Jump to content
  TPR Home | Parks | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram 

Photo TR: If It's Fall, It Must Be Walt Disney World


Recommended Posts

I didn't head down to Florida for Halloween Horror Nights this year, and to be honest, I didn't miss it at all. But I would be a Sad Panda, indeed, if I didn't spend at least one evening at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. Yes, we all need our little traditions, and hitting Walt Disney World in the fall and hanging out with friends is one of mine.

 

It's always fun to try a different resort whenever you visit the Orlando Disney parks. Last February over my birthday, I shared a cabin with the Alveys at the Fort Wilderness Campground, and it was great; this time, it was a room in the Surf's Up building of Disney's All-Star Sports Resort with Cameron Silver. This was my first time at one of WDW's "budget" resorts, and I liked it. The room is lightly themed (if basic), and the grounds are very pretty (as you'd expect from Disney). It was also surprisingly quiet for a place that caters to family groups. However, this image from the food court at breakfast sums up the place perfectly: Imagine a man pushing a double stroller containing two kids and dealing with two other kids, all while balancing two trays of food on one arm and trying to get a couple of bottles of juice from a large refrigerator. I waited for something to fall and for the guy to slip and land in a pile of scrambled eggs and Mickey Mouse waffles while his children laughed or wept, but he pulled it off. How he kept his sanity is beyond my understanding. Overall, Cameron and I liked All-Star Sports, although it can't hold a jockstrap to Saratoga Springs, where some of the group were sharing a suite (the elevator there was fancier than our room).

 

We started our first full-park day with Extra Magic Hours at Disney's Hollywood Studios, followed by lunch at Splitsville at Disney Springs and a great night at the Magic Kingdom. I imagine that this will be my last look at the "old" DHS. I first visited this park in 1998, when Tower of Terror was a mere four years old and Rock'n'Roller Coaster was just a sign announcing "coming soon." I also admit to having a bit of a soft spot for the Great Movie Ride, as corny as it is (I wish the new TCM sponorship had led to a more substantial upgrade, rather than just a new movie and the end and new narration). It's hard to believe that much of what I saw back then, and just last weekend, is going to be completely different in a few years; then again, I think it'll be a good change. I enjoy DHS, but there is so much wasted space in that park once you get past Star Tours.

 

That being said, we had a lot of fun at DHS that day (and later that week). Here's a look.

001.thumb.jpg.9b23a574b83f48fed5f3a239a1bae840.jpg

Here was our home base from November 6-10. Cowabunga, indeed.

002.thumb.jpg.567788899874b136f8f8c689a7b9175a.jpg

I like how they theme the stairwells to look like lifeguard stations--very nice touch.

003.thumb.jpg.5b20e78244b0c047e472c681fd8f944d.jpg

But I am puzzled by this shower curtain. So, Daisy plays baseball, Mickey plays basketball, Minnie is into tennis, and Donald is a very angry football player. So, Goofy is what--a gymnast?

004.jpg.4441291f0be4ae1010469bd6c6641d46.jpg

Wow--it sure is crowded at Disney California Adventure today . . . wait a minute.

005.thumb.jpg.dfdfd7f91126ee2227b090a7182a1c77.jpg

Nope. Not missing the hat at all, although it appears that the park is tilting a bit to the left. Maybe removing the hat screwed up the feng shui.

006.jpg.450dda6d5dfa6275b3fda989a08000c4.jpg

This was the first attraction I ever rode at Walt Disney World, and it's still the best.

007.jpg.df3ebd5fcd0507476efee270dd058931.jpg

It's too bad you can't really book a room at this hotel.

008.thumb.jpg.c9c0808dfeb7f297a600c9469d27dc0a.jpg

I mean, you can't beat the ambiance.

009.jpg.4a013c9eb2a3edcc0bb418eda009ce0e.jpg

"Remember, at the Hollywood Tower Hotel, your heart may belong to your mama, but your butt, and any other loose object, belongs to . . .

009a.jpg.442359357a539e41689bdba53dc15f66.jpg

. . . the Twilight Zone." (My thanks to Robb for sharing the Photo Pass pics.)

010.jpg.11f7ea52af963f30725ea7f205fbcf73.jpg

I wonder if Hanes supplies Aerosmith with all their underwear needs, too.

011.jpg.3e357c5e720e8c0b9baabf159d193095.jpg

"I got the part in that horror movie with Kevin Bacon? Whew! And I thought this dumb pre-show was going to be the end of my career."

012.jpg.897f49bc663f59aa1a6b091173ff48c8.jpg

This old Vekoma was running pretty well that day.

013.thumb.jpg.58ca6c2799309d35745809e5f9d030dd.jpg

This is the view when you're stuck on the final brake run for a few extra minutes. You're welcome.

014.jpg.12944848d9477a3ab152517aea17e506.jpg

Nope. Still not missing the hat.

015.jpg.c2d9ccc47d8af2e6f463d5ac90da89fa.jpg

What the heck is Disney doing with uniforms from "Star Trek: The Motion Sickness"?

016.jpg.cdc1bc57dc5fab6cc1e558fc75fa8122.jpg

As I said earlier, I do have a soft spot for this ride--for the old Disney animatronic dark rides in general, when you get down to it.

017.jpg.96aafa69d91cde0e07caf3c57572893f.jpg

I feel sorry for any horse that had to tote the Duke around in his later years. He got pretty damn heavy.

018.jpg.182607c9af2aec42d37ba7f181ea2c51.jpg

"Howdy! I'm here to introduce the one thing that makes any ride better . . .

019.jpg.fff69114cefbde242d8d32a27ffbc4d5.jpg

. . . FIRE!"

020.jpg.6ed7c5d40bf07a6ffa07bd314796cac1.jpg

"YES! YES! MORE FIRE NOW!"

021.jpg.413a8484602c4e2d4bd869f0643e3bfd.jpg

"Then again, . . .

022.jpg.ae15b0d2d2d979b646f54d7f8ae7ccec.jpg

. . . maybe that was a mite too much fire."

023.jpg.e6ef0cd062c728e2fcc803b540ac2b62.jpg

Speaking of fire, allow me to share an amusing anecdote--and a photo of a frightening Munchkin.

024.jpg.7bed96391c581c3400dc06563f7f2f4f.jpg

Margaret "Wicked Witch" Hamilton was badly burned while doing a take of her disappearing scene and was laid up for weeks. The pyro used in the scene caught set her dress aflame, and she suffered second- and third-degree burns on her face and hands. Her stunt woman was also burned, and her legs permanently scarred, when the Witch's broomstick exploded during the "Surrender Dorothy" skywriting scene. For some reason, they don't share this charming story during the ride.

025.jpg.8a0bb6a53e77a5af7c0ddb42ad94f586.jpg

"Attention! By order of Emperor Palpatine, no one is to peek over the construction wall while we refurbish the 'Jedi Training Academy' stage. All who do will be vaporized or 'Force choked' by Darth Vader. That is all. Enjoy your tour."

026.thumb.jpg.9607460a6bf019131f2401aa3d6ed3d8.jpg

Ewoks are very safety conscious.

027.jpg.7da68553d736a3311457d3991cd9a9b5.jpg

If you ever need an Ewok to shut up, just push this button.

028.jpg.93882fb654165bc50a360771dd3669b1.jpg

Better than the TSA staff at any U.S. airport.

029.jpg.7e1b4f1b94fc51720d7cd10486ea21e6.jpg

"You the diagnostic droid? Good! Fix the 'Ewok Mute' button, and shut those little bastards up!"

030.jpg.fee277939e9026b981b450924d7e346d.jpg

We were a bit early for the Osbourne Lights. I guess I'll never get to see them lit up in person.

031.jpg.20a82a6fe380b4308b745ecb0e1ad926.jpg

I assume this will all be pretty much gone by this time next year.

032.jpg.601b59f7905b266a2607fdcfe5578a5d.jpg

Happy Hanukkah from Disney's Hollywood Studios--onward!

Edited by cfc
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Replies 50
  • Created
  • Last Reply

Top Posters In This Topic

After chowing down at Splitsville and hanging out for a bit at Saratoga Springs, we headed to the Magic Kingdom, where we had Fast Passes for Big Thunder Mountain, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Space Mountain, which made for a great, relaxed evening. Well, as relaxed as the most popular theme park in the world can be. Here are a few highlights from that night:

 

1. A truly insane ride on Space Mountain, in which the three biggest guys (which included me) sat in the front train, thus resulting in crazy speed and truly scary airtime in a few spots. I'm surprised that we didn't rip a hole in the space time continuum.

 

2. The castle show, where Elsa "lets it go" and leaves a big snowy, icy mess for Cinderella's maintenance crew to clean up.

 

3. Amazing rides on Big Thunder (which was running great) and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. (Seriously, does anyone miss the old Snow White ride now? This is so much better.)

 

Join us, won't you?

033.jpg.6a49ca554fd749e68ac8eadac8bd2a83.jpg

Time for some bowling-alley tacos and sushi.

034.jpg.a151ff9b4ce84bb467d43a0aec837242.jpg

Mom approves of bowling as a "healthy activity."

035.jpg.2c39b61692a2a2233a7577aa6d262a1d.jpg

Well, I guess I just blew the "healthy" part.

036.jpg.f4cf4258e5e3c2a14db52e810a3e82bc.jpg

Mom is so annoyed with Jake now.

037.thumb.jpg.85b292bb58cfb827b5e1037f37c34a01.jpg

This is the first time I've seen this balloon in flight. Wouldn't mind trying it someday.

038.jpg.a025725af14746407acdfff887938809.jpg

As I said earlier, Saratoga Springs is a really nice resort.

039.jpg.79cab4550844c09dde1c163b38f0876e.jpg

Disney Springs is coming along nicely.

040.jpg.e2800b6fba61daec7ec5543108baf426.jpg

Hmm--bit too soon for me.

041.jpg.a4931ee66e9571c71fa77dfcad40ec3c.jpg

I always love the warm welcome you get at the Magic Kingdom . . .

042.jpg.6dc808ebe1b4798aa1edf37689b5c3f1.jpg

. . . OK that's a bit rude.

043.jpg.70863b8db5d648004dafcee00ca40a43.jpg

Nah, we didn't do any jingle cruising this trip.

044.jpg.2842b8080b0a50f5245f0d118ea5673b.jpg

Big Thunder remains a "Christmas-free" zone for now.

045.jpg.ac79dd77a6bb93524d4c316ef2264c2d.jpg

Choose thy fate! Actually, you end up going on the same ride, so your fate is preordained. So much for freewill.

046.jpg.ffe77161badf975d5b01de5d09768320.jpg

Comfy, Cameron? Joey and John will try very hard not to crush you.

047.thumb.jpg.c1c826264428efb66f487862e125decf.jpg

Big Thunder: The Rave.

048.jpg.a2b64823f47b6db3ab7e69ff6c713f17.jpg

Good night, Big Thunder! I imagine you'll be festooned with Christmas decorations soon enough.

049.jpg.39cfd511e8e10d1a6bd0533949af07d8.jpg

I really like what they've done with Fantasyland . . .

050.jpg.fce4156e79d4332c2c9c48ef911e7e05.jpg

. . . particularly this.

051.jpg.f9fd1e806ab81fec1061aa0fbadcaa1e.jpg

OK, just what did they slip into my steak tacos at Splitsville? I'm seeing bright lights and dwarfs! How will I come down from this trip?

051a.thumb.jpg.9a72d0a675ee137e286a1f1b0de203ba.jpg

How about like this?

052.jpg.e8e260902a10c5ed91d321a674cdd22b.jpg

Relax, Jacob. Elsa's not going to freeze a smile on your face.

053.jpg.2b134ce0e52907fbf39acae2b2b33742.jpg

We were somewhat more comfortable. Not so sure about Elsa, though.

054.jpg.7da94fa6b0d8d74d8bca81b5ccacd688.jpg

Anna likes hanging out with big, strapping ice harvesters--like us!

055.thumb.jpg.4f49c79ce11c5b4fdc6f308323fd5138.jpg

Speaking of Frozen . . .

056.jpg.e535135dd84870cdcc34b1e5f6f85386.jpg

Cinderella has no idea what's coming.

057.jpg.160288afbe7fb2f420aa473b589f305e.jpg

"Hey, it's hot as summer tonight! Perfect--even though it means my untimely death!"

058.jpg.e26ee3c1d638155304e36bfd8d8c8367.jpg

Elsa took pity on the sweating, smelly multitudes in front of her . . .

059.thumb.jpg.9097274f9079ad7bb162a02d0ed35949.jpg

. . . and decided to freeze everything.

060.thumb.jpg.3f883334df6b977ebed9a17ad97debab.jpg

"Hello, housekeeping? This is Art in Facilities. Looks like the princess's guests from, er, Rivendell, or wherever, just conjured up a bunch of ice and snow. Yeah, it's gonna take a lot of rock salt and shoveling to handle this. And I don't even want to be around when this crap melts. Yep, moat's gonna overflow for sure." More to come.

Edited by cfc
Link to comment
Share on other sites

One more set of photos from the Magic Kingdom, then good night.

061.jpg.be7459a3b4677b7c7164cec90f18f6d4.jpg

Yes, I imagine Cinderella's calling her insurance provider to see if she has snow-and-ice coverage.

062.thumb.jpg.19777a8ff10226906eceb87bb864285d.jpg

We ran for Tomorrowland before the ice melted and moat overflowed. No telling how diseased that moat water was!

063.jpg.7cc1e93cd269603bb707e372d88321f0.jpg

Spider-man is at Disney World!

064.jpg.7c64c456ae35f806eb9e6a848ec97eec.jpg

It's always the right time for a relaxing ride on the Peoplemover--right Disneyland?

065.thumb.jpg.a2ffaf9cddfeaa0b5f70e514b53e68ac.jpg

Time for the most insane ride on Space Mountain ever!

066.jpg.8b8ffbe21831b97b57201341aacd84a4.jpg

"OK, some of us may not come back alive. But remember--this is for the advancement of science!

067.jpg.b75d55cfadfdab04dd1015c6cc779776.jpg

I'm totally booking this resort the next time I visit WDW.

068.jpg.02e2a682575b2e94f9c707b5ab1bfbf6.jpg

Welcome to DCA . . .

069.jpg.72173cbcdd045ae2a4a4e9d0fc4ec6bd.jpg

. . . but with a much nicer queue.

070.jpg.24d5340f433ca9fb79e15ce9d8aa111a.jpg

"If you show me your whatsits, I'll show you my whosits."

070a.jpg.45d7cfdb68db629a42e1038e82000431.jpg

Wait till you get a load of my whosits, guys!"

071.jpg.1243cb23fa6d79c6d0c79520a8775bfd.jpg

"I'll rock your whatsits tonight!"

072.jpg.e087c99d05af91365d3a6fbba84a5b38.jpg

An extra moody shot of the Haunted Mansion.

075.jpg.e44148c067b032fb3a813e74a3e9df67.jpg

Starring a mime as Madame Leota.

076.jpg.5e97de3094d194f15dce0f7643cea613.jpg

"Come on--you know you want me! So what if my wit is a bit . . . sharp? You won't have to listen to me for long."

077.jpg.2f669b4ecdb6c35508d419a4e701dd44.jpg

Looks like their evening was a bust.

078.thumb.jpg.c69f2b48323d65423547601104e7a5e4.jpg

We finished the night on Pirates of the Caribbean.

079.jpg.cc8f2a64de4f6fe7d00b05eba4d61468.jpg

"Yo ho, yo ho, it's Food & Wine for me!"

080.jpg.76b9280ed1dede9edbb6638b7d0bbdad.jpg

"Arr! This rum goes will with the Crispy Pork Belly at the Brazil booth, sez I!"

081.thumb.jpg.d80dddad3f5456a65f1617a0d8d1c9d2.jpg

"Be a mate and fetch me some Yard Bird and Pot Stickers, won't you? A little Fondue wouldn't be amiss, either."

082.jpg.2457abeb5687c4719ab36d9dc1a88afe.jpg

That's all from the Magic Kingdom. Good night.

Edited by cfc
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Great pictures Chuck. Glad you got one last look at the "old" DHS. I'm with you on the Great Movie Ride -- it's still one of my favorites, and with a good cast member it can be a lot of fun.

 

Forget the loaded car on Space Mountain -- I have no idea how three adults in a row on Big Thunder is even remotely a good idea.

 

I've stayed at that same building at All-Star Sports -- very convenient, even if it's not my favorite hotel in the world.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

 

I've stayed at that same building at All-Star Sports -- very convenient, even if it's not my favorite hotel in the world.

 

It is in a good location, especially if you have a rental car. I thought it was pretty easy getting from the resort to the parks and Disney Springs (which has a very good new parking garage). I thought All-Star Sports was quite good for the price we paid; besides, we were just there to sleep and shower (and have breakfast), anyway.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Great trip report, really enjoyed it! Your comments gave me a couple of good laughs. I have go to there for the Christmas celebration some time, the castle looks amazing lit up like that.

 

I enjoy DHS, but there is so much wasted space in that park once you get past Star Tours.

 

Once I get past Star Tours I always get lost. While DHS is not a big park, it has a bit of a confusing layout. Looking forward to see what they do with the place.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Nah, we didn't do any jingle cruising this trip.

GOOD! Trust me, the ride is NOT any different! In fact, it's WORSE!

 

I did do the Jingle Cruise at Disneyland last year, and thought it was OK. A bit silly, but I had a good skipper that trip.

 

And the Great Movie Ride still wishes it was Hollywood Tour.

 

dt

 

Every dark ride wishes it was Hollywood Tour!

 

Great trip report though Chuck but I can't help but be a little disappointed by the lack of Tangled Toilets in the Magic Kingdom update!

792495144_TangledToiletsTower.thumb.jpg.15ba2000de477befd06f03a19547ae0a.jpg

This is the only shot that I got of Tangled Toilets, Craig. You can sort of make out the tower from Frontierland. ;)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Disney's Animal Kingdom is, indeed, unique among the resort's four parks in that Frozen has no presence there; however, I'm sure they're working on it. This is just an observation. I rather like Frozen, and it is still a very hot property for Disney.

 

Well, despite being a "Frozen-free zone," I've always rather liked DAK and think it's a bit underrated among theme-park fans. I agree that it could use more attractions (and those are on the way), but it is a beautiful park--second only to Tokyo DisneySea, in my opinion. And what attractions it has are quite good. Expedition Everest, even in "Disco Yeti" mode, is a very good coaster, Kilimanjaro Safari is well done (especially when you have a great guide, as we did that day), Dinosaur is so dumb it must be experienced, and Yak and Yeti is one of the resort's best restaurants. There's quite a bit to like, if you can ignore Chester and Hester's Dino Rama.

 

I always like trying new things whenever I visit WDW, and I caught Festival of the Lion King for the first time. It's a good show if you're into acrobats pretending to be monekys, and it does have the one thing that makes any show or ride better--fire. Would I see it again? Probably not, but it's still a step or two above shows at other theme parks and offers a lot of spectacle.

 

We also hit Food & Wine at Epcot that evening. But let's start with a day at Animal Kingdom.

001.jpg.3d0d3e30faa4121efaee842ab3c97526.jpg

It was definitely hot and muggy enough for us to be in Africa or southern Asia that day.

002.thumb.jpg.9b181aa33206671c901136fa06e7478e.jpg

You know, if plants developed intelligence and could walk around, they'd wipe us out within a week . . . oh my god!

003.jpg.b04287354b0ace2ec1a7e87728e5a9e1.jpg

Bow before our plant overlords! It's your only chance! I welcome their enlightened dominion over our world!

004.jpg.03fa338e01fe15f1012f3eb317ef7d9c.jpg

Sheesh! That scaffolding is still here? Haven't those monkeys finished that building yet?

005.jpg.5ff2059da26a720b1facb49aba5afe08.jpg

Time to seek the elusive Disco Yeti.

006.jpg.efe2305633fa728a46efa8cd6853eab9.jpg

The many moves of Disco Yeti.

007.jpg.6c96da5829cdc85ecba4bdfb357a2463.jpg

Noted!

008.thumb.jpg.366dd2650ea239439758c133cefc39ab.jpg

See the red mark on the statue? That's the blood of the last person who failed to "respect ancient Mandir Pagoda."

009.jpg.0117a4437ccd0185e18301b9ebba1b3b.jpg

Do not disrespect the tea!

010.jpg.9f816afdcff892ee2793cfd9958c33e8.jpg

This is a yak . . .

011.thumb.jpg.3ff2ea85e83d869ef5b8f1db2f4fcf25.jpg

. . . and this is a Yeti. This is also called "foreshadowing."

014.jpg.c2f23bca9d526d8c258ea13611909c84.jpg

"Hot damn! Let's go bag us a Yeti!"

015.jpg.5b5af14d97dacd77bc7ab5e7ab95303c.jpg

I'm so looking forward to seeing Bird on a Stick!

016.jpg.b7820fdf813fad68dcf01ac552cb82cc.jpg

Oh, darn it.

017.jpg.c513e9c1fd54a0f1badfa10eb1f7142e.jpg

"STAYIN' ALIVE! STAYIN' ALIVE!"

018.jpg.e01fea0c59b1f6e0d1ef4ccff1537d0a.jpg

We failed to catch a Yeti, but did find this adorable Yeti Kitty.

019.jpg.802f8167f35389d9079f88de0154091a.jpg

If you're not ready to get down with Disco Yeti . . .

020.jpg.d7e324dcc484ecc80552e800a5607eed.jpg

. . . this will be your fate.

021.thumb.jpg.6af120af7a798d3a10f95b9c92e184f9.jpg

Like I said--foreshadowing.

022.thumb.jpg.e88e9248ca1c2d46fe209bfb5d5ca16a.jpg

If you're interested in booking a room at Disney's Yeti Palace Hotel, you might what to jump on it. I think it's almost finished. I'm reasonably sure it will have a suite themed to "Anna and Elsa meet the Lion King."

023.jpg.a3a4ff440ca553c8242d3feed48f1600.jpg

Fortunately, we have Fast Passes.

024.thumb.jpg.49d163a93d0cc0c8e9af9c54bf11af48.jpg

Unfortunately, we didn't see a giant mouse with buttons on his groin during our safari.

025.jpg.4d90bd103487a42ec35d6daafb730ba0.jpg

Yes, once you get the local animals hooked on your Yak & Yeti leftovers, they book reservations there for the next six months. Don't do it!

026.jpg.d8c238672b2f247614bc8b827ff32e79.jpg

This is Chelsea. She's a great guide.

027.thumb.jpg.ef06b54cf1b36373c180fb321765a137.jpg

Nature is so clever at camouflage. Lean closer to the screen. Scrutinize the photo closely. You should be able to just make out . . .Robb's elbow.

028.jpg.8b0bbeb5d921ea21bf6550fbdead3809.jpg

"I suck at hiding. Robb's elbow is better at it than I am."

029.jpg.c476bde026e6e84c514ccbe9ed63b995.jpg

I included this rather blurry photo because . . .

030.jpg.83a51a60d5d7df84ef40918c7f244984.jpg

. . . this is what the guy's walking over. More to come.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Yes, there is more DAK. Have a look.

031.thumb.jpg.d758f6b94ea471cc562b0e974a9d093e.jpg

Natawompingwillow at Nahtuzu. (Who remembers that old DAK nickname?)

032.thumb.jpg.5248816a6f4ad0a8c6dcbe1b0e3ec1cb.jpg

"Oh dear, you've seen me."

034.jpg.0f97f15ac902d885cc846492ed70ac37.jpg

"Now my associate must kill you."

035.jpg.091e780fa13146fc3773e92a4fbb3085.jpg

The "foot safari" looks pretty cool. Have to try it someday.

036.thumb.jpg.e45021ce0ca9468f7274d4069afc52b7.jpg

Stupid I-4 has backed up into Animal Kingdom!

037.jpg.fb5a3637f95b258049d4e28cbf223f47.jpg

"Yes, I know many of you think that 'mother-in-law' joke from the Jungle Cruise is a hoot, but don't. Just don't!"

038.jpg.41a73f51453828247d549b8ede39506b.jpg

"Oh, hello! You're just in time for supper."

039.jpg.bf7fb77fc2df1d2868a5ad4cb5e6dee0.jpg

"Help yourself! There's some lovely gristle left."

040.jpg.b44662c7a152bdc5f7d030fd01accf94.jpg

"So, you guys totally can't more when I'm this close, eh? And you're in a Chevy. It does, indeed, suck to be you."

041.thumb.jpg.885a8d32c4c64f0d1b13c0f2a8de8731.jpg

I never saw this show in its old theatre.

042.jpg.db8d8424aaebb2256ac16862afbc1fd2.jpg

We're supposed to be elephants here. Yes, we're totally rockin' the whole pachyderm thing.

042a.jpg.8b6ec8f18b6145c1d99e2aa8c6820bc1.jpg

"Arise, my people, and stomp all those who oppose you!"

043.jpg.539d9492e8cc9310a57149aec693eea1.jpg

"Death to all wart hog scum!"

044.jpg.89a0ca0a33594bc27aedee48f0e0e0a8.jpg

"OK, settle down. No one is gonna be stompin' anyone while I'm around."

046.jpg.2b44d5201e278f7f599b23aefab31363.jpg

Now we're talking!

047.jpg.56fe57c6124734c2cd40bf4734e4f6fc.jpg

"YOW! Little help here!"

048.jpg.e776ff37ad01aedc70e805e910ba5739.jpg

"For the first time in forever . . ." Soon, Frozen will rule the world!

049.thumb.jpg.146c61afbb9d655c32aade543a6e9044.jpg

I love the random signs and posters at Animal Kingdom.

050.jpg.896cad29c7a6eb31b5fb4358a74f26b4.jpg

Then again, they might want to rethink this one.

051.jpg.366d16fe1f537dcd7ec7a739f5b783ed.jpg

Definitely Nahtaswimminghole.

052.jpg.dbd304339ec466efcd3318349ea2620e.jpg

Civilization at last!

053.jpg.553dcadaa2bd36ed9723ed06cb9cf225.jpg

Hmm--they're working on either Avatar here . . .

054.jpg.ff01f7a34c298b828588bb1d3d701592.jpg

. . . or perhaps a reindeer habitat in an attempt to sneak in Frozen.

055.jpg.7cd09a77ea430a687e0790f61d891e8a.jpg

Hey, let's ride Primeval . . . oh, darn.

056.jpg.16ae6b161057248804644ef1a7546143.jpg

I recommend reading the Collected Works of Shakespeare or perhaps an encyclopedia before riding Dinosaur. That way, when you're brain cells are fried, you won't lose quite as many IQ points.

058.jpg.e3977ae2e72f4473d38c4db01eccc0f7.jpg

The most intelligent part of Dinosaur.

059.thumb.jpg.e11e4a22f672a8dd9ad14f06fe6218d1.jpg

Yep--when my Parallel Time Converter broke down, I had to take it to a dealership. At least it was still under warranty.

060.jpg.ec1db7a62c0e81ce26e24c2336baf61c.jpg

Time-travel technology looks suspiciously like the inside of a huge toaster oven.

061.jpg.2eb209241b90032d0c735fdba1ddd05f.jpg

The most amazing animatronic ever! Is this one dino eating another, or trying to puke him up?

062.thumb.jpg.55d54a2a75e70b1af46e251b75716d1d.jpg

Never before has the T-Rex's plight been portrayed so movingly.

063.thumb.jpg.cc9ea14ee6914bbce260762d13f6802d.jpg

The dinosaurs were not destroyed by a giant comet. They were raped and killed by their own skeletons!

064.thumb.jpg.13e99b8207d8708708676517f0638399.jpg

"How the T-Rex Killed, Disemboweled, and Ate Santa Claus" is such a cute holiday TV special.

065.jpg.749b6adf3d38083fc711ea5032009f6a.jpg

Aw, same to you, Smilodon! Gosh darn it, people like you!

066.thumb.jpg.b01d097ba765565cf346f0107a3697d6.jpg

Derek led us down a secret path! (Never knew this bridge was here before.) A great night at Epcot is next.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Time to hit Epcot for beer, food, beer, and more food--with a little Mission: Space and Test Track on the side.

067.thumb.jpg.99c15e1f25610b04084c7c49de6040c7.jpg

This is one of the best entrances of any theme park.

068.jpg.b1941b527d58abdd7afb5c9845363efc.jpg

Mission: Space was not kind to Ross's digestive system.

069.jpg.49557bad383b82b3d826323f508c5aab.jpg

Er, that's not the "orbital insertion module," is it?

070.jpg.37bb97c6c31c4f8162b7b803528397b7.jpg

"Welcome to Mission Control. We are going to screw you up so bad, you'll be begging to ride Journey Into Your Imagination!"

071.jpg.7f1027382a254318972bf3dcb650704c.jpg

"OK, trainees! Assume the position, and I will demonstrate 'orbital insertion.'"

072.jpg.d2fe8369d3678d9a9005739f108ce668.jpg

This mission was doomed from the start.

073.jpg.8ccb5f157291bfb1b96861ff4e766201.jpg

Time for Tron Track.

074.jpg.4c52017efb6dde42531c567857d839f9.jpg

"Welcome to the Game Grid, program!"

075.jpg.bb4497f8eea863a5a7bd46eb4f1e518c.jpg

If Stan Lee was at the wheel, we'd be at Islands of Adventure.

076.jpg.71a333f6aa2050ef5bf303a4e8ad6b99.jpg

The scenery may not be a nice as Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure . . .

077.jpg.f17be744f8168d2bb671272536b227dd.jpg

. . . but Tron Track goes a helluva lot faster!

078.jpg.51696bf4095bc84b28031513d7659657.jpg

That's enough riding . . .

079.jpg.c94282a374182b1b71b93eec69d16cdb.jpg

. . . bring on the food and alcohol!

080.jpg.d98513d3baaaf62d74d8cad6861ce8f4.jpg

My only yard bird of the season.

081.jpg.59d949b21b6de4466b19d868ba3ef65f.jpg

A cranberry bog is a pretty scary looking place after dark. Seriously, it looks like Lovecraftian elder gods or demons could rise out of there at any time.

082.thumb.jpg.b7cb084e91c588cbdab35c9153849d27.jpg

Yes, sustain your chew as long as possible.

083.jpg.7511a46a47e02b4961cba7cd7d6e272c.jpg

This ravioli was really good--much better than what they've served at the Italian booth in past years.

084.thumb.jpg.ba037194b8396586bbff001edc7aa878.jpg

I love how Disney decorates for Food & Wine.

084a.jpg.de534ac0b8cd4103abece60df7aa360b.jpg

The fondue was back in all its cheesy glory!

085.jpg.c8b665785dc77d9b214302576823343c.jpg

Magical Disney haggis! (Yes, I know it's not "real" haggis. There's no need to point that out as people tended to do on Facebook.)

086.jpg.765c5eb160184786bb0eb6ea9978db26.jpg

Cameron enjoys some Scotch, like a gentleman.

087.jpg.f63f9dd4908854da1b225e0af4578342.jpg

Well, let's see what's on the other side of the lagoon.

088.thumb.jpg.b30e170e3b03cd98fbd595f344d8d9fe.jpg

Cameron doesn't look so sure about the escargot, but he did like it.

089.jpg.83fab4f5d2c8210ca00f260ae72d460d.jpg

Any dish with the words "crispy" and "pork" in its name is OK by me.

090.thumb.jpg.1acd1faedb9f3c05c509e62a6f2dc43c.jpg

Epcot's version of Waffle House.

091.thumb.jpg.42b39b954f3849406795b50e945871a3.jpg

OK here's something I've never done before . . .

092.jpg.808222fd60eee0ed07116d05ac99031d.jpg

. . . the Chase Lounge on the top floor of the American Adventure. (It's a perk for people with debit or credit cards from Chase.)

093.jpg.bbfa2ca5421cbe0132c9579fb4ee1287.jpg

They have Coke Freestyle machines, a cash bar, and video games (if you're into Play Station).

094.jpg.ff130f2e2206c77be6f53646a7ac6b43.jpg

If you're tired of this view, your soul is dead.

095.jpg.05b5e9aafed40ead4f09b337498d9f72.jpg

When Starship isn't available, you can always count on Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

095a.thumb.jpg.952c80dae7121528552c5bd6149f5bed.jpg

German beer flight, anyone?

096.jpg.476ff2289a8fe78737366ced6e65df13.jpg

Beware the Devil's Eyelash as it hurtles across the sky!

097.jpg.0279dd1d08534e51be340a1675c365c6.jpg

Yes, it always heralds either a great calamity . . .

098.thumb.jpg.9ba770c5abd4730ff876f6f67eaa9298.jpg

. . . or Illuminations.

099.jpg.8f5ebf225829be3bded1a478e5d91e81.jpg

OK, here's the part where you can . . .

100.thumb.jpg.c182e647a9aba8324316a2490ebf30b2.jpg

. . . go get more beer.

101.jpg.9c9a06b08c54633c21d85fc283208715.jpg

Every time something blows up, you must chug a brew.

102.jpg.39a4f09b3b55d2e18d2e76f2f8f25b84.jpg

Hey, let's ride Maelstrom on the way out . . . darn it!

103.jpg.29f107faf31b2d91216a912cee9928cc.jpg

Oh, I'm stuffed! What a great night! That's all for now, but we'll be heading back to the Studios park later.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

Terms of Use https://themeparkreview.com/forum/topic/116-terms-of-service-please-read/