Disney's Hollywood Studios
 Opened: May 1, 1989
Fun Fact: Originally named Backstage Studio Tour
April 2009 review
The Disney's Hollywood Studios Backlot Tour combines two demonstrations of special effects. One thing to know up front, this attraction will take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. If you don't have that much time to commit, save it for another visit.
The first queue has TV monitors placed throughout the area. You'll watch a video clip that explains what goes on behind the scenes to create the special effects from some popular movies. They'll also be looking for volunteers to participate in the first FX demonstration. (If you're interested, try to be near the front of the line.)
From here you head to an outdoor viewing area where you stand behind railings to see the Special Effects Water Tank. The "lucky" volunteers will get firsthand experience in re-enacting nautical battle scenes.
Following
this "damp" presentation, you walk through
a prop warehouse. You may recognize a few items from familiar Disney movies, but by now you're mostly looking for a chance to sit down, especially if it's a hot day.
Next step, boarding the tram. They're covered by a canopy but otherwise open so don't expect A/C. Still, it's a pleasant ride and you get some great photo ops. The tram passes through production bungalows, the wardrobe department
(where you can watch the costumers at work), and the scenery
shop. Along the way you pass topiaries and vehicles that have been used in Disney movies.
Finally, you reach Catastrophe Canyon. (SKIP THE REST OF THIS PARAGRAPH IF YOU WANT TO BE SURPRISED.) The tram comes to a stop. Before you know it, the ground starts shaking, the tram starts rockin', a fuel truck crashes, sparks cause a fiery explosion and it all ends in a flash flood. PHEW! It's amazing how much happens within the span of a minute. This is the best part of the attraction. Sit on the left if you want to be closest to the action. (You might get a little bit wet, but it's not bad at all.)
After a drive past the Streets of America, the ride ends and you're let out at the American Film Institute Showcase Shop. There are costumes/props on display and movie/TV themed merchandise for sale. You may have started to notice a trend. A lot of the attractions empty out into a store. Coincidence? I think not.
While a bit on the long side, the Disney's Hollywood Studio Backlot
Tour has something for everyone that all
age groups can enjoy. While not a major attraction, it is quite busy
for most of the day.
The tour is wheelchair accessible.
For deaf guests, sign language interpreters are available
if you have made arrangements with the Sign Language Coordinator
2 weeks prior to your visit.
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