Hollywood Studios opened for guests on May 1, 1989 (as Disney-MGM Studios). This was the third theme park to open at Disney World (Magic Kingdom and then Epcot were prior).
Many of the building found at Hollywood Studios are based on real life buildings found in California, bringing Hollywood glam and more. Learn 6 of the real-life inspirations now!
Carthay Circle on Sunset Boulevard represents the 1926 Carthay Cricle Theater, found at 6316 San Vicente Boulevard (Los Angeles). This historic movie theater was the one who premiered Show White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937 and Fantasia in 1940. The original was demolished in 1969, however a larger and more elaborate version of Carthay Circle can be found at the end of Buena Vista Street (Disney California Adventure park).
Mickey’s of Hollywood (corner entry) is based on the 1926 Baine Building of Hollywood. Found at 6601 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood Studios.
Keystone Clothiers is inspired by the 1933 Owl Drug Company building in Hollywood. Found at 6382 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood Studios.
Trolley Car Café building drew inspiration from the former location of L.A. Prop Cinema Storage in Los Angeles, a 1907 Mission Revival style Ivy Substation. This is the parks Starbucks location as well.
Adrian and Edith’s Head to Toe (named for costume designers Adrian, and Edith Head) is styled after the Chapman Park Market Building at 3451 West 6th Street in Los Angeles.
Mouse About Town was inspired by the 1930s Berman/Kohner Building which housed Hollywood talent agent Paul Kohner and Berman Furs.
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Wow this is good to know
Love all of the buildings at Disney and love they are all there for a reason
This is one of my favorite of your blog posts! When in Hollywood Studios, I have taken in the general ambience of the whole place and not noticed individual buildings. Next time I go, I will pay more attention! So much detail had gone into the buildings and they each have their own look and meaning. Thank you so much!