As Disney continues to expand its line-up of magical experiences at Walt Disney World, some attractions that were once well-loved by guests visiting from around the globe now go somewhat underappreciated, oftentimes because their theming no longer entices guests the way it used to.
Without tearing out an attraction entirely, this can often be remedied by an overlay, whereby much of the ride’s format and layout is kept the same, but the surroundings and story of the attraction are replaced and refreshed by something a little more exciting and current (think Disney California Adventure’s Incredicoaster or Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!)
With this in mind, it’s now time to look at five Walt Disney World attractions which we feel could be improved by an overlay. Do you agree or do you feel strongly that they should just be left as they are?…
1. Tomorrowland Speedway
Now overshadowed, both literally and figuratively, by its new neighbor TRON Lightcycle Power Run, Tomorrowland Speedway’s ongoing longevity often puzzles some guests. There have been whispers that Speedway could eventually make the leap over to electric vehicles at some point in the future, but perhaps an entirely new theme could help revive the love for this unique attraction that puts guests in the driver’s seat.
Do you think Tomorrowland Speedway could benefit from an overlay or should the beloved race-track attraction be left as it is?
2. Mission: SPACE
Nothing other than a complete overhaul could stop this attraction from being the motion-sickness champion of Walt Disney World, but perhaps an overlay could give this tired ride a much-needed refresh for those who do enjoy riding. Mission: SPACE is certainly among EPCOT’s more forgotten attractions, which is a shame given its exciting simulation of an astronaut’s journey to Mars.
This ride would undoubtedly do well to maintain its cosmic exploration theme, but could an overlay featuring some of Disney’s space-dwelling heroes make this ride somewhat more exciting to guests?
3. Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros
Situated in the Mexico pavilion of EPCOT, Gran Fiesta Tour is another of the park’s underrated attractions. While this ride often boasts low wait times, some would certainly be sad to see it go, but would you prefer for the Three Cabellero’s story to be replaced by something new? Or would you miss accompanying Panchito, José, and Donald on their sweet adventure through Mexico?
4. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
A family favorite at Magic Kingdom, however, in recent years Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin has started to look a little tattered and tired. Though one could argue that the ride is well-themed and perfectly suited to its Tomorrowland location, do you think Space Ranger Spin could be made even more exciting by a shiny new overlay that switches up the Toy Story-theming? Or does it simply deserve a well-needed paint job?
5. DINOSAUR
Tucked away in Dinoland U.S.A, the attraction formally known as Countdown to Extinction could potentially be due an update. Those curious as to just how different this attraction could be only need to take a look at Disneyland’s Indiana Jones ride, as the two rides share the same track and ride system.
Animal Kingdom’s turbulent time-traveling adventure is certainly a well-enjoyed attraction within the park, but could it be made better by telling a new adventure?
With Dinoland U.S.A potentially in line for a major overhaul in the future, this one may be among the more likely candidates on this list if it isn’t taken away completely.
So, what are your thoughts on the five attractions above? Should they get an overlay? Should they be left alone? Or, do they need to be torn down and replaced with an entirely new attraction? Let us know your thoughts by leaving us a comment below or on our Facebook page.
