We’re starting a new series here on Disney Deciphered! We’ve decided to take a more in depth look at the different areas of Walt Disney World, land by land. We kick things off with Tomorrowland in the Magic Kingdom. What do we think of the attractions, where would we eat, and what else do you need to know about Tomorrowland? All that and more on today’s episode of Disney Deciphered!
Attractions in Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland has a total of six current attractions and two more returning or coming soon. Here is a brief overview of what to expect on each, as well as our recommendations for what we always ride, usually ride, sometimes ride, and what can be skipped if you have limited time in the land.
Current Attractions
- Astro Orbiter: This attraction might best be described as Dumbo in space, as it is several spaceships circling a central rocket. The line for this attraction can be very long due to it’s low capacity and slow load time.
Verdict? Joe: Sometimes ride (but wishes it was a usually ride). Leslie: Sometimes ride.
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin: This ride allows riders to compete at shooting targets with space blasters to defeat the Evil Emperor Zerg. Think of it as a precursor to Toy Story Mania.
Verdict? Joe: Always ride (with kids). Leslie: Usually ride.
- Carousel of Progress: This super-throwback attraction debuted at the 1964 World’s Fair and looks at technology’s progress through the years. It’s take on the future is now quite dated, but that gives it some historical charm.
Verdict? Joe: Sometimes ride. Leslie: Never ride (but wishes she rode it more).
- Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor: We know this is a comedy show with audience interaction, but since we’ve both never experienced it, that’s about all we know.
Verdict? Joe: Never ride. Leslie: Never ride.
- Space Mountain: This attraction takes riders on a dark rollercoaster ride of sharp turns and drops (although no loops). It’s one of the few thrill rides in Magic Kingdom.
Verdict? Joe: Sometimes ride. Leslie: Always ride.
- Peoplemover: This slow moving vehicle cruises on tracks a level above Tomorrowland, giving riders a sneak peek behind some of the scenes of the land. Bonus that the line is never very long and you can catch some shade and a breeze while on it.
Verdict? Joe: Always ride. Leslie: Always ride.
Closed or Coming Attractions
- Tomorrowland Speedway: Currently closed for renovation, this slow moving car ride curiously seems to entrance children everywhere despite the exhaust fumes. Just don’t ride it during the heat of the day because the queue feels about about 20 degrees hotter than everywhere else in Magic Kingdom.
- Tron Lightcycles: Sometimes in 2021, a version of this ride that debuted in Shanghai Disney to rave reviews is coming stateside.
Dining in Tomorrowland
While there are a number of restaurants in Tomorrowland, unfortunately this land is not one we really recommend for dining. The land is best for grabbing a quick bite if your kids just can’t walk somewhere else, with mostly standard theme park basics like burgers available.
The one unique offering is the Fireworks Dessert Party. Held at Tomorrowland Terrace, there are three different offerings where guests can get reserve viewing areas for the evening fireworks show in Magic Kingdom. The $69 plaza viewing and $69 after party options have a more direct viewing area of the castle, whereas the $84 terrace viewing is more exclusive but slightly off-center for seeing fireworks.
Other Tomorrowland restaurants include:
- Auntie Gravity’s Goodies (ice cream)
- Tomorrowland Terrace (usually closed except for Dessert Party)
- Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe (inside seating available)
- Joffrey’s Revive
- Lunching Pad
Episode Description
Welcome to a new series on Disney Deciphered! Over time, we will take a look at the different lands of Walt Disney World one by one, starting with Tomorrowland in the Magic Kingdom. We hope these more in depth looks at Tomorrowland’s attractions, dining options (or lack thereof), and special events will help you as you plan your trip to Walt Disney World.
What’s your favorite attraction in Tomorrowland? Do you feel the same as we do about the dining options? We’d love to hear your experiences and tips, please share them by e-mailing us at disneydeciphered AT gmail DOT com.
If you like what you hear, please share the podcast with others you think might enjoy it. Also, we’d appreciate if you subscribed on iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, TuneIn, PlayerFM, iHeartRadio, or Google Play (please leave a positive review if you’re enjoying the show), liked our Facebook page, or followed us on Twitter!
Connect with Leslie @TripswithTykes on social media and Joe @asthejoeflies.
Episode Notes
0:00 – Introducing our new land by land series
2:51 – Astro Orbiter
4:46 – Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
6:13 – Carousel of Progress
7:42 – Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
9:00 – Space Mountain
11:05 – Peoplemover
12:16 – Coming attractions
13:25 – Food options
16:00 – Fireworks dessert party
19:32 – Merchandise
23:17 – Disney Dos and Don’ts
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Getting caught up on your podcast for my May 2019 trip (1st one since 1986!) Great content, very helpful!!