If you’ve noticed Hollywood Studios feeling extra packed lately—even by summer standards—there’s a specific group that might be causing that: Disney Adults.
And no, we’re not talking about just anyone who enjoys a churro and a nostalgic ride. These are the seasoned Disney-goers, the ones with themed backpacks, custom ears, and a deep, deep knowledge of park trivia. Right now, they’re swarming Hollywood Studios —and honestly, they’ve got good reason.
Two major entertainment debuts hit the park this summer: The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After. For longtime Disney fans, especially those who frequent the parks year-round, any new entertainment is a big deal. These aren’t just small-scale additions, either. Both are full-blown live productions with brand-new staging, original songs, and jaw-dropping visuals. They’ve been heavily promoted by Disney, and right now, these shows are at the top of every Disney Adult’s to-do list.
Muppets, Mermaids, and Magic Mirrors
But that’s only part of the story. Earlier this month, Muppet*Vision 3-Dheld its final performance—sending shockwaves through the Disney Adult community. Die-hard Muppets fans treated that final showing like a major event. Social media lit up with tributes, speculation about its replacement, and memories of the 3-D masterpiece that ran for decades. If you visited the park around that time, you likely saw longer lines than usual and more packed seating for a show that rarely had them. That wasn’t a coincidence—it was a farewell party.
And then came May 27. That’s when Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After officially opened at the Sunset Showcase Theater. Imagineers spent nearly two years designing the experience, which stars characters like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent, all arguing their case to be crowned the most “unfairly treated” villain of them all. It’s not just a spectacle—it’s interactive, witty, and dripping with theatrical flair.
Not to be outdone, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure has been making waves too. A reimagining of the beloved animated film, this new production doesn’t just rely on nostalgia. It delivers with dazzling effects, updated choreography, and powerful renditions of the classic songs fans grew up with. And for Disney Adults who appreciate the artistry of a live show just as much as a new ride, it’s become another must-see attraction on their summer checklist.
Will the Crowds Ease Up?
If you’re planning a visit to Hollywood Studios soon and wondering whether the crowds will stick around, there’s some good news. This early surge in attendance is largely fueled by fans who make frequent trips and want to be among the first to experience these new offerings. As the summer wears on, it’s expected that things will level out a bit—at least until the next big debut or seasonal event.
That said, it’s worth remembering that Hollywood Studios doesn’t have quite as many rides as Magic Kingdom or EPCOT, so when something new opens, the ripple effect is real. Even with multiple showings each day for both new productions, the demand right now is sky-high—especially during peak hours.
The Disney Adult Effect
This crowd surge is another reminder of just how influential Disney Adults have become. While families still make up the bulk of parkgoers, it’s the adults—many with Annual Passes or Vacation Club memberships—who are the first to flock to new shows, track character appearances, and share every moment online. In some ways, they shape the narrative of what’s popular and worth seeing.
So if you find yourself at Hollywood Studios wondering why you can’t get a seat for a midday show or why the crowd seems extra committed to their villain merch—now you know. The Disney Adults are here, and they’re not missing a single second of summer magic.
The post Why Disney Adults Are Crowding Hollywood Studios Right Now appeared first on Inside the Magic.
