I really enjoyed watching this special today on the Disney Channel. It's a behind the scenes look into Disney World - the history, the construction, the attractions, the competition, pretty much everything. They take it one park at a time. First Magic Kingdom, and how it is divided into 5 lands. We learn why they are what they are. Then they talk about Epcot, MGM Studios, Animal Kingdom, and all the hotels/resorts they built on the property.
I learned that Disneyland was built before Disney World. I never knew that. Walt Disney needed a larger area for a bigger and better park and chose Florida when he flew over the perfect location. This special really gives you an insiders look into the inner-workings of the parks. We get special access into the control room of the Haunted Mansion and the daily parades. We also get a detailed look into the Tower of Terror including a glance at the elevator shaft no one's allowed to see. We learn that Disney is still number one in Central Florida. None of the competition has come close to recreating it's magic and appeal.
I've only been to Disney World once (last year) and I'm planning on going back this summer. This special gave me a lot of ideas how to spend my next trip. 5 days was just not enough to experience all Disney World has to offer. I wasn't too impressed (or rather scared) by the Haunted Mansion last time, but this show explained how much detail and planning went into the ride, so next time I'll appreciate it more. I never got to do Mission Space or the Star Wars ride. Now I know all about them and will make them a priority next time. Also, there is a nightly fireworks show that would be incredible to see in person. I gained a greater appreciation and respect for the sheer size of Disney. What a massive undertaking it was to build it. And it's constantly being improved.
I would recommend this show to just about anybody. I benefit from it because I saw all the stuff I missed last year and now have an opportunity to get the most out of Disney. If you've never been there, this is a great history lesson and a way to pretend you've been there. If you're a Disney fanatic, there may be some trivia here you've never known about before. Everybody will enjoy this special. It's very informative and fun and shows a side of Disney you may not have seen before! :)
9/10 only because I wish it were longer!
