Disney’s Hollywood Studios is undergoing some major renovation. With areas themed to Toy Story and Star Wars set to open in the near future, speculation of what the future has in store for its other attractions has been running rampant. One thing Disney must do is keep the Hollywood Tower of Terror, as it’s become one of Walt Disney World’s most iconic rides.
[DanielG]
Unfortunately, Disney made the decision to revamp Tower of Terror at its California Adventure park to a Guardians of the Galaxy themed ride. With Disney’s Orlando parks not able to use Marvel licensing, it appears Tower of Terror may be safe. However, nothing is certain.
While change can sometimes be a good thing, this might be a huge mistake on Disney’s end. Although, a ride themed to some of Marvel’s most popular superheroes will be a big selling point to guests. Guardians will open the door to new Marvel rides in the California parks, and, as soon as Universal relinquishes the rights to Marvel, the Orlando area as well.
Let’s face it, Marvel means money, and that’s Disney’s main motivation. But is Disney ready to throw away one of the best attractions in their history?
Opened in 1994 at both California Adventure and Hollywood Studios, Tower of Terror was arguably Disney’s first real thrill ride. Attractions such as Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad were some of the originals, but Tower of Terror was unlike anything Disney had built.
I recall my first time on Tower of Terror. As a 12-year-old boy, I was quite frightened by just the sight of this ride. Other intense attractions such as the aforementioned Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain were no problem for me. There was just something about the Tower of Terror that shook me up.
I’m not sure if it was the creepy theme, design or backstory of the ride, but all I remember was shaking my entire time in line. I wasn’t ready to free fall 13 stories at speeds in excess of 50 mph. Quite frankly, the thought of backing out didn’t seem so bad at the time.
Despite my apprehension, I actually enjoyed my time on Tower of Terror. I’ve not been on the ride since, however, the memories stick with me. To hear that they are replacing the ride at one of their parks saddens me. It’s a shame some won’t get to experience the ride like I did.
Obviously, I’ve never been on California Adventure’s new Guardian of the Galaxy attraction. In fact, the new ride will probably just as good, if not better, than its predecessor, but it’s not going to be the same.
I don’t want to see the same fate occur at Hollywood Studios.
Eventually, Walt Disney World in Orlando will gain rights to Marvel, but I’m confident Disney will keep Tower of Terror alive at one of its North American parks.
At least, I hope so.
Follow Daniel James Gentile on twitter @dgentleman9288