Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
205
It's a Dirty Job . . .
Fun Facts
The Disney parks are usually fairly clean, but there's one notable spot in the
Magic Kingdom that takes pride in its dreary image. In order to maintain the
Haunted Mansion's weathered and worn appearance, employees spread large
amounts of dust over the home's interior and also string up plenty of real-look-
ing cobwebs. It takes a lot of effort to keep the place looking bedraggled, which
may explain why your haunted hosts are only a handful of Disney cast members
without smiles plastered on their faces.
them fidget and whisper during the performance. The show begins with a film projected
on a 180-degree, 70mm screen. It talks about the importance of the Constitution; then
the curtain rises on America's leaders, and, as each comes into the spotlight, he nods or
waves with presidential dignity. Lincoln then rises and speaks, occasionally referring to
his notes. In a tribute to Disney thoroughness, painstaking research was done in creating
the figures and scenery, with each president's costume reflecting period fashion, fabrics,
and tailoring techniques.
Note:
This attraction recently underwent extensive renovations,
reopening just as this topic went to print. The entire presidential lineup has been
restored, and President Barack Obama has been added to bring the attraction up to
date.
Haunted Mansion
Frommer's Rating:
A
Recommended Ages:
6-adult
What better way to show off Disney's eye for detailed special effects than through this
oldie but goodie (Walt had a hand in its development), where “Grim Grinning Ghosts”
come out to socialize—or so the ride's theme song goes? The queue here is one of the
most amusing in the park as it winds through a graveyard filled with tombstones whose
epitaphs are sure to make you chuckle. Upon entering, you're greeted by a ghostly host,
who encloses you in a windowless portrait gallery (are those eyes following you?) where
the floor seems to descend (actually, it's the ceiling that's rising) and the room goes dark
(the only truly scary moment). Darkness, spooky music, eerie howling, and mysterious
screams and rappings enhance its ambience. Your vehicle, err . . . Doom Buggy takes you
past a ghostly banquet and ball, a graveyard band, a suit of armor that comes alive,
cobweb-draped chandeliers, a ghostly talking head in a crystal ball, and more. Keep your
eyes on the mirror you pass at the end of your ride, as you'll find another passenger in
your buggy . . . Boo! Thanks to a rather lengthy rehab in 2007, the ghosts are even
ghoulier, the spectral special effects more spectacular, and the sinister silliness . . . well,
you get the picture. Overall, the experience is more amusing than terrifying; most chil-
dren 6 and older will be fine, but those younger (and even some of the older ones) may
not be so amused.
Liberty Square Riverboat
Overrated
Frommer's Rating:
C
Recommended Ages:
All ages
The
Liberty Belle,
a grand steam-powered riverboat (recently refurbished in order to
retain its stature as such), offers lazy 17-minute cruises along the Rivers of America,
allowing thrill-ride-weary passengers the chance to rest and relax. As you pass along the
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