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Rating/Reviews
Regina Hinrichs
dvcreg@wdwinfo.com
 Opened: March 17, 1999
Test Track has been one of Epcot's most popular attractions since it opened. It's least crowded (briefly) when Epcot opens. This is one ride where you'll want to use FastPass to avoid a long wait. Get it early as they do run out of them most days. If you don't mind being split up, another option is the Single Riders line.
The queue is noisy but fun. As you wait, you'll see different safety "tests" being conducted. (Don't worry, they're just Crash Dummies. No one was hurt in the making of this queue.)
You'll advance into a holding area for the pre-show where you're ushered into a room to watch a four minute video overview of the attraction. That may not seem like a lot of time, but the actors are two of the most boring people on the planet. When the door opens to the next queue, you're not only eager to get on the ride, you want to be sure you're out of that room before you run the risk of watching the video again.
The next queue is relatively short and fast moving. This is where you get in your convertible, buckle up, and head onto the Test Track. You're stopped for a quick seatbelt check, the light turns green, and with tires squealing, you're on your way.
After an uphill climb, the Suspension test comes first. Your car passes over different road surfaces, such as cobblestones and Belgian blocks.
Next comes the Brake test. You compare how the car reacts to a sudden stop with and without anti-lock brakes.
The road twists and turns as you climb higher. You'll pass through the Environmental Chamber that simulates extreme heat followed by extreme cold. The "Corrosion" test sprays a mist so if you wear glasses, be warned.
Finally, the big moment arrives. Your car bursts through the wall onto the outside track. The course has steep banks that add to the thrill factor as you reach maximum speed of 65 MPH.
And just like that, your "test" is over. If you usually smile as you're about to crash into a wall (and who doesn't?), then you'll want to purchase the souvenir photo as you exit. (For the record, most of us are caught mid-scream.)
You exit through the Driver's Technology Laboratories, which is a fancy name for GM showroom. There are a few activities to enjoy, but most of the space is dedicated to displaying GM's most recent cars. There's also a store where you can buy Test Track and GM merchandise.
One thing about Test Track, it breaks down a lot more than any other ride at WDW. Usually its just for a few minutes, but it can be longer. Be patient, it's worth the wait.
Children under
the age of 7 cannot ride Test Track without being accompanied
by an adult and a height restriction of 40" is in effect
but parents may wish to use the "switch off" option.
TIPS: This
ride has a “single riders” option that could save you TONS
of time in line.
Just enter through the staircase to the left of
the main queue (ask a CM if you’re not sure).
You’ll be split up from other members of your group,
but if you don’t mind that, then give it a try.
If you prefer to ride with your group, definitely get
a Fast Pass first thing in the morning.
If the ride breaks down right before you are to get on,
the CMs should give you a special pass that gives you “back door” access to the front of the line next time
you board.
FUN FACTS:
This ride holds the
distinction of being the most-delayed attraction at any
Disney theme park. It was three years late in opening. Second place goes to the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland.
HIDDEN MICKEYS:
There are many on this ride – check out the Mickey
Pez dispenser on the workbench in area 2B, the white workbench
in area 8B where three large washers form Mickey’s head,
the Cold Room that shows Mickey in frost on the back wall
and the Corrosion Room that has a Mickey in rust on both
sides of the room.
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