Seeing CARS - Lightning McQueen at Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios

Kids love Lightning McQueen and Mater from the Disney / Pixar movie CARS and parents often ask us where to find these lovable characters at the Walt Disney World Theme Parks.

At the current time, there are no rides, shows, or attractions that showcase the CARS movie or characters but there is a Meet the CARS Character Meet & Greet at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park. (formerly called Disney-MGM Studios).

A Character Meet & Greet is an opportunity to take a photo of your child (spouse, friend, travel companion etc) with Lightning McQueen and Mater. You can generally get autographs at most Disney character meet & greet situations but not at this one because cars don't have hands.

The Meet the CARS Meet and Greet takes place at an area called "Luigi's Casa Della Tires" also commonly referred to as "Luigi's Garage" between "Jim Henson's Muppet Vision 3-D" and "Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show" in the 'Streets of America' area of Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park. For those familiar with the park, this used to be "Al's Toy Barn"; they've replaced the facade to reflect the CARS theme.

Having a new, permanent home makes it a lot easier to see Lightning McQueen and Mater. They're usually available continuously from about 10AM - 6:00PM.

Here is everything you need to know about the Stars of CARS Meet & Greet at Luigi's Garage:

1. Check the Disney Hollywood Studios Times Guide for the most up-to-date "Meet the CARS" schedule. This is available where you find the park maps near the front of the theme park and at the gift shops.

2. For the shortest wait, arrive a few minutes before this location opens and you'll be one of the first to get your photos.

3. The line / meet & greet area is outdoors so the wait can get hot when you're dealing with mid-day direct sun. Mornings will be better for both lines and heat.

4. The robotic characters don't have hands so they cannot sign autographs.

I was familiar with the "normal" Disney characters - the type where a person walks around in a costume and didn't know what to expect with such a large character. I was really impressed with how well they captured the personalities of these two beloved Pixar characters.