Archive for the ‘Attractions’ Category
A Pirate’s Life
Dark rides; few experiences have greater power to transport us. We enter and we are whisked away to another place; another time. In Adventureland at the Magic Kingdom, we find one of the most well-loved of all the dark rides – Pirates of the Caribbean.
Even before we enter, we are entranced by the architectural details of the building. There are beautiful elements everywhere – grillwork and tiles, arches, scrolls, and turrets, and wonderful lighting.
The atmospheric queue, with its twisting pathways, caves and caches, only hints at the “treasures” waiting beyond.
We climb into seaworthy vessels and head out on our adventure. The darkness intensifies the senses.
We feel the cold sea wind blowing; the ghostly voices cause a shiver of anxiety about what may lie ahead.
Then, suddenly, we are in the midst of a battle with muzzle flash and splashing cannonballs which seem to miss our fragile boats by the smallest of margins. Around the bend and we sail into an amazing nighttime scene. There’s music and mischief, commerce and cavorting, grime and gold as the pillaging crew makes its way through the town.
Disney likes to point out the fact that the attraction inspired the movies of the same name, which in turn inspired enhancements to the original ride. Amongst its dozens of audioanimatronic figures, Pirates of the Caribbean now features several encounters with a strikingly realistic Captain Jack Sparrow.
There’s also a spooky image of Davy Jones that emerges from a curtain of water at the beginning of the voyage.
To complete the adventure, we have the perfect song, one that will play happily in our heads each time we relive our voyage to the Caribbean – Yo Ho!!
Pirates of the Caribbean
Magic Kingdom, Adventureland
Approximately 9 minutes
Guests must transfer from wheelchair and ECV to ride vehicle
No flash photography allowed
FastPass available
Handheld captioning available
Park admission required
Standing Tall
It’s a rite of passage for many smaller Disney guests – discovering that they are finally tall enough for the attraction of their dreams. For every adult who’s terrified of Disney’s mountains, there are three fearless young children begging to be allowed boarding privileges. They’ve stood and watched sadly as older brothers and sisters happily stepped into ride queues while they were left behind; victims of the dreaded “baby swap.” Or worse still, they might be forced to walk off with one parent to do allegedly “fun things” while the others went in a different direction to enjoy all the really cool stuff. Finally, their day has come; they are able to “hit the mark” and board that highly-anticipated ride!
Many of the most exciting rides have specific height requirements. These guidelines help ensure that all passengers are safe; tall enough to be protected by the headrests, belts and other safety features built into the ride vehicles.
Typically, there will be two checkpoints at an attraction and children must not be able to walk under the bar. Although shoes are allowed, this regulation is very strictly enforced and cast members do not make exceptions for “almost.”
We’ve included a link to Walt Disney World’s most recent official listing of height requirements for specific attractions:
Joining the ranks of the Big Kids – one of the many reasons families return to Disney Destinations year after year!
“He follows his dream, with mind and heart”
Classic \ˈkla-sik\ serving as a standard of excellence; of recognized value; traditional, enduring
There are the thrill rides. There are attractions that showcase the latest and greatest technologies. There are those that exploit modern themes and the newest stories and characters.
And then, there are the classics. They may not utilize the most up-to-date equipment, advanced programming, or state-of-the-art special effects. It doesn’t matter. They are the classics; the quintessence of the Disney experience. Using old-time tricks and familiar illusions, the Haunted Mansion continues to amaze and delight us. It’s a Small World still compels us to board little boats and float past hundreds of dolls while listening to a repetitive tune. Children will always clamor for Dumbo the Flying Elephant, adults will forever get teary in the Hall of Presidents, and they all line up to sit in twirling teacups and laugh together.
Yet none is more clearly touched by Walt’s hand than the Carousel of Progress. It’s a simple concept – guests are seated in a theater that revolves around a central stage as they follow nearly 100 years of innovation. Through a series of cozy kitchen scenes and folksy chats, the audience can see the evolution of both technology and, more subtly, American culture, from the late 1900’s until the end of the 20th century.
The clothing changes, as do the “latest” appliances, and even the vocabulary, but the core message remains the same: mankind’s infinite capacity for inventiveness and resourcefulness, and the timeless values of family and country; philosophies that were dear to Walt’s heart. In fact, he was deeply involved in the project right from the start when it was developed for the New York World’s Fair in 1964 and 1965. Progressland’s Carousel Theater, sponsored by General Electric, was actually an offshoot of a concept known as Edison Square, which Walt had conceived, but never built, for Disneyland in the 1950’s.
It was a huge hit at the Fair, and although the original structure was demolished, the audioanimatronic figures and the systems were packed up and moved to Disneyland when the Fair closed. While Walt did not live long enough to see it open, it ran for six years at its new home in Tomorrowland. On the upper level of the theater, guests could view a beautifully-detailed model of Progress City, a preview of the real city he had planned to build in Florida – EPCOT. Today, visitors can see a section of that model displayed along the route of the TTA PeopleMover in Walt Disney World.
After its Disneyland closure in 1973, once again, the theater was left behind, although this time repurposed for America Sings and later, Innoventions, and the figures and systems made the trek to their new home in the Magic Kingdom. Renamed Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress in 1994, the attraction underwent renovations which included an updated final scene.
Still featuring the original control systems and audioanimatronic figures, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress is a somewhat fragile treasure, and only open seasonally during busier periods. Nonetheless, it holds the record for the most performances of any show in the history of American theater.
Although the fourth, “modern day” scene is sorely in need of some serious reimagining, the attraction remains a touchstone for hundreds of thousands of visitors. Indeed, sitting in that theater, it’s easy to imagine that a great, big, beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away.
Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
Magic Kingdom
21 minutes
Open seasonally
Wheelchair and ECV accessible
Park admission required
Starry-eared
While it may not be exactly the change that many were hoping for, Walt Disney World’s Space Mountain has gone “Starry-O-Phonic” with the addition of a new audio feature. All flights will now be enhanced by a specially-composed musical score and sound effects, playing from 60 speakers installed throughout the ride.
Because the system does not broadcast from onboard speakers, it doesn’t deliver the synchronized, immersive experience of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, but riders report that it does add to the atmosphere and fun of this great attraction.
R.I.P.
It’s not unusual to hear complaints from loyal Disney fans who continue to pine for long-lost attractions and entertainments. While we expect to see new and ever more spectacular offerings, we don’t want to lose any of our sentimental favorites. There was so much fuss about the Wonders of Life, for instance. Now, I have to say that no one was more distressed than I to hear news of this closing so I understand the dismay. However, it was open seasonally for a very long period after the announced closure. I went every time I visited Walt Disney World, and I would stay there for several hours because I always felt it might be the last time I would set foot in the building. I’d watch the show, play the games, sit and have lunch…I was pretty much alone. Only a handful of people came through, and this was often at Christmas time when the parks were jammed.
Disney doesn’t shut down a ride to antagonize millions of people who throng to the attraction. Most often, it closes because it because it isn’t pulling its weight – no one is visiting. Horizons closed because it wasn’t getting the traffic, the same with, yes kids, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.
Other attractions closed for different reasons. With the opening of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Discovery Island became redundant. The company chose to build new water parks rather than address the issues of fresh water and an aging infrastructure at River Country. We know that 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was both slow-loading and not handicapped-accessible, as well as being incredibly expensive to maintain. The Skyway to Tomorrowland was shut down for many of the same reasons. The Plaza Swan Boats suffered from ongoing engine problems; the Tapestry of Dreams Parade was adversely affected by winds across the World Showcase Lagoon. If You Had Wings lost its sponsorship.
Because Disney is in the business of making people happy, it’s easy to forget that, first and foremost, they are in the business of making money. It’s not reasonable to expect any company to continue to foster an element that is no longer financially feasible due to its being out of date thematically, mechanically, or historically; too expensive to update or maintain; or simply not pulling sufficient numbers through the doors.
Yes, I miss the time when today’s bright red double-decker “Character Bus” was a fun and relaxing form of public transportation around the World Showcase; and I loved the World of Motion. It’s sad to know that the wonderful Streetmosphere cast at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has been reduced. But, I’m not sorry that ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter has passed into memory, and I wish Stitch’s Great Escape! would follow. Don’t hear much clamoring for a return of Tarzan Rocks!, either.
On the bright side, after 45 years, the Carousel of Progress is still turning. The PeopleMover is still moving people, and It’s a Small World is still big. If you have a special affection for a ride or show, don’t pass it by. Make a point to experience your favorites each time you visit – show your support with your feet!
Orange or Green?
Mission: SPACE, one of the most highly-anticipated attractions to open at Walt Disney World, represents the culmination of 40 years of actual man-hours, as well as technologies specifically invented for this ride. Designed to allow passengers to experience space flight in a realistic way, Mission: SPACE was built in cooperation with former astronauts and NASA personnel.
The “back story” is very much front and center as guests, or “trainees” at the International Space Training Center, are assigned a role and join a crew of four to complete a training mission that will help prepare them for the first manned flight to Mars.
The stunning Planetary Plaza at the entrance includes some of the most imaginative and beautiful detail to be found in any park. The glowing replica of Mars with its dramatic red color stands close to the enormous 16-foot-diameter sphere of Jupiter. Earth is encircled by a ship in flight and the model of our moon features plaques on its surface that commemorate each lunar mission.
The queue area is dominated by an enormous gravity wheel, and showcases fascinating displays and a review of the “history” of space flight. The gravity wheel sports one of three tributes to Horizons, the attraction that formerly occupied the site.
After an informational video, astronauts-in-training board the flight simulators for a spectacular journey that includes lift-off, a slingshot maneuver around the moon, hypersleep, and Mars landing, along with some special challenges to test the crew.
There are two different ride experiences to choose from: the original, very intense “orange” version which simulates weightlessness and g-forces by means of a centrifuge; and the alternate “green” version which retains the motion simulation but forgoes the physically-challenging centrifuge effects. There are multiple alerts and warnings throughout the attraction which detail the health conditions that may be adversely affected by the ride.
The post-show area is not to be missed, with interactive games and activities, a themed play area for kids, and an opportunity to send a “Postcard from Space.”
Employees of Hewlett-Packard, the current sponsor, have access to the Red Planet Room where they can relax and enjoy complimentary beverages, play games, watch television, and use an internet-connected shared laptop.
Mission: SPACE
EPCOT, Future World
Approximately 6 minutes
Guests must transfer from ECV to wheelchair and then to ride vehicle
FastPass available
Video captioning and translation devices available
Park admission required
From the Rockies to Rock and Roll
One of Walt Disney World’s most exquisite gardens is but a short walk to your right as you enter the World Showcase at EPCOT from Future World. Inspired by the famous Butchart Gardens in British Columbia, the Victoria Gardens at the Canada Pavilion offer a serene and beautiful landscape enhanced by towering rocks, splashing waterfalls, and peaceful ponds.
The gardens are just one of the treasures to be discovered In “Canada” where a rich cultural heritage and the glories of the great outdoors are celebrated.
Home to the CircleVision 360° movie, O Canada, which offers visitors a spectacular look at the diversity of Canadian terrain, wildlife, city and country, peoples and pastimes, it is also the location of one of the most popular restaurants in EPCOT, Le Cellier. Observant guests will discover numerous details that reflect the many faces of our neighbor to the north.
The architecture is decidedly French; the “Hotel du Canada” based upon Ottawa’s turreted Chateau du Laurier.
Massive totem poles and artifacts represent the quiet yet powerful presence of dozens of Native tribes who have lived across the breadth of this country, from the Northwest Territories to Newfoundland.
And of course, the wonderful Off-Kilter reminds us of the deep Scottish roots of the Maritimes.
When you’re ready to shop, Northwest Mercantile really pulls out all the Canadian stops with lots of maple syrup and maple leaves, plaid, hockey, moccasins, and soapstone carvings!
From Endor to Coruscant
September 8th marks the closure of another well-loved Walt Disney World attraction, Star Tours, as it undergoes dramatic changes before re-emerging in 2011 as an exciting new immersive, 3-D adventure. Disneyland’s Star Tours closed on July 27th, while the version at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is going out in style with a “Last Tour to Endor” party on August 14th.
Loyal fans of this perennial favorite seem to be looking forward to the planned “reimagining” which will include new journeys to familiar Star Wars destinations. A new ride system and motion-simulator, hi-def video and 3-D technology, as well as new special effects, promise an out-of-this-world experience. We’re hearing talk of podracers, prequels, and multiple ride experience possibilities.
Currently, the attraction is scheduled to reopen in Disneyland on May 9, 2011 and at Walt Disney World on May 16, 2011.
There’s So Much That We Share
I think my son said it best. Although he had visited Walt Disney World a dozen times with his grandmother, it was my very first trip. I suggested giving the attraction a pass and he looked at me with horror, “But Mom, we have to do this; It’s A Small World is Disney.”
And so it is.
The cheerful little title tune, the subject of so much whining, is actually thought to be the most widely-performed and translated song in the world. Yes, it is sung for ten minutes straight, in five different languages by audioanimatronic figures backed up by assorted animals and animated props, as guests float past a variety of scenes representing many world cultures. But the ride, first created for the New York World’s Fair of 1964, also embodies so much of the Disney tradition and spirit.
Overseen by Walt himself, it was designed by Mary Blair, best known for her murals in the Grand Concourse of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It also features the work of other Disney legends: Joyce Carlson, and Marc and Alice Davis. The original attraction found a home in Disneyland but it has been recreated for Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Tokyo Disneyland.
The exquisitely-detailed costumes alone are worth the voyage over the Seven Seaways. Small children, dressed to evoke their native lands, bounce and twist to the ever-present music. It is charming and colorful, promoting a message of goodwill and unity – and, let’s be honest, every vacation can generally use a dash of goodwill and unity!
It’s a Small World
Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
Approximately 10 minutes
Guests must transfer from wheelchair and ECV to ride vehicle
No flash photography
Handheld captioning device available
Park admission required
It’s PhilharMagical!
It’s about as perfect as ten minutes or so can be. Mickey’s PhilharMagic has wowed audiences from opening day in 2003 and continues to draw the crowds with its “4-D” effects and magical story line. Featuring many of the most beloved characters from Disney movies including Peter Pan and Tinker Bell, Aladdin and Jasmine, Simba, Ariel, and Lumière, the show is a feast for the eyes, the ears, and even the nose!
Guests are invited to don their opera glasses and follow Donald Duck’s misadventures through a world of animation as he chases the “borrowed” Sorcerer hat under the sea and across the savannahs of Africa. The audience joins him on a magic carpet ride through narrow Middle Eastern alleyways, and soaring over London on a trail of pixie dust.
Delightful for all ages, Mickey’s PhilharMagic occupies its own special theater that seats nearly 500 guests. Don’t miss the lobby area that showcases “past performances” in a series of comical posters.
While some people prefer being at the front of the theater, we’ve found that the special effects seem even better from seats in the center sections, so enter from one of the doors to the right rather than the left. We also suggest waiting for a bit after the doors open and then choosing a row that’s partially filled in order to end up in the center of that row. Pick up a FastPass, then get in the standby line if it’s not too long. You’ll definitely want to see this show more than once!
Mickey’s PhilharMagic
Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
Approximately 12 minutes
Wheelchair and ECV accessible
Assistive listening and reflective captioning devices available
Park admission required
