Hollywood Studios-Attractions

WELCOME TO THE MOST MAGICAL PLACE ON EARTH..................WALT DISNEY WORLD!

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” -Walt Disney

When Disney's Hollywood Studios opened on May 1, 1989, chairman Michael Eisner declared "Welcome to the Hollywood that never was and always will be." Sounds great, doesn't it? Here's what he should have said: "Welcome to the theme park that Disney slapped together the minute Universal Studios announced plans for a park in Florida." They did beat out Universal which opened in 1990, but the then "Disney MGM Studios" was sorely lacking in attractions and was far from a full day park.

At the time, the only attractions were the Great Movie Ride, The Backlot Tour (which was the Backstage Studio Tour), Magic of Disney Animation and the Monster Sound Show which has morphed into Sounds Dangerous. (Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular was still a work in progress and didn't open until August.) Yessiree, it was a thrill a minute with all of 4 attractions. They did have an evening fireworks show "Sorcery in the Sky" which debuted a year later. By then Star Tours had opened. Over the years, attractions and shows have come and gone. It wasn't until Sunset Boulevard opened in 1994 featuring Twilight Zone Tower of Terror that Disney's Hollywood Studios finally started to come into its own. This section is also home to Rock 'n' Roller Coasterwhich opened in 1999.

One great show that has survived since 1991 is the Beauty and the Beast stage show. Unfortunately, the equally wonderful Hunchback of Notre Dame stage show did not last. Originally, the Earffel Tower was the park's icon, only to be outdone by yet another oversized hat, the 122 ft tall Sorcerer's Mickey's Wizard Hat. You can't miss it, they plunked it right in front of the replica Grauman's Chinese Theater.

Disney's Hollywood Studios is a mixed bag when it comes to attractions for little kids. There's the "Voyage of the Little Mermaid", "Playhouse Disney-Live On Stage", "Jim Henson's Muppet Vision 3-D" and the aforementioned "Beauty and the Beast" as well as the 'Honey I Shrunk the Kids" Playground. There are also a ton of character meet and greets. On the flip side, the length of most of the shows and attractions will make some kids (inlcuding those over 21) start to squirm in their seats.

In 2008, Toy Story Mania! opened in May. This is one of the best (and busiest) attractions in Disney World. The American Idol attraction is now open. There you have it. A little history of "Disney's Hollywood Studios" from its less than stellar opening to the theme park of today. In this case, it didn't start with a Mouse but with a rival studio opening a theme park just a few miles from Mickey's door.

AMERICAN IDOL EXPERIENCE

Kelly Clarkson wannabes can have their shot at fame at the new American Idol attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Guests can register for an audition before a producer to be cast in a theme park version of American Idol. After being prepped with hair, make-up and a vocal coach, they'll perform in front of a panel of American Idol judges and 'live' audience.

Those with the highest number of votes will compete at the end of day in the grand finale show. The winner of this daily event gets a guaranteed reservation at a future American Idol regional stadium audition without having to wait on the long lines. (That is the only advantage that the Disney Hollywood competition finalists have. They will still need to compete with the rest of the American Idol applicants at the regional auditions.)

The American Idol Attraction is developed in partnership with Simon Fuller's 19 Entertainment, the creative force behind Idol.

BACKLOT TOUR

Opened: May 1, 1989

Fun Fact: Originally named Backstage Studio Tour

The Disney's Hollywood Studios Backlot Tour combines two demonstrations of special effects. One thing to know up front, this attraction will take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. If you don't have that much time to commit, save it for another visit.

The first queue has TV monitors placed throughout the area. You'll watch a video clip that explains what goes on behind the scenes to create the special effects from some popular movies. They'll also be looking for volunteers to participate in the first FX demonstration. (If you're interested, try to be near the front of the line.)

From here you head to an outdoor viewing area where you stand behind railings to see the Special Effects Water Tank. The "lucky" volunteers will get firsthand experience in re-enacting nautical battle scenes.Following this "damp" presentation, you walk through a prop warehouse. You may recognize a few items from familiar Disney movies, but by now you're mostly looking for a chance to sit down, especially if it's a hot day.

Next step, boarding the tram. They're covered by a canopy but otherwise open so don't expect A/C. Still, it's a pleasant ride and you get some great photo ops. The tram passes through production bungalows, the wardrobe department (where you can watch the costumers at work), and the scenery shop. Along the way you pass topiaries and vehicles that have been used in Disney movies. Finally, you reach Catastrophe Canyon. (SKIP THE REST OF THIS PARAGRAPH IF YOU WANT TO BE SURPRISED.) The tram comes to a stop. Before you know it, the ground starts shaking, the tram starts rockin', a fuel truck crashes, sparks cause a fiery explosion and it all ends in a flash flood. PHEW! It's amazing how much happens within the span of a minute. This is the best part of the attraction. Sit on the left if you want to be closest to the action. (You might get a little bit wet, but it's not bad at all.) After a drive past the Streets of America, the ride ends and you're let out at the American Film Institute Showcase Shop. There are costumes/props on display and movie/TV themed merchandise for sale. You may have started to notice a trend. A lot of the attractions empty out into a store. Coincidence? I think not.

While a bit on the long side, the Disney's Hollywood Studio Backlot Tour has something for everyone that all age groups can enjoy. While not a major attraction, it is quite busy for most of the day.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

The Theater of the Stars is home to this spectacular 25 minute mini production of the hit movie, "Beauty and the Beast". Guests are able to enjoy the top notch singing, choreography, dancing, sets and the spectacular costumes, in a canopy covered outdoor amphitheater.

This production recreates some of the scenes from the movie. A standout number is "Be Our Guest". The romantic finale finishes with the dramatic effect of the release of white doves.

Music: "Beauty and the Beast" (music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman), are performed during the show. They are listed alphabetically by title and do not necessarily represent the order of presentation.

You will hear the following songs from the Disney animated feature film: "Be Our Guest", "Beauty and the Beast", "Belle", "Gaston", "The Mob Song" and "Something There".This is a popular show but don't worry if line-ups are long, the theater holds 1500 people so once the gates open, lines will diminish quickly.

JOURNEY INTO NARNIA: PRINCE CASPIAN

This newly refurbished attraction has been converted from the first Chronicles of Narnia movie theme to the Prince Caspian sequel.

While in the queue, you can put your Chronicles of Narnia knowledge to the test. Next, you can either proceed directly into the attraction or first have your photo taken with Prince Caspian with the "Dancing Lawn" in the background. Once you're inside, there's a film featuring behind the scenes footage narrated by Andrew Adamson, the director of Prince Caspian. From here you go through a stone archway to an underground vault. Featured in this section is the stone tablet where Aslan was slain.

As you enter the Narnia portal, you'll be surrounded by large screens on which select scenes from the movie will appear. If this is anything like the previous "attraction", it's just a giant ad for the movie. For Narnia fans, it will be fun to see some of the "stuff" from the movies and to pose with Prince Caspian for a photo.
For everyone else, it's an okay break from the heat/crowds. Keep in mind, it's predecessor had you standing the entire time. It's doubtful that will change with the Prince Caspian version.

THE GREAT MOVIE RIDE

If you're a movie buff, then you won't want to miss seeing some old favorites in the Great Movie Ride. This attraction is housed in a full-scale replica of Hollywood's legendary Graumann's Chinese Theater. Outside the theater you'll find hand, foot (and paw) cement prints of popular Disney stars and characters.

The ride itself takes about 20 minutes, but that's not taking the Great Movie Ride queue into consideration. The wait usually isn't too bad, but ask the Cast Member monitoring the line just in case you have something planned and may not have the time to do this one.

The queue for the Great Movie Ride is one of the more entertaining lines to wait on. The theater "lobby" is pretty impressive. The first part is where you'll see movie memorabilia such as the carousel horse from Mary Poppins and one of the three pairs of ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz.The next queue section has you weaving back and forth while watching movie clips on the big screen. Pay attention since these are a glimpse at what you'll see recreated inside.

From here, you enter a cavernous set where "ushers" will direct you to the large trams. These are actually two sets of trams that split up early into the show. Depending on which section you're in, your tram is hijacked by either a gangster or a Western bandit while your hapless host/hostess is left behind. Don't worry, you're reunited thanks to "movie magic."

Using film footage, special effects and Audio-animatronic figures of famous actors, guests are treated to scenes from "Casablanca", "Tarzan", "Mary Poppins", "Singin' in the Rain", "Fantasia," "Wizard of Oz", "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "Alien".

TIP: The Alien scene on the Great Movie Ride is quite intense and may be frightening to children.The finale features a sentimental film montage sure to bring a smile. Old and new clips are combined in a memorable recollection of some classic movie moments.

HONEY I SHRUNK THE KIDS MOVIE SET ADVENTURE

While not an actual attraction, kids can make their own fun in this 11,000 square foot play area based on the "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" movie.

Surrounded by 30 foot tall blades of grass, oversized mushrooms, 40 foot tall bumblebees and a huge 52 foot leaking garden hose, children can explore the root maze tunnels, sit on a giant ant and slide down larger than life film strips, flower petals and tree stumps.

There's a huge "spider web" for climbing and gynormous breakfast cereal O's. This is a great place for kids to let off steam and just run around for awhile. Be warned, it's easy to lose sight of the little guys. Cast Members are stationed at entrances and exits, to ensure that children leaving the area are accompanied by their parents.

INDIANA JONES EPIC STUND SHOW SPECTACULAR

The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is a "must see" for fans of "Raiders of the Lost Ark." Stunt Coordinator, Glenn Randall, of the Indiana Jones movies, directs this extravaganza.

Exciting scenes from "Raiders of the Lost Ark" are re-enacted. The talented stuntmen/women are joined by audience volunteers. (If you want to participate, be very, very enthusiastic and you just might get picked..)

Fights, fires, chases and explosions are the norm in this fast paced show. (If you sit towards the front, you'll feel the heat of the flames.) The Cairo marketplace scene includes some great acrobatics.

This 30 minute "Spectacular" opened in August of '89 and still attracts crowds.

LIGHTS, MOTORS, ACTION! EXTREME STUNT SHOW

This fast paced action adventure uses specially designed cars, jet skis and motorcycles in a high speed pursuit. Some vehicles are designed to drive in reverse, while one splits in half. You’ll know which car is the “hero” and which is the “villain” by color coding.

The 177,000 square foot, 5000 seat stadium which is home to the “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show” is one of the largest venues in WDW. Set in a Mediterranean village, a “spy thriller” is filmed live with explosions, jumps, spins and death defying stunts.

Guests first pass through the garage (atelier). There are six large windows where you can watch the technicians’ fine tune the customized vehicles used in this attraction.

Filmmaking secrets are revealed as you learn how Hollywood creates the memorable chase scenes that leave you on the edge of your seat. Segments of this energetic attraction are taped and shown on oversized screens, highlighting how the different camera angles enhance the special effects.

The cast of professional drivers, stunt managers, production crew, director and assistant director will invite a select few audience members to participate in the fun. The “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show” is based on the popular “Stunt Show Spectacular” enjoyed by visitors to Disneyland Paris.

THE MAGIC OF DISNEY ANIMATION

Mushu, the mischievous dragon from Mulan, takes center stage in this tour.
The tour begins in a cozy theater where a Disney Animator brings Mushu to the screen. While the animators are often a bit awkward in their role as host, Mushu makes it fun. It's a cute and infomative presentation that all ages can enjoy.

Once this brief introduction to the animation process is over, you'll go into the next section where there's a selection of interactive displays that you're welcome to "play" with. There is also a character meet and greet area. You can became the voice of a Disney character by either singing or acting your part. There's another display where you're quizzed to find out which Disney character you're most like.

If you're feeling artistic, you can "paint" your choice of a Disney character. For the ultimate animation experience be sure to visit the Animation Academy, you can sit in on a class hosted by a Disney Animator and learn how to draw a character. Classes are held every half hour. When you're ready to leave, you'll pass through a display area which highlights different Disney achievements in animation and you'll go right into a retail store featuring cells and collectibles.

MUPPET VISION 3D

Opened: May 1991

Fun Fact: Name changed from Jim Henson's Muppet*Vision 3-D on 10/1/04

Muppet*Vision 3-D is in a word "cute." Its also very funny, so make that three words "cute and funny." This is one of those attractions that brings smiles to kids and adults.

Muppet*Vision 3-D entertains you from the moment you get on line all the way through to the show itself. The posters along the queue show the Muppets as "stars" of some popular movies.

The pre-show is one of the best. Amidst the props, there are elevated TV screens that are easily seen no matter where you are. A video about the "spectacular" 3-D show that lies ahead featuring Gonzo, Scooter and Sam Eagle is shown. You'll also be instructed about theater protocol and to move to the end of the row when you enter. In the words of Sam Eagle, to do otherwise is "very unpatriotic."

While you're in the lobby, take the time to look around. Among the crates and boxes are some great sight gags. See if you can find "a net full of jello" (Get it, Annette Funicello.) HEY! No groans please.

The doors open and you're ushered into the 584 seat theater. As Sam Eagle said, move to the end of the row. No matter where you are, you'll have a good view. Up in the balcony is Waldorf and Statler. Betcha didn't know that Jim Henson did the voice of Waldorf. He's also Kermit and the Swedish Chef. (When you hear the Chef, be sure to turn around and look at the back of the theater.)

The basic premise is that the Muppets are going to put on a variety show starring the multi-talented Miss Piggy. Kermit tries to make the cast and crew happy, but mishaps get in the way. Fans of the old Muppet Show should recognize most of the characters, but then there's Waldo, a new 3-D character who wreaks havoc during the production. There are plenty of surprises along the way. I won't spoil it for you, but this is one show that ends with a bang!

ONE MAN’S DREAM

Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream is one of the attractions that was added during the 100 Years of Magic Celebration. Opening in October of 2001, it houses never before seen memorabilia and provides a fascinating journey through the life of Walt Disney.

Located on Mickey Avenue, this unique attraction provides a rare opportunity to learn more about the man behind the mouse. Guests are welcome to tour the displays at their leisure. The tour culminates with a film that features footage that was specially prepared for this attraction.

The self-guided tour begins at Walt Disney’s birthplace of Chicago and follows his family’s move to a farm in Marcelline, Missouri where his love of animals developed and became a major influence in his life. As you tour the various galleries, you’ll hear Walt’s own words as he speaks about his past and his vision for the future. Some of these interviews were released specifically for this attraction and had previously not been made available to the general public.
The main feature is the 400-plus artifacts on display. From Walt’s second grade school desk, to a model of Disney’s California Adventure, you’ll walk in Walt’s footsteps and watch his dreams unfold.

Mouseketeers both past and present will smile when they discover a long forgotten childhood toy on display. You’ll also find the special Oscars awarded to Walt Disney for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, models of the Disneyland castle and Sleeping Beauty Castle from Disneyland Paris, as well as an interactive animatronics figure. A truly fascinating piece found here is the Multiplane camera used in the making of The Old Mill.

Every fifteen minutes, guests are ushered into a theatre to enjoy a film celebrating the accomplishments of Walt Disney. It’s a wonderful retelling of his fascinating life with treasured home movies interspersed with film clips from the features that we’ve come to love.

"Walt Disney: One Man's Dream" Scavenger Hunt

This attraction is loaded with memorabilia from Walt's life. You can spend hours in here roaming around and looking at all the displays and watching the film. To help you get better acquainted with the exhibit, we have a scavenger hunt for you to take with you on your trip that will be fun to do. Your mission is to locate the answers to the following questions as you walk through the exhibit.

" I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing- that it was all started by a mouse" Walt Disney

1. In 1906, Walt Disney moved from Chicago to what Missouri Town? How long did he live there?

2. In the model of Main Street, what is the name of the hotel?

3. What year did Mickey Mouse make his first appearance in color?

4. What is the name of the camera that helped Walt Disney make a painting behave like a real piece of scenery?

5. Walt received a famous Oscar for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. What makes it unique?

6. When you're "twitterpated", that's a sure sign that you're what?

7. How many films were part of the "True Life Adventure" series?

8. As you move into the 1950s, in Walt's office there are two desk clocks. One takes on a unique shape. What is it?

9. Whose "Talent Roundup Day" costume is shown in the exhibit?

10. What was the price for an adult's lunch and dinner at the Red Wagon Inn at Disneyland?

11. What is Cinderella's name in French?

12. What is the name of the Jungle Cruise boat Walt is holding?

13. How many Oscars did Walt's first live film, "20,000 Leagues under the Sea" receive?

14. In a merchandise display window, a popular coloring book sits on the table and a famous hat hangs on the wall. Who is represented by each?

15. The dress shown from "Mary Poppins " was worn during which musical number?

16. Where did Walt present "Progressland"?

17. What time is it in the Florida Conference room?

18. Who changed the name of the Florida project to Walt Disney World?

19. The "deep canvas" technique was used for which 1999 Disney animated feature?

20. Who opens the film "Walt Disney: One Man's Dream"

PLAYHOUSE DISNEY LIVE ON STAGE

Show Length: 20 minutes

Playhouse Disney-Live on Stage! features characters from Disney Channel's 'Mickey Mouse Clubhouse', 'Handy Manny', 'Little Einsteins' and more.
Playhouse Disney is designed for the pre-school set. (Be prepared to sit on the floor with your kids.) The little ones are invited to sing along and dance to the tunes from their favorite shows.

ROCK N ROLLERCOASTER STARING AEROSMITH

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is one of Disney's more exhilarating rides. This extreme coaster is teamed with the exciting sound of America’s legendary rock band, Aerosmith, creating a high-speed thrill ride that will literally rock ‘n’ roll guests. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, opened to guests on August 1, 1999. The indoor roller coaster features a high-speed launch of 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds, three inversions, rock-concert lighting and a specially created Aerosmith soundtrack blasting from 120 onboard speakers in each coaster train -- all firsts for a Walt Disney World attraction.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, located near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror on Sunset Boulevard, represents yet another breakthrough in Disney theme park rides. Guests board a “limo”. When the accelerate blasts off, you're rockin' at five Gs as you head to the first upside down loop on the track. By comparison, astronauts aboard the Space Shuttle experience three Gs at liftoff. The attraction begins with a tour of the fictional G-Force Records. Here guests encounter Aerosmith finishing up a studio recording session. They notice all of their "fans" and invite you to join them in their limo as they head to a concert. You next head to the boarding area and climb into a 24-passenger “stretch limo” and swiftly accelerate into the Hollywood night.

The enclosed experience is dimly lit while Southern California landmarks illuminate different twists and turns throughout the ride -- 365 days a year, rain or shine.

Fun Fact: For awhile, when this attraction first opened, there was a real person who was part of the Aerosmith video pre-show scene. He'd pick up a guitar for the band and bring it to their "limo". Day in, day out, for each endless group of riders, it was the same thing over and over. Fortunately, they set the poor guy free. (Rumor has it that he was last seen running down the expressway yelling "I didn't study Shakespeare for this.")

SOUNDS DANGEROUS STARRING DREW CAREY

Opened May 1989

Fun Fact: Formerly Monster Sound Show

"Sounds Dangerous," stars Drew Carey. This is one of those attractions that was changed to capitalize on the star's popularity at the time. "The Drew Carey Show" (which was a big hit for ABC) has stopped airing, but "Sounds Dangerous" is still broadcasting every 12 minutes at the ABC Sound Studio. This attraction is in a theater. After you're seated, you'll be instructed to put on the headphones.

The premise is that a TV pilot is being tested. Drew Carey plays the role of Detective Foster who is working undercover. Suddenly, the theater goes dark, and we're talking pitch black. By use of Binaural sound, the action continues with some pretty funny moments.

What's "Binaural Sound" you ask? It's when each earpiece can operate independent of the other. In other words, you have no idea what sound you'll hear next, or which ear you'll hear it in. It really is interesting how your brain is tricked by the combination of darkness and sound. If you see a line, keep in mind that it runs every 12 minutes. You should be able to get in for the next presentation.

CAUTION: The theatre becomes COMPLETELY dark. While you might understand what's going on, it can be pretty scary for children. If your children are afraid of the dark, pass on this one.

STAR TOURS

Star Tours opened December 1989

There is no mistaking that you're at the Star Tours attraction when you see the huge AT-AT out front. This Disney World attraction is based on the original Star Wars movie. The producer, George Lucas, collaborated with Disney on this project. Star Tours offers FastPass. Depending on when you visit, the queue can stretch into the outdoor area that is a replica of an Ewok village on the moon of Endor. (For the most part, the line usually isn't all that bad.) When you enter the building, you walk up a series of ramps.

TIP: Listen for EGROEG SACUL being paged. (Get it, George Lucas spelled backwards.) As you continue through this section, you'll see C-3PO and R2D2 at work. In the background they're playing "space" music. If you're into Disney Theme Park soundtracks, this is usually on it. (It's one of those "where the heck did I hear that?" tracks that makes you pull out the song list.)When you reach the top, you'll be sent to a row to wait in before boarding the 40 passenger "Starspeeder 3000". There's a brief video that explains what to do when you enter.

The actual ride uses flight simulator technology combined with action film footage. You race to the Moon of Endor with your novice "pilot-in-training", RX-24 leading the way. If RX-24 sounds a bit familiar, he's voiced by Paul Reubens aka Pee Wee Herman.

You go on a wild four and a half minute ride where you encounter one mishap after another. Star Wars fans will love the Death Star sequence. With the Star Wars soundtrack blaring, you find yourself under attack as you head for your target. You feel as if you're looking over Luke Skywalker's shoulder as you administer the fatal blow.

This attraction exits through the Tatooine Traders shop. What a surprise, you just found yourself in the middle of a Star Wars battle and now you're in a shop stocked with anything and everything you could ever want that's Star Wars themed.

Because of the jolting action in this ride, it is not for expectant mothers or people with back or neck problems. There is a height restriction of 40" and children under the age of 7 are not admitted without an adult. Parents can choose the "switch off" option here.

TOWER OF TERROR

Opened July 1994

Fun Fact: The hotel lobby contains some valuable antiques

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is hands down one of the best attractions at Walt Disney World. At the end of Sunset Boulevard looms the imposing Hollywood Tower Hotel. It's 13 stories high (naturally) and is home to the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

Unless you get here right when the park opens, you can expect to wait. Your best bet is to grab a FastPass. (Get it as early as you can as they will use up the daily allotment on busier days.)

The Hollywood Tower Hotel has been deserted and the signs of neglect are everywhere. The queue takes you through gardens of broken stoneware and decaying plants. In the background you're listening to haunting melodies from the past by Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington and other notables from that era. (You also hear the screams of the elevator riders.)

When you enter the lobby, you see that everything is covered by dust and cobwebs. There's a set of leather chairs that are genuine Renaissance antiques. There are French bronzes, including some by Moreau, a noted artist of the 19th century. Other props are reproductions. If you can, get a glimpse of the Concierge desk. There's a Photoplay magazine with "Four Pages of Hilarious Star Caricatures by Walt Disney." From here, you're directed to the Library. Before the door closes and the lights dim, look around. On top of the bookcases you'll see some props from Twilight Zone episodes.

The room gets dark, the TV turns on and there in black and white is Rod Serling. He begins with "Tonight's story on the Twilight Zone is somewhat unique and calls for a different kind of introduction. This, as you may recognize, is a.." This intro is from "It's a Good Life" where the little boy holds a town hostage by his ability to change or destroy anyone or anything. (Think "wish it into the cornfield Anthony" and you'll know the episode.)

You'll see the Hollywood Tower Hotel in its heyday. A young couple, a little girl with her Governess and a bellhop enter the elevator. The doors close, they start to go up, lightning hits the building and they vanish. With a crack of lightning, the lights in the Library turn back on, a door opens and you enter the "Twilight Zone." In this "episode" you're in the boiler room of the hotel waiting to board a 1917 service elevator.

Once you've fastened your seatbelt, the doors close and the elevator heads up. First stop, the doors open and you see a very cool optical illusion. The doors close again and at the next stop, you move forward.

Get ready, this is where the real fun begins. The TOT has progressed since it's debut when the drops were pre-programmed. Now a computer is in control making each ride random and unique. You never know how many times you'll go up and down and up and down and......A great souvenir photo is taken. Most everyone has that mix of happy/terror on their face.Guests in wheelchairs must transfer from the chair to ride. Minimum height is 40 inches. Closed-captioning is available on the pre-show film. See Guest Relations to obtain an activator for closed-captioning.

Hidden Mickeys:
Look at the toy that the little girl in the video is holding
Balcony railing just before you enter
Water stain in the boiler room

TOY STORY MANIA

"Toy Story Mania" is the coolest, newest attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios. It's a fantastic, fun ride that is not to be missed. As you approach the brick building where Toy Story Mania is housed, there's a chain of "Barrel of Monkeys" figures strewn over the walkway.

You walk in and you're reduced to toy size. The queue is loaded with an amazing assortment of nostalgic toys, including a giant Scrabble board overhead. While waiting to get on a ride is rarely fun, you find yourself pointing and saying "look at that! I had that when I was a kid!"

There's a familiar character from the Toy Story movies who serves as a "Carnival Barker" over the queue. It's Mr. Potato Head and he interacts with guests, cracking jokes and occassionally having a body part pop loose. Another example of making the wait a lot more tolerable. After going through the main part of the queue, you head up a flight of stairs. You next grab a pair of 3-D glasses and get ready to enter the ride vehicle.

Each car takes 4 guests. What's unique is that you're sitting back to back, with a tall partition between you. Once you're on your way, you'll be facing your own set of targets while whoever is behind you is facing the opposite way and shooting at their own targets. It really is the same as having two completely independent vehicles combined into one.

You have a toy cannon that fires via a pull string. You take aim at the targets at the game booths you encounter along the way. Cheering you on will be Woody, Buzz, Bo Peep, Hamm and the Green Army Men. Find a hidden target and you'll rack up even more points as you compete for the highest score. The targets and weapons vary. What's even more fun is feeling the rush of air as you pop balloons at one of the game booths. This ride is all about the details and not a single one was overlooked.

The one thing that made me a bit apprehensive was the "spin" action of the cars you're in. I was with my husband who is my "ride test dummy" and gets queasy just looking at the Mad Tea Cup Party. As we completed one set of targets we "spun" over to the next set. This isn't wild, crazy going in circles, just a turnaround. At the end, when it does "spin" several times, it is so s-l-o-w there's zero impact from the rotation. I'm happy to say that my man had no problem at all and was anxious to try it again.

Speaking of my guy, as we were exiting he pointed out the back of the giant "Golden Book" as we were passing it. As I said earlier, there are tons of childhood memories that you'll enjoy along the way.

We rode it during the "soft opening" phase when there was absolutely no wait and we walked straight on. (The ride even smelled new with that scent of plastic you get when you open a toy package.) I can tell you this, now that it's "officially open" this is going to be insanely busy. Not only is it for all ages/heights unlike the more popular Hollywood Studios attractions, it's fun for everyone.

GET TO THE PARK EARLY AND GET A FAST PASS!! The allotment of those little slips of paper is definitely going to run out and I predict that the 'standby' wait time will consistently be at least an hour. (Think Soarin' and you get an idea of how popular this one will be.) "Toy Story Mania" replaced the former "Who Wants to be a Millionaire - Play It" attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

VOYAGE OF THE LITTLE MERMAID

Exceptional lighting techniques and special effects make you feel like you are indeed a part of Ariel's world in Voyage of the Little Mermaid. This 15 minute musical stage production at Disney's Hollywood Studios uses live action, puppetry (if you look closely, you can see the puppeteers dressed in black as they work their magic on stage), special effects, music and movie clips to tell the tale of the Little Mermaid.

The Academy award winning song, "Under the Sea", "Part of Your World" and "Poor Unfortunate Soul" are performed during the presentation. The latter is sung by an enormous 12'high and 10' wide Ursula puppet. This show appeals to all age groups and is a major attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Long lines are not uncommon for most of the day.