Latest news with #themePark
Gizmodo
16 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Gizmodo
Disney Parks Animatronics, Rated Yearbook-Style
Walt Disney is just the latest animatronic to be featured in Disney Parks' experiences and attractions. The figure debuted for Disneyland's 70th birthday at the Main Street Opera House, headlining a new show. In Walt Disney – A Magical Life, you can come face-to-face with the man behind the name, programmed to present his history as Imagineering's latest tech feat. The figure joins the legacy of Disney's contribution to theme park advancements, combining animation and robotics for his animatronics, which started with a bird and now bears the face of its creator. And he's not the only memorable animatronic to grace Disney Parks with his presence. Here are some other notable entries, with yearbook-style superlatives to explain the impressions they make. He's always getting unsuspecting tourists to do coaxium runs for him on the Millennium Falcon. If you're not careful, you'll land on the First Order's suspect list. And unfortunately, if that happens, Hondo might be MIA, just as his animatronic so often is. And only after they try to follow you home first, like the Hitchhiking Ghosts. Dr. Jones spends the entire ride complaining that he has to save our skins; it's glorious. Plus he's the original stuntronic, always having to dangle in front of that incoming boulder. The lore behind her soft-serve-ice-cream-looking hair of yesteryear haunts the internet; we're glad she was able to get her look fixed. Seeing Tiana in her mother's fashions and iconic 1920s New Orleans textiles and textures makes this our pick for best dressed. That goes for the rest of the characters too, especially once the ride gets to its showstopping finale. That Figment, always up to some nonsense, but at least he's full of imagination and lots of surprising sights and smells to discover. It's no contest; being able to meet and greet an interactive Baby Yoda who makes the noises makes us want to protect him at all costs too. Yeah—more like succeeding in leading the animatronic uprising for having to sing that earworm of a song for 70 years. Geoffrey Rush's iconic performance as Captain Barbossa also got its own animatronic inside Disneyland's Pirates of the Caribbean and fits right in so well, many don't realize he's being featured. The real pirate's pirate, our apple-a-day king—he's just missing the monkey, Jack. That's one very realistic animatronic. And like in the Avatar movies, it sees you. They're the OG blueprint of the animatronics, so we'll allow it for another 70 years at least. Spidey does the flips in one of the most thrilling moments at Avengers Campus, where the 'struntronic' flies through the sky before an actor takes over the performance! Even more excitingly, sometimes the robot webslinger misses. This goat is the 'GOAT' 🐐 #Disney #DisneyParks #DisneyWorld #BigThunderMountain #GoatTrick #Goat #Rollercoaster #Coaster #Disney100 ♬ original sound – Disney Parks Not only is it still proudly perched in its spot, it provides the distraction to make the coaster all the more thrilling. Never forget to look at the goat and lock in. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what's next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
Daily Mail
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Disney World announces another major change
Disney World fans were left 'in tears' after the theme park announced another major change following a slew of shocking ride closures. In recent months, Disney has been continuously slammed by many of its longtime fans for doing away with numerous beloved attractions and areas to make way for new ones. And now, it has been revealed that another update is coming to Hollywood Studios... and this one has left people all across the web emotional. The company announced on Tuesday that it will be replacing the Star Wars : Launch Bay with a new experience called The Magic of Disney Animation. In a press release, Disney described it as 'a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences' and vowed that it will 'bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.' The Star Wars: Launch Bay is a spot where fans can 'celebrate all things Star Wars and come face-to-face with Characters from the legendary space saga.' People quickly rushed to X, formerly Twitter , to share their thoughts on the upcoming change to the park. And while many previous changes were met with fierce criticism, people seemed ecstatic over this announcement. 'I like it. It's a relatively inexpensive way to bring new life into what was a very dead area of the park. Not everything can be $100 million new attractions. Solid move,' one user wrote. 'This is a good change this park needs offerings focused on the elementary school kids,' agreed another. Someone else added, 'That section of the park was so lame so this sounds great!' 'I think that this is a good and very necessary change to Hollywood Studios which feels a lot like an IP dumping ground right now,' read a fourth tweet. 'Actually interactive activities that aren't rides being added into a dead area is so needed.' 'What a great way to use the space for families and pay homage to what made Disney great,' said a fifth. 'As a former Star Wars: Launch Bay performer, I will be sad to see this space go. But, as an overall Disney and theme park fan, this is the right choice,' gushed a different user. 'We are going into Disney's future with a look backwards at what this space used to be, a focus on Disney Animation.' 'I am so here for this transformation. Instead of making the area into a singular IP land, we are getting a tribute to the animators that make IP lands possible. Thrilled to see this!' praised another. Someone else described it as the 'best Disney news' they had heard in 'ages,' while another user said it was 'step in a better direction.' Some people even admitted that the news had made them cry. 'I'm in tears right now,' one user wrote, while another said, 'Not even gonna lie - I'm legit tearing up on the way to work right now at the news.' But other users weren't as excited and shared their dismay. 'Good grief, another cheap quick fix that will be empty in a month. People want rides. These parks lack rides, bulldoze all of this and build three new rides,' urged one user. 'Trying not to be negative, but really would've like to see this space utilized for a future ride or two,' agreed another. Disney noted in the press release that the building will be topped with a giant Mickey's Sorcerer Hat - just like the real Roy E. Disney Animation Building in California. 'Our story in this newly reimagined space begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away… but the building is still buzzing with activity as the characters have come to life and they're ready to play,' reads a description. 'Inside, you will interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. 'Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.' There will be 'playful and interactive moments around every corner' and portraits will 'come to life before your eyes.' 'You'll even pencil in some time to learn how to draw your very own character sketch,' Disney added. Younger guests will be able to play in the 'Drawn to Wonderland' playground that will be 'filled with an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area, all inspired by the original Alice in Wonderland concept art.' In addition to the 'whimsical indoor play area' there will be tons of chances to meet characters, Disney promised. The 'entire courtyard' surrounding the building is set to be 'reimagined' to look like the real Walt Disney Studios, 'taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank.' It will open in 2026. To make way for it, Animation Courtyard, Star Wars: Launch Bay, and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. The new The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure show will stay open during this time, and over at the soundstage nearby expect a 'fresh' Disney Jr. show.
Daily Mail
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Disney World fans left in 'tears' as theme park announces ANOTHER major change after slew of ride closures
Disney World fans were left 'in tears' after the theme park announced another major change following a slew of shocking ride closures. In recent months, Disney has been continuously slammed by many of its longtime fans for doing away with numerous beloved attractions and areas to make way for new ones. And now, it has been revealed that another update is coming to Hollywood Studios... and this one has left people all across the web emotional. The company announced on Tuesday that it will be replacing the Star Wars: Launch Bay with a new experience called The Magic of Disney Animation. In a press release, Disney described it as 'a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences' and vowed that it will 'bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.' The Star Wars: Launch Bay is a spot where fans can 'celebrate all things Star Wars and come face-to-face with Characters from the legendary space saga.' People quickly rushed to X, formerly Twitter, to share their thoughts on the upcoming change to the park. And while many previous changes were met with fierce criticism, people seemed ecstatic over this announcement. 'I like it. It's a relatively inexpensive way to bring new life into what was a very dead area of the park. Not everything can be $100 million new attractions. Solid move,' one user wrote. 'This is a good change this park needs offerings focused on the elementary school kids,' agreed another. Someone else added, 'That section of the park was so lame so this sounds great!' 'I think that this is a good and very necessary change to Hollywood Studios which feels a lot like an IP dumping ground right now,' read a fourth tweet. 'Actually interactive activities that aren't rides being added into a dead area is so needed.' 'What a great way to use the space for families and pay homage to what made Disney great,' said a fifth. 'As a former Star Wars: Launch Bay performer, I will be sad to see this space go. But, as an overall Disney and theme park fan, this is the right choice,' gushed a different user. 'We are going into Disney's future with a look backwards at what this space used to be, a focus on Disney Animation.' The 'entire courtyard' surrounding the building is set to be 'reimagined' to look like the real Walt Disney Studios, 'taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank' 'I am so here for this transformation. Instead of making the area into a singular IP land, we are getting a tribute to the animators that make IP lands possible. Thrilled to see this!' praised another. Someone else described it as the 'best Disney news' they had heard in 'ages,' while another user said it was 'step in a better direction.' Some people even admitted that the news had made them cry. 'I'm in tears right now,' one user wrote, while another said, 'Not even gonna lie - I'm legit tearing up on the way to work right now at the news.' But other users weren't as excited and shared their dismay. 'Good grief, another cheap quick fix that will be empty in a month. People want rides. These parks lack rides, bulldoze all of this and build three new rides,' urged one user. 'Trying not to be negative, but really would've like to see this space utilized for a future ride or two,' agreed another. Disney noted in the press release that the building will be topped with a giant Mickey's Sorcerer Hat - just like the real Roy E. Disney Animation Building in California. 'Our story in this newly reimagined space begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away… but the building is still buzzing with activity as the characters have come to life and they're ready to play,' reads a description. 'Inside, you will interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. 'Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.' There will be 'playful and interactive moments around every corner' and portraits will 'come to life before your eyes.' 'You'll even pencil in some time to learn how to draw your very own character sketch,' Disney added. Younger guests will be able to play in the 'Drawn to Wonderland' playground that will be 'filled with an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area, all inspired by the original Alice in Wonderland concept art.' In addition to the 'whimsical indoor play area' there will be tons of chances to meet characters, Disney promised. The 'entire courtyard' surrounding the building is set to be 'reimagined' to look like the real Walt Disney Studios, 'taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank.' It will open in 2026. To make way for it, Animation Courtyard, Star Wars: Launch Bay, and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. The new The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure show will stay open during this time, and over at the soundstage nearby expect a 'fresh' Disney Jr. show.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Thrilling Adventure Island ride reopens after two-year closure and £350,000 refurb
A LEGENDARY Adventure Island ride has reopened to thill-seeking visitors after a massive £350,000 restoration. The Time Machine ride has been described as one of the park's most high-octane attractions, stretching 38 metres into the sky. Bosses at the Western Esplanade theme park say the ride is now "better than ever" and have thanked the team of engineers and artists behind its much-anticipated return. We're now on WhatsApp! Join our new channel at to get all the latest breaking news and exclusive stories delivered straight to your phone. Philip Miller, Adventure Island's owner, said: 'Fantastic news for all our loyal customers — at long last, the Time Machine is back in action. Thrill - The ride has been described as one of the park's most high-octane (Image: Adventure Island) "This ride is completely unique — originally designed and built from scratch by our talented in-house team over 12 years ago. "It's now fully restored, thoroughly tested, and officially approved by ride inspectors — ready and waiting for you to climb aboard. Read more Tributes paid to talented X Factor star from Southend following tragic death Trust unable to find replacement for south Essex school headteacher before new term Family pay tribute to Southend 18-year-old after suspected drug death in Ibiza "Huge thanks to our incredible engineering team, and a special shout-out to workshop manager Tim Sykes, who's treated this like a personal mission from day one. The team's even started calling it 'The Tim Machine' — and rightly so." Restoration - Adventure Island staff with the newly refurbished ride (Image: Adventure Island) Adventure Island estimates that £350,000 has been spent on the expert restoration of the 38-metre ride, which is taller than the park's existing City Wheel attraction. Following the restoration, it is now able to seat 16 thrill seekers at a time and will also be cycled as a rotating viewing tower on occasion.
The Independent
3 days ago
- The Independent
Daunted by a Disney theme park trip? How ‘Mouse Counselors' can plan it all and make you feel like a VIP
Booking a trip to a Disney theme park can be a daunting experience even for seasoned Disney vacationers. The options for passes, restaurants, rides and hotels are seemingly infinite, and what's on offer continually changes. And then there's the terminology to get to grips with, from "Lightning Lanes" to "rope drop". Recognizing that it's all too easy for the Happiest Place on Earth to become one of the most confusing and frustrating, a cottage industry of planning and support agencies has emerged to offer Disney-goers a helping hand with the planning and booking — and understanding what's worth doing and what isn't. "Mouse Counselors" is one such company, formed in 2008 by the husband-and-wife team of Phil and Bonnie Marino, who explain that their counselors are 'graduates of the College of Disney Knowledge' (an online training program for Disney travel agents). There are caveats to bear in mind, as we explain, but Sebastian Garrido, from Mexico City, tells The Independent that this firm "was the very reason a recent trip to Walt Disney World did not end up being totally overwhelming". So, how does the Mouse Counselors service work? First, the customer is sent a form to fill out that details the ride and restaurant options, with a weekly email explaining parts of the experience in more detail. Nearer the departure time, you'll have a Zoom review with your "Mouse Counselor", which is a chance to run through any outstanding questions. When you arrive at the park, you won't be armed with an itinerary as such, but if your 'counselor' has done their job, you'll know which rides you should aim for at rope drop — early entrance for those staying at a Disney resort — and which you should add to Lightning Lane multi and single passes. Mouse Counselors are also trained to reveal the rides for which a pass would be redundant, because they don't get booked up or have a very high capacity. The result should be a trip unscarred by soul-destroying queues. To add to the VIP vibe, Mouse Counselors aim to secure reservations at difficult-to-book restaurants. Sebastian, the digital marketing manager and copywriter at Vibe Adventures, said: "Mouse Counselors got us into Oga's Cantina and Space 220, the latter of which I had been attempting to book on my own unsuccessfully. It was all done for us." He added: "We didn't have to think about Genie+, Lightning Lanes, or dining reservations, they took care of everything and even made changes on the fly when weather disrupted our plans." Praise for Mouse Counselors was also posted to a dedicated Facebook page by a couple listed as Matt and Nicole, who said that counselor Tracey helped them 'learn, navigate and plan their trip'. They added: "It was so comforting knowing that we didn't have to worry about reservation conflicts. She was able to help us book the restaurant reservations we had hoped for and sent us great information and tips to plan for our trip. It went perfectly!" Giving Disney-goers the feeling that they're being looked after by a personal butler is also what Pixie Vacations strives for. It's run by former Walt Disney World employee Steven Griswold and his wife and helps plan Disney World, Disneyland and Disney Cruise Line vacations. Steven told The Independent: "We really focus on your particular family and what type of vacation you are looking for. 'For example, if you have young kids you might be more interested in the Magic Kingdom and booking a Disney resort close to the Magic Kingdom that is on the monorail or walkable, so you can quickly get back to your resort for an afternoon nap instead of waiting for a bus and a travel time to and from the Magic Kingdom park." If all this sounds expensive, you're in for a shock, because neither Mouse Counselors nor Pixie Vacations charge a fee if you book with them. Instead, they're paid a commission by Disney for each trip booked. Steven reveals: "We don't charge any fees, so booking with us at Pixie Vacations costs you no additional amount and you get our first-hand experience and tips from actually being in the parks. "We are not a call center paid to get as many people booked as possible and off the phone. "We work with you to learn about your vacation preferences and budget and then offer suggestions that fit your needs. "We are also always looking at what new offers there are and checking to see if a new special offer saves you money. If there are new discounts, we will move your reservation to the lower-priced offer. "Disney will not move you to better deals without you knowing about the specific new offer and you calling them and waiting to talk to someone about changing your booking." Is the system too good to be true? Sebastian, 27, noted happily that he "didn't pay a cent over the cost of booking with Disney directly" and Pixie Vacations customer Michelle Thornton, from Georgia, told The Independent: "Pixie Vacations' services are free. But honestly, even if they weren't, I would still use them to book our Disney vacations. They're just that good." Despite this gushing praise, there is a warning to heed. While booking with travel services such as Mouse Counselors and Pixie Vacations is free, their usefulness does depend on how much money you spend, according to one customer, who told us: 'You should be prepared to stay at the resorts, buy lots of passes and go to the restaurants, which does bump up the cost of the trip substantially."
