Disney World Resort General Discussion

[say hi]

Your thoughts? Favorite Ride? Food? News? Anything.

[Austin]

Space mountain will come back 10x better. But i got a feeling that since they are strengthening the support beams that the ride will close down again for another refurb. Which would see the addition of music, and new trains. I mean its no secret they were going to add music because for a few days the SM page on the official WDW site said something about audio.

[say hi]

Yeah, I've been wondering about this SM refurb...gosh. hopefully it doesn't turn out like the spaceship earth one..where it ended up coming out all unfinished and with an absolutely TERRIBLE ending. And you're completely right about the audio...they've had it at Disneyland since at least the 50th. The poor Magic Kingdom is just slowly catching up...although, the Haunted Mansion refurb was totally awesome.

[Austin]

Well they said something about audio on the page for it at WDW.com but then like 4 days later it was quickly removed. I personally wouldnt mind if it came back unfinished since it would be in the dark you really wont notice anything.

the main updates they are doing btw guys are this:

1. new ceiling for enhnaced darkness
2. complete track replacement (the supports are staying btw but they are mysteriously being strengthened even un-strengthened they was just fine)
3. Newer SFX and updating the current ones
4. updated queue with a interactive version like the screens at Soarin at EPCOT.

Possible future additions in a future update would be:

1. new trains (the old matterhorn ones probably as they are on-track to be replaced with a new version in 2010 or 2011 and WDW's SM has always used the old matterhorn cars)
2. audio (which would probably explain the strengthened supports)

[nitrofan]

I can understand the whole refurb if the ride isn't structurally sound, but otherwise, I don't think Disney will get any return on this refurb. If anything, they will lose attendance because of people eho are pissed that there are only 2 thrill rides left open at a park they paid $80 to get in to.

[say hi]

I'm excited for it, for sure. Probably one of the main reasons I didn't feel all the need to go this year...no space mounatin..no disney. haha.

fun question..
FAVORITE MOUNTAIN IN THE MAGIC KINGDOM...GO!

[Austin]

Lol michael you obviously havent been there. When i was last there in 2006 i rode it and omg it was so rough. and the trains which should be added this time around or next will be a big improvement as it doenst accomodate ppl taller then 5'8 that well.

It will get a great return. Like when x was made into x2 this would eb a similiar instance, hundreds of ppl will come to the park just to see the new version

[say hi]

Lol michael you obviously havent been there. When i was last there in 2006 i rode it and omg it was so rough. and the trains which should be added this time around or next will be a big improvement as it doenst accomodate ppl taller then 5'8 that well.

It will get a great return. Like when x was made into x2 this would eb a similiar instance, hundreds of ppl will come to the park just to see the new version

I was there in 2008 and the right side was okay feeling, but the left side felt completely rickety and rough...plus all the light pollution from the projectors has made it to where you can pretty much see the track.

SM has needed some TLC forever, and i'm glad its finally getting it.
and if you want any kind of indication on a return, look at Disneyland's space mountain..it seems to always be incredibly popular since its 04-05 refurb.

[Austin]

Yea lol. Ive never been able to get ont he left side but ive been ont eh right, Its always rought o me in the downward spiral section shortly after the first drop but yea i could see the track ahead of me glimering so it kinda ruined it. And also the queue and exit needs a big update lol. its been like that since fedex took up sponsorship duties in 1994 and they quit in 2005 so its over-due for a re-do

[say hi]

bahaha, i kind of like the cheesy moon rock mine fed ex exit. Although I'm sure if they do change it, it will be just as cool as the old one was back in the day.

I for one, hope they update some of the show scenes on the TTA as well during this refurb...since its closed along with space mountain and all.

[Austin]

Oh yea TTA did receive some upgrading.

It has new lights and a little bit more work, but thats all thats visible who knows about the scenes

[nitrofan]

Lol michael you obviously havent been there. When i was last there in 2006 i rode it and omg it was so rough. and the trains which should be added this time around or next will be a big improvement as it doenst accomodate ppl taller then 5'8 that well.

It will get a great return. Like when x was made into x2 this would eb a similiar instance, hundreds of ppl will come to the park just to see the new version

I rode it in 2008, and it didn't seem that bad to me. My coaster opinions have changed a lot since then, but it seems like it wouldn't be worth it to have it closed for that long during peak season at Disney.

[say hi]

yeah i had read and saw the pics of the new lighting and such...i guess thats pretty exciting. Hopefully they announce something new for EPCOT or the Studios soon...but I'm sure mostly likely it'll be going to either MK or Animal Kingdom.

[Austin]

I rode it in 2008, and it didn't seem that bad to me. My coaster opinions have changed a lot since then, but it seems like it wouldn't be worth it to have it closed for that long during peak season at Disney.

It is lol. its progressively gotten a lot worse and it hasnt recieved a day off in over 20 years maybe even its whole lifetime

^ i remember seeing them 2 but i cant find the site.

[nitrofan]

I'll trust you.

[Austin]

I mean this is a great changeup. 1. we get new and improved experience like when the ride opened just by replacing the track. 2. We get updated SFX and new SFX which the ride doesnt have much of 3. the ceiling is letting in light so it is being fixed from the inside to prevent this. Additionally 4. the queue and exit areas will be updated so i cant wait lol. I just wish i didnt have to break my legs to get in the front seat of each car tho lol.

[palmer]

I'm excited for it, for sure. Probably one of the main reasons I didn't feel all the need to go this year...no space mounatin..no disney. haha.

fun question..
FAVORITE MOUNTAIN IN THE MAGIC KINGDOM...GO!

I'm gonna go Buzz Lightyear's ride :p I love that ride, easily on my top 5 there, next to Tower Of Terror (so unpredictable), Rock-n-Rollercoaster (theming and audio is great), and Expedition Everest (Inside the mountain is so nuts)

[nitrofan]

^I love how you never know if you will free-fall or get launched up at the begining of the drop ride section of TOT. I rode it 13 times the day I was there and only fell 4 times, and got launched up 9 times.

[palmer]

that's why it's unexpected.

[Austin]

SM is my 3rd favorite ride at the whole resort.

1st. Expedition Everest mainly bc they put me in the backseat so it helped me get over my fear of rollercoasters that were like that size.
2nd. Mission Space I really love this ride lol.
3rd. SM
4th RNC

TOT isnt in my list bc i refuse to ride it. I dont liek the free-fall sensation like that

[nitrofan]

^At least try Tower of Terror. It's not like any other drop ride you will ever go on, and the free-falling doesn't last very long. It's like 15 seconds out of a 10 minute ride.

[palmer]

When i first went on, i was crapping in my pants beforehand. Then, i rode, afraid, crying (almost), The drop, i loved it. I started screaming of joy. I loved it.

[Austin]

No drops like that will make me sick.

[palmer]

Have you done an shot tower or Sky Coaster? The drop is worse than it.

[Austin]

No i cant stand it. It will really make me sick im not joking lol. The only one i can stand is this smallkiddie one that launches you up to about 15-20 ft and bouces you abck up and down for like 45secs.

Some people get motion sickness, i get the opposite lol.

[say hi]

Yeah, I was super freaked out by tower of terror at first..but its absolutely the best themed and coolest ride on the wdw property. Even if you can't stand the feeling its worth at least trying one time or seeing the queue and then using a chicken exit. The fact that the ride is random every time is also a plus, not only are the drops and launch sequences like that but the sfx inside of the shaft are random too which is pretty awesome.

[Austin]

ive been through the queue lol. my sister just wont ride it either becuase shes scared of it so me and her went through with my dad then left lol.

[say hi]

hmm..The TTA's reopening just got delayed, I wonder if this means anything for how fast or slow Space Mounatin's work is going...

[Austin]

Delayed? Last i checked it was still on track to re-open before SM.

[say hi]

It was pushed back by a week, Hopefully it doesn't mean they're running a week behind on SM...

[say hi]

Disney has just bought Marvel. Anyone think they'll end up getting the theme park rights right from under Universal's nose?

[Austin]

Lol goodbye IOA.

[nitrofan]

Disney has just bought Marvel. Anyone think they'll end up getting the theme park rights right from under Universal's nose?

Disney Takes Over The World!!!

[say hi]

haha, at least uni has harry potter and halloween horror nights. thats pretty much all they've got at this point.

oh, and rip ride and rockit.

[nitrofan]

The thing about this buyout is that it all depends on the contracts. I read on another site that Universal has a life-time license on Hulk, Spiderman, and Dr. Doom. If that is true, there is very little Disney could do to screw Universal up.

It's been a while since the opening of Animal Kingdom, and Disney seems to build a park in the Disney World Florida complex every 10-20 years, so maybe we will se a Marvel themed park soon!

[say hi]

I doubt a new park would be in WDW's immediate (or even a little farther off) future, they still have a lot to fix at the other gates and Animal Kingdom never really caught on the way they wanted it to. From what I read on MiceAge, Universal gave out a statement to employees saying the Marvel characters weren't going anywhere, however they threw out the word that they "believe" that Marvel and their own agreement stood strong with the buyout. so...I guess we'll see, I really doubt they'd want to do a complete land re theme ala lost continent as two park improvements in a row.

[nitrofan]

Still, I would have liked to see the looks on some of the Universal Executives' faces when they found out. lol

While in the next 5 years, I don't think we will see a new park from Disney, I think we will se one in the next 10-15 years, and this is a possibility. They could catch on to the teenage/ young adult boys and make it a "REAL" Thrill Park. No, I don't consider Hollywood Studios a thrill park like Disney claims.

[Austin]

why a marvel park? They already have a movie park, DHS. They already have non-disney movies as attractions there so it would be easy, plus it needs rides and it has land to build on.

[nitrofan]

why a marvel park? They already have a movie park, DHS. They already have non-disney movies as attractions there so it would be easy, plus it needs rides and it has land to build on.

I was just saying that it was a possibility of doing a Marvel Thrill Park since Disney seems to have a need to build so many parks in Orlando.

[palmer]

Lol goodbye IOA.

They'll keep IOA, but retheme Marvel Superhero Land. Everthing else is Universal owned. CITH and JP are Universal movies. Harry Potter is under contract, the Lost Continent is their own land of non-brand rides. Cartoon Lagoon is, i guess, universal owned.

Well, anyway. Magic Kingdom's going for a Fantasayland extension for like 2013. Also, Animal Kingdom rumoring a Beastie Kingdom with a copy of Jounrey to the Center of the Universe from Disneyland Tokyo.

[Austin]

Beastly kingdom wont be a new park if it happens. it will be a additional land for AK.

And yea goodbye ioa becuase it sucks. they will now have to pay up massive amounts to redo that section now, which is the parks main draw.

[nitrofan]

Beastly kingdom wont be a new park if it happens. it will be a additional land for AK.

And yea goodbye ioa becuase it sucks. they will now have to pay up massive amounts to redo that section now, which is the parks main draw.

I've read in several places that Hulk, Dr. Doom, and Siderman all have lifetime contracts to use the characters. Disney will be getting checks from Universal every year for the characters, so why would they just stop leasing the name? I think that Marvel Superhero Island (or whatever it's called) is going to remain mostly the same for a while.

[Austin]

Because, its disney. They are the biggest theme park rivals in the world. Disney has the right to remove their license. Besides why pay out a ton of money for those characters when they could just retheme the spot which would save alot of money in the long term.

[nitrofan]

Because, its disney. They are the biggest theme park rivals in the world. Disney has the right to remove their license. Besides why pay out a ton of money for those characters when they could just retheme the spot which would save alot of money in the long term.

1) Like you said, that land has the majority of the main draws to IOA (Hulk, Spiderman)
2) They spent $1/4 Billion on Spiderman. They can't afford to take that big of a hit on redoing it.

[Austin]

It probably will happen (redoing the section). Disney and Universal will work some deal where they allow Universal to get harry potter done and then make them close off the marvel section to redo it, or they could just force them to do it immediately. Though they wont take full control of marvel until the end of the year.

[nitrofan]

It has been confirmed that Fantasyland and Toontown will be expanded and partially rethemed. Here is the quote from the story from Sceamscape since I don't have time to type a long report on it right now:

Disney confirmed those previously leaked plans to expand and double the size of Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom over the weekend at the D23 Expo. They say the project will be open in two phases, with the first opening in 2012 and the rest finished by 2013. Once completed the new and improved Fantasyland will feature mini-lands to be themed to four key movies where the kids can meet and greet with the princess and associated characters from Beauty & The Beast, Little Mermaid, Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. The Beauty & The Beast area will also feature two new eateries: Gaston’s Tavern and a large 552-seat Be Out Guests restaurant. Of course the highlight of the entire expansion will be the new Little Mermaid dark ride, which they promise will be an E-Ticket you wont want to miss.
Phase two will involve the revamping of a large section of what is now Toontown to become Pixie Hollow, though they gave no major details here as the design work is still ongoing for this section. As previewed in the leaked plans, Dumbo will be moved over into the Toontown area where it will be doubled in size (two rides) to create what has already been nicknamed Dueling Dumbos. The new version of Dumbo will also have a queue enclosed under a three-ring circus tent that promises to be full of interactive games and fun, so you wont even know your waiting in line while you are in there.
While Toontown Fair will be no more, the plans do seem to indicate that Goofy’s Barnstormer will remain in place and it has been said that Mickey & Minnie’s houses will be moved to a new location somewhere else in Walt Disney World. Check out the video below of the announcement. You can also find even more great screen shots showing off all the new concept artwork shown at the D23 Expo for Fantasyland over at Amusement Insider.


It sounds petty cool. Definately a good thing to keep Magic Kingdom from getting too outdated. I'll post more on this tommorrow.

[say hi]

The concept art for this stuff is pretty amazing. Lets just hope after this they can bring more of these grandiose concepts to the other lands. I've heard work has already begun with a wall around some part of the castle? that could be for holiday overlay stuff though.

[say hi]

According to Screamscape the Space Mtn. Refurb is pretty much just going to be some cleaning up, a couple of new effects on the star field, and the enclosing of the dispatch station. is it too much for on board audio...c'mon disney, c'mon.

[Austin]

And they fixed track in some areas.

I expect a second rehab will come next year or the year after to finish off. This was more of a cosmetic/hold over rehab.

They added most of the details and etc in that they could in this one to make it look new and fixed track to hold people over since thats the main complaint about it.

This would make a second rehab much shorter. All they would have to do is replace the supports and tracks and then order new trains. Matterhorn in DL is getting new trains soon and the current SM trains came from Matterhorns last makeover. If we got matterhorns old traisn they would have the ability for a sound system. I figure they didnt shut it down for the amount of time they should have to make all the changes due to two big factors:

1. The economy - with them spending so much on resorts, DCA and other major projects they didnt really have left to budget for SM. I mean they needed to keep a cushion in place in case things got worse. Now that the economy is showing positive signs i wouldnt be surprised if it got funding for the stuff i mentioned above.

2. Christmas - This is the time most people come to the park besides summer. While its only a few weeks long they get massive amounts of guests. If they found out SM was going to be closed they might decide to not come since its one of the most favorited rides in the kingdom.

[say hi]

eh, people can live without space mountain (or...i'd at least like to think so.) Who knows if they'll do another refurb, team disney orlando keeps dropping the ball. so...it wouldn't surprise me if this is all we get for a while.

There is some talk of a jungle cruise refurb next year, in fact they've already been switching some of the script around for the skippers.

Oh well, I guess the fantasy land expansion and star tours 2 is all there is to look forward to for a while.

[nitrofan]

Austin, did you see any work on this during your trip to Disney?

[Austin]

Lots of work. Main street had the Expo hall under tarps while they replace the exterior bricks to more textured and different colored bricks. On Friday when we came back for our full day the right side garden area was opened up. Tarps are still on it. Casey's Corner is still under tarps also. Now for FLE. There was foundations in for the Little Mermaid ride. Well I know there is one but I couldnt tell for sure from the top of barnstormer (got a pic there). I planned on riding dumbo and filming over the wall but the line was 40 minutes haha. Pooh was mostly boarded up as they make the exterior 100 hundred acre woods themed. A few days after they boarded it all up except a narrow hall to the station. The ride will close soon to allow for the work to go on un-interrupted. Small World is now closed as they re-route the exit to near dumbo as well as do some enclosing and adding more air conditioning to the queue. The facade might get upgrades also. Peter Pan was mostly free of tarps but the tower near the castle was covered and still is. It got a new paint scheme on its tent facade (ugh I hate those) Snow White might get some work on the exterior also but thats not confirmed yet.

Also Pixie Hollow is delayed or cancelled for now. And as for the Frontierland Expansion, Numerous insiders from WDW Magic who havent been wrong yet, told us they haven't heard of anything about a new ride over there to balance fantasyland out.

[Truth Seeker]

I'm sure a few princess meet n greets and a new Dumbo will just destroy Harry Potter...

[nitrofan]

Wow, that sounds crazy that it was all torn up. Do you have lots of pictures?

[Austin]

Of course it wont beat Harry and let me clarify this isnt a response to Harry. Anyone who was there before this can tell you, the area was very small and needed an expansion. The park needs a refreshening of all the lands. Tomorrowland is next many believe. No one like sLaugh floor, or Great Escape so that will likely change and its seems they are showing intrest in changing the area with the Space Mt. fix up and improvements and the improvements and new name for the TTA err Peoplemover. Buzz is a hit so the area will likely just get a new rides to replace Monsters Inc and Stitch or one new ride to replace one of them. They might end up changing both since the new Monsters Inc ride is green lighted for DHS again.

I have over 500 pics of the MK alone and 400 at least for Epcot I think.. so the next two PTR's on the parks will take time to make.

Oh and FLE is the same thing as Harry is. One new major ride and the rest in the area get changes to the exterior. Plus new stores and restaurants. But they are using a time proven theme and not something that might die out in the future.

[Truth Seeker]

I understand how LM is supposed to be the HP of WDW(Holy cow I sound techno!) but how do we know if the theming and special effects will even measure up to those of Harry Potter? Even if they do how can a ride that appears to the whole family compare to one that only appeals to such a small demographic. I am aware that FLE is not meant to be direct attack at Hp, but in some ways it will be competing. Many Florida residents are switching from Universal passes to Disney passes because of the great job Universal has done with Hp. Let's see which will a Orlando Local choose Universal Resort which has recently spent 350 million dollars worth of investments in new attractions for their parks, or a park with a few new meet n greets and a new dark ride that appeals ONLY to little girls.

[Austin]

Its not suposed to compare to HP. Harry Potter is a dying trend. Kids dont want to read anymore and the movies are about done. After that nothing else will be made. But with the Disney Characters stuff is always coming out. Disney has bigger needs to deal with than Harry Potter's temporary influx of visitors. In fact it kept us from Universal. Disney has more projects going on with all four parks that Universal cant compete with. Main Street is looking fantastic and it will look so much better when all the upgrades and painting etc is finished. I'm excited to see the Hundred Acre Wood exterior to. Its the stuff we used to expect from Disney that they are finally doing.

All the parks have gone under rehab but no park has gone under as hard as the Magic Kingdom. Basically at times up to 1/2 of Main Street was tarped but that was back in the low point in the season and came down to about 1/8th of the area for summer. The Castle has gotten touch up painting every year and the night time shows are spectacular this year.

Epcot is getting two world class restaurants. Via Napoli just opened and La Hacienda de San Angel is within a month of opening. And now the Fountain of Nations is getting new paint and hand rails. Combined with the fact that in 2011 sometime they are upgrading portions of Illuminations to make it stand out even more. The monorail beams in the park also got cleaning this year and they are expanding the monorail system this year also. Yes they are expanding it. Its about a one million dollar expansion to add a spur line at the TTC where they can store a tractor for faster repairs to the monorails and the system and to allow them to move a full monorail and tractor off the Epcot or Magic Kingdom line so that traffic wont be interrupted. There's alot going on with the parks lately.

[Truth Seeker]

I myself am excited for the new painting,restaurants,and fireworks, but let's face it most people won't care. When deciding between that and resort with a new simulator(Simpsons), new coaster(Rip Ride Rockit), and a whole new land with immersive theming and possibly the world's best dark ride.

[Austin]

Actually alot of people care. And its not a whole new land. Its a partially new land. The rides except the dark ride was already there.

The worlds best dark ride is Tower of Terror and Haunted Mansion

[Truth Seeker]

I doubt the general public cares about repainting. Now as for enthusiasts like you and me it's great, but in the gp's mind they could care less. As for the dark ride debate let's save that for another time...

[Truth Seeker]

Disney confirms that the Fantasyland expansion plans are under revision to help broaden the appeal more so it wont be so slanted towards young girls. Source: screamscape.

Edit: Take a look at this qoute from a happy little piece of delightfully, spectacular, magical, disney filled article.

Staggs said planners are also reviewing the Fantasyland expansion with an eye toward blending “aspirational rides” — rides that offer thrills or tension — with attractions designed for guests of all ages. Source:http://thedailydisney.com/blog/2010/08/disney-parks-chief-fantasyland-expansion-plans-are-being-redrawn/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Austin]

Idk I liked the old one before. I didnt see how this would have made it even more girly than it already is. Guys have Adventureland and Frontierland and Tomorrowland to an extent. I'm excited for this though. Mermaid is still a go.

[Truth Seeker]

Well I mean a lot of girls love Space mountain, Thunder Mountain, Splash Mountain, and even Pirates. In fact I know a few girls who are obsessed with Pirates.

[jeffrey]

yeah so ive heard rumors is disney going to/ already has buy marvel?

[SFNE Expert]

It has already happened. It happened a year ago. Disney bought Marvel Studios/comics. So basically they're now in charge of the movies.

Don't worry about Marvel Superhero Island at IOA though. The deal was that for "x" amount of time, Universal has the rights to Marvels characters on the east side of the Mississippi, so Disney can't use Marvel characters in Orlando, but they can in Hollywood.

[DarienLake:D]

That would be a little weird though...

[Truth Seeker]

Last time I went to WDW Marvel characters had taken over the stores. I literally thought for a moment that I was in Universal.

[Truth Seeker]

The new Fantasy land expansion plans for Disney World's Magic Kingdom have been posted. http://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/dispatches/post/2011/01/walt-disney-worlds-fantasyland-gets-a-massive-facelift/139129/1 I can't say that I'm very excited about this modification but, it is a major step up. Sure, I would like to see a direct hit aimed at Potter but, this project is a good, "crowd stabilizer." I expect Disney's decision to modify the project's key audience from little girls to the entire family will have a more positive impact on both sales and attendance. All in all, it was a good decision on Disney's part to modify the plans from a primarily girl targeted project to, a more family friendly project.

[Austin]

I'm jealous of my sister -.- Shes going in 2012 for her honeymoon and she gets to see it all first. I'm most looking forward to the mine coaster. It looks pretty interesting.

[Jp]

Disney released their final plans for the Fantasyland Expansion...finally!

Disney World’s Fantasyland expansion
Largest expansion in Magic Kingdom History

Updated: Tuesday, 18 Jan 2011, 11:58 AM EST
Published : Tuesday, 18 Jan 2011, 7:17 AM EST

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Walt Disney World released artist renderings of the expansion of Fantasyland Tuesday. The project is the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history. More details will be released tonight during a media event.

Photo Gallery: See the artist renderings

The project which is currently under construction will include a new home for The Little Mermaid Ariel, new ways to interact with favorite Disney princesses, an exciting new family coaster, a double dose of Dumbo and more.

It will open in phases beginning in late 2012.

Among the highlights planned:
Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid
-a major, all-new attraction during which guests will travel with Ariel and her friends through their exciting adventures above and below the waves – all against a musical backdrop of songs from the classic film.

The castle of the Beast
-Standing majestically upon a hill just across an old stone bridge from Ariel’s new home. The Be Our Guest Restaurant will feature a lavish dining experience in the elegant ballroom, gallery, and mysterious “West Wing” of the castle. With seating for 550, this magnificent facility will offer “great food fast” service by day and full table service dining in the evening. Nearby in Belle's Village, guests will find the rousing Gaston’s Tavern and Bonjour! Village Gifts.
Just outside the village is Belle’s cottage and Enchanted Tales with Belle. The adventure begins in Maurice’s workshop, where a magical mirror is the doorway to a captivating new kind of storytelling experience: Guests are transported to the Beast’s library to meet Belle and Lumiere, and share in a lively, interactive, re-telling of the “tale as old as time.”

The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
-it will take guests on a rollicking, musical ride into the mine “where a million diamonds shine.” The coaster will feature a first-of-its kind ride system with a train of ride vehicles that swing back and forth, responding to every twist and turn of the track. The journey will be accompanied by music from the classic Disney film and animated figures of Snow White and the Dwarfs.

Princess Fairytale Hall
-Aurora, Cinderella and other Disney princesses, such as Tiana and Rapunzel, will greet guests in their new home, an elegant royal court on the site where Snow White’s Scary Adventures stands today.

The sound of the calliope
-This will lead guests to the brand new Storybook Circus and not one but two circling carousels of airborne pachyderms on Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Before taking to the skies on this Fantasyland favorite, guests can experience an array of fun-filled family games and interactive wonders for kids of all ages inside the Big Top.

Storybook Circus
-the classic Barnstormer gets a bright new look as well, featuring Goofy as The Great Goofini. It’s a twisting, turning roller coaster “flight” high above the circus fun.

Here is a link to the article at My Fox Orlando (http://www.myfoxorlando.com/dpp/attractions/disney/011811-disney-announcements)

http://www.themeparkreview.com/forum/files/walt_disney_world_released_artist_renderings_of_th e_expansion_of_fantasyland_tuesday_0.jpg
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[Austin]

All of the concept art so far is great. The one of the mine coaster specifically I think shows the type of movement to expect on it. If you notice they're connected at the ends so they could swing side to side a little bit.

I really like the concept for the Be Our Guest restaurant. It just looks spectacular. Alot of people though seem to dislike the carnival area where dumbo and the goofini will be located fearing it will become another Chester & Hester type area thats cheesy and not very themed but I really doubt that. If the level of detail shown in this artwork happens it will be a perfectly themed area.

One thing I do hate is that the original Fantasyland is keeping the Tournament tent facades. I had hoped that with the Winnie the Pooh facade that it would lead to changing the rest but with that concept art of the princess area showing it staying then I doubt they will be leaving.

[nitrofan]

So exactly where is this expansion happening? If it is happening in Fantasyland, are they getting rid of Peter Pan, It's A Small World, Winnie the Pooh, Phillar Magic, and some of the other landmark attractions?

[Austin]

Its in the same expansion location the previous one was announced for. This is just a re-do of some unpopular areas that that plan had.

[nitrofan]

Its in the same expansion location the previous one was announced for. This is just a re-do of some unpopular areas that that plan had.

Where was the previous expansion planned for? I'm not really picturing where all this new stuff is going to go.

The worlds best dark ride is Tower of Terror and Haunted Mansion

Not trying to start an argument, but how can you say that? That's a matter of opinion. You can't just claim something like that and say that someone is wrong thinking ROTM (I think thats what he was referring to) is the world's best dark ride.

[Austin]

I never said it was wrong thinking I just stated my opinion.

Its going in where Toontown is, and where the 20K leagues ride was. Or for better description, from the Village Haus all the way to Toontown.

[Austin]

Heres an aerial view from early this year:

http://pix.aerog.com/photos/1161247520_dvgux-L.jpg

Also heres the new(top) artwork map compared to the old one(bottom):

http://i56.tinypic.com/2k1mv8.jpg

[nitrofan]

Screamscape reported that Splash Mountain got lap bars!

http://screamscape.com/html/wdw_-_magic_kingdom.htm

While this is disappointing, I can't really say I blame Disney. I have personally seen many people standing on rides and even seen some get off the ride!

[Austin]

This is just sad that society has gotten to this point. Not to be racist but I'm sure 99% of the people doing this don't speak English. I'm only saying that because we got backed up in The Laughin Place room on my trip and they did an announcement over the PA that said to stay seated and the ride will begin momentarily.

[nitrofan]

This is just sad that society has gotten to this point. Not to be racist but I'm sure 99% of the people doing this don't speak English. I'm only saying that because we got backed up in The Laughin Place room on my trip and they did an announcement over the PA that said to stay seated and the ride will begin momentarily.

I wouldn't be so sure... I've seen lots of people stand up during Splash Mountain, and every single one of them was a teen riding withoug an adult. I think that age group is probably the main reason for this.

[Truth Seeker]

All I can feel is frustration! Why can't people read the signs? Has the average patron turned into a fool?

[Austin]

True. I Did notice considerable amounts of rule breaking on-ride by foreigners. Like on Universe of Energy a guy was just sitting there taking pictures of all the animatronics with the flash on and apparently didn't speak english because he was asked to stop 3 or 4 times. Same thing over on Pirates but I wont complain because I took advantage of it to take a few on-ride pics since we were stooped haha.

Maybe a policy change should have happened first such as removal from the park on first offense if it was done on purpose (in the case of the teens) or just removal from ride with a warning (those who dont speak english) and increase the punishments as the occurances by individuals continues such as canceling the rest of your park tickets and being banned from the park for a length of time.

[Truth Seeker]

It would seem to me that common sense equips humans with the the intellectual power to assume that you don't stand up on a log flume prior to taking a 52 foot plunge!

[Changsucks]

1. Get high.
2. Go to Disney World.
3. Stand up on Splash Mountain!

Common routine for these people.

[nitrofan]

All I can feel is frustration! Why can't people read the signs? Has the average patron turned into a fool?

Because they don't care and take the level of safety of amusement park rides forgranted.

True. I Did notice considerable amounts of rule breaking on-ride by foreigners. Like on Universe of Energy a guy was just sitting there taking pictures of all the animatronics with the flash on and apparently didn't speak english because he was asked to stop 3 or 4 times. Same thing over on Pirates but I wont complain because I took advantage of it to take a few on-ride pics since we were stooped haha.

Maybe a policy change should have happened first such as removal from the park on first offense if it was done on purpose (in the case of the teens) or just removal from ride with a warning (those who dont speak english) and increase the punishments as the occurances by individuals continues such as canceling the rest of your park tickets and being banned from the park for a length of time.

I'm sure there are an equal number of Americans who take pictures on rides too.

A policy change is a good idea, but it would be really hard to catch people. It would cost them more money in the long run hiring an extra security team than to just pay the one time expense of adding lap bars.

[Austin]

But I'm pretty sure that any English speaking person who hears the please stop taking pictures warning would stop. Not continue on like nothing was said to them.

I don't think they would really need to do much changes on the ride. I have heard they keep security at the ride specifically around the photo viewing station in the exit due to flashing so that they can catch the flashers. So maybe it wouldn't really be much more expensive.

[Truth Seeker]

I think some of the blame here is being put on minorities, that should not be. Lack of proper cautionary steps can lead to disaster but, you can not blame the reader for the, "authors," use of miscommunication. In addition, I guarantee you many English speaking American's are just as stubborn or, defined by just as low a level of attention as minorities.

[nitrofan]

But I'm pretty sure that any English speaking person who hears the please stop taking pictures warning would stop. Not continue on like nothing was said to them.

I don't think they would really need to do much changes on the ride. I have heard they keep security at the ride specifically around the photo viewing station in the exit due to flashing so that they can catch the flashers. So maybe it wouldn't really be much more expensive.

Think about all the people who are told not to line jump who continue to line-jump.

With the flashing, that would only be a problem with the one spot with the camera. People could stand up anywhere so they would need a team watching many cameras all the time. The lap bars were probably just an easy solution that makes the ride safer in the process.

[Austin]

I forgot about that haha. Maybe next time Small World goes down for rehab it will get lap bars. Then I won't be able to escape that annoying song -.-

[Shayne]

We live in a world or morons so we all must pay.

[nitrofan]

I had the chance to ride Splash Mountain a couple of weeks ago, so I thought I would commnt on the new lap bars.

While they are a minor inconvenience, they really didn't bother me. They don't come down all the way to your lap, and they were just "there". I don't see any reason to complain about them.

[Austin]

Did they slow down the load/unload? Also did you get to see the new queue for Pooh?

[nitrofan]

Did they slow down the load/unload? Also did you get to see the new queue for Pooh?

The lap bars didn't slow down the loading, but something else was. You would sit down, pull down the lap bar, they told you to push it up to make sure it was secure, then you just sat there in the log for about 5 seconds before they dispatched the logs. I waited about 50 minutes for Splash Mountain, and I think I've waited 1/2 an hour from around that spot before, so something was slowing it down signifigantly. They may have increased the number of fast passes.

I did not see the actual queue for Pooh, but I walked past it and saw the new outdoor theming at the entrance, and it was very nice. I really hope the rest of Fantasyland ends up like that.

I only had 4 hours at Magic Kingdom and I was with someone who had never been to Disney before, so I was trying to move quickly to get as many rides on the mountains as possible as well as hitting some of the classic hilights for the person I was with. I ended up timing the day pretty much perfectly with fast passes, and got in a lot of rides in 4 hours considering it's spring break season and they were pretty crowded. I ended up with this ride count:

3x Space Mountain
1x Splash Mountain
6x Thunder Mountain
1x Pirates
1x Tomorrowland Transit Authority
1x Haunted Mansion

I went to all 4 parks, so let me know if you have any other questions. Disney put on a very fun ERT session on Expedition Everest, so thank you Disney for that! I got in 12 rides in 1 1/2 hours. I even got an almost solo ride (only one other person on the train) on Everest, which is probably a very rare opportunity.

[Austin]

Yeah, most of the queue for pooh is now outside. I was thrilled to see how great it turned out. Now that all this work is wrapping up im dying to get back. The Haunted Mansion's queue is open, and the new effect with the hitchhiking ghosts is pretty awesome. Sounds like Big Thunder is next in line to get a major upgrade according to Screamscape.

[nitrofan]

Yeah, most of the queue for pooh is now outside. I was thrilled to see how great it turned out. Now that all this work is wrapping up im dying to get back. The Haunted Mansion's queue is open, and the new effect with the hitchhiking ghosts is pretty awesome. Sounds like Big Thunder is next in line to get a major upgrade according to Screamscape.

I think I missed the Haunted Mansion upgrades by just a couple of days. There was a tarp in the spot where the hitch-hiking ghosts should be, and the Haunted Mansion interactive queue was still closed off.

[Austin]

If you havent seen the video, now instead of the ghosts just "sitting" with you htye make your head disappear, juggle your head and then make it re-appear just before you leave that scene. Its pretty neat.

[nitrofan]

If you havent seen the video, now instead of the ghosts just "sitting" with you htye make your head disappear, juggle your head and then make it re-appear just before you leave that scene. Its pretty neat.

Wow, that's cool! It's too bad I missed it.

[Austin]

Yeah haha. I think I can wait until 2012 when the new fantasyland project begins to open up. I hate waiting for those things lol but they always end up turning out to be worth the wait.

[nitrofan]

Yeah haha. I think I can wait until 2012 when the new fantasyland project begins to open up. I hate waiting for those things lol but they always end up turning out to be worth the wait.

Ya, it's not really my thing, but I'm sure it will be nice. I don't get to Disney that often, and I love how many small things change between each visit. Things like the drop sequence on Tower of Terror and Pooh's queue.

[Austin]

Yeah. I'll take anything that makes the Kingdom more enjoyable. I just checked an OTPN update, the top half of beast's castle already has major details added and it looks pretty nice. I'm actually pretty surprised they have details on it so soon.

[nitrofan]

I'm amazed at how good of a job Disney does at hiding construction. Obviously, I saw the giant construction walls in Fantasyland, but I never saw what was going on behind it, and it never really even crossed my mind while I was there.

[Austin]

Yeah haha. I didn't really tell either but you could see a giant mound of dirt. Its amazing to see the progress made in under a year. I'm glad they're finally renovating the entire park piece by piece. Main St. is just about brand new, fantasyland will look entirely different in 2 years, and the rest keep getting upgrades. Almost time to update Tomorrowland (hopefully)

[Austin]

The upper portion of Beast's castle is now up (The facade anyway)

http://parksandresorts.wdpromedia.com/media/disneyparks/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/boo596422LARGE.jpg

That is amazing if you ask me, plus the fact they basically put it together in like 2 or 3 nights. The lower half will be a rockwall and that will take alot more time.

Judging by this picture the turrets were just lowered into place (the cable and hook is hanging off the top)

[nitrofan]

^I'm glad to hear that it was built in just a couple days. I couldn't believe that I missed something this big if it had been there when I was in MK!

[Austin]

I'm surprised it went up so quick. I figured a few days because all the sites I track that go to the parks every few days didnt have it in their updates last week. Then this week and bam we have this amazing piece of facade that looks like its been there for a few years. Hell carsland has been under construction for 2 years and they havent even had their details like this added and these are both expected to open in the same year. Maybe WDW will get done ahead of schedule?

[nitrofan]

Maybe WDW will get done ahead of schedule?

It's the construction industry. Is that even possible?

[Austin]

Who knows but theyre showing they can throw alot of work together while making it look nice and maintaining the quality you expect. Maybe they are doing some pre-fab work for the facades?

[mrceagle]

Looks amazing. seems strange to think that there will soon be multiple castles in one park.

[Austin]

Haha I know. I saw some pictures of the castle. The castle is actually very small but is made with small features to make it look taller than it actually is. Aka forced perspective, Cinderella Castle is a great example of this.

[Austin]

Heres a behind the scenes look at the new Hitch Hiking Ghost scene!

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T9TsXwajvyw?hd=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Jp]

A new construction update for Fantasyland can be found over at the latest MouseSteps (http://www.mousesteps.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=611&Itemid=65) update, along with a quick look around the rest of the park.
http://www.mousesteps.com/images/stories/Updates%202011/July%203%20Magic%20Kingdom/Magic%20Kingdom%20Update/IMG_9247.jpg

[tribar]

My favorites are

RnR Coaster
Expedtion Everest
Tower of Terror
Test Track
Soarin"

[say hi]

I'm so ready to go back...but I probably won't go again untill..maybe..2013 or 14. sucks but..at least I'm missing all the construction.

Anybody hear the rumors about Test Track going down for 6 months to a 1 year to redo some portions of the ride. I heard it has more to do with the concept of the ride (changing it to building cars rather than testing cars) than actually changing the track layout.

[Austin]

I have heard something like that. One of my friends thinks they should make it into a Cars ride but I dont see it happening. Especially at Epcot.

I would rather see it as testing cars. Building cars would kill the theme. You can do so much with testing them than building them.

[tribar]

Test Track is fine the way it is

[say hi]

I couldn't see them putting Cars in there. I know they decided to dump Nemo over in the living seas but I think that mostly had to do with the fact that...no one went over there, and the old Sea Cabs ride had been closed for years....It was an easy way to use synergy with an attraction that nobody wanted to bother with anymore. However, Test Track is already popular, isn't in need for any sort of Pixar refresh and would probably look kind of stupid if it somehow shoehorned Cars in there somewhere.

I can see them changing it to building cars, I'm not super interested in the concept...but I've heard its a change GM wants. The last time GM wanted a change it was when World of Motion was gutted out to make...Test Track. Disney seems to do a lot more if there is a sponsor with an endless supply of money begging for a change...and..also, Test Track is fine the way it is. I could see maybe giving the queue a refresh (since nothing in the queue works anymore) and maybe adding some Next-Gen elements to the ride...but..I mean, really...the whole thing works pretty well.

[Austin]

I just cant see anything they could do with building cars. Its pretty much a cut and dry process. Where as testing, as evident by the elements in Test Track, is unpredictable and interesting. I'm hoping they fix the queue to. And the scene on the ride where it looks like your about to be hit by that car just before you speed out onto the outside track. That part they have it set to look like it just hit the impact wall by making it move back a little when the show doors open.

[say hi]

Yeah, it does seem quite boring to switch it to just building cars. I guess we'll see. D23 Expo is next month so any amount of stuff could be announced about WDW.

and there are numerous things that need to be fixed on all kinds of rides throughout the resort. The Yeti, most of Dinosaur's effects...etc.

[Austin]

I can see some kind of major addition to DHS being announced or a major new expansion to DAK. Both parks are in need of something new before they are able to close another ride for a lengthy renovation to fix the yeti or the effects on Dinosaur.

Plus we should get new details on Hyperion Wharf 2.0. I don't know why they are re-designing the design for it. I loved the original art that was put out for it.

[Austin]

Good news! Monorail Coral has come out of the Monorail Paint Shop without the Trono-O-Rail coverings! Though its not going back to active service as they are planning on re-painting it since the original colors are faded.

[Austin]

I think its safe to say, before long Magic Kingdom will look like it just opened if Disney keeps up all the hard work!

Adventureland/Frontierland is basically under refurbishment. What started as a facade refurb of Pecos Bills and the Shooting Gallery has now extended to the building that connects the two lands together. Also, the Firehouse is closed for the new Kim Possible style game so its also getting alot of work done. Completed already is all of Main Street USA. It really looks great so I cant wait to see the finished product over in Frontierland/Adventureland. Plus the Tiki Room is getting a major refurb and the Adventureland bridge was just replaced also.

Over by the dock for the riverboat they have refurbished the entrance and concrete. Now they are doing more work that might be related to the new game. Also completed in that area is the new queue for Haunted Mansion.

In Fantasyland, aside from the new expansion, alot of the buildings leading from Liberty Square to around Dumbo have gotten extensive work done already. They are now replacing less detailed roofing on the Village Haus with new very detailed shingles. Also in the area, the Skyway station is down and that area will soon be leveled to become a wider walking path/entrance to Liberty Square and a new restroom. Which would allow Peter Pan to have an interactive queue and a longer queue as well.

Disney is really putting in alot of hard work at the park these past 2 years! I can't wait to see how everything looks next time I go. It'll be like going to the park opening day, except there will be more details, like the new shingles in Fantasyland and the texturized bricks on main street.

I didn't mention Tomorrowland because really, nothing has been done there for a while. It did get its water ball thing replaced and rehabed. But I am seriously thinking that Tomorrowland might be next on the list of lands to get a major amount of work done. It does need it and would put new rides in that are desperately needed there.