New Fanatasyland not so Fantastic

[TheVBs]

Most people, though, visit Walt Disney World for rides.

I really don't think that's the case. We love the rides, but we go to WDW for so much more than the rides. I think most guests go to WDW for the overall experience and aren't just looking to hop from one thrill ride to the next.

I also agree that expectations seemed to be off for what a new ride in Fantasyland would likely be. It is the area that has the most rides for small children to enjoy.

We've never been to Universal. We'd love to go one day, but to date we have not been even remotely motivated to choose it over WDW. Hearing that there are a lot of simulator rides makes me hesitate even more. The girls and I are horribly prone to motion sickness and wouldn't be able to enjoy those types of rides.

[DryCreek]

You are obviously more of a classic roller coaster aficionado! I love the Hulk at Universal, but it's a bit dated. And Rip-Ride Rockit is definitely a head rush--almost too much so for me. But love the total immersion of Spider-Man and Mummy isn't too far behind. Great rides at Universal!

Oh yeah, I like something that actually moves, not some box that shakes you and makes you wear 3D glasses to trick your brain (but not inner ear) into thinking that you are doing something.

I have to admit that the best part of the Hulk is the launch. It reminds me of the Rockin' Roller Coaster at DHS (my favorite roller coaster), but not as smooth. After looking at the vertical lift for Hollywood RRR, I had some trepidation at first. You go straight up - and fast. I still rode it six or seven times while we were there. Loved the concept, wasn't too fond of the restraint system. Single point latch? The DW and I also rode the dueling dragons several times. I think it was the Blue one we rode the most (faster, not as many jerky loops). Must also confess to having ridden the "Flight of the Hippogriff" twice too. Pretty lame, but you can get some pictures from there that can't be taken from any other angle.

[DryCreek]

To me, New Fantasyland is essentially a Magic Kingdom beautification project.

Most people, though, visit Walt Disney World for rides.

I will take a beautification project any day of the week over them doing nothing. Try visiting any of the stagnant and decaying Six Flags properties. Oh yeah, I forgot - we got a new swing ride that goes up 350 feet. Wow.

I am not too sure if most people go to The Magic Kingdom for rides. I am prone to believe that it is a near even mix of rides/attractions (i.e. shows, parades, fireworks, M&G and "ambiance" entertainment). New rides don't have to be a thrill ride either to be a classic. My adults son's favorite ride was Mr. Toads Wild Ride. He was mortified to find out that they had taken it out of Fantasyland. After we told him that it lives on at DLR, he has vowed to save enough money to get there some day, and re-experience his happiest moments at a Disney park.

[Jared]

I really don't think that's the case. We love the rides, but we go to WDW for so much more than the rides. I think most guests go to WDW for the overall experience and aren't just looking to hop from one thrill ride to the next.

I said "rides," not "thrill rides." Really, I should have said "attractions."

At this point, I visit Disney World for the aesthetic and artistic qualities of the parks perhaps more than anything else. I suspect plenty of the people who post on this board have similar motivations.

But I think it is easy to forget how small of a subset of the general Disney-going population we really represent. I still say that the attractions -- not necessarily thrill rides -- are ultimately what attract people to the park. The average guest will not return to the Magic Kingdom because the new section of Fantasyland looks pretty. With Disney, that's a given.

They'll come back because they rode Peter Pan's Flight, and -- oh my goodness -- they felt like they were flying over London.

[TheVBs]

Fair point. I shouldn't have automatically equated rides with thrill rides. I would agree that the rides and attractions are what draw a lot of people to Disney. I think a lot of people are also drawn by the nostalgia, even if they've never been there before. So many people have grown up watching Disney movies and shows. I know people who have said they just wanted to see that castle from the Wonderful World of Disney in real life. Everything Disney is very visual and immersive. I wouldn't dismiss the possibility that some people are wowed enough by the beauty to plan a repeat visit. Not to mention those magical moments and great service.

But I do agree, we're a small subset and I may be projecting my own feelings about WDW on other visitors.

[Jared]

I wouldn't dismiss the possibility that some people are wowed enough by the beauty to plan a repeat visit. Not to mention those magical moments and great service.

But I do agree, we're a small subset and I may be projecting my own feelings about WDW on other visitors.

There's definitely a balance here. I think we're unusual in that we understand and appreciate the aesthetic and artistic qualities of the park on an outward, conscious level. We walk into New Fantasyland and marvel at the intricacy of the bridge to Be Our Guest, or the details in the Mermaid queue.

For most people, I suspect, it's subconscious. They find themselves enjoying the Disney parks more than other parks, but they quite pinpoint why. The company calls it the "Disney Difference." I've always thought that phenomenon refers to an intrinsic appreciation of little things. That aspect of the parks is crucial and can never be ignored.

It hasn't been, and New Fantasyland is proof of that. Heck, the work done at the "Tangled" restrooms near the Fantasyland/Liberty Square breezeway is proof of that.

I'm just worried that the pendulum has swung too far in that direction at expense of attraction design. And there is nothing that has been officially announced yet that will make me change my mind.

[TheVBs]

I can easily see it being on a subconscious level for most people. I know the first couple of times I went as an adult, it certainly didn't fully register with me.

I also think, as a subset, our expectations of what a new attraction should be can be very different from the majority of guests. So many people have yet to experience, or experience more than once, all that WDW currently has to offer.

[JerseyDad]

There's definitely a balance here. I think we're unusual in that we understand and appreciate the aesthetic and artistic qualities of the park on an outward, conscious level. We walk into New Fantasyland and marvel at the intricacy of the bridge to Be Our Guest, or the details in the Mermaid queue.

For most people, I suspect, it's subconscious. They find themselves enjoying the Disney parks more than other parks, but they quite pinpoint why. The company calls it the "Disney Difference." I've always thought that phenomenon refers to an intrinsic appreciation of little things. That aspect of the parks is crucial and can never be ignored.

It hasn't been, and New Fantasyland is proof of that. Heck, the work done at the "Tangled" restrooms near the Fantasyland/Liberty Square breezeway is proof of that.

I'm just worried that the pendulum has swung too far in that direction at expense of attraction design. And there is nothing that has been officially announced yet that will make me change my mind.

....funny that you mention the Tangled restroom / seating area. I finally had time to go through the Fantasyland expansion area today ...from beginning to end .....and the Tangled area had the best theming. The rest of the place is a lot of fluff ....and money-grab booths.

[brad817]

Was in WDW last week and the NEW Fantasyland was a HUGE disappointment. It has been overhyped for the last few years and for what???

One new ride (Ariel's underwater adventure), another eatery (gastons), and another useless gift shop dedicated to Belle.

All in all it a lot of fluf. Wasted land except when the new mine roller coaster opens.

They used way too much land for a "no frills" ariel ride..Everytime we tried to get on Ariel's ride, there was no wait or it was closed for malfunctions. It took a half hour just to get to the **** ride. I think the imagineers expected this one to be a hit......NOT!!!!! With all the zig zags to the actual ride.

Not another story with Ariel or meet and greet designated area......

Imagineers.....use your imagination!!!!!

lol......Well I guess someone has to be in the 1%. I would imagine almost no one shares your feelings but it's a free country so you're entitled to your own opinion.

[Opus X]

lol......Well I guess someone has to be in the 1%. I would imagine almost no one shares your feelings but it's a free country so you're entitled to your own opinion.

agreed. But less than 1% more like .001
The New..Fantasyland is GREAT.

[DizneyFreak2002]

lol......Well I guess someone has to be in the 1%. I would imagine almost no one shares your feelings but it's a free country so you're entitled to your own opinion.

Truth? The new Fantasyland hasn't been the home run people thought it would be... While not a disaster with guests (and its not, anyone saying it is just wants to argue), it also isn't highly rated... But it is lots of fluff, no substance, all style... So it is a lot more than 1% not liking it..

of course, Disney can put up card board boxes and let 5 year old kids color on them, call them new attractions, and Disney online community would call it the greatest thing ever...

[Opus X]

Truth? The new Fantasyland hasn't been the home run people thought it would be... While not a disaster with guests (and its not, anyone saying it is just wants to argue), it also isn't highly rated... But it is lots of fluff, no substance, all style... So it is a lot more than 1% not liking it..

of course, Disney can put up card board boxes and let 5 year old kids color on them, call them new attractions, and Disney online community would call it the greatest thing ever...

Completely disagree. WDWtoday had a segment on how it IS highly rated by guests. Of course, there will be folks that expected tinker bell herself to make an appearance...or Unless Walt himself made an appearance (i hope he had a good embalmer) a FEW folks will find something to not like about it. When it is done..there isnt anything NOT to like about it. It has the best theming in the park (all substance) and will have 2 new really awesome attractions...Ariel and Mine ride. Plus...the Dumbo area provides breathing room for families. Especiall back in that area. I think alot of the FEW people that arent impressed by it....DONT have kids.
I know its all opinions..but sometimes i wonder what people want...Its a great addition to Fantasyland. Job well done.

[Gator]

So the new Tangled bathroom area, Belle's Cottage, new double-spinner Dumbo w/play area, redesigned Barnstormer and train station, AND two cool eating establishments are fluff? Why sure it is!

You know what, that big ol' Space Mt is fluff too!!! I mean, a dinky rollercoaster with a giant lid on it is a bunch of style and no substance. And what's with all those singing critters on Splash Mt? Just get to the drop already!! And let's not forget Epcot... Could we drop the façade and just have some lemonade stands selling food and goods that are made in different countries? What's with all the cool architecture and fluff and ..... THEMING!

Oh yeah. I forgot. They're called Theme Parks. The "fluff" you speak of is actually staging and theming. And it's what makes Disney....Disney.

I can't believe that anyone who walks up to, through, and rides The Little Mermaid ride could ever think it's just fluff. That area is amazing, and once the walls come down on Snow White, it will be even more incredible. I love it. Call me part of the 99%.

[Opus X]

So the new Tangled bathroom area, Belle's Cottage, new double-spinner Dumbo w/play area, redesigned Barnstormer and train station, AND two cool eating establishments are fluff? Why sure it is!

You know what, that big ol' Space Mt is fluff too!!! I mean, a dinky rollercoaster with a giant lid on it is a bunch of style and no substance. And what's with all those singing critters on Splash Mt? Just get to the drop already!! And let's not forget Epcot... Could we drop the façade and just have some lemonade stands selling food and goods that are made in different countries? What's with all the cool architecture and fluff and ..... THEMING!

Oh yeah. I forgot. They're called Theme Parks. The "fluff" you speak of is actually staging and theming. And it's what makes Disney....Disney.

I can't believe that anyone who walks up to, through, and rides The Little Mermaid ride could ever think it's just fluff. That area is amazing, and once the walls come down on Snow White, it will be even more incredible. I love it. Call me part of the 99%.

Agreed. Some of the incredible debbie downers on here is simply amazing...
But, some folks ONLY find the negative in things.
And, life is too short for that.

[DizneyFreak2002]

Completely disagree. WDWtoday had a segment on how it IS highly rated by guests. Of course, there will be folks that expected tinker bell herself to make an appearance...or Unless Walt himself made an appearance (i hope he had a good embalmer) a FEW folks will find something to not like about it. When it is done..there isnt anything NOT to like about it. It has the best theming in the park (all substance) and will have 2 new really awesome attractions...Ariel and Mine ride. Plus...the Dumbo area provides breathing room for families. Especiall back in that area. I think alot of the FEW people that arent impressed by it....DONT have kids.
I know its all opinions..but sometimes i wonder what people want...Its a great addition to Fantasyland. Job well done.

Theme is style, not substance... And for style, it gets A+... no one has ever denied that... it is the substance, what is included in this expansion (not really an expansion since they only reclaimed once used land) that is the source of discontent... Mermaid lacks vision, lacks imagination, lacks creativity... Mermaid gets mixed reviews... Hardly awesome... Belle's meet and greet is a waste of space... Great effects in the cottage only to be lost on story time... And we can't really call a ride which hasn't opened yet awesome...

As for Be Our Guest, again, mixed reviews... Kudos for the style... not so much for the substance, this case the food... Read lots of reviews, and spoke to people who have said the food is NOT good and for sure not worth the price... Oh and it didn't help that TDO jacked prices and slashed menu items within a few months of the restaurant opening...

New Fantasyland is hardly a home run the online community dreams it to be...

[DizneyFreak2002]

So the new Tangled bathroom area, Belle's Cottage, new double-spinner Dumbo w/play area, redesigned Barnstormer and train station, AND two cool eating establishments are fluff? Why sure it is!

Read my last post... yes, fluff... SO we now give Disney kudos for e ticket bathrooms? Too bad they don't like to make e-ticket rides in WDW anymore... You know, onces that actually work.. Yeti comes to mind...

I think your post proves how WDW has sunk in the last 10 - 15 years when we have to say a play area is a terrific addition...

[DizneyFreak2002]

Agreed. Some of the incredible debbie downers on here is simply amazing...
But, some folks ONLY find the negative in things.
And, life is too short for that.

So is someone NOT allowed to be critical of Disney? Are the only opinions you want to have expressed are those of nothing but pixie dust and princesses and not of the harsh reality of what has become of WDW? Are the only opinions you want to read are the ones where people just accept garbage?

That is why TDO treats WDW the way they do.. Cause of the accepting and defending of mediocrity... I remember when Disney tried to out do themselves.. They used to hold themselves to high standards... Orlando, no more... Now it is just good enough, and sometimes, not even that good... But who cares because they will only be defended anyway...

[Opus X]

So is someone NOT allowed to be critical of Disney? Are the only opinions you want to have expressed are those of nothing but pixie dust and princesses and not of the harsh reality of what has become of WDW? Are the only opinions you want to read are the ones where people just accept garbage?

That is why TDO treats WDW the way they do.. Cause of the accepting and defending of mediocrity... I remember when Disney tried to out do themselves.. They used to hold themselves to high standards... Orlando, no more... Now it is just good enough, and sometimes, not even that good... But who cares because they will only be defended anyway...

you seem to ALWAYS complain about something at WDW...I had a conversation with a moderator/ pod cast guy about that...its getting old on here...
You talk about "harsh reality" by who's definition? Yours?
I have gone to WDW since 1989 as an adult. Its a great now as ever...and really even more so. There is much more to do now...more choices.
Its not that you complain alot...but you do it in a "fact" based manner, which is 110% incorrect.
Reality is WDW/DLR has never been better.
Try going to WDW and actually enjoying your family/kids....if you have any...memories will last forever....and try not to look for things to whine about. It will be life changing.
Not just concerning WDW If you do...you'll see there isnt anything to have issue with.
Just a fantastic time. You dont sound like a fella with kids though....not at all.
Peace.
My apologies...if i made it personal...not my intent. But debbie downers in general...sometimes...need to actually believe in santa claus..life can be good that way.
Again....nothing personal...I'll leave this thread alone now. No need to continue.
Gotta plan our next visit!!

[DizneyFreak2002]

you seem to ALWAYS complain about something at WDW...I had a conversation with a moderator/ pod cast guy about that...its getting old on here...

You are here for 1 month and you know me already? Interesting...

Always complain about something at WDW? Nah... Only when they deserve to be called out on it... I give them kudos when due... Last 10 years, not much is deserving of a pat on the back...

I have gone to WDW since 1989 as an adult. Its a great now as ever...and really even more so. There is much more to do now...more choices.

And much more has been taken away than added in the last 10 - 15 years... Yet you are paying more (basically more for less)... I have a major issue with the way management has run WDW during that time... Come on, who holds a press event (a major press event) for the announcement of benches? Only out of touch management in WDW...

Its not that you complain alot...but you do it in a "fact" based manner, which is 110% incorrect.

I only post news and information as fact when I know it to be... And state something is my opinion when it is simply that... Before I post something, I vet the information... If I cannot verify the info, I don't post it...

Reality is WDW/DLR has never been better.

Actually WDW has been better.. Today, it isn't.. Parks are stale... Maintenance is horrible... Poor show has become the norm, when it used to be the exception...

Try going to WDW and actually enjoying your family/kids....if you have any...memories will last forever....and try not to look for things to whine about. It will be life changing.

Sorry, anyone who thinks a trip to WDW is lifechanging.. Nah, I'll stop my sentence there...

Never said the place wasn't fun... It is, and no one is denying that... However, there is only so much fun to be had with the same thing over and over and over.. you get it.. Yes, when something gets stale, it starts to remove the fun...

My apologies...if i made it personal...not my intent. But debbie downers in general...sometimes...need to actually believe in santa claus..life can be good that way.

Never took your posts personal... And please don't take mine personal.. I'm not trying to convince you that your opinions are wrong... Opinions are never wrong... it is how someone feels... I never said someone couldn't or shouldn't enjoy WDW... But, I always post a fact as a fact (and only as a fact if I can, again, vet the truth of the information).. otherwise, I state it as my opinion...

However, you did kind of attack Jared cause he felt the new Fantasyland area isn't up to snuff... Almost like you took it personal... If the only opinions allowed to be posted are only positive, pixie dust laced opinions, this site and all others will be boring... And if that is your thing, there are plenty of pixie dust addict site out there where no negative posts are allowed...

[buzznwoodysmom]

its getting old on here...

Funny you should say that!

There are actually two "trends" I've noticed here on Intercot over the past several months that IN MY OPINION are "getting old"...

One is that if you still find value in, or still enjoy trips to Disney you are somehow a mindless person who will follow anything Disney does, you are drinking the Disney koolaid, surely you have no idea what is a good value in a vacation........and it goes on....

The other "trend" is that if you don't like even the smallest thing Disney does then surely you are a "Debbie Downer", only see the negative in a situation, your a whiner or complainer, you go looking for something to complain about, and clearly don't know what your talking about.....

Each one is about as annoying as the other, in my opinion of course!