Future Growth on the Horizon: New Hollywood Studios Expansion Pad

Hey there, Disney fans! If you’re anything like me, the constant transformation of theme parks, especially the ones under the Disney umbrella, keeps you on the edge of your seat. Well, buckle up because the latest scoop on the new Hollywood Studios land usability report is something you won’t want to miss. The Reedy Creek Improvement District’s 2023 long-term land use plan has been unveiled, and it’s stirring up quite the buzz with its departure from the 2020 version. Is this the dawn of a new era for Hollywood Studios expansion? Let’s dive into the future possibilities that Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios might embrace.

A New Land Classification: Opening Doors to Innovation

At the core of this exciting update is a fresh land usage category known as “Marginally Unsuitable.” This designation is a game-changer, highlighting areas that were previously considered tough nuts to crack due to natural barriers like wetlands within the 100-year flood elevation. But here’s the kicker: development in these areas is now on the table, subject to the District’s Long Term Permits. This reclassification affects a whopping 1,731 acres, translating to 13.0 percent of the undeveloped land area. Imagine the possibilities for theme park expansions across the Disney World property!

A Closer Look: Potential Expansion Sites

Digging into the details of the updated plan, I’ve notice a pivotal shift for the land east of Hollywood Studios, near Buena Vista Drive and Victory Way (blue arrow to the top right). This area has evolved from “Unsuitable” in 2020 to “Marginally Unsuitable” in 2023. This isn’t just a change in wording; it signifies a potential green light for development projects that were previously not feasible. Similarly, the land south of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (blue arrow to the bottom left) has undergone a transformation, hinting at Disney’s refined approach to future development in these zones. Please note the blue circle marks the location of Hollywood Studios. Here is a look of the same area without the land use markings on it.

This strategic land reclassification could very well pave the way for not just one, but multiple new Hollywood Studios Expansion pads. The idea of expanding Galaxy’s Edge, for instance, becomes increasingly plausible with additional land now deemed suitable for use. Or, based on the overall size of the expansion pad a whole new land all together.

Victory Way: A New Resort in the Making?

The land near Victory Way presents a golden opportunity for Disney to introduce a new resort. It’s no secret that Disney World’s most beloved resorts are those offering easy park access. From Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club’s proximity to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios to the Magic Kingdom resort area’s with their walking paths and monorail options to the park, convenience is king.

A resort on the new Hollywood Studios expansion pad near Victory Way could offer guests a seamless walk to Hollywood Studios, along with Skyliner and boat access to EPCOT. This area’s central location also means quick bus rides to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Hollywood Studios: The Next Chapter

With the potential expansion at Magic Kingdom already in the works, Hollywood Studios is next in line to benefit from Disney’s commitment to park enhancements. The push for updates at Hollywood Studios comes from a need for more attractions and improvements to the park’s layout. Addressing these issues is key to enhancing park flow, crowd management, and accessibility. Based on data reported by Statista, Disney’s Hollywood is now the 4th most attended theme park in North America, behind only the Magic Kingdom, Disneyland park, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

As we look to the future, the newly classified land outlined in the Reedy Creek Improvement District’s 2023 plan opens up a realm of possibilities. Whether it leads to an expansion of Galaxy’s Edge, the addition of a new land all together, or the creation of a Disney resort adjacent to the park, the magic of Disney is set to unfold in new and exciting ways, promising unforgettable experiences for guests worldwide. Let’s keep our eyes on the horizon for what’s next in the enchanting world of Hollywood Studios expansion.

20% Off site-wide, plus Free Shipping on all orders of $65+

Over 75+ Designs! Your next park shirt is just a click away

Looking To Book Your Dream Disney Vacation?

Save time & money on your vacation

Your Disney vacation should create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re a first-time Disney vacationer or looking to plan your next magical adventure, it isn’t enough just to go on a Disney vacation. We want you to talk about your vacation for years to come and create memories you’ll cherish forever. Vacation is calling! Are you ready to answer?

REQUEST QUOTE

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Jonathan Cotton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I’m no stranger to Disney planning, as a Disneyland magic key holder and DVC member. I’m the person people ask for trip planning advice. But I had never been on a Disney cruise, and had heard great about Nate and decided to reach out. I’m so glad I did because we could not have been happier with our experience. His tips and insights were incredibly helpful, and he was incredibly responsive any time we had a question. Who do the Disney experts turn to when they need help? Nate, that’s who.

We’ll definitely be using him again.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Andria Skornik 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Our experience working with Nate as our Disney vacation planner was exceptional. He was responsive and thorough. He gave us insights that made the trip go much more smoothly. We were able to really relax and focus on quality time as a family and have so much fun doing it! I will definitely reach out for any future trips.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 rpwoodjr 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Could not have wanted or expected more from Nate, our Distrips and More agent as we planned our 2025 Disney World trip. Nate was VERY responsive to emails and texts and more than willing to do whatever he could to guide us and answer our questions.  On several occasions I emailed him over the weekend not expecting a response until Monday but each time he responded before the weekend was over.  He even participated in a Zoom session with our group of five seniors as we planned our trip. He also helped us at the 11th hour when we added a family member to our travel group less than a month before our trip.  Without a doubt, I will reach out to Nate when I'm ready to plan my next trip to Disney World!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Homero Rendon 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We are so thankful we used Nate to plan not only our first Disney trip, but also our second. He made the process so easy for us, especially for us since it was our first time going. There was a lot to consider and many decisions to make, such as where to stay, when to go, and what to experience. Nate really helped us narrow down what we wanted to do overall, but he didn’t stop there. He provided detailed guides to help us navigate the airport and find our transportation to the resort, as well as a guide to explore the resorts and make sure we saw the best Christmas decorations. One of the many amazing things he also did was set up our dinner reservations for us. This saved us so much stress and allowed us to get some of our top choices. From the moment we landed in Orlando to the moment we headed back home, he made sure everything went smoothly. You truly can’t go wrong with going to him for your next trip.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Lee Mathes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nate was absolutely the best planner I have ever had.  Will most definitely be using him again.   He took care of everything and kept me on track.  Was so very helpful in making all the dining reservations and everything.   Can't thank him enough.   He made our trip completely stress free!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Amanda Moran 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nathan has been an amazing trip planner for me! So helpful and responsive. I am a very type A person -- so someone who is even more on top of their game than me -- is so so appreciated! Nathan has booked 3 trips for me (1 completed 2 pending) and it was perfection. Thanks again!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Hyperion Adventures Podcast 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nate has helped us with our vacation planning for the last couple of years and we couldn't be happier with his service and expertise. We've used other travel agents in the past and none of them have done as phenomenal a job to make sure every detail is taken care of as he has. Switching to Nate was one of the best decisions we've ever made. He's always quick to answer questions and works tirelessly to make sure we get everything we want from our trips. Plus, he's just a genuinely great person who is wonderful to work with. Whether you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a Disney Cruise, or any other vacation, Nate is the guy you want putting it all together! Five stars across the board!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 7 reviews 
 
   
 
 

Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!