A Tribute to Star Tours (the Original)

So, Today, as I'm sure some of you know, is Star Wars Day. And while I was preparing my Top 5 list on my favorite Hollywood Studios attractions I noticed I had "Tribute to Star Tours" typed out in my notes. And then I thought, "What better way to celebrate Star Wars Day then by dedicating a whole post to the original Star Tours attraction?"



So, let me take a moment to say: "May the fourth be with you! Happy Star Wars Day!" And I hope that this post will help you get in the Star Wars Day spirit!

Star Tours was and will forever be one of my favorite Hollywood Studios attractions. Sadly, I knew I wouldn't be able to include it in my Top 5 list because the version I know so well is no more, and the new one hasn't opened yet (nor have I ridden it.) So, my original plan was to dedicate a snippet to Star Tours in the "Honorable Mentions" section of my Top 5 post. But now it's going to get it's own article.

I don't care that some people called it "dated" or that they felt the ride was too bumpy. Star Tours was the perfect Star Wars attraction. It truly felt as if you had stepped into the original trilogy. There was no trace of the prequels in sight (another reason I loved this attraction.) The pre-ride videos were absolutely hysterical. So many Star Wars reference in such a short video always amazed me.

One thing I dearly hope doesn't change too much is the Queue line. I love The Star Tours Queue line just like it is. The ships, the droids, the decor. I love it all. I will be sorely disappointed if all of that has changed whenever I finally get a chance to ride Star Tours 2.

While I was on my program the original Star Tours was still open for a good portion of it. I made a habit out of riding Star Tours at least twice every time I visited Hollywood Studios. I knew it would be going away soon and I wanted to make sure I would remember the original no matter what. Unlike most I have been skeptical about Star Tours 2 from the beginning, but as I was working for Disney World when the original was shut down I am, actually, very anxious to ride the new one.

I've heard many things about it, and while I will miss the original dearly I still believe the re-imagined Star Tours will be loads of fun. But I hope no one will ever forget the truly awesome original Star Tours and it's amazing themeing. My first trip to Disney World only consisted of two of the four parks: Epcot and Hollywood Studios (then MGM). Star Tours was one of the very first things I rode, and I remember being blown away by the environment. I was absolutely thrilled. I felt as if I stepped into the universe of one of my all time favorite film franchises, and that will forever be one of my favorite Disney memories. I hope Star Tours 2 keeps that same spirit, and that it will be a part of a new generations favorite Disney memories as well.

Happy Star Wars Day, and, once again, may the fourth be with you!

Top 5 Animal Kingdom Attractions

5. Finding Nemo: The Musical

 I have a nephew who adores Finding Nemo. I love it too, of course, but not as much as he does. So, when I went down to Disney for my program I knew I had to see Finding Nemo the Musical. It was one of the things on my Disney bucket list, and I was NOT disappointed. This was a very good show. One of the Disney World show's with the best production quality. This show, honestly, could be lengthened and translate to Broadway very easily. The music was wonderful, and the audience interaction made the show that much more enjoyable. My favorite moment from the entire show was the number "Swim Together" (that's the number in the picture above.) It was absolutely adorable.

4. Expedition Everest

I got to go to Disney World the first summer Expedition Everest opened back in 2006. That was my first ever trip to the Animal Kingdom and only my second trip to Walt Disney World as a whole. So, I do sort of have this strange emotional connection to Expedition Everest. I remember at the time being very excited to see this new Disney attraction. I had been following it's progress online through various means, and couldn't wait to actually ride it. This is a very thrilling ride. There are twists and turns that you don't expect, and close encounter with the legendary yeti. Another plus for this ride is the quality of it's theme. Unless you're line is insanely short and you can walk right on don't ignore the Yeti Museum as you walk through the line. It really adds to the experience of the ride.

3. The Festival of the Lion King

This is an AMAZING show. One of the best on Disney property. There's acrobatics, singing, dancing, audience interactions, characters, and lots of audience interactions. Plus it's in the round so there's really not a bad seat in the entire venue. Most impressive part for me though? The Tumble Monkeys (as pictured above). They're hilarious and their display is extremely impressive. The vocalists in this show are the best in any show across Disney World. They sing the songs you know and love even better than they were sung in the movie. It's just an excellent show that you'll have to see to really enjoy.

2. Dinosaur

Okay, I'll confess I'd forgotten how thrilling this attraction was. Again, I rode this for the first time in 2006 and didn't ride it again until 2010. In four years my recall of this ride had deteriorated. I remembered there wasn't a drop like Jurassic Park at Universal Studios. I remembered it sent you back in time, and I remembered you were sent back just minutes before all the dinosaurs were destroyed. But I had forgotten how many close encounters you have with carnivores. When I finally got the chance to ride it again I found myself absolutely terrified, but terrified in the best way possible. Dinosaur is a thrill ride and a half. Definitely one of the best attractions at the Animal Kingdom.

1. Kilimanjaro Safaris

By far the absolute best attraction at the Animal Kingdom. This attraction takes up the majority of the land that the Animal Kingdom calls home. Essentially this is the real life version of the Jungle Cruise. Although, you're not in a boat. You're in a safari truck. Your guide takes you around in this truck and you see the various animals they have at the Animal Kingdom. It truly is amazing to see these animals. Not only do you get to see them, but you just might get to help your guide take out some poachers. This is a very fun attraction that your entire family will enjoy. Make sure you don't go too late or too early in the day. The most animals are out about in the middle of the day.

Honorable Mention: It's Tough to Be a Bug

It's Tough to be a Bug is the 3D (well, technically 4D I suppose) film that's shown inside the Tree of Life. You watch a show presented by Flick and the rest of the gang from A Bug's Life. It's adorable. But beware of stink bugs and spiders. (The spiders were my least favorite part). There are elements that may scare little ones so be careful when taking toddlers or preschoolers.

Top 5 Hollywood Studios Attractions

5. The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

Okay, I've decided there's really no point in me doing a long winded descriptions of each attraction, haha. But I will give you my opinions and maybe a few tips. This show is a lot of fun! The stunts are impressive and the show itself is very funny. Enjoyable for adults and kids a like. If you want to be a part of the show then make sure you come about twenty minutes before showtime. They just might pick you.

Also I suggest trying to sit in the middle section (to do this you probably need to be there about fifteen minutes before show time.) Don't worry once you sit down you can leave and go get a snack (as long as you have someone to save your seat). Coming fifteen minutes before showtime may sound like a drag, but it's a great time to rest. The theater is shaded and usually cooler than a few other places. So I suggest showing up early with a cold drink and a pretzel. Relax and enjoy some (much needed) time to slow down.

4. Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

The Rockin' Roller Coaster is my dad's favorite ride in all of Disney World. He thinks it's the coolest ride in all of the Disney. I remember the first time we rode it. We were waiting in the queue and there was a "limo" waiting to be launched. Dad looked away for a split second and when he turned around it was gone. His eyes went wide and he grinned like he just knew he was going to enjoy this coaster. And he was right. Every time we go as a family this is the ride he wants to ride over and over again. I love it too, of course. I think the Aerosmith pre-show is a lot of fun. The ride itself is amazing though.

My advice: be sure to keep your eyes and ears open on this one. There are fun neon signs and Aerosmith music pumping to the beat of your zooming ride. Also, have a couple of bottles of water handy while you're waiting in line. The Florida heat can be brutal and this line can be long. If you're group's not opposed to riding separately you there is a single riders line. That line usually moves faster, and don't forget that there's always the option of Fastpass.

3. Hollywood Tower of Terror

The Tower of Terror...this ride opened when I was in about third grade and I remember the ads like it was yesterday. I thought if I ever went to Disney World then no force on Earth would ever get me to ride that thing. Turns out I was wrong. There was a force that could get me to ride it. I call her Aunt Donna. When I was fifteen and finally go to go to Disney World, she and my Uncle Wayne and my mom were the first people to ride Tower of Terror with me. It was a lot of fun, but I remember being terrified. The picture they took as we fell was of myself and my aunt Donna looking at each other and screaming bloody murder.

It's a can't miss attraction at Hollywood Studios for both the attraction itself and it's amazingly detailed themeing. Here's a tip: If you're a hidden Mickey seeker you'll find at least one as you enter the Hollywood Tower Hotel's lobby. Keep a sharp eye out. It's there.

This queue is not too bad. It's shaded by trees for the most part, but having water on hand is always a good idea in Florida. Also look for a graceful statue while your waiting in the outdoor section of the queue. Watch her and then tell me what you see. I believe I've seen her blink, but I could be wrong.

2. Toy Story Mania

Before the relaunch of Star Tours this was the newest addition to Hollywood Studios. It's a blast, and definitely something for the whole family. It's so interactive that you sometimes forget it's a ride at all. And unlike some "shoot 'em up" attractions, such as Space Ranger Spin or Men In Black Alien Attack, you can actually feel where to aim. The shooting mechanism feels as though you are actually launching something and gives you greater control. Definitely easier for little ones to use.

This line can be long so I suggest getting a fast pass for this one as soon as you enter the park. Fastpasses go quick. They're extremely worth it for this attraction as this line is almost always over thirty minutes. Another tip, for those guests without little ones, is to hit this ride as you're leaving the park. The sign may say 25 minutes, but more than likely it will be a shorter wait than that. And, as a guest at the parks, you're able to get in line for a ride until the very minute before the park closes. Once you're in line they have to let you ride.

1. Fantasmic

Fantasmic was my favorite nighttime show as a teen. I hadn't quite come to appreciate IllumiNations yet and I thought I was a bit old for Wishes, but Fantasmic was exciting and so much more than a display of lasers and fireworks. This was a show with a very real story and actors. Fantasmic is still one of the most exciting night time shows in the World.

This show is only performed about every other night now. Be sure to look up the show times schedule before you leave for your trip and plan ahead for this show. It's can't miss. Also if you plan on seeing the first of the two shows be sure to get in line at least half an hour early (preferably more). That's the most crowded show on any given Fantasmic night. I suggest going to the second show if you're sans young children. It's less crowded and a bit easier to get into. I also suggest getting a snacks to take with you just before you get in line. More than likely you'll be in line for a while. You can always get more snacks once you're seated (they have concessions inside the theater).

Also (a tip I learned the hard way), if you're seeing the show anytime from late November to January be sure to bring a blanket. Believe it or not, it can be down right cold in Florida. If you don't bring a blanket, a hat, or gloves you'll be buying them because you won't be able to stand sitting in the cold with out them. Trust me.

Honorable Mention:

Muppet Vision 3D

Muppet Vision receives an honorable mention because it is pure family fun. Every one will enjoy it. The pre-show is just as good as the actual show so definitely don't miss that. Also, this attraction usually has a short wait so it's great for people who need to kill time in between Fastpasses. Don't forget to visit the Muppet store as you leave. Be sure to look around and up, you'll see actual sets and props from Muppet Movies through out the store.

The Can't Miss Seasonal Attraction:

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights

While I was on my College Program I visited these lights often. There were an amazing sight to behold. There were every where. So, when my parents came to visit I just knew I had to take them to see them as well. They were the Christmas event that my dad was the most impressed with in all of Disney World (and we went to the Christmas Party). This is definitely something you have to do if you're visiting the resort around the holidays. It's included with the price of your Hollywood Studios ticket so there's no extra fee to view it. Buy your self a cookie and some hot cocoa and take a stroll through these dazzling lights. You won't forget it. It will truly make your holidays much much brighter.

The Return of the Top 5!

So I haven't done a Top 5 list in a really long time and I used to do them all the time on this blog. So I thought I would do a few that I did before I left. Because they have definitely changed since then. The first one I'm going to do is my top 5 Disney World attractions over all and maybe after then I'll break it down park by park.

5. Living with the Land Boat Ride

I know not many people have this one in their top 5, but I've always been odd. Why stop now? There's just something about this attraction that I love! I think it's the greenhouse with all the awesome and interesting vegetables and plants. And then to see the innovations in agriculture is just absolutely intriguing to me. Plus I love to see the different shapes they've planted the different colors of lettuce in. (Look for that next time if you never have before). Also really interesting to me was the little plastic cases they grew certain plants in (melons, pumpkins, etc.) that would help it form the shape of a Mickey head. Plus I LOVE those Tomato Trees and the nine pound lemons! They're amazing!

It also feels so very classic Disney too. There's the really amazing beginning of the attraction with all the simulations of different environments, and then the super dramatic ending is always fun! Haha. Definitely check it out if you haven't before. It's worth at least one ride for normal people. But if you're a Disney freak like me you might want to ride several times over. ;) And don't worry about wasting valuable time! I never waited in line more than 5 minutes!

You'll find it in the lower levels of The Land pavilion at Epcot. It's on the opposite end from Soarin'. You know, that attraction with the insane wait time that everyone else will be walking toward.

4. Spaceship Earth

Yes, inside that great big white sphere is a ride. An epic ride through time and space where you watch the dawn of civilization and technology unfold. And all of it narrated by Dame Judi Dench.

How can you not love Spaceship Earth? It's got everything you need in a classic Disney attraction. Animatronics? Yep, it's got 'em. (Including one with a shabby beard that's passed out in his garage. He creeps me out every time. He's supposed to be asleep, but to me he just looks dead.) Dramatic narration that keeps you interested? Yep, it's got that too. Insane details and breathtaking scenes? Definitely has those. Classic campy Disney humor? Of course!

Spaceship Earth is the first attraction guests come across when they enter the park and I think it's the perfect start for any day at Epcot. It's sets the tone not just for Future World but for the World Showcase too. It's a must do for anyone visiting Epcot.

3. The Carousel of Progress

This attraction is the epitome of classic Disney. Originally created for the World's Fair by Walt Disney himself the Carousel of Progress has a long and impressive history with the Disney company. It was updated sometime in the early 1990s so the end is a bit dated, but in my opinion that makes it so much more fun! The Carousel of Progress takes you through important time periods in America. You follow John and his family through the years and see how technology changed within the American household. There's an amazing song that goes with it that I always sing along with. Each time period is set in a different season or on a different holiday.

It's full of all the things you expect from Walt's time with Disney. Animatronics, family fun, campy humor, nostalgia, and a certain respect for older technology that you don't find much anymore.

As a bonus this attraction is inside an air conditioned rotating theater. It's worth a ride if only to rest your feet and sit in the cool air. But don't fall asleep! This is a quality attraction that deserves to be properly enjoyed. You might just come away with a few inside jokes! Just ask my old room mate Michelle! Better yet you'll come away singing (and believing) "There's a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow."

2. Big Thunder Mountain

Big Thunder Mountain is the perfect coaster for the whole family. It's exciting but still a little tame. It swerves and dips unexpectedly but doesn't cause that tell-tale tummy flip. Plus there's the added bonus of a cute story about a sinking mine. Don't worry you won't get drenched on this one! But there a few tiny splashes of water here and there. They're more refreshing than inconvenient.

The last time I rode Big Thunder there was a little boy behind us with her mother and his grandfather. It was his very firs "big kid coaster". He was nervous before we got on the attraction. But after the ride was over he was the most precious thing ever. He could not get over just how much fun Big Thunder Mountain was. He ran up to his grandmother and made sure to brag about how brave and strong he was for surviving his first "real" coaster.

That moment seemed to sum up why I love Big Thunder. It's just thrilling enough without causing any real discomfort. Most people can ride this one without difficulty. Which means there are more opportunities for memories to be made on this attraction. Make sure you stop by and hitch a ride on that crazy mine train! You'll love it!

1. Splash Mountain

I can't deny that Splash Mountain is my favorite Disney World attraction. I can't seem to ride it enough (I also can't seem to find people who don't mind getting wet more than two times in a day so I don't get to ride it as often as some of the other rides). This is a wonderful ride that's also perfect for family fun.

There's an adorable story that follow Brer Rabbit. He's a sneaky little guy who tends to get in a lot of trouble. You follow him on his adventures through his little "village" full of other adorable creatures (make sure to look out for more "Brer" names. The details on this ride are fantastic.) then down to his "Laughing Place", and then you follow him as he's finally caught by Brer Bear and Brer Fox. Then it's down, down, down into the briar patch. Interestingly enough, it's not the actual drop that gets you wet or even the splash that follows it. No, you're sure to get soaked long before you ever get to the big drop. I won't tell you where, though. That will ruin the surprise.

Don't be afraid to sing along if you know the songs featured in the ride (and believe me you'll know at least one). Also if you're all alone and it's late at night, don't be afraid to scream really loud at every little drop. Somehow, it makes the ride ten times more enjoyable.

And there you go. Those are my current top 5. Definately different from what they were before I left for my college program. Enjoy!

Make sure you visit these attractions if you're planning to visit Disney World any time soon!