orleans Riverside, if I do it here. I can't be held responsible if an MGM accidentally types itself out on my keyboard though.

Hollywood Studios looks like it's all for teens, tweens and threens. There are screams coming from Sunset Boulevard. High School Musical performances in front of the Sorcerer's Hat and gun shots near Echo Lake. Yet, there are quite a few things toddlers can enjoy here.

Playhouse Disney Live has updated itself recently to showcase the new Playhouse line-up with a performance that includes Handy Manny, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Little Einsteins and My Friends Tigger and Pooh. Be warned, that there is no seating for this. Rather...there are no seats, you have to sit on the floor with your kids. Many of the Playhouse characters can be met outside.

The Voyage of the Little Mermaid is nicely air conditioned show, although some parts are dark and the Sea Witch can be frightening. If your toddler can handle it, it's worth going to. The Great Movie Ride can be hit or miss. I'm not sure some adults can deal with the Alien popping out at them, even if they get to follow the Yellow Brick Road at the end.

Hollywood and Vine has a nicely uncrowded character breakfast and lunch with Playhouse Disney characters who spend a lot of time with each kid. MGM is also a good place for characters without long lines. You'll usually run into them in front of the Hat or at the Crossroads after the Entrance. It's also a good Park for finding Pixar characters.

But then, there are the non-ride hits for toddlers. Such as the giant dinosaur Gertie at Echo Lake which is actually an ice cream shop. Or Sweet Spells, the candy shop which goes a long way in distracting toddlers scared by the screams from the Tower of Terror. It's also a good place to take them if you are the designated wrangler while others go on the Tower or Rock N' Roller Coaster. I currently have a Megablok version of the Tower of Terror and Sweet Spells on my dining room floor, it's that appealing to toddlers. Sometimes, for toddlers, the best part of a Disney World Park is just being there.