Walt Disney World Secrets: Disney Studios

By Todd Christian, published Dec 17, 2007
Published Content: 59  Total Views: 28,655  Favorited By: 1 CPs
Rating: 4.0 of 5
Most people go to the Magic Kingdom for secrets and surprises. They go to Disney Studios (formerly Disney MGM Studios) for the thrills. Admit it. You might walk all over the park, but you're there for The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Aerosmith's Rockin' Roller Coaster.

That's all fine and good, as they are among the finest thrill rides on property - or anywhere, for that matter. But don't forego the little thrills for the big ones. After all, there are more than a few little secrets to discover at Disney World's tribute to Hollywood as well. You don't even have to venture that far from the big thrills to find at least one of them.

When you're standing in line for the Tower of Terror and you're waiting to enter the hotel's library, step over to the little hotel directory marquee. You can tell from your spot in line that quite a few of the letters have fallen from place. What you can't tell without stepping up to the marquee is that they've fallen in order to spell, "Evil tower u r doomed." Cute.

All the way on the other end of the park, you'll find one of the funniest 4D flicks on earth - 4D meaning 3D plus smell, touch, etc. It's called Muppetvision 3D, and it has a few of Disney World's more unique secrets. As you enter the building, there's an office with a sign that says, "OUT - Key under mat." Just in case some nosy guests decide to check the mat, Disney World's brilliant Imagineers have placed an oversized key under the mat. It seems obvious, but it always is welcomed with a surprised face and a big laugh.

In the waiting area, one of Disney World's most clever and well-disguised secrets is found. Among all of the junk and clutter in the room - much of it entertaining to look at - is a net full of jello hanging high overhead. To the younger generation, this is meaningless. But to the baby boomer grandparents, this might be the funniest in-joke on property. "A net full of jello" is a cleverly veiled homage to original Mouseketeer Annette Funicello.

Takeaways
  • During peak season, look for the "actors" out filming movies and hamming it up for tourists.
  • Ask at guest services for a list of Hidden Mickeys around the parks. It's a great scavenger hunt.
  • Read the shipping crates around the lake. They're names and addresses for classic film characters.
Did You Know?
When "Toy Story Mania" opens later this year, it will feature a Disney World first - a giant, animatronic Mr. Potato Head that interacts with guests in real time - asking and answering questions, making jokes, etc.
Comments
Type in Your Comments Below - (1000 characters left)
Your name:

Submit your own content on this or any topic. Get started »
Most Commented On