Built to compete
with Universal Studios, Disney/MGM is a wondrous place where the movies come to life. MGM
opened in May of 1989 to lots of fanfare and has never looked back. The park was so
immediately popular that backstage areas had to be opened to handle the overflow of the
crowds. Attractions were then built into these areas and the park's expansion was
underway. The dedication plaque for
MGM Studios reads "we welcome you to a Hollywood that never was - and always will
be". Disney captures the imagination put into the movies by giving you a new
perspective on some of the most popular movies of all time.
The problem is that many of the references
will be lost if you haven't seen the movies. However, there are enough attractions based
kids' favorites and animated Disney films to keep everybody happy.
You'll get the best look at Disney
animation in the Magic of Disney attraction where you get to see the
actual animators at work. Most of the animation for the recent Disney movie Tarzan
was drawn here, with visitors getting a sneak peek at the work in progress.
Thrill seekers will love the Twilight
Zone Tower of Terror, its a trip into the beyond that has two 13-story free
falls! Others will like the Star Tours motion simulator ride. It's still
one of the best rides of it's kind.
One of the new attractions in MGM is the fantasmic!
water and light show. This spectacular attraction conducted at the park's closing
features images projected upon walls of water. Don't miss it. (start to find
seating at least 30 min. before showtime.)
Other notable attractions are the Indiana
Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and Jim Henson's Muppet-vision 4-D.
You'll find most of the park's guest
services like maps, guest relations and ATMs on the end of Hollywood Blvd. near the main
entrance.
MGM is also the site of the daily Mulan
parade. Based on the popular animated film, the parade starts near Star Tours,
circles the front of the replica of Mann's Chinese Theater and travels down Hollywood
Blvd. Forget about walking across the park while it's in progress. |
Twilight Zone Tower 