1997: Magic Kingdom - Part 4

Tomorrowland

Because the realities of today eventually caught up with the predictions of the original Tomorrowland, this section of the Magic Kingdom has been completely renovated since our last visit in 1992. The focus of Tomorrowland is now on the future as seen through classic science fiction. Besides Space Mountain, the always-crowded rollercoaster ride through the blackness of space, a popular new attraction is Alien Encounter. Located in what used to be A Trip to Mars, Alien Encounter lets you observe a teleportation experiment being conducted by an alien-owned research company. But when something goes wrong, you find yourself in the dark with a vicious alien creature breathing down your neck! One little girl brought into this attraction by her parents screamed bloody murder when the alien appeared, so be warned, this one isn't for easily frightened children!

The new Tomorrowland portrays
the future as seen in science fiction

A more "kid proof" attraction is The Timekeeper, where an "audio-animatronic" robot (voiced by Robin Williams) takes you on a hilarious trip through time with Jules Verne and H.G. Wells. This is a stand up experience (no seats in the 360-degree CircleVision theater), but it's still very entertaining.

Join the Timekeeper on a trip through time

Other Tomorrowland attractions and rides have been cosmetically updated to fit the new "science fiction" theme. These include the Astro Orbiter "merry go round"-like sky ride, the Carousel of Progress with its look at changes in American lifestyles throughout history, and the ever-popular Tomorrowland Raceway where you can try your hand at a go-kart powered race car. Two of the nicest fast-food restaurants in the Magic Kingdom -- Cosmic Ray Starlight Cafe and Plaza Pavilion Terrace -- are also located in Tomorrowland. The Plaza Pavilion Terrace has some especially nice views of Cinderella's Castle from a bank of outdoor tables.

The Tomorrowland Raceway is still a favorite ride

The Magic Kingdom After Dark

The fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down! After a hectic day at the Magic Kingdom, head back to your hotel for a couple hours of rest and then plan to return for the SpectroMagic Parade. This updated version of what used to be called the Main Street Electrical Parade has new music (I liked the old music better), but still ranks as one of the most spectacular night time attractions in all of WDW! Only the grumpiest visitor won't be thrilled by the lively music and the wonderful sight of the floats decorated with thousands of multicolored lights. Even the many Disney characters are decorated with twinkling lights!

The night lights up with the SpecroMagic Parade

After the parade, stick around for the grand finale, the Fantasy in the Sky fireworks show above Cinderella's Castle. Also, if you didn't get a chance to see some of those crowded attractions or rides during the day, night time (especially during the parade and fireworks show) is an excellent time to visit them without a long wait.

Don't miss the Fantasy in the Sky fireworks finale

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Last Updated: January 1, 2003