Today marks 31 Years of Disney's Hollywood Studios being opened at The Walt Disney World Resort. I can't believe it! Our young family was there just shortly after the park premiered. I instantly fell in love with the place, but I've seen it change both for better and for worse over the years- and I've been keeping track of its progress all this time. So what you'll read is a detailed history of the creation of the park, pieces of trip reports, and tons of concept art. I've also included a slew of now vintage photos from 1989 as well as some from our most recent trip.
Sit back and relax! This is the longest single article in the ten plus year history of the Insights and Sound blog. Hope you enjoy it!
Looking into the next decade!
In the middle of it all, we'll look at what I personally observed at the park during subsequent visits in 1992, 1999, 2005, 2009, 2018 and 2019, just after the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.
Concept art for a brand new theme park!
Thirty-one years ago, Walt Disney World consisted of two wonderful theme parks, the Magic Kingdom and Epcot Center, a handful of resorts, and the Disney Village. It was a relaxed and charming vacation destination. Guests could arrive with just room reservations and have. relaxing time visiting park attractions and making meal reservations without difficulty getting either. Those days would forever disappear when the Disney-MGM Studios and the resorts largest expansion to date debuted in Florida. Pleasure Island, Typhoon Lagoon, and the budget friendly Caribbean Beach Resort would join an already abundant list of offerings. (For more detail about the overall expansion in 1989, you can look at a series of articles beginning here. Go see Pleasure Island at its peak. Remember to click on all the images to see them in a much larger size.)
This massive change in the Disney resort was precisely what was planned by its new leadership.
When Michael Eisner and Frank Wells came to the Walt Disney Company, it was a fresh chapter for a company that had grown rather quietly after Walt's passing. The new team was optimistic they could once again make Disney a major player in Hollywood, but this meant every piece of the company came under their scrutiny.
Taking the time to examine the Walt Disney World property, they immediately saw its potential as an even larger international destination, a huge money printing machine that was, in their estimation, underdeveloped and not exploited to its fullest potential. There was even money to be made, and no one would get in the way of them bringing it into the company's accounts.
The very reason this park exists is exactly because of Michael Eisner's vision and his competitive nature. He decided to take on the upcoming Universal Studios and beat them by opening Disney's own studios themed park before they opened their own.
A third park - and a studio park no less- would increase guest's stay as well as grow profits, all the while numbing the urge to go to Universal's new but similarly themed park. So, the Imagineers were given the order to make it good but open it quickly.
Disney's ever ready publicity machine stormed into high gear announcing the project. At opening, there was no Star Tours, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Toy Story Midway Mania, Rock N Rollercoaster, American Idol Experience, or Fantasmic. It really was a half-day park (at a full-day price), but what was there was rather charming and well done. Poorly laid out for expansion, but that's another story. The Disney-MGM Studios opened with the smallest attraction roster ever seen in a Disney park using the smallest amount of acreage to date.
This was the concession for beating Universal to the punch. Better a small Disney park than no park at all.
Previous Florida guests used to the massive Epcot or the fairly large Magic Kingdom were in for a surprise. A very small one. Blueprints were quickly drawn and approved with construction running at breakneck speed, proving once more that Disney can build attractions- or any entire theme park- quickly when the suits really want to get something done! Even the promotional materials couldn't hide the fact this was one very incomplete Disney park.
Let's take a quick look at this promotional piece:
Above is the cover of a limited edition preview booklet that I was very happy to obtain several years ago. As you can see, Disney's advertising team was really selling the park with a preview presenting as much substance as possible! Lights! Camera! Glitz and glamour!
Here's the park layout as planned for the grand opening. Notice that The Great Movie Ride was once called Great Moments at the Movies and sponsored by Sears. The popular Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular was once known as the Stunt Show Theater. This was a park built on the fly, and names and such were obviously in transition.
Disney began bringing out the stars from their recent Touchstone hits to promote this new film based park. The Disney-MGM Studios would be hip and edgy even as it celebrated the accomplishments of the past while looking to the current state of the film industry. (When will they ever learn this does not work in their favor?)
Television was not excluded from any of the promotional materials. Production was scheduled to happen for hit shows as well as movies at the park. Here's where it all started, the tag line "Where fantasy is real and dreams come true!" is used to remind guests this is the domain of Walt Disney World.
What would Disney Studios be without the Disney movies! At this point in its history, animation not live action was the studios bread and butter. The Studios park would be guests' chance to see the whole process up close. (Although I don't ever recall seeing an animator I knew by name... Would have loved to see Glen Keane!)
More attractions had to be built and fast. The Indy based stunt show wasn't even fully ready on opening day. Star Tours made it on the promo materials to promoting future attractions, but it wouldn't open until 1990. Ah, the drawing power of the galaxy long ago! So it was to be Gene Kelly, Mary Poppins, Tarzan, and Casablanca. A little something for everyone!
More stars and backstage secrets were revealed- what a fun day this should make! Although it wasn't a bad move, the original incarnation of the park emphasized the process of movie making versus entertainment related thrills. I sure wish some of these elements were still in the park as it is today.
The back cover, wrapping it all up!
Although my wife and I had both visited the World previously, our cross country journey in 1989 was the first of several visits with our children. This was also our first time staying on the property, and we chose the Caribbean Beach Resort, which had just opened as well. Back then, it was truly affordable- and you'd be shocked to know the price- $69 a night. (Should have stayed at the Polynesian back in 1981 when it was reasonable.)
Touring the Walt Disney World complex would be entirely different this time, with a much slower and relaxed pace due to three preschoolers in tow. This would end up being to our benefit, as at opening, The Disney-MGM Studios was a much smaller and more intimate park than the majestic Magic Kingdom or the sprawling and ambitious Epcot Center. For our kids, this meant a more relaxed pace and an easier entry into what it meant to visit Walt Disney World. We could really slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. We didn't have to plan everything in advance and worry about getting those important reservations. Such a different world!
Due to the fact there was such a small number of attractions and few theater presentations, this little theme park had to wow its guests with atmosphere, detail, and charm. Mission accomplished!
A new park barely two weeks old!
As someone who appreciates retro design and architecture, I found the park to be a visual feast. Beginning with the Pan-Pacific inspired gate, I found the opening scene of Oscar's Super Service and Sid Cahuenga's, (above), perfectly set the mood. There was so much to explore! And how often does a Disney geek get to have a first visit to a brand new park? I couldn't wait for more!
Strolling down the main avenue, Hollywood Boulevard, is like stepping back in time with the attention to detail evident all around. Period music filled the air and street performers interacted with guests. Back then, I was charmed just as if I were walking down Main Street U.S.A. at Disneyland in California (and later down Buena Vista Street at California Adventure since its rebirth). There was a refreshing warmth and intimacy here that made the Studios something different. The place was kinder and gentler- quite approachable- at once new and yet familiar.
The beautiful replica of Grauman's Chinese Theater sat at the end of the street, a perfectly fitting icon for a park devoted to the art of film making. The sense of dignity and pride in the Hollywood of the "Golden Age" was honored and evident in this design. This was an area designed by those with a certain amount of reverence for the Hollywood of old. The charm was diminished much later with the addition of the giant sorcerer's hat right in front, back when the folks in charge lost a sense of direction for the park. Deciding to go for the more crassly obvious Disney identification, a lot was lost in translation. Sometimes less is more. Much, much more.
Realizing the much profitable success of creating unique dining at Epcot, designed into plans were some wonderful and perfectly themed eateries. Isn't the recreation of the famous Hollywood Brown Derby (above), a great place for an elegant midday meal? Interestingly, in all our visits, we have never been able to catch a reservation to dine there! (Still haven't been able to do so.) The historical accuracy of what was built can be found by looking at old photos of Los Angeles in its prime. Sure, there are some liberties taken, but the essence of the city is certainly there.
In the opening days, the Disney-MGM Studios were designed to be part theme park, part actual production facilities. There was a bit of both, making for an odd mix that has made it difficult for expansion and planning in later years. Hence, when it was re-Imagineered for Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, planners rushed to make the back forty more accessible.
Wanting to one up their neighbor in California -and soon to be competitor in Florida, Universal Studios- the centerpiece attraction for the production half of the park would be a studio tram tour past sound stages, wardrobe warehouses, and outdoor sets. It was an odd combination of sites, but at the beginning, it seemed to be enough.
The entrance gate would also be the way to get to The Art of Disney Animation. This attraction would be the first time Disney animators would be on display working on real upcoming theatrical releases.
The idea of showcasing animators and animation was not new. In fact, this attraction was a greatly expanded concept from the much smaller "The Art of Animation" exhibit housed in Disneyland's Tomorrowland during the first half of the 1960's. The real highlight for fans of the art was watching the animators,. There was also a very clever film, "Back to Neverland" with Robin Williams and Walter Cronkite, to be found here. (Years later, the film was also presented in the Animation attraction at California Adventure, but later removed when Turtle Talk with Crush took over the space. With Disney, recycling isn't limited to conservation of the planet.)
Back in 1989, it didn't seem that Disney had saturated the parks with present day celebrities, so to do so seemed a better fit for the new park than Epcot putting in Ellen's Energy Adventure or Gary Sinese in Mission: Space. The animation, the characters, the celebrities all belong at Disney-MGM. You'd expect this at a park called "The Studios". Their absence would create an obvious void. The attractions gave a nod to the true stars of old as well as promoting the latest stars and starlets. It was this attention to honoring the past as well that made the park a place for families of all ages to appreciate. A very wise choice, and it made for good marketing.
The Studio Tram Tour was great fun and yet was very different from its final incarnation. The sheltered queue was filled with overhead televisions, and many of the Disney Studios' name performers made cameo appearances here and entertained guests waiting for the next bus.
While the tour itself was enjoyable, the highlight was easily Catastrophe Canyon. The special effects, a combination of earthquake, raging fire, and flash flood was thrilling, unexpected and a crowd pleaser. Thrilling enough to make grandparents and children smile and teens take notice but not at all terrifying enough to make my preschoolers cry. We all enjoyed the backside of it all, seeing how it happened. Had we been able to experience this part without having to take the whole tour, our kids would have happily jumped back in line! By the time we visited the Walt Disney Studios Paris version years later, we were less interested.
This massive change in the Disney resort was precisely what was planned by its new leadership.
The famous annual report photo of Eisner and Wells!
When Michael Eisner and Frank Wells came to the Walt Disney Company, it was a fresh chapter for a company that had grown rather quietly after Walt's passing. The new team was optimistic they could once again make Disney a major player in Hollywood, but this meant every piece of the company came under their scrutiny.
Taking the time to examine the Walt Disney World property, they immediately saw its potential as an even larger international destination, a huge money printing machine that was, in their estimation, underdeveloped and not exploited to its fullest potential. There was even money to be made, and no one would get in the way of them bringing it into the company's accounts.
The very reason this park exists is exactly because of Michael Eisner's vision and his competitive nature. He decided to take on the upcoming Universal Studios and beat them by opening Disney's own studios themed park before they opened their own.
A Film-making pavilion at EPCOT was once planned next to Imagination.
The true beginnings of the Disney-MGM Studios!
Disney historians say the origins of the park came from a pavilion imagined for Epcot. Seeing potential for an entire park instead, Imagineering was immediately put to work taking the best of Universal, adding a Disney twist to it, and coming up with a classic "E Ticket" Audio-Animatronics attraction of it's own. A third park - and a studio park no less- would increase guest's stay as well as grow profits, all the while numbing the urge to go to Universal's new but similarly themed park. So, the Imagineers were given the order to make it good but open it quickly.
Disney Parks look fantastic at night, but even with it's nighttime glow,
there's no mistaking that the park is a tiny one!
there's no mistaking that the park is a tiny one!
The park is small- and sometimes size does matter!
Look in the upper left corner for some unbuilt ideas!
Art courtesy AngryAP.com
Part of the problem with the size of the park was the potential attractions and areas that never made it past the drawing boards. The concept art above shows some unbuilt ideas mixed in with what finally opened. Yes, that is the backside of the Matterhorn and a slice of Mickey's Toontown. 
Pre-opening construction photo from MickeyCity.com.
Previous Florida guests used to the massive Epcot or the fairly large Magic Kingdom were in for a surprise. A very small one. Blueprints were quickly drawn and approved with construction running at breakneck speed, proving once more that Disney can build attractions- or any entire theme park- quickly when the suits really want to get something done! Even the promotional materials couldn't hide the fact this was one very incomplete Disney park.
Let's take a quick look at this promotional piece:
Above is the cover of a limited edition preview booklet that I was very happy to obtain several years ago. As you can see, Disney's advertising team was really selling the park with a preview presenting as much substance as possible! Lights! Camera! Glitz and glamour!
Here's the park layout as planned for the grand opening. Notice that The Great Movie Ride was once called Great Moments at the Movies and sponsored by Sears. The popular Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular was once known as the Stunt Show Theater. This was a park built on the fly, and names and such were obviously in transition.
Disney began bringing out the stars from their recent Touchstone hits to promote this new film based park. The Disney-MGM Studios would be hip and edgy even as it celebrated the accomplishments of the past while looking to the current state of the film industry. (When will they ever learn this does not work in their favor?)
Television was not excluded from any of the promotional materials. Production was scheduled to happen for hit shows as well as movies at the park. Here's where it all started, the tag line "Where fantasy is real and dreams come true!" is used to remind guests this is the domain of Walt Disney World.
What would Disney Studios be without the Disney movies! At this point in its history, animation not live action was the studios bread and butter. The Studios park would be guests' chance to see the whole process up close. (Although I don't ever recall seeing an animator I knew by name... Would have loved to see Glen Keane!) 
More attractions had to be built and fast. The Indy based stunt show wasn't even fully ready on opening day. Star Tours made it on the promo materials to promoting future attractions, but it wouldn't open until 1990. Ah, the drawing power of the galaxy long ago! So it was to be Gene Kelly, Mary Poppins, Tarzan, and Casablanca. A little something for everyone!
More stars and backstage secrets were revealed- what a fun day this should make! Although it wasn't a bad move, the original incarnation of the park emphasized the process of movie making versus entertainment related thrills. I sure wish some of these elements were still in the park as it is today.
The back cover, wrapping it all up!
Intense and splashy advertising, along with a full park mock up presented in the Magic Kingdom on Main Street and a "star studded" television special, were all quite successful at bringing a great opening year for the park. It worked like magic, but it created bigger crowds and higher expectations the resort and the Disney Company certainly wasn't prepared for.
Now back to our story...
Now back to our story...
Nighttime Disney publicity shot reveals the small park.
On May 1 1989, The Disney-MGM Studios was officially opened, and it was the main reason for traveling to the World. It's not too often a lifelong Disney park fan gets to experience the opening of a brand new location. Less than two weeks after its debut, our sweet young family was on its way to see it for ourselves.
When it opened, Disney-MGM Studios was a park with some wonderful theming- and the only place you could see Oz- but as you will see, it was a park with a small amount of things to do. Most of the attractions were lengthy, so that did help fill out some of the day. If you timed it well, however, it was no where close to being a full day park for a full day price. Yet, it was so different than the two other parks, it had an appeal all its own.
Before I continue on, please note most all these photos are from May 1989. Each of them is untouched, left with all the original, now faded colors. Taken before the days of digital photography, all were shot using Kodak film with special types for either day or nighttime photography. It was quite the challenge! Now, as they say in the movies, "Let's continue with our story..."
1989 Map scan courtesy the excellent Yesterland site.
Before I continue on, please note most all these photos are from May 1989. Each of them is untouched, left with all the original, now faded colors. Taken before the days of digital photography, all were shot using Kodak film with special types for either day or nighttime photography. It was quite the challenge! Now, as they say in the movies, "Let's continue with our story..."
Although my wife and I had both visited the World previously, our cross country journey in 1989 was the first of several visits with our children. This was also our first time staying on the property, and we chose the Caribbean Beach Resort, which had just opened as well. Back then, it was truly affordable- and you'd be shocked to know the price- $69 a night. (Should have stayed at the Polynesian back in 1981 when it was reasonable.)Touring the Walt Disney World complex would be entirely different this time, with a much slower and relaxed pace due to three preschoolers in tow. This would end up being to our benefit, as at opening, The Disney-MGM Studios was a much smaller and more intimate park than the majestic Magic Kingdom or the sprawling and ambitious Epcot Center. For our kids, this meant a more relaxed pace and an easier entry into what it meant to visit Walt Disney World. We could really slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. We didn't have to plan everything in advance and worry about getting those important reservations. Such a different world!
Due to the fact there was such a small number of attractions and few theater presentations, this little theme park had to wow its guests with atmosphere, detail, and charm. Mission accomplished!
A new park barely two weeks old!As someone who appreciates retro design and architecture, I found the park to be a visual feast. Beginning with the Pan-Pacific inspired gate, I found the opening scene of Oscar's Super Service and Sid Cahuenga's, (above), perfectly set the mood. There was so much to explore! And how often does a Disney geek get to have a first visit to a brand new park? I couldn't wait for more!
The kind of things that used to be found inside Sid's.
Before the Disney Vacation Club...
Before the Disney Vacation Club...
Strolling down the main avenue, Hollywood Boulevard, is like stepping back in time with the attention to detail evident all around. Period music filled the air and street performers interacted with guests. Back then, I was charmed just as if I were walking down Main Street U.S.A. at Disneyland in California (and later down Buena Vista Street at California Adventure since its rebirth). There was a refreshing warmth and intimacy here that made the Studios something different. The place was kinder and gentler- quite approachable- at once new and yet familiar. 
Safer and cleaner than what you will find in the real Hollywood.
An official photo from Disney.
The Studios park also displayed the largest "Hidden Mickey" ever created. The lovely, open plaza in front of the Chinese Theater along with nearby Echo Lake formed the face of the world's most beloved mouse. It was then easily seen from the air but it's a nice touch when looking at the touring guides handed out at the gate. (Go back and look at the map.)
This was the park's top dining experience. It still is.
In the opening days, the Disney-MGM Studios were designed to be part theme park, part actual production facilities. There was a bit of both, making for an odd mix that has made it difficult for expansion and planning in later years. Hence, when it was re-Imagineered for Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, planners rushed to make the back forty more accessible. Wanting to one up their neighbor in California -and soon to be competitor in Florida, Universal Studios- the centerpiece attraction for the production half of the park would be a studio tram tour past sound stages, wardrobe warehouses, and outdoor sets. It was an odd combination of sites, but at the beginning, it seemed to be enough.
Beyond the gateway into the area celebrating animation.
A fairly bland entrance to such an important aspect of Disney film making!
"I'm not bad, I'm just drawn that way!"
Back in 1989, it didn't seem that Disney had saturated the parks with present day celebrities, so to do so seemed a better fit for the new park than Epcot putting in Ellen's Energy Adventure or Gary Sinese in Mission: Space. The animation, the characters, the celebrities all belong at Disney-MGM. You'd expect this at a park called "The Studios". Their absence would create an obvious void. The attractions gave a nod to the true stars of old as well as promoting the latest stars and starlets. It was this attention to honoring the past as well that made the park a place for families of all ages to appreciate. A very wise choice, and it made for good marketing.
New plantings and green spaces.
Backlot Tour concept
Inside the Magic sign announces the walking portion of the tour.
Between our two visits, the tour was split out into two parts.
Our sweet little family patiently waited in line for the tram, the kids oblivious to the actors on the overhead screen. On the other hand, the adults enjoyed the wait. The presentations seemed witty and fresh as we hadn't seen them before. Soon enough, we boarded the tram and were on our way.
Does this view currently exist? It's been years since I've taken the tram tour.
While the tour itself was enjoyable, the highlight was easily Catastrophe Canyon. The special effects, a combination of earthquake, raging fire, and flash flood was thrilling, unexpected and a crowd pleaser. Thrilling enough to make grandparents and children smile and teens take notice but not at all terrifying enough to make my preschoolers cry. We all enjoyed the backside of it all, seeing how it happened. Had we been able to experience this part without having to take the whole tour, our kids would have happily jumped back in line! By the time we visited the Walt Disney Studios Paris version years later, we were less interested.
Buildings galore- all part of the tram tour.
The concept art was true to reality!
What remained before its closing was a truncated version of the tour with a very tired presentation and aging sights not relevant to current movies and television. Although Catastrophe Canyon was still impressive, it was long overdue to get rid of the tour and replace it with something fresh.But back to 1989...
Where Streets of America now stand.
Bugs- why does it have to be bugs?
Once the tram ride was completed, a walking portion of the tour provided the chance to experience how certain special effects were created (the flying bee scene in the then new and popular "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" film) and get a glimpse at how live action is filmed ("The Lottery"- a special studio production starring Bette Midler). I was chosen to ride the bee, but I'll be darned if I can find the photo! Maybe it's better...
Little kids and big props!
The post-tour area was filled with playful, over sized props and photo opportunities. This made for a lot of fun for all of us. Even my two year old daughter was able to join the fun. Disney's 1988 blockbuster Who Framed Roger Rabbit? became the core film referenced in this area, much to the delight of the park's male guests... me included. (Man, my wife has a good sense of humor when it comes to my "appreciation" of Jessica Rabbit!)
Exiting the Studio's production area, we headed into the theme park portion of the park. There was not too much here in the way of attractions. Lots to see, not much to do. None of us are really stage show fans, so we were at a bit of a loss. Thirty years later, we still have the same problem when we visit this park.The Great Movie Ride, housed in the Chinese Theater, was an Audio-Animatronic extravaganza in the old school Imagineering tradition. Like most of the attractions in this new park, it was lengthy and fully put you in the midst of the action. My wife and I loved the museum like quality of the queue, something our kids didn't get but would certainly appreciate now. Were those really the famous ruby slippers?
Before the Hat invaded Hollywood!
One of the few attraction posters created for the park.
Gangsters, Cowboys and Aliens!
The close up and original "Alien" encounter kept us alert, to say the least. The fire effects in the Old West and our disappearing tour guide reminded us Disney Imagineers had some new tricks up their sleeves at this park. Our kids handled it all we relative ease. There was more to come.
Off to see the Wizard!
After the attraction, we were excited about the ride and slowed down by tracking down our favorite stars hand prints. Watching our kids interact with their favorite actors, all animated characters, was quite a joy. Disney wisely had them up front and center at the park, and the lines were manageable. We didn't even need a reservation to see them.
Time for lunch. The Backlot Express was filled with props- and some pretty good food, if I remember correctly. Nice spot to take a break, sip some soda, and plot out the rest of the day. The food was reasonably priced and the shaded area much appreciated in the hot Florida sun. My kids were able to burn off some energy as well exploring some more of the well placed props. I have to give kudos to my kids here and especially my wife. The children were always well behaved in public. It was as if they knew without us telling them that it was other people's vacations too and to be considerate of the way they handled themselves.
We taught them how to respect others and use their "inside voices" in shops, restaurants, museums and movies. We could take them anywhere. Thanks, guys. And thanks to my wife for being the excellent mother that she was/is. By the way- If you look at the photo below, you'll see our youngest daughter aged two in a stroller, the older two kids, ages 3 and 4, walking the park with us. We always thought the natural breaks needed to rest smaller legs gave us a chance to regroup, talk, and enjoy the details all around us. All of our kids walked the parks without complaint.
Long before Drew Carey played a detective here in this building, the Monster Sound Show, gave us a chance to laugh while guests tried to match audio special effects to the action on the screen. It was a much more fun display of technology in movie making than the shows subsequently presented. The hands on interactive area was a nice touch and allowed us to explore some more. As one of the centerpiece buildings in the park, it really deserves something terrific inside of it. Don't you agree? And wouldn't it be a fun nod to the past if Monsters Inc took over the Sound Show? And it would provide some variety to the attraction line-up.
Echo Lake with Superstar Television top left.
Superstar Television had to be one of my favorite attractions in this new park. Imagine being "inserted" into old favorite television shows! It was a trick used at the Imagination pavilion at Epcot but put to even better use here.
Superstar Television concept from AngryAP.com
Who wouldn't love to be filmed with Lucille Ball on an "I Love Lucy" episode? Even though none of us were chosen to participate, it was great fun to see it happen right in front of us.
My first of many photos of Dinosaur Gertie!
There also wasn't much for us to do from here on out. We did see a rehearsal for the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. Since Raiders of the Lost Ark was my favorite movie, I was particularly happy to watch a very talented cast of stuntmen and visitors reenact its famous scenes. It wouldn't open officially until after we left, but we couldn't resist queuing up with the hundreds of other people looking for something else to do.
Somewhere along the day, I realized that we had seen it all. I was very disappointed by that revelation as we had paid full price to visit the park. One Audio-Animatronic ride? No dark rides a la Fantasyland? Not even a spinner for the kids? Yet... what was here was a lot of fun. The place was filled with potential and the subject matter provided endless possibilities.
It was early evening, so it was the right time for our young family to sit down to a meal. In a season before themed restaurants became much too plentiful and therefore ordinary, the 50's Prime Time Cafe was a real treat. The atmosphere was so much fun, and the wait staff only made it better. Having good food was an unexpected plus. My eldest daughter was chosen to leave her preschool artwork on the house refrigerator, much to her delight.
Above- a hint of a blog to come 20 years later?
After dinner, we wandered around and waited for darkness so that I could take some nighttime photographs. This gave me time for some souvenir shopping, and to take another peak into our favorite places. The kids did have a little rest.
I looked around and noticed folks were exiting the park in large numbers. Unfortunately for them, they were missing the best attraction at the park. It's an unannounced one, but one of the best parts of a visit to the Studios.
I looked around and noticed folks were exiting the park in large numbers. Unfortunately for them, they were missing the best attraction at the park. It's an unannounced one, but one of the best parts of a visit to the Studios.
Small park- big potential!
For all its daytime charm, the Disney-MGM Studios theme park is just gorgeous at night! (Twenty years later, it still is, although the Star Tours side of the park is lacking.) My camera got quite the workout and all to good result. Again, no photoshop. Just look.
Even the humblest of buildings took on grandeur and drama never hinted at during the day. Oscar's, in particular, looks fantastic!
What the artists imagined...
As you can tell by comparing concept art to reality, this is a case where the Imagineers did an incredible job! The beautiful artwork is nothing compared to the reality of what was built in steel and concrete. Ok, I'm admittedly a sucker for neon, but wow! Just wow!
...what the guests saw when it was built!
At this point, I could have wandered around all night taking shot after shot of the glamour of Old Hollywood that will never be. Once again, the Imagineers took great care to present this small part in the best light possible- day or night. I would say, and certainly some will disagree, that at opening, the Disney-MGM Studios had as much loving detail and charm as Florida's Magic Kingdom park.
The Carthay Circle Theater at night. (And it is just as beautiful in full scale as the centerpiece of the new Buena Vista Street at Disney's California Adventure!)
Glad the hat is gone again!
Lights, camera, action!
Of course, Indy looks good day or night!
A shimmering Echo Lake.
Echo Lake takes on a whole new look, and Gertie just shines like the lake it sits on. Absolutely beautiful! Don't you agree?
Above, my favorite nighttime shot
Although the park still had some time left until its closing, I had dragged our kids through a pretty long day. We decided to join our bus back to the Caribbean Beach for a well deserved night of rest.As always, our visit to Walt Disney World was filled with surprises. At Disney-MGM Studios, we were delighted at what we saw but also surprised, amazed actually, by the new park's obvious shortcomings- its lack of attractions, in particular those that physically transport you into prop and Audio-Animatronic filled environments. These remain the hallmark of the greatest Disney attractions. Pirates of the Caribbean remains its best.
This choice was the first clear example of Disney designing and opening "theme park lite", a trend that would notoriously continue in later years as the Walt Disney Company opened future projects: Disney's Animal Kingdom (1998), Disney's California Adventure (2001), Walt Disney Studios Paris (2001), and eventually Hong Kong Disneyland (2005). Have you noticed how each of these had to add costly, big attractions or have a total re-Imagineering job to get the bigger crowds the suits wanted? Is this a lesson they are finally learned with Shanghai Disneyland? After all, before it opened Disney announced even more money going into attractions for opening day. Are the Chinese on to their game, demanding more... or is it just government payouts as some have believed?
Regardless, this little Studio park had to expand and quickly. The crowds were crushing the new park as folks were anxious to see it. The Company had more than enough promotion with the huge expansion of Walt Disney World, and perhaps, the results were more than successful, even totally unexpected. Deliver on the promise, if you will. What would come next?
The official opening of the Indiana Jones Stunt show helped relieve the crowds a bit as well as fill out the day at the park. It certainly wasn't enough, but something pretty strong was coming. Star Tours was on its way.
We would return to the park just three years later in 1992. Finding some changes to the small park, this trip we would have almost enough to fill an entire day- if we did every attraction and show. It was a good beginning.
Regardless, this little Studio park had to expand and quickly. The crowds were crushing the new park as folks were anxious to see it. The Company had more than enough promotion with the huge expansion of Walt Disney World, and perhaps, the results were more than successful, even totally unexpected. Deliver on the promise, if you will. What would come next?
The official opening of the Indiana Jones Stunt show helped relieve the crowds a bit as well as fill out the day at the park. It certainly wasn't enough, but something pretty strong was coming. Star Tours was on its way.
We would return to the park just three years later in 1992. Finding some changes to the small park, this trip we would have almost enough to fill an entire day- if we did every attraction and show. It was a good beginning.
Such a difference compared to Disneyland's Star Tours exterior!
Endor comes to Florida. From our visit in 1992.
Thanks to EndorExpress.net for snapping this shot of Star Tours art.
What should have made it to Toy Story Land.
A quick but popular playground with the preschool crowd opened about a year later when the Honey I Shrunk the Kids themed attraction came on line. The movie was great fun and family friendly. The playground was another place to direct the crowds, spend some time, and add to the still very small attraction roster.
A once planned Muppets Studios (top) was scaled down to a 3D movie (bottom).
A Little Mermaid's maiden voyage into the Disney parks.
Voyage of the Little Mermaid was a fun stage show, but the film did cry out for a full-length ride through attraction. As we know, it would come years later, but you have to wonder what everyone at Disney was thinking for it to take so long...and why the suits approved the one that was finally made!With characters labeled Streetmosphere to fill out the day for guests, Imagineering focused on what would be next. These shows and smaller touches were nice and family friendly, but if Disney wanted to draw a crowd, they needed something that would pull them in and not just flesh out the attraction roster of the park.
A much needed dining addition.
With a very cool exterior sign! (From 2009.)
Family photo circa our 1999 vacation to the World.
The promise of thrills to come. The billboard ad for Tower of Terror in 1992.
A different incarnation of what would become Tower of Terror.
For the best website on the attraction, go to TowerofTerror.org!
Happily, our next visit to Walt Disney World came just a few years after the opening of Tower, and we were able to experience this happily scary and suspenseful attraction for ourselves.
Two official photos by Disney, showing construction of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror as well as the building of Sunset Blvd.
With our kids now older and able to experience a wider range of attractions all over Florida, Tower of Terror was now on the top of our must-see list. My good natured wife rode with eyes closed- and missed some of the best parts of this instantly classic elevator ride gone bad.The quietly abandoned queue through an old hotel perfectly set the stage for what was to come. Anyone outside could see the big drop (perfect advertising!) but the thrills began right when we entered the library with the small television off to the side. Lightning, thunder, and unexpected darkness do a lot to up the thrill factor. And that's only the beginning... We were not disappointed! The version found in Florida seems to remain the best of all, even if I must admit that the version at Tokyo DisneySea is one I have yet to ride.
The final product.
Disneyland's acclaimed Fantasmic! nighttime show made its debut in Florida in 1998. Although it is entertaining, those guests (like me) familiar with the California version will notice the short cuts in the presentation. Fireworks, lights, actors, music. It is a great way to end the day at the Studios- and guests can exit right into the parking lot located right next door. Shrewd and convenient. We also found it to be a place where Disney vendors hawked their wares.
Early in 1999, comedian Drew Carey's audio attraction Sounds Dangerous replaced the Monster Sound Show. It was a minor attraction, not nearly as clever as the previous, but it was at least something. A bigger and more popular attraction would come later in the year.
Five years after the stunning success of Tower of Terror, Disney again showed they were in to win the teen market. Of course, there was now more competition down the street with Universal Orlando's brand new Islands of Adventure. The suits didn't know what impact the high thrill ride focused park would have, but they were not taking any chances.
How about a high speed trip with Aerosmith?
A giant guitar advertises the ride but ruins the atmosphere of Sunset Blvd.
Now matter how you view it, competition is good for the consumer. In the case of theme park fans, Universal coming to the table with a whole new plan of attack was a good thing. And it remains so.
Sure, Disney's Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is basically an off-the-shelf coaster given the dark ride treatment a la Space Mountain. With the rock band Aerosmith on board promoting the attraction, attention was once again called to the fact that Disney Studios was the place for thrills when on the property. At least until Animal Kingdom appeared in 1998.
Of course, with the attraction opening just a couple of months after Island of Adventure in May 1999, Disney was there to steal some focus from the new park as well as capitalize on some additional tourism cash. The park premiered its latest thriller in July. It's a small and competitive world after all!
Courtesy AngryAP.com, a map showing the park after the 1999 expansion.
There's one attraction that almost made it to completion, and I sure wish it would have! Magician David Copperfield and the Walt Disney Company had great plans to create an attraction, the Magic Underground, that would have been a showcase for his magic and special effects. In between the completion of Tower of Terror and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster in 1995, this combination theater presentation and potential restaurant would have brought a bit of adult thrill seeking of a different kind to the park.There were several years of nothing major coming. Not a smart business plan, but Disney was resting on its laurels while it was cashing in at the bank. We stopped going to the World as often and focused on visiting other countries. No regrets.
Opening in 2001, One Man's Dream, reminds guests of the incredible man who started it all and his vision for family fun. Essentially, it is a new version of The Walt Disney Story once housed at Disneyland and in Florida's Magic Kingdom but with all the bells and whistles any fan would really want. Any true Disney geek/historian has got to see this place to believe it! The enticing combination of park models, the artwork, and the movie about his life make this a must-see attraction. The first time I walked in, I had to be dragged out of the place. Even non-Disney geeks find it fascinating.Another major but unfortunate event in 2001 was the insertion of the giant Sorcerer's Hat in front of the Chinese Theater. As a pin trading station, it works fine. As a structure designed to enhance the park, it fails miserably. It's both an eyesore and blocks the elegant view that once was seen from the park entrance. My first view of it was something that I won't forget- and not for good reasons.
The incredible...Pin Trading Station.
When the Walt Disney Company launched one of their many celebrations 100 Years of Magic. Focused on the birth of Walt Disney, the Disney-MGM Studios joined the fun by adding the giant sorcerer's hat from the film Fantasia.
The beautifully designed and detailed park was all the worse for it! Not only does the giant hat still hide the beautiful replica of Grauman's Chinese Theater, it is a stark reminder of the crass commercialization of the entertainment based park. Gone are the days of period appropriate memorabilia found throughout the newly named Disney's Hollywood Studios park. This kind of downgrade cheapened the overall experience and misjudges the guests. For awhile, elegance and charm were a thing of the past. Happily, that monstrosity of a hat was removed. At least that was a good move.
Sometimes, the change of Chief Executive Officer is a good thing for the parks. In 2005, Robert Iger took over for Michael Eisner after a nasty in house fight gone public. Whereas Michael was good for the parks, particularly during his first decade, Iger basically left the Studios park to rot. What was up next for the step-child in Florida?
Next up was... nothing. For years. The once beautiful and growing park became stagnant. The Studios were living off its reputation as the home for Tower of Terror. The Great Movie Ride, left without an update for the most part, became stale. Robotics failed and special effects no longer worked as designed. The guides lost their enthusiasm, and it seemed all through the park, things were getting worse.
For a CEO who championed the purchase of Pixar, then Marvel, (and later made the grab for Indiana Jones and Star Wars), someone who loves the parks and follows the Company would expect the Studios park to be the first place he presses to have a significant presence versus a one-off dark ride clone from California that would come later.
Straight from France (copyright The Walt Disney Company.)
Aiming squarely for the teen market- and succeeding!
With some great friends and our two youngest teenagers in tow, we headed back to the World in 2005. Sure enough, we realized that the Studios park would be one of their favorites. Between Tower of Terror and Rock 'n' Rollercoaster, they wanted to stay most of the evening riding the two as often as they could. And we did because people were not visiting this park in the numbers they used to. The neglect was finally producing its fruit.
The Stunt show was a hit with the guys.
Our visit to the Studios began just before lunch, as we had spent much of the night out the day before at the Magic Kingdom, seemingly alternating between nighttime rides at Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Splash Mountain. The ladies had an evening alone at Pleasure Island eating and shopping, which left the gents to take the sons out for a boys night. The thrill rides were are target. See a trend here?
Looking down Sunset Blvd. Tower of Terror beckons!
Apparently, Tower of Terror was supposed to be the centerpiece attraction of Sunset Blvd., and smaller, well-themed dark rides were once planned along the street. They unfortunately never happened. It was probably a case of building on the cheap, but in fairness, the premier thrill/horror attraction did cost so much money. But how much did it bring in, hmmm?
Creepy lobby- much darker and threatening than its younger sibling to come in California.
Evening rides back and forth between the coaster and the Tower. I was so proud of capturing this image! It took me a few times to get it, but I'm so glad I did. After several rides between the two, the ladies sat and enjoyed their Mickey ice creams, and the guys got a few more rides in before the performance of Fantasmic!
Is this a replacement for attractions?
Mr. Iger seemed to leave things as they were at the Studios. After some substantial activity in the 90's, things were quiet again, and the suits took on a different strategy for this park. It made its name- and money- hosting Star Wars Weekends and Christmas displays with the Osbourne Family light display. It's a trend that has grown since Epcot's Springtime Flower and Garden Festival and its Fall Food and Wine gatherings. Profitable but secondary to a great attractions at either park.
It was during Iger's reign, that the Studios park moved into 4th place among my Florida favorites. It was still home to a few unique attractions and some great atmosphere, but the Imagineers and suits did not know how to revitalize the park nor did anyone have a vision for it- and I'm not sure the suits would have funded them even if they materialized.
Unfortunately, back in California, the Walt Disney Company and its leader had a crisis on their hands. The brand new California Adventure park had just opened, and it tanked. Big time. So much so it became the laughing stock of the theme park industry. Because of this disaster, the Studios stayed as it was while everyone attended to the embarrassment on the West Coast.
During this same year, the incredible Tokyo Disneysea opened, and the Company made sure it was hidden from view from their public in the States. How could they explain such a masterpiece overseas when they had wasted all the money and potential of their second park land in Anaheim?
By the time we ventured back to Walt Disney World in 2009, just a year after the name changed to Disney's Hollywood Studios, and only months after both the Journey into Narnia exhibit and Toy Story Midway Mania 3D shooter ride opened, not too much had changed when we looked at the big picture. My wife and I were visiting alone this trip, and we missed the grand opening of the American Idol Experience by one month. We did not consider it much of a loss, and the new attractions were not a draw.
Still crowded after all these years.
During this visit, we found the park layout was as frustrating and confusing as ever. Every avenue seemed to hold a traffic jam as folks moved toward Sunset Blvd. and its two superstar attractions. The street was a sea of people clammoring toward The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Rock 'N' Rollercoaster. It felt as if we were somehow back in the Magic Kingdom's Frontierland between Splash and Big Thunder Mountains. It was not enjoyable.
The terrific looking Pixar Place created a huge traffic jam as folks love the shoehorned Toy Story Midway Mania. This video game ride has its older sibling in California Adventure. While I enjoy it, I chose not to wait the hour and a half to ride here. In a park void of attractions the whole family will enjoy, this not quite an "E Ticket" was an instant winner. There's only thrill rides on one end of the spectrum, stage shows on the other, and not much in between. The once planned dark rides for the Sunset Boulevard expansion would have gone a long way in making the park more attractive for those looking forward to adventures the whole family could enjoy together. Where have I heard that before?
Crowd control was even worse surrounding Lights, Motors, Action Extreme Stunt Show. Yet areas of the park were strangely empty, creating pockets that felt like a ghost town. Particularly the Star Wars side of the park.
Indy still looks good in 2009.
Walking around exploring is not a replacement for attractions!
We wandered around this area of the park past the Honey, I Shrunk the Kids playground, Muppets 3D, and the streets of the backlot. All amazingly devoid of people, allowing the amount of detail to really show itself. That is one nice thing about the strange phenomena of few guests in the park.
Heading down the main avenue for the exit, I was disappointed we didn't have more time. A stop at Sid Cahuenga's memorabilia shop was a short treat, although the store seemed much smaller than I remembered. Hearkening back to a time when you could find unique merchandise in each park, I enjoyed the vintage photos and atmosphere. Overall, the park seemed like a shadow of its former self- but it was still easier to fill a day there than at the neglected Animal Kingdom.
Walking out the gates, I honestly wished I had swapped days and spent this one at Animal Kingdom instead. Expedition Everest and Kilimanjaro Safaris were quick and easy to do in an hour or so, and a walk around the park and the Tree of Life could fill out the two and a half hours we had before our departure for the Orlando Airport. This would have given us a full day at Disney's Hollywood Studios- something I never had thought I could do in the past.
On this trip, the charms and compelling attractions of one park were highlighted while the shortcoming of another became evident. Although Expedition: Everest, one of my favorite Florida attractions is there, Disney's Animal Kingdom had at the time officially moved to the bottom of the four in Orlando and Disney's Hollywood Studios has moved to third place. I would even prefer to go to the revitalized California Adventure over both!
I say all this cautiously since both Florida parks are at an interesting crossroads. For that matter, Epcot is also needing an infusion of life and money. It's hanging on by a thread. The Florida property at large feels neglected, stale, and shortchanged by the Company.
As I shared, we have not been to Walt Disney World since 2009. Instead, we've spent our time and money in Europe and Asia as well as visiting family across the States. Our only Disney park travels have been as part of a family visit to California after Cars Land and Buena Vista Street premiered at California Adventure and one day at Disneyland Paris as part of a short stay in my favorite international destination.
Official Disney blog Legend of Jack Sparrow photo.
That would change in 2018. Our youngest daughter invited us to join her family on a week long trip to the Vacation Kingdom of the World. How could we resist?
The convoluted layout- much worse than at opening!
A fancy logo to celebrate 25 years- and that's all!
Visiting the park with little kids is an entirely different experience. I had forgotten that. Especially when your 5 year old grandson is a Star Wars fan!
Thirty one years later, the Studios remains an unknown. Certainly Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is bringing in the crowds- or at least it was once Rise of the Resistance opened- and before COVID-19. Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway is a sure-fire hit. Yet, all this leaves the other side of the park a mess waiting to be fixed.
What's in the park's future? Certainly more Intellectual Properties. Perhaps even an attraction making use of the Shanghai Disneyland technology used for their Pirates of the Caribbean. Lord know this park needs a water ride! In fact, the park needs many more rides! Smaller scale rides, even a dark ride or two would be good. But I'm placing my bet on an Indiana Jones themed land, complete with either a jeep journey adventure or another method of transport through his world. This is the rumor that will not die. For good reason! It's a great series: iconic and different in tone than anything else in the park. Oh yes- no Simpsons please.
This park needs other types of attractions to round out the day. This includes revamped stage shows and theater presentations. Although not my personal favorite, they do eat up time. Speaking of eating, the park is in desperate need of air-conditioned indoor restaurants and quick service facilities.
Overall, the park will still be lacking enough attractions (and without enough diversity of intellectual properties) to keep guests wondering why they have to spend all day to ride a couple of great rides. But it will be character filled! Perhaps the suits and Imagineers have something yet to show us. I'd like to believe we'll see more at the next D23, but that also remains to be seen. It's a brave new world out there!
It was 2018 and our dreaded last day of vacation at Walt Disney World before we step foot into the Studios. We had just a few hours before checking in for our flight at Orlando International Airport, so we thought, "What better place to spend it than going to Disney's true half day park, the remnant known as Disney's Hollywood Studios?" We were at the gates earlier than opening to make the most of our time.
Be gone, Big Hat!
I was excited to see that park after so many years away. Honestly, walking into the park was a mixed bag experience. I loved seeing the Chinese Theater once again since that Hat was finally gone. Guests could once again see what the Imagineers had in mind- Hollywood in its glory days. Once that glow of delight wore off, I noticed how faded the building were and how poorly they were maintained. The street itself had little tree cover. There was no Red Car Trolley as in the renewed California Adventure. I actually preferred the opening street of the California park to what I found in Florida. That would be confirmed less than a month later when my wife surprised me with a trip to California, and I did two parks and 26 attractions in one day. (See how I did it here.)
Sid's. It used to be so much better.
How different the park felt than when my little family first visited years ago! My guess is 90% of the park has been demolished or at least drastically altered. And the Studios park seemed even smaller than ever, if that is all possible. What did I find?
Yes, Mickey does belong in the park
but never at the expense of the Great Movie Ride!
The lovely Chinese Theater is still a fitting "castle" for this park. It was perfectly cast in its role, land it looks great from a distance and just wonderful up close. The detail is strong, setting the mood for adventures to come. The hat was gone, but the stage needs to disappear as well. Perhaps in the future that is something in the planning.
At this point in time, we only had a few hours, so we had to plan our Fast Passes well. This meant Rock n Rollercoaster followed by a hopefully quick queue for the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Our other choice was Star Tours, as Star Wars is a favorite of my grandson. I had to make sure he didn't miss out due to our limited hours.
Only the music headbangs here.
Since the coaster height limit was too much for the kids, we split our party, and they used a last minute golden ticket for Toy Story Midway Mania later in the morning. Big hint here- it was about four days prior to our departure that I was able to snag Fast Passes for the beloved Toy Story ride. It had been sold out the entire planning period. Always check at the last minute! You never know what becomes available if you time it right.
Time for a new act.
Continuing our three hour tour (a three hour tour). Do you get the reference? If not, do a little research.) The weather wasn't getting rough, but it was already pretty hot and humid. No matter, we hit the hub, the plaza, whatever they call it here and took a quick look at the theater, future home of Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway, the replacement for the epic original, The Great Movie Ride. (I'm so sad we'll miss it next trip.)
Gertie and Indy make quite a pair.
At this point, the charm of the park kicked in, almost making me forget there was just so little left of the place. It's a beautiful area, filled with the quirkiness of Old Hollywood without the shady, seedy, drug dealer and prostitute ridden side you find today.
While some of our crew got a little breakfast and a drink, my daughter and I jumped on a limo to get to the Aerosmith concert in time. The nighttime sky wasn't as dark as I remembered, but the ride was as smooth and thrilling as always. Still a winner, even though they desperately need a new band in there. (No, not a Marvel makeover. I said a new band. If you want a ride like that, you have to -unfortunately- head to Epcot in a couple of years.)
Time to anger a few parents. We took the kids on Tower. They seemed a bit apprehensive, but we assured them it would be ok. Let's say even though it really wasn't their favorite, it didn't cause any meltdowns. Man, they are easy to travel with! ("Nice job!" said Grandpa.)
As I mentioned, this version remains the definitive one. Everything about it screams Headliner Attraction. The whole approach down Sunset Blvd., the correct placement in the park, the spookiness of the boiler room- and the cars that work like a real elevator- make it top notch. Does Twilight Zone Tower of Terror still have a place in a park that will be dominated by Star Wars and Toy Story? Yes- but it is time for enhancements and refreshed special effects. Please Disney suits, don't let this one fall apart.
It was amazing how quickly we covered two big "E Ticket" attractions! And how strange that there was so little left to do in the park. With just about a half hour before our reservation for Star Tours, we walked a bit enjoying the scenery.
Light speed to Batuu!
Once we arrived at the entrance, the line was still fairly short, so we saved our tickets for a second trip after the first. Smart choice on our part! My granddaughter had never been on the flight. Gotta say, it was pretty sweet to hear her big brother encourage her and give her riding tips before we took off. She loved the journey!
Certainly, we will see him again after this attraction closes.
By the time we walked out, Star Tours had a healthy line, so our plans paid off. Using our Fast Pass, we got in line and happily had an entirely different trip, including a preview of Batuu. Nice touch and a great way to sell a return visit to the Florida park.
Appropriate synergy for once.
Pricey but fun.
Should be on its way to Cars Land in revised form!
After the kids fashioned their own light saber, we walked around, and I spotted Sci-Fi Dine In, one of my favorite places in the park. We had not been able to get a reservation earlier, but when I noticed the door was open, I took my son-in-law inside to get a glimpse of what I had told him about. It was absolutely empty with all the lights on.
Truthfully, the park is not prepared for the onslaught of visitors coming when Galaxy's Edge opens up later this year. There's a massive and obvious shortage of places to eat, shady spaces, and most of all, attractions to eat up the crowds. When you add in old and tired shows, you can be sure you'll be reading stories of disastrous days at Disney's Hollywood Studios or whatever the new name will be.
Truthfully, the park is not prepared for the onslaught of visitors coming when Galaxy's Edge opens up later this year. There's a massive and obvious shortage of places to eat, shady spaces, and most of all, attractions to eat up the crowds. When you add in old and tired shows, you can be sure you'll be reading stories of disastrous days at Disney's Hollywood Studios or whatever the new name will be.
If you're not a big show guy, there's not much to do.
From here on out, the park began to show these weaknesses. My son-in-law and I went to find some food, something beyond a Starbucks snack to eat. Although we walked all the way around Echo Lake, not a thing was open, reinforcing my observations made above.
Bad transition.
Really surprising this is the best they could come up with!
For as much emphasis and effort the suits seem to put into building new restaurants, the results are not so good at the Studios. The Base Line Tap House may have a decent menu and fill the void for beer flights, but little thought seemed to go into the design. The exterior on its own is pretty nice, but next to the Sci-Fi sharing a wall? It's horrible. Adding a mock third story to the Tap House would have created a better visual transition. Yep, the look of Disney Springs is just amazing, but they dropped the ball here.
No resistance here.
While we were busy looking for food, the rest of the crew stood in line for some Star Wars themed show/mini-parade. As a long time park fan, I knew this to be filler, but you can tell by the look on this fan's face (above), that as far as he was concerned, this might as well have been the full bore "E Ticket" filled land with its sure to be mega-hit attractions. I can only imagine how he will feel about Galaxy's Edge IF he can actually get into the land and ride them. (And what will they do with Star Tours? And will they get rid of Launch Bay?)
This is just another reminder that Disney made the right move to buy the franchise and place a full blown land in the park(s). It's the right park for the addition here, but it should have been the centerpiece of a 3rd Disney park in California.
Coming to a Studios park near you!
For the last attraction of the day, the kids and the ladies went on Toy Story Mania. The guys stayed behind and went into Walt Disney Presents, browsed the exhibits and at the urging of a cast member, posed with an invisible celebrity. It was an odd bit of cast member interaction, bordering between plain old weird, slightly creepy, and strangely disconcerting. Clearly, the guy loved his job.
A good sport!
As I mentioned in another post, the new Toy Story Land was not yet opened. We missed it by two weeks. Oh well, sounded like they'll fix up some of their mistakes before our next visit. For us, it was off to the airport and our trip home.
Slinky Dog Dash.
Concept art for Mater's- I mean Alien Swirling Saucers.
To move on from our latest trip report, Toy Story Land opened to fairly good reviews a couple of weeks after we left. Though I love the movies, I am not a fan of the execution of bringing them to the parks. These attractions and the land in general seems cheaper than cheap.
We were able to visit again in 2019 with another daughter and her family. So Toy Story Land and Galaxy's Edge were at the top of my to do list. Time to admit I was wrong: Slinky Dog Dash is a great addition to this little park. Yeah, it is pretty bare bones, but man, is it a lot of fun! Not to mention the views of Galaxy's Edge. The whole land itself needed more: more shade, more food options, more theming, and even an attraction or two that wasn't a spinner. But the whole family did enjoy what was there.
Ka-chow!
Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy stage show was an unexpected addition this year. Combining a character show with a great Audio-Animatronic McQueen and a meet and greet with his friends afterwards was a much needed addition to round out the attraction line up as well as sop up the crowds that are coming. I expected it to be quite a bit of fun for the younger set and even enjoyable for those adults with an open mind and younger heart- but it was truly only fun for the little guys. The adults were bored.
Now about Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge...
The inside of "Attraction Number Two" in Star Wars Land.
What can be said about this expansion that already hasn't been exploited on every website and blog and traditional news media? The first attraction to open- and the one we experienced on our last trip is Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, another mouthful of a title for a ride that promises to take Star Tours to the next level. As anyone can see, this is the secondary attraction compared to what follows at a later point.
It's a terrific ride, but definitely second fiddle in the mix. The land itself is still breathtaking! I had just seen it a few weeks before in at Disneyland. But I didn't have the biggest fans with me, which made for an entirely different experience.
As far as the differences, the colors are clearly more saturated here in Florida. It's probably part necessity and partially as design choice, but it works very well. The land feels like it has much more life with the additional color. After learning from the disastrous opening in California, the suits filled the land with more life. Characters seemed everywhere. Cast members were even more animated and took time to "play" with us, and there was just a larger overall sense of pride in the addition. Certainly, this is the park Star Wars belongs in!
We explored it all over two days plus worth of time. The Studios was the favorite park of the kids...and maybe the adults too.
The biggest Star Wars fans are the youngest here.
But it's growing on me!
The real one worth waiting for.
Rise of the Resistance is the one everyone wants to experience- and for good reason! This is set to be the new century's version of the old time classics like Pirates of the Caribbean. The epic adventure was not be open to the public when we went, and I do not expect to take a special trip to Disneyland or the Studios to ride it. It'll have to wait. But I'm ok with that. Certainly, all reports say it is epic. How can it not be with it's larger than life scale and scope with multiple ride systems, surprises along the way, Audio-Animatronic characters and every trick known to Imagineering thrown at it?
Oh, boy!
Kylo Ren isn't a big draw for me, nor is the series as a whole, but I certainly understand its importance to the park as it looks to the future and the ongoing battle with Universal's growing world. The on I'm most excited about stars the one who started it all: Mickey Mouse. But that will have to wait for the next trip as well. Golly!
Urgently returned to the forefront.
And then discarded after COVID-19.
So I hear...
The recently announced restaurant expansion for Toy Story Land (above) ends the story today... at least for now. It's not an attraction, but it is a necessary addition in a park that needs much more to offer than it currently has. It should have been there at opening, but live and learn, I guess. Although the Walt Disney Company has had 60+ years of running the world's best theme park.
The new direction of the park is clear by this just revealed logo.
What's in the park's future? Certainly more Intellectual Properties. Perhaps even an attraction making use of the Shanghai Disneyland technology used for their Pirates of the Caribbean. Lord know this park needs a water ride! In fact, the park needs many more rides! Smaller scale rides, even a dark ride or two would be good. But I'm placing my bet on an Indiana Jones themed land, complete with either a jeep journey adventure or another method of transport through his world. This is the rumor that will not die. For good reason! It's a great series: iconic and different in tone than anything else in the park. Oh yes- no Simpsons please.
This park needs other types of attractions to round out the day. This includes revamped stage shows and theater presentations. Although not my personal favorite, they do eat up time. Speaking of eating, the park is in desperate need of air-conditioned indoor restaurants and quick service facilities.
Overall, the park will still be lacking enough attractions (and without enough diversity of intellectual properties) to keep guests wondering why they have to spend all day to ride a couple of great rides. But it will be character filled! Perhaps the suits and Imagineers have something yet to show us. I'd like to believe we'll see more at the next D23, but that also remains to be seen. It's a brave new world out there!
(Photographs by Mark Taft. Concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company. I'd like to thank AngryAP.com for three of the harder to find pieces. Go check out that great site, by the way.)
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