Archive for September 10th, 2009

If asked to select their single favorite attraction at Walt Disney World, the choice of millions would be the Haunted Mansion.  It’s a source of endless fascination for aficionados of Disney theming – every ride through the dark passageways seems to reveal some previously unnoticed detail.

There are puns galore, from the graveyard epitaphs to the “Doombuggies” that ferry guests past the 999 happy haunts. The ride is accompanied by a spooky soundtrack with music, monologue, and eerie noises.

Featuring carefully crafted cobwebs, meticulously designed props, dozens of Hidden Mickeys, and a number of classic special effects; the ride is a visual feast.  The exterior is a wondrous recreation of an 18^th-century estate, looming over the Rivers of America and complete with spectacular architectural details – a leaded-glass conservatory, gables and gargoyles, stone balustrades and balconies.

Lovers of trivia might be interested to learn that only two of the more than 100 audioanimatronic figures represent the living.  Caretaker Dick O’Dell and his little dog walk the grounds while the rest of the residents “hover” nearby.

Although the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland has a true elevator, the “stretching room” in Walt Disney World only gives the illusion that it’s moving from floor to floor.  For guests staying at the Magic Kingdom resorts, the mournful sound of the howling dog can often be heard early in the morning, drifting across the Seven Seas Lagoon.

The original version of this attraction is found in Disneyland, but there are also Haunted Mansions at Tokyo Disney and at Disneyland Paris, where it is known as Phantom Manor, giving foolish mortals around the world an opportunity to be there when the grim grinning ghosts come out to socialize.

 

The Haunted Mansion

Magic Kingdom

8 minutes

Guests must transfer from wheelchair to the ride vehicle

Park admission required