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Ellen’s Energy Adventure

August 8, 2012 by 2 Comments

Ellen’s Energy Adventure is one of the attractions in Epcot Future World. Of course we know that many may disagree with us but really it is not one of the ‘must see’ attractions. But if you do have some extra time whilst visiting Epcot park then this attraction which features Ellen Degeneres is worth a look. This show has been running since 1996 and in our opinion should be high on the list of attractions in need of an update at Walt Disney World, but if you have time, and a taste for nostalgia then gee it a go.

Photos by lorenjavier

Ellen’s Energy Adventure is located in the Universe of Energy Pavilion in Epcot. It is rather hidden out of the way as it is not on a walk way to any of the other attractions. If you walk towards Test Track (with all the other crowds of people heading there) but turn left and head towards the futurist looking silver building then you will see that his houses the attraction.

The first thing that you really need to know is that you do have to commit quite a lot of time to this attraction. It is a total of 45 minutes long and after the 7 minute pre show there really is no turning back!

The show starts every 17 minutes and there is rarely a line which goes outside. If you can see that the line has just gone in and the doors are shut then you probably don’t need to commit to staying in the line for the whole 17 minutes. This is very much a minor attraction and as such the lines don’t usually get that long.

You will enter a large pre show area. It is pretty dark in there. In front of you is a huge screen which will soon start to play the pre show. This is a parody of the show Jeopardy which has Ellen pitted against Jamie Lee Curtis and Einstein. An interesting combination of course.

Ellen doesn’t know much about energy. So she needs to travel back to prehistoric times to find out just how energy was created in the first place.

The doors will open at the end of the pre show and you will walk into a room filled with a huge vehicle (and yes we mean huge as it holds 600 people). Guests sit in long rows in the vehicle which moves very slowly through the attraction.

It is dark inside. Very dark. Our middle son was terrified when he first went on the ride aged around 2, and it seems most times we ride this there is a toddler who is not appreciating the combination of the dark, and the huge animatronic dinosaurs.

The whole ride does seem quite dated. When we first rode many years ago the technology was impressive. Things have moved on so much now that the animatronic dinosaurs really aren’t so impressive any more. Ellen Degeneres is great as always but once you have heard the script once there really isn’t a compelling reason to hear it again!

Our advice. Skip it unless this is at least your second visit, or you really need to sit down in the shade for a long period of time. Oh and we have used it to take a nap sometimes too – although the seating is not that comfortable!

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Disney World Fast Pass Rides and Attractions

March 18, 2012 by 3 Comments

When you visit Walt Disney World one of the best ways of saving time standing in line is to use the Fast Pass system. The Disney Fast Pass system is very simple, and it is completely free. How it works is that for certain popular attractions in each of the parks, Disney Magic Kingdom, Disney Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Epcot all guests can get a Fast Pass to return to the ride at a particular time. They will then use their Fast Pass to join the Fast Pass line, which is almost always much shorter than the regular stand by line.

All photos by expressmonorail

There is a lot of confusion about the Fast Pass system but really it is very simple. If you do take some time to plan using the system then you will save yourself hours of standing in line. Some other theme parks do charge for their priority line system (like Universal Orlando Express Pass) but the Disney system is completely free.

When you arrive at any park then a priority should be to get a Fast Pass for a popular attraction. The Fast Pass attractions are marked on each Walt Disney World map that you will pick up when you arrive at the park. Also so that you can plan before you go, here is a list of all the Fast Pass attractions in Walt Disney World.

Magic Kingdom

Splash Mountain
Space Mountain
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Peter Pan’s Flight
Jungle Cruise

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Kilimanjaro Safari
DINOSAUR
Kali River Rapids
Primeval Whirl
Expedition Everest

Disney Hollywood Studios

Toy Story Mania!
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
Star Tours

Epcot

Test Track
Soarin’
Maelstrom
Captain EO

Each of these attractions will have a Fast Pass ticket kiosk station somewhere close to the entrance to the ride. The current Fast Pass return time will be displayed above the ticket kiosks. You simply insert your Key to the World or Disney ticket into the machine and it will give you a paper slip with a return time on it. Each ticket will have a return time with a window of an hour. So for example you go to the Soarin’ Fast Pass ticket machine and you are given a return time of 1.00 to 2.00pm.

There are certain rules. The system doesn’t allow you to just go around and get lots of Fast Passes. You can usually only have one at any one time. So if you have your Fast Pass for Test Track it will also show on that Pass the exact time that any machine will give you another Fast Pass.

All members of your party have to have a Fast Pass. An exception to this is for a child under the age of 3 who does not have an entrance ticket.

When the time posted on your Fast Pass arrives then go back to the attraction and show your pass to the Cast Member at the front of the attraction. They will then allow you to join the Fast Pass line.

The Fast Pass line does not mean ‘front of line’. Most likely there will be other guests there with you and often there will still be a wait. This wait is usually short but can be up to 20 minutes. It will definitely be shorter than the stand by line though! As an example the line for Soarin’ can reach 120 minutes. Yes that is 2 hours. But if you have a Fast Pass the wait will likely only be around 15 to 20 minutes.

The Not So Good Recent Changes to the Fast Pass System

It used to be that even though you had a Fast Pass for 1.15 to 2.15 if you missed that window you could go to the attraction and still use it when it had expired. The Cast Member would most likely not even bat and eyelid and would wave you on with a cheery smile. You could even go with Fast Passes from weeks or months ago and still have them honored.

Now a Cast Member will politely tell you that your time has passed. Will they stop you entering the Fast Pass line late? That is for you to try and I would love to hear of your experience of this in the Comments below.

Are Some Fast Passes Better Than Others?

The very simple answer to this is yes. Some attractions have formidable wait times (Soarin’ comes to mind). So when you arrive at Epcot my advice is always to go to get either a Test Track or a Soarin’ Fast Pass first and then ride the other attraction. Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain are the equivalent in Magic Kingdom, as are Kilimanjaro Safaris and Expedition Everest in Animal Kingdom. In Hollywood Studios it is Tower of Terror and Rock and Roller Coaster.

Use the Fast Pass system and you definitely will spend less time in line. Is it a good system? Well that is another question and I would love to hear your views in the comments below.

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Walt Disney World June 2012

March 6, 2012 by Leave a Comment

If you are visiting Walt Disney World in June 2012 here is a guide for you so that you can see what special events are scheduled and if there are any ride closures. Whenever you visit Walt Disney World it is always a good idea to do some foreword planning so that you get the most out of your visit.

Photo by everythingmouse

Is June a Good Time To Visit Walt Disney World?

The answer to this question is both yes and no! If you can visit in the first 2 weeks on June then the crowd levels are likely to be fairly average and the lines reasonably short. This changes as soon as the school vacations start in the middle of June. But just because the crowd levels with be high does not mean that you should put off that visit to Disney World. With a little planning you will have a wonderful time whatever the time you visit. The parks stay open longer at this time and extra parades and shows are scheduled.

The average daily temperature in June is 81 degrees. The average rainfall is the highest of any month but usually in Orlando the showers are a quick down pour and then the skies clear.

Walt Disney World Rides Closed for Refurbishment in June

The good news is that there are very few closures at this time of year. Disney World tend to have less closures at busy times. The one major attraction which will remain closed until September is Epcot’s Test Track. This closure will mean that the lines for Soarin’ are longer than ever so it is important that you either get a Fast Pass for this very popular attraction or ride it early in the day. The Fast Passes are likely to run out quickly too so to get the best chance of getting one before they are all gone, head to the Fast Pass kiosk at Soarin’ before noon.

Walt Disney World Events Scheduled for June 2012

The Star Wars Weekends will continue in Disney’s Hollywood Studios on June 1st to 3rd and June 8th to 10th 2012. These are very popular events which attraction Star Wars fans from all over the world. Special character appearances, events and merchandise are available. If you are not a Star Wars fan you would probably be best to avoid Hollywood Studios on these weekends if you can because it does attract larger crowds to the park.

Epcot’s Sounds Like Summer Concert Series is held in June and July. Concerts are held in The American Gardens Theatre in Epcot World Showcase. Details are not available at the moment but we will publish them as soon as we have them. The series runs from 10th June until 28th July 2012.

The good news about busier times is that more parades and fireworks are scheduled. The Main Street Electrical Parade is scheduled to run throughout June. Fantasmic! is also going to be shown every night in June except 6th June. As always with Fantasmic! make sure that you arrive early – the auditorium is huge but it does fill to capacity.

Have a wonderful time on your Walt Disney World Vacation in June 2012!

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Filed Under: Disney Hollywood Studios, Disney Parks, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Magic Kingdom, Rides Tagged With: ,

The Great Movie Ride

February 28, 2012 by 1 Comment

One of the most popular rides in Disney Hollywood Studios is The Great Movie Ride. This ride takes guests on a journey through movie history. Or more accurately a ride through movie history which stops in the early 1980s. The idea behind the ride is a promising one, and it is certainly worth seeing if the lines are not too long, but unfortunately this ride is in major need of an update.

All photos by expressmonorail

The Great Movie ride facade used to be one of the first things that you saw as you entered the park. It is right at the end of Sunset Boulevard. Now it is difficult to spot as it is almost completely hidden by the huge Sorcerer Mickey Hat.

You may recognize the facade of The Great Movie Ride. It is a recreation of the Chinese Theater on Hollywood Boulevard. It is perhaps the most recognizable landmark of the Hollywood Age.

Just as with the original Chinese Theater, outside you will see the famous Hollywood walk of fame autographs in the concrete. All of the autographs outside the Disney version are authentic. Take some time when you are outside to look at the autographs there which include Tom Cruise, Tony Curtis, Lauren Bacall, Harrison Ford, Audrey Hepburn, Liza Minnelli and George Lucas.

The Great Movie Ride Line

Usually the wait for this attraction is less than 30 minutes. The line is completely inside the building. Close to the door you will see some movie memorabilia displayed. Rather like the ride this is in need of updating and will be of little interest to young children apart from perhaps the merry go round horse from Mary Poppins. If the line is short you will probably walk quickly by these displays but it is worth taking a bit of time to look at the costumes on display.

You will then enter the main room which has a large movie screen at the front of it. As you wind your way around the line you will view a montage of movie clips. These help to while away the time in line. Many of the clips are black and white classics so again your children may have no idea what movies they are from.

Once you reach the end of the line you will be ushered into the 1930s sound stage like room which houses your ride vehicles. It is an open ride vehicle which seats around 70 guests at a time. There is a live guide at the front of the vehicle who will take you on your tour.

The enjoyment of the ride does to some extent depend upon the skill and enthusiasm of your tour guide. There is a script and a surprise along the way. I have ridden this attraction many times and have recently seen a big variation in the quality of the guides. On my last visit the tour guide looked as though she had done this a million time and was bored beyond belief with her job. But mostly the guides do a good job with the material that they have.

The Great Movie Ride Movies

You start your journey in 1930s Hollywood. The golden age of movie making. The first movies you will encounter are the musicals. You will drive slowly past a figure of Gene Kelly in Singing in the Rain. Gene Kelly himself was more than pleased with his own model when he inspected it personally (you can see his autograph outside too).

You will then see Mary Poppins before entering into Gangster Land. Not giving away any secrets about what happens here but be prepared for some surprises. Look closely here, and in all parts of the ride at the attention to detail on the signs and set designs.

Then it is into the Western Era where you will see John Wayne and Clint Eastwood. Soon you move into science fiction with an Alien encounter. This is the part of the ride which young children may find scary. The anticipation is scarier than the reality but there is an alien above you!

Finally there is a scene which the children may recognize. Indiana Jones. This again may be scary though as there are snakes and skeletons. The older kids will think it is tame but be aware that the younger ones may find this really scary.

After Indiana it is Tarzan. In spite of the relatively recent movie many children may not have a clue who Tarzan is, but this scene is pretty fun with Tarzan flying through the air.

Cascablanca is your next scene. Adults will appreciate that this is a classic movie but again the kids may have no idea what this scene is all about.

The ride then goes through a scene from Fantasia projected onto the walls before arriving in Munchkinland for The Wizard of Oz. This is a large and very colorful area with lots of singing animatronic figures. The Wicked Witch of the West makes a scary appearance before we ride out past all the classic Wizard of Oz characters and into a dark theater to watch a montage of movie clips. These movie clips have been updated relatively recently and everyone will find one of their favorite movies.

The Great Movie Ride is one of those classic Disney rides that you should see at least once. But if the lines are long it is probably one which you can miss as in my opinion it is not worth a wait over 30 minutes in line.

What do you think? Leave me a Comment about The Great Movie Ride.

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Top 10 Disney Hollywood Studios Attractions

February 9, 2012 by 5 Comments

What are the top 10 best Disney Hollywood Studios attractions? Disney Hollywood Studios has something for all ages to enjoy. From thrilling rides, to nostalgic journeys through movie history, to Broadway quality stage shows you are sure to have a great day in this Disney theme park. Here is my own guide to the not to be missed Hollywood Studios attractions.

All photos are by the inspirational brilliant photographer expressmonorail

Disney Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

As you approach Hollywood Studios you see a very tall, very imposing building. This huge, almost creepy looking structure is The Tower of Terror. Being Disney you are not going to be completely terrified by this ride but you will get pretty close!

Disney knows how to theme a ride and Tower of Terror is a brilliant example of how a simple idea for a ride can be taken to the heights of imagination by the Disney Imagineers. The ride will drop you 13 stories in an elevator. And then you go back up again for more. This is not for the feint of heart (or for those under 40″). But for those who like an adrenaline rush you will certainly get that on Tower of Terror.

Make sure that you take some time to look at the attention to detail of all the props and decoration in both the ride and the line. This hotel looks as though it really was abandoned in 1939!

For more information go to:

Disney’s Tower of Terror

Disney Rock N Roller Coaster

Disney goes rock n roll with this extremely fast roller coaster. The inspiration for this ride is the rock band Aerosmith. At first look that may seem to be an unlikely partnership but the result is probably the best and most thrilling of all the Disney roller coasters.

Aerosmith’s Rock N Roller Coaster ride accelerates from 0-57 mph in just 2.8 seconds cataputing riders 200 feet. Riders experience G Force of up to 4.5. This is a roller coaster in the dark but it is very unlike Space Mountain the original Disney coaster. It is incredibly smooth and seems incredibly fast. The addition of speakers on each seat blasting out Aerosmith music also adds a lot to the experience.

This is a roller coaster for those who may think they don’t like roller coasters. Try it even if you don’t usually like thrill rides and you may find that you are lining up for a second time..

For more on this Disney ride check out:

Disney Rock N Roller Coaster

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast on Stage

I have seen this excellent stage show so many times that I not only know the words but most of the dance moves too – but every time I see it is a delight. The excellent cast perform music from the Beauty and the Beast stage show with music Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman.

The story is of course taken from the Disney Beauty and the Beast movie. You will recognize the songs from the movie. The character of Gaston is particularly entertaining!

The show usually plays 3 or 4 times a day. Check your schedule for show times. Arrive early for the best seats. Personally I like to go close to the front rows but most would prefer a view from at least 8 to 10 rows back from the stage. The theater holds up to 1500 and it does get full at busy times. It is covered so does provide some welcome shade from the Florida sun.

Star Tours The Adventure Continues

You don’t have to be a Star Wars fan to love this ride but it helps. Star Tours has just undergone a very radical update making it one of the very best attractions in the whole of Walt Disney World not just Hollywood Studios. This is a classic flight simulator ride. Guests board a Star Speeder 1000 on their intergalactic journey where they will encounter creatures and characters from the Star Wars movies.

This attraction now has a twist. You never know quite which direction you are going to take as there are a possible 54 variations of the Star Tours ride. Guests do have to be over 40″ tall.

Disney’s Voyage of the Little Mermaid

The Voyage of the Little Mermaid is aimed at the younger set but all ages will enjoy this combination live action, animation and puppetry extravaganza. Based upon the Disney movie The Little Movie it mixes live and recorded music with songs from the original film.

Guests are seated in a large theater for the 17 minute show. Be aware that the theater is pretty dark and some of the sequences involving Ursula are also rather scary so sensitive younger children may not enjoy this as much as you may imagine. Just use your discretion and sit near the left hand side of the stage so that you can leave easily if junior gets upset. Most of the show is very upbeat though, and can have some excellent live singing performances.

Toy Story Midway Mania!

Want to know which is the most popular Disney Hollywood Studios attraction? This is it. Prepare for long lines and you won’t be disappointed. Toy Story Midway Mania is of course based on the very popular series of Disney Pixar movies. Our friends Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Mr Potato Head and many more are here to make sure that we have a lot of fun playing a fast moving carnival game. Guests board 4 person vehicles and don 3D glasses and head out on a series of carnival type virtual shooting games.

This one really is a lot of fun but the wait definitely is not. There is a Fast Pass available but these usually run out around lunchtime (and before at busy times). Expect wait times of 70 to 90 minutes unless you get there at opening time.

Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular

This fast moving stunt show is based upon the very popular Indiana Jones movies. It is a 35 minute live stunt show which is housed in a large amphitheater which holds up to 2,000 guests. It does get full at busy times and there is a Fast Pass available.

The Indiana Jones stunt show is split into 3 scenes with spectacular stunts, pyrotechnics and some impressive explosions. This is something for all ages. Even if the kids don’t know the Indiana Jones movies they will still find this fast paced show entertaining.

One Man’s Dream

This is probably one for the grown ups but the children will enjoy the models and vintage Disney toys. For me this is one of the really essential places to visit when you go to Disney World because it puts it all into context. Walt Disney famously said “It was all started by a mouse’, but of course it was all really started by Walt and Roy Disney. Mickey Mouse may have been his starting point but it was the vision of Walt and the financial acumen of Roy Disney which made Walt Disney World possible.

The One Man’s Dream exhibition is a celebration of Walt’s life and his dream of building a theme park where all the members of the family would have a great day out. There is an interesting movie at the exit which shows how the Disney idea went from Mickey Mouse to the Walt Disney World which you enjoy today.

Muppet Vision 3D

This is a very entertaining 3D show with mainly animated but some live action showcasing The Muppets. Even the pre show for this is worth a visit as you will be kept entertained by Kermit and the gang as you wait for the theater doors do open.

The theater is an exact copy of The Muppet Theater from the 1970s television show. You will even see Stadler and Waldorf in their box. The 3D movie does of course resort to “cheap 3D tricks” and the humor is very much what you would expect of the show, so it is a hit will all ages. Since the success of the new Muppet Movie a younger generation will also be familiar with the characters including Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie, Gonzo and Sam the Eagle.

The shows run continuously so usually there is not too much of a line.

Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show

This one if a bit of a controversial one as some feel that this just isn’t Disney enough. The stunt show idea was taken from the show which has run in Disneyland Paris for many years and is not really based around any particular Disney idea. True it used to have Herbie and now it has Lightning McQueen in a very short (and disappointing) sequence, but really this is a show about fast cars and scary stunts.

The outside stadium is huge (it holds 5,000 people) and a little uncomfortable (solid metal benches), but the stunt show is worth the wait. The back drop is a French village, and the stunt show will take you through fast car chases, motorcycle stunts, explosions and fire.

Fantasmic!

Disney took the idea for the show from Disneyland and made it better by giving it it’s very own 6,000 seat amphitheater. Fantasmic is shown on select nights only so check the Disney schedule before you visit. At busy times the show is shown twice nightly.

To say Fantasmic! is spectacular is an understatement. The story line is Mickey Mouse fighting the path of good triumphs over evil. The stage is huge, the effects are amazing, and the musical score is brilliant. You will see many of your Disney character favorites including a sequence of the Disney villains projected onto water.

This 25 minute show is Disney at it’s spectacular best. See Malificent transform into a 40 foot dragon, watch as Mickey Mouse battles the evil dragon, be amazed as the water surrounding the stage bursts into flames. And then be very glad that everything is resolved in a happy Disney way and you can see many of your favorite characters sail around the water which minutes earlier was all ablaze.

Fantasmic! is very popular. Extremely popular. Even though the stadium seats 6,000 guests and can accommodate many more standing, it does fill up. If there are 2 performances the later one is usually the least busy. You must arrive at least 60 minutes and if possible up to 90 minutes early to get the best seats. If this is not your idea of fun then consider booking a Fantasmic! meal package at one of the Disney Hollywood Studios restaurants. This will not get you a reserved seat, but it will get you a seat in a reserved area which means that you only have to arrive 30 minutes before the show starts. Book a Fantasmic! Dinner Package online or by calling 407 WDW DINE.

Which is your favorite Disney Hollywood Studios attraction? Leave me a Comment below to let me know your favorites.

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Top 10 Walt Disney World Must See Rides and Attractions

January 26, 2012 by 14 Comments

What are the must see Walt Disney World rides and attractions? This is of course a very difficult question to answer. There are so many things to see and do at Walt Disney World that to choose just a few that you absolutely must do is rather a challenge. But of course I am never one to walk away from a difficult task so here is my own personal Top 10 Walt Disney World must see rides and attractions. They are in no particular order – choosing a Top 10 is difficult enough, putting them in order would have been impossible!

All of the amazing photos are by expressmonorail

Disney Wishes: A Magical Gathering of Disney Dreams Fireworks

No visit to Walt Disney World is complete without seeing the Wishes Fireworks at Magic Kingdom. This spectacular fireworks show debuted in 2003 and has been enchanting guests ever since. The show is hosted by Jiminy Cricket and The Blue Fairy and is a classic tale of good against evil. It is a magical mix of fireworks, music and lighting effects. Watch out for Tinkerbell flying across the skies!

Which is the best viewing spot for Disney Wishes fireworks? There are many to choose from but some of my favorites include on the platform of the train station at the end of Main Street, sitting at one of the tables outside at the Plaza Restaurant, various spots in Fantasyland (which is less crowded but you can’t see Tinkerbell) and of course California Grill restaurant in the Contemporary Resort.

Be careful to check the schedule for times and dates of showings for Wishes as these do vary.

Disney Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

The thing about Disney attractions is that they are just so amazingly themed – and Disney’s Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is one of the best examples of this anywhere in Walt Disney World. Want to drop 13 stories in an elevator? This is the Disney attraction for you!

Disney is the master of theme park story telling and every great ride has a back story. The Hollywood Tower Hotel has a history. It opened in 1919 and soon established itself as one of the places to be for the movie crowd. But on October 31st 1939 five guests enter the elevator of the hotel just as lightning strikes. The child star, her nanny, two young starlets and the bell hop vanish . All the other hotel guests run from the building leaving their belongings behind.

The attention to detail in the line is exceptional. It looks just as though you would imagine it would if it had been abandoned in 1939. The Cast Members play their part brilliantly, all adding to the anticipation of the ride.

The Tower of Terror is not for the feint of heart. It is a thrill ride and has a height requirement of 40″. It is very popular so make sure that you use a Fast Pass or arrive very early in the morning.

For more on this amazing attraction visit

Disney Twilight Zone of Terror

Star Tours The Adventure Continues

If you are a fan of Star Wars (and even if you aren’t) this motion simulator ride is one of the best Disney World attractions. Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios this classic ride has a complete overhaul in 2011. You will see all your Star Wars favorites including your accidental pilot C3PO who will take you on a journey which has 54 variations. This new technology means that you never know quite which direction your journey will take.

Kilimanjaro Safari

Not many of us will get to experience a real safari in Africa but The Kilimanjaro Safari in Disney’s Animal Kingdom park is a great substitute for the real thing. Walt Disney himself always wanted to have a theme park which allowed guests to see real live animals and Animal Kingdom was the realization of his dream.

Guests board an authentic safari type vehicle as they are taken on a tour of the 100 acre African savanna. The ride is also authentically bumpy so take note of those warnings! The very best time to take the safari is in the early morning. This is not just because the lines are likely to be shorter but also because this is the time when the animals are at their most active.

There is a great commentary by the tour guide who will help you to see as many of the animals as possible. Some of the most popular sitings are of elephants, zebra, giraffe, rhino, hippopotamus and of course the lions (don’t worry they are kept out of your reach by some very clever discreet Disney landscaping). You may even be lucky enough to see the Cheetah (they are often quite difficult to see). Also on the savanna are warthogs, gazelle, flamingo, ostrich, okapis and wildebeest.

As with all popular Disney attractions make sure that you get a Fast Pass or ride early in the morning. It will cut your time waiting in line.

It’s A Small World

This classic Disney ride is one of the original attractions which was over seen by Walt Disney himself. Disney World has seen many changes over the years but this cheerful musical boat ride remains true to the original ideals of Walt himself. The theme is quite simply world peace through global understanding. Hundreds of animatronic dolls representing many countries around the world sing the unforgettable It’s A Small World theme song. Guests board a slow moving boat and sail around watching the brightly colored moving dolls sing their happy message. You know you will never get that song out of your head, but somehow it is worth it!

Epcot Test Track

Another very original Disney World ride, Epcot Test Track is a theme park ride unlike any other. The story is that guests are needed to test the cars just like the crash test dummies do! Guests board a 6 passenger vehicle which will take them on a journey through various tests. These tests include braking, heat and cold tests, hair pin bends and of course the final speed test. Your test Track vehicle will reach speeds of up to 65 mph before bringing you back to the testing facility.

This one is a lot of fun and is a truly unique ride. It is thrilling without being scary so a lot of guests who don’t usually enjoy thrill rides like roller coasters will enjoy Test Track. It is of course very popular so use the Fast Pass or if you don’t mind riding without the other members of your party the Single Rider line will save you a lot of time.

For more details visit

Epcot Test Track

Epcot Illuminations Reflections of Earth

This is another must see fireworks event at Walt Disney World. Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is a unique fireworks, lights, pyrotechnics and music spectacular which is shown every night (weather permitting) around Epcot’s World Showcase Lagoon.

Most places around the World Showcase Lagoon give a good view of the show but do be aware that trees can block your view so choose your viewing spot carefully. At busy times you do need to reserve a place at least an hour ahead of the show. Some of the best places to view are the bridge between the United Kingdom and France, on the platform just outside the Japanese restaurants, and if you can get a reservation, the outside viewing area in the restaurant at the Rose and Crown Restaurant.

For more information about this amazing fireworks show:

Epcot Illuminations

Soarin

Located in Disney’s Epcot Future World, Soarin’ is a must see attraction. It is a ride which simulates flight, rather than a flight simulator! Another very unique experience only available in Disneyland, where it originally debuted, and Disney’s Epcot.

Guests board a huge structure which has rows of seats in front of an extremely large screen. The seats are then lifted up into the air and have gentle motion which feels like flying. The movie Soarin Over California is then projected onto the huge screen so guests feel as though they are flying over the state. The movie is beautifully filmed and seems to fly you over many destinations including Yosemite, The Wine Country, San Francisco, Palm Springs, San Diego and of course Disneyland.

Pirates of the Caribbean Ride

This is another classic Disney ride which originally debuted in Disneyland in 1967. This was the last attraction which Walt Disney personally supervised and participated in it’s design. Guests board a slow moving boat which will plunge down a (very small) waterfall and then take them through a series of dark scenes with animatronics, pyrotechnics, and explosions all to the tune of Yo Ho It’s a Pirates Life For Me!

Most guests these days will be very familiar with the Pirates of the Caribbean movies and they will be pleased to see that Jack Sparrow appears in the ride more than once.

Fantasmic!

Make sure that you arrive early for this Disney Hollywood Studios night time spectacular. Even though the auditorium has seats for 6,900 guests and standing room for 3,000 more it does reach capacity. To get the best seats you do have to be there 60 to 90 minutes before the show starts.

Once again the theme is good against evil, with Mickey Mouse dressed as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice battling the Disney villains. The show is spectacular. Expect pyrotechnics, a huge dragon, images projected onto water, fire which seems to be right in front of you, fireworks and an epic musical score. This show seems to have every special effect known to Disney World thrown in! Of course all ends well for Mickey and at the end of this 25 minute show many of your favorite characters sail past you on the water in front of the set.

Never under estimate how popular this show is – arrive as early as you possibly can to get a good seat. This can be a long wait if you have young children or if it is cold out at night. The only way to beat the crowds is to book a Fantasmic Dining Package which you can reserve ahead by calling 407 WDW DINE. You then reserve a meal at one of the Disney Hollywood Studios restaurants and get a place is the reserved seating area for Fantasmic. This is a reserved area, not a reserved seat so you do still have to be there around 30 minutes before the show.

It is very difficult to pick a Top 10 Walt Disney World must see rides and attractions but here are my personal favorites. Which ones have I left out? Which have I included that you really don’t enjoy? Leave me a Comment below!

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Walt Disney World January 2012

November 14, 2011 by Leave a Comment

If you are visiting Walt Disney World in January 2012 here is a guide to what is happening in the parks at that time including parades, special events and ride closures.

Disney World Ride and Attraction Closures for Refurbishment in January 2012

It is always best to be prepared for which attractions will be closed when you visit, so here are the scheduled refurbishments for January 2012.

In Magic Kingdom the very popular Dumbo ride will be closed from January 9th to February 17th. You do need to warn the younger children about this as they may be disappointed. An alternative ride is The Magic Carpets of Aladdin which is very similar to Dumbo.

Also Big Thunder Mountain in Magic Kingdom will be closed for refurbishment from January 9th to 27th May 2012. This is a major attraction which will be closed for quite a considerable time. Expect Splash Mountain to have longer lines as it will take up some of the capacity of guests who would have been riding on Big Thunder Mountain.

The Plaza Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street in Magic Kingdom will be closed from January 4th to March 27th 2012.

The only closure in Epcot for January will be Tutto Italia Ristorante in the Italy World Showcase Pavilion which will be closed from January 7th to April 30, 2012.

If you are visiting Disney Hollywood Studios in January and early February 2012 you will be disappointed to find out that Fantasmic! will not be playing for much of the time. It will be dark from 9th January to 12th February 2012.

Also in Epcot the Sounds Dangerous Soundstage is open only seasonally and due to low attendance is unlikely to be open for any of January.

The water parks always close over the winter for refurbishment – whilst one is closed the other will be open. If you are visiting in January then Blizzard Beach will be open but Typhoon Laggon is closed from 4th December 2011 to 17th March 2012.

Disney World Magic Kingdom Parade in January 2012

If you possibly can then you should always try and catch Disney’s Main Street Electric Parade in Magic Kingdom. It will be performed most nights in January 2012 but will not be run on 8th, 11th, 13th, 15th, 17th, 18th, 22nd, 24th, 25th, 27th, 29th, and 31st January.

Disney has a very good idea of which days will be the highest attendance days – so expect the days when the Electric Parade is scheduled to be the busier ones in Magic Kingdom.

Disney World Hotel Refurbishments

These closures generally only affect Disney World hotel guests but are worth noting.

The Disney Grand Floridian Resort Spa closed in September 2011 and will remain closed for 18 months. The fitness center is still open.

In the Polynesian Resort the sand beach is being refurbished from 24th December to 10th January 2012.

Walt Disney World Special Events January 2012

The major event in January 2012 is the Walt Disney World Marathon. This event is held every year in January and this year various races will be held in the theme parks from 5th January to 8th January 2012. This is a popular event and will mean that attendance at the parks is heavier than you may expect at this time.

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Top 10 Disney World Rides for Teenagers

November 9, 2011 by 3 Comments

What are the very best rides for teenagers at Walt Disney World? Although the Disney parks are perhaps best known for their appeal to younger children and adults this does not mean that if you have teenagers in your group they are going to feel left out. A Disney World vacation truly is for everyone, including the teens.

Here is my list of Top 10 Disney World rides for teenagers.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

What better than a mix of rock music and a high speed roller coaster? The teens are likely to want to ride this major Disney Hollywood Studios attraction more than once. This Aerosmith inspired roller coaster ride accelerates from 0-57 mph in just 2.8 seconds cataputing riders 200 feet! This is an intense roller coaster particularly by Disney World standards – riders experience G Force of up to 4.5.

Read more in this Disney Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster guide.

Disney Hollywood Tower of Terror

The Hollywood Tower of Terror is another attraction in Disney’s Hollywood Studios which is sure to keep the teenagers happy. Riders plunge 13 stories in this 199 feet tall very imposing attraction. The ride sequence is random so you never quite know which ride you will experience. The theming on this ride is excellent. The teenagers may not ever have seen the Twilight Zone television series but they will appreciate the general spookiness of the place, right down to the excellent bell hops who control the elevator.

If you want to know more go to Disney’s Tower of Terror Guide.

Star Tours The Adventure Continues

You don’t have to be a Star Wars fan to appreciate this amazing motion simulator ride (but it helps). Star Tours has just undergone a major redesign and it is now one of the very best rides in the Disney parks. This is another attraction in Disney Hollywood Studios which the teenagers will really enjoy. There are now 54 possible variations so you never know which sequence you are going to get. If you are familiar with the Star Wars movies you will recognize the classic pod race scenes on Naboo, enjoy the snowy lands of Hoth and of course love to battle it out on the Death Star.

Mission Space

This is the ultimate thrill ride for teens at Disney’s Epcot. Tell them that it was the first ride to supply vomit bags for guests and you are sure to get their attention. This is an extreme ride. Heed the warnings and if you are not ready for this ride then you can select the Green line which is the none spinning version.

Nasa astronauts say that Mission Space gives riders a good idea what it feels like to be launched into space. I guess you can’t beat that endorsement! As with all Disney rides this one has a story. Guests board a 4 person vehicle to be launched on a mission to Mars. You experience up to 2.5 G Force on the Orange ride so even the most reluctant teenager can’t fail to be impressed by this intense Disney ride.

Test Track

This one is a highly unique ride which really doesn’t have any comparison with any other theme park ride. The whole idea is that this is a test facility for new vehicles. Guest board a 6 person vehicle. Riders will experience a series of tests including handling, breaking, and a hot and cold test. The final test is the high speed test where you will reach speeds of 65 mph on an outside steeply banked circular track. This is one for the thrill seekers out there and the teenagers are going to love it.

If you want to know more here is a guide to Epcot Test Track

Soarin’

Another very original ride located in Disney’s Epcot theme park. This 4 minute 40 second simulated flight ride is a flight simulator of a very different kind. You board a huge structure in front of a very large screen. The structure goes up to 40 feet into the air and guests get a sensation of flying. It takes guests over the amazing sights of California including Yosemite, The Wine Country, Monterey, San Francisco, San Diego and of course Disneyland. This is a very unique ride with no other attraction in the world quite like it.

Expedition Everest

The newest and the most thrilling of the Disney World Mountains is located in Disney Animal Kingdom park. Guests board the Anandapur Rail Service train which is scheduled to take them to the foot of Mount Everest. The journey begins mildly enough but then the tests, turns and drops begin. This is a classic roller coaster with amazing Disney theming. The attention to detail is amazing – Imagineers spent 6 years researching this ride.

Kilimanjaro Safari

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a very unique place to experience a very different animal park. The Kilimanjaro Safari ride is a favorite with all ages and teenagers are likely to enjoy this very unique opportunity to get as close to a safari experience as you can without traveling to Africa. Board a safari vehicle and your guide will take you through the plains of Africa to see lions, zebras, elephants, giraffe, hippo and many other animals at very close quarters. Don’t worry it is all in a very controlled environment so whilst you can see the lions this is Disney after all and they aren’t going to get near you!

Disney Pirates of the Caribbean Ride

This Magic Kingdom ride will be a big hit with the teenagers if they enjoyed the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Plenty of chances to catch sight of hero Captain Jack Sparrow even if he is just an audio animatronic figure. This is one of the oldest of the Disney rides (it debuted in Disneyland in 1967) and is the last attraction which Walt Disney worked on personally. A dark boat ride with lots of dark images, fighting and explosions, this one should appeal to the teens.

Space Mountain

Space Mountain is a classic Disney roller coaster which teenagers should enjoy. Not because it is fast or particularly thrilling (it only ever reaches 28 mph which is a snails pace for modern roller coasters) but because it is a unique experience. The appeal of Disney’s Space Mountain appeal is that it uses light very effectively and creates the great Disney illusion of not being quite what it seems.

What are your favorite Disney World rides for teenagers? I would love to hear from you. Leave me a comment below!

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Disney Rock N Roller Coaster

July 31, 2011 by 5 Comments

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Disney Rock N Roller Coaster is one of the most innovative and exciting attractions in Walt Disney World. More than just a roller coaster it is an experience! Go to Disney Hollywood Studios to ride this 80 foot tall 1 minute 22 second indoor roller coaster. Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster is fast. Very fast. This Disney roller coaster ride accelerates from 0-57 mph in just 2.8 seconds cataputing riders 200 feet! And riders experience G Force of up to 4.5. So this is not your usual Disney World Roller Coaster. But the real attraction of this ride is way more than speed. It is a whole experience.

The inspiration for the ride was rock band legends Aerosmith. Rock N Roller Coaster was dedicated on July 29 and officially opened to take it’s first Limo guests on July 30 1999.

The statistics about Rock N Roller Coaster may be a little intimidating to some! But many riders say that the experience is so smooth and immersive you aren't particularly aware of the technicality of what is happening to you. My husband was amused when I (who is not a huge fan of roller coasters) came off the ride having loved it and said 'I think I liked it because at least you didn't go upside down or anything like that'. OK I was very wrong. There are 3 inversions. This was a first for Disney World as Rock N Roller Coaster has one 360 loop, a Cobra Roll and a Corkscrew. But because this is a roller coaster in the dark with all the smoothness which Space Mountain lacks, you simply have no sense of what you are actually experiencing. Except adrenaline and fun!

The experience begins as you approach the Rock and Roller Coaster courtyard area - at the end of Sunset Boulevard to the left of Hollywood Tower of Terror. You can't fail to notice the huge 40 foot tall stratocaster guitar on the side of the G Force Recording Studios Building. Go to your right and you will see the line area. There is a Fast Pass and a Single Rider line available. Use them if you can. The line for this popular Disney World coaster can get pretty long. So plan whether you are going to ride Rock N Roller Coaster or Tower of Terror first and get a Fast Pass for the one you want to ride second, and get in line for the other attraction to save you the maximum amount of time.

Every great Disney ride has a back story. Here the idea is that Aerosmith are wrapping up a recording session and are late for a concert. Aerosmith don't want to be late, and invite you to join them in their high speed Limo which will get them to the concert on time. You will see Steven Tyler, Joe Perry and the Aerosmith band right there in front of you. Take the chance to look around this sound studio area as there is a collection of rock and roll memorabilia on display.

Are you ready to ride Rock N Roller Coaster? As you exit the pre show you will enter the loading area. Each Limo has space for 24 guests. There is usually plenty of time in the loading area for guests to watch several launches of the ride - so building up the level of anxiety, or should that be excitement?

Once guests have boarded the Limo slowly moves towards the launch position – all the while Aerosmith music can be heard. Then wait for the countdown. Then launch 200 feet from 0-57 mph in 2.8 seconds. Be warned that this is the time that the ride photo is taken – it can capture some interesting expressions!

One of the best features of the ride is the music. There are 5 Limos which are operating at any one time and each has a different soundtrack. Some of the lyrics have been changed such as ‘Love in an Elevator’ becomes ‘Love on a Roller Coaster’. Riders hear the music through speakers in the Limo – loud and efficient enough so that this is all you hear whilst experiencing the ride. There are 125 speakers and 24 sub-woofers in each Limo. Guests get the sense that they are speeding along the freeways of Los Angeles on their way to The Forum concert venue. Freeway signs for Interstate 5, Interstate 10 and U.S. Route 101 flash past on your 57 mph ride – way faster of course than reality where anything over 20 mph is good going on the crowded LA freeways!

Guests quickly arrive at their destination and exit out onto the red carpet – and the store of course.

As with all Walt Disney World attractions there are Hidden Mickey’s to be found. Look closely at Steven Tyler’s shirt on the poster outside the building, lots on the floor at Studio C and even a changing one on the board in the pre show area.

Rock and Roller Coaster is not for the faint hearted but it may be for those guests who do not usually think that they like roller coasters. It is smooth and extremely innovative – and that Aerosmith music may just take your mind of the fact that you are going upside down!

All Photos by Express Monorail

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