The Call
After the high of the Magic Kingdom, we like to slow down a bit at either Disney's Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom. Today, we chose DHS. On this visit, we incorporated some attractions that we haven't been on before or for a very long time. One other thing happened in the middle of the day, but you'll have to read to find out.
Our first FastPass of the day was for Star Tours sometime in the 9 o'clock hour; yet, we arrived almost at 11. To say the least, we missed our return window. Whatever. It's these moments that you remember that you are on vacation and not on a strict schedule.
At the very least, we made it to our reservation for Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular. This was the very first time we've seen this show (with the exception of watching it online). We were down to the last minutes that our reservation was valid. So by the time we arrived, most of the auditorium was full and we were directed off to one side.
Overall, it is an exciting and informative show. It recreates a few iconic scenes in the Indiana Jones series while revealing how some of the practical effects are done. If you are looking for something like Waterworld at Universal Studios Hollywood, you will be disappointed by the pacing of this show. If you are an Indy fan, check this one out. Even if you are not, still check this show out as Disney might have future plans for the land that it sits on.
Up next was our FastPass for Aerosmith's Rock 'n' Roller coaster.
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster is a fast-paced thrill ride that occurs in the dark. Thus, it can be difficult to see where you are going. Currently, the ride with the worst lighting conditions goes to The Haunted Mansion, especially the graveyard scene. It roughly takes 20 to 40 minutes for eyes to adjust to the dark, assuming that you have blocked out all light. All you would have to do is close your eyes while walking through the queue. The only drawback is that you have forced your partner (or a lucky random stranger) to make sure you aren't bumping into walls or trampling children. Since I like to believe that I'm a nice guy, I just wore my shades indoors rather than shutting my eyes.
Immediately after, we used our FastPasses for Tower of Terror. I (singular) practically never stopped walking through the queue as a cast member was looking for a single rider. Since the cast members weren't in character today, I decided to play the part for them.
Just before we lunch, we checked out the "sneak" preview for Maleficent, an origin story of the "villain" that placed Princess Aurora under a sleeping spell. While it seemed like the movie was offering a very interesting twist to the Sleeping Beauty canon, I'm not quite sure if I want to ruin my adulthood memories (I admit, I only recently watched Sleeping Beauty).
We went towards Commissary Lane and ate at the ABC Commissary. This quick service restaurant had a good selection of offerings, of which we ordered the Asian Salad with Salmon and the 1/3 lb Angus Bacon Cheeseburger. I'm not much of a foodie, but I would recommend this place if you are looking for something quick while also being better than your average park food.
We then walked on to the third showing of American Idol for the day. The show kicks off with the host energizing the crowd. I didn't want to be a rebel today, so I joined in. Next to every seat was a letter pad which we would use to vote for a candidate. While crowd attendance was low, I felt that they did a great job recreating the feel of the television show. These elements included working cameramen, a cast of judges that similar personalities to the television show counterpart, and the rather awkward fillers that the television show has. In the end, the contestant that Michelle and I had chosen won this round.
We then went to see the Jim Henson classic, Muppet Vision 3-D, which is where I learned that Michelle likes to do muppet impressions.
Nearby, the shop It's a Wonderful Shop sells Christmas merchandise all year around.
We spotted an entrance that looked rather mysterious. Once we were in, we realized that we were in a shop. While we were here, we just made the best of it.
Continuing through the "exit" of the shop, we landed in an exhibit that showcased some movie props and other movie magical items.
When we got to the "exit", we arrived at the unloading zone for the tram portion of Studio Backlot Tour. By now, we realized that we've been experiencing this attraction in reverse.
The temp was slowly rising, so we did a bit of strolling. We passed by the Brown Derby and I decided that if there was a special reason to celebrate today, we would dine here.
Continuing on, we did some browsing through the Studio Store at the Animation Courtyard to make my birthday wishlist and wedding and baby registries.
We wanted to catch the next session to sketch a Disney character. We lined up but a cast member informed us that we wouldn't make the next session. So we left the area and instead took highly accurate personality tests, followed by looking at some of the artwork throughout the area.
We had to see who would get the American Idol golden ticket, so we dropped by for the American Idol finale. During the show, they even reminded us that the finale for television version of American Idol was tonight. While the script is pretty much the same, the host and panel of judges were completely different while retaining the same personalities. When it came to voting, I guessed incorrectly.
On the way out of the amphitheater, I received a call from Irvine, CA. To put it shortly, I received an offer, informally accepted it, accidentally slipped the name of another institution, and called friends and family.
In the end, we decided against celebrating at the Brown Derby. Instead, Michelle wanted to grab me an ice cream cone, which I quickly devoured.
One of the few things we have passed on doing at Walt Disney World was Fantasmic!, since it's counterpart in Disneyland was supposedly superior. Disneyland's version sits on Tom Sawyer's Island and the audience is much closer to the action, resulting in a more intimate experience. Disney World's version sits in an amphitheater specifically designed to accommodate a large crowd, resulting in a show where the audience is physically and emotionally distant from what is occurring on stage. While I prefer the original, the show at Disney World has several segments that were completely different.
Although the park was closing up shop in half an hour, we dashed our way across the park to settle who rightfully deserves the title of the best toy cowboy or cowgirl.
After claiming victory over the day, it was time to head for bed, especially with the 24 hour event coming up. I heard that it's best to adjust to a new sleep schedule at least two days in advance. Let's just say that doctors make the worse patients.
Next up, a yeti, some dancing, and turkey!
0 comments :
Post a Comment