Walt Disney World With Kids (Fodor's, 2012) - Fodor's [127]
The Scare Factor
Despicable Me 3-D isn’t up, running, and ready for a full review at this writing, which makes giving Scare Factor advice hard. However, based on Universal’s descriptions (e.g., “a hysterical mix of chaos and family fun”), the ride sounds designed to be more lively than scary. It should be fine for all ages, especially kids who saw and loved the movie.
Shrek 4-D
Map Location 2
In the preshow you learn that vile little Lord Farquaad has plans to destroy Shrek from the great beyond. (Note the clever digs at Disney in the preshow area.) As you enter the main theater, you’ll be given 3-D glasses, but what makes this show really special and different from the other 3-D attractions around town is that you’re seated in special chairs that will make the experience tactile as well as visual. What does that mean? You’ll not only see and hear the action happening on the screen, you’ll feel and smell some of it, too. (Mercifully, taste is the one sense not engaged in the show.) And the adventures of Shrek and Donkey are predictably hilarious as they rescue the hapless Fiona.
The Scare Factor
While Lord Farquaad isn’t the most intimidating movie villain, Shrek 4-D’s special effects are extremely convincing, and the whole show is very loud, which may be too much for preschoolers. Kids ages 8 and older should do fine.
Helpful Hint
Shrek is often on hand for autographs and hugs as you exit Shrek 4-D. Check your entertainment schedule for times he’s due to appear.
The Universal Studios Don’t-Miss List
A Day in the Park with Barney (for kids under 6)
Curious George Goes to Town (for kids under 8)
Despicable Me 3-D
E.T. Adventure
Hollywood Rip, Ride, and Rockit (for kids 8 and up)
Jaws
Men in Black: Alien Attack
Revenge of the Mummy
Shrek 4-D
The Simpsons
Revenge of the Mummy
Map Location 4
Revenge of the Mummy combines a high-speed roller coaster with the latest technology in robotics and pyrotechnic effects—no wonder it’s billed as a “psychological thrill ride.”
As the story begins, you walk through shadowy Egyptian catacombs on a tour of the on-location set of the next Mummy movie. Once you’re in the coaster, the ride’s magnetic-propulsion launch system thrusts you forward, backward, and forward again as you dodge vengeful ghosts, mummies, and other monsters. In the final scene the ceiling above you catches on fire. Yowza!
Revenge of the Mummy is hot (literally) and often has lines to match. Visit it as early in the day as possible.
The Scare Factor
Revenge of the Mummy scares the willies out of preschoolers and some school-age kids as well. Your child must be 48 inches tall to ride.
Men in Black: Alien Attack
Map Location 8
Remember the scene in Men in Black when Will Smith tries out for the force? Think you could do better?
The premise is that guests are rookie agents riding through the streets of New York and armed with laser guns called “alienators.” Like in Disney’s Buzz Lightyear ride, you’re supposed to shoot the aliens, but unlike in the Buzz ride, these aliens can strike back, sending your vehicle into an out-of-control spin.
The Scare Factor
Most kids take the aliens in Men in Black in stride—especially if they’ve seen the movies and know what to expect. There’s a fair amount of spinning in the cars so motion sickness is a possibility, although the spinning is sporadic and not continuous so few people have reported having a problem. There are lockers outside Men in Black and Revenge of the Mummy where you can store purses and packages while you ride.
As you shoot at the 120 animatronics aliens, the ride keeps track of your individual score and the collective score of the six people in your vehicle. You’re not only fighting off aliens, but also competing against the team of rookies in the car beside you. Here’s where it gets cute. Depending