Liberty Square Disney world
The smallest of all the Lands, Liberty Square is set in post-Colonial America and hosts three attractions: the Liberty Square Riverboat, The Hall of Presidents, and The Haunted Mansion.
The Liberty Square Riverboat is a relaxing trip back in time to the days of the new frontier, the Louisiana Purchase, and the birth of the Southern culture. The ride is usually not very crowded and is a great way to beat the summer heat.
Another interesting option is a visit to the never-crowded Hall of Presidents. This is an impressive animatronic show that features the recorded voice of the current president joining in on readings by the great presidents from the past. The animatronic portion is preceded by a multimedia film showcasing the trials and tribulations of the early days of the United States. The film takes an unusually honest and candid look at slavery and ends on a stirringly patriotic note.
The first ride constructed at Walt Disney World, The Haunted Mansion still holds its own as one of the best. While the scare factor has ebbed noticeably over the years, the clever introduction, ingenious ghost projection, and attention to detail throughout the ride still warrant admiration. The ride’s ability to take in large groups of people nearly continuously ensures that even long lines – now rare – move quickly. Very young children may still be frightened by some of the sudden “gotchas,” but most others will find this more wonderfully amusing than frightfully scary.
This Land is usually the first destination for kids as their favorite storybook characters come to life here. Dumbo the Flying Elephant proves a compelling draw for young children whilst Cinderella’s Golden Carrousel, a genuine 1917 restoration, seems to entice both old and young onto its gallopers. Snow White’s Scary Adventures, which recounts the fairy-tale, is a basic tracked ride and may be slightly frightening for very young children.
Peter Pan’s Flight, however, is deservedly popular, combining the feeling of flying with the delight of perfectly matched music and movement. Opposite this is it’s a small world, a waterborne journey through a series of animated tableaux.
Situated at the entrance to Cinderella’s castle is the newest attraction, Dream Along with Mickey, a musical stage show where Mickey and the gang invite everyone to join in the music and dancing.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh incorporates the latest in ride vehicle technology, lighting, and multi-channel sound effects.
A popular attraction, it is worthy of its Fastpass status. Inspired by the Mad Hatter and the March Hare’s nonsensical “unbirthday” party in Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Tea Party ride has guests sitting in teacups that go right and left in circular motions. This musical ride is a must for young children.
The 3-D film, Mickey’s PhilharMagic, embodies the high standards associated with Disney, though it might be overwhelming for young children. The newest of the 3-D films shown around the Disney parks, it may also be the most perfected. It features a strong plotline – Donald Duck getting into trouble after appropriating Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat during a warm-up for an enchanted symphony. This sends the hapless duck spiraling through several of Disney’s most popular animated musicals, trying to undo his mischief.
The music is magnificent, the addition of 3-D to beloved scenes from Disney’s stable of hits is incredible, and the sensory enhancement at certain times is used very well and often for comic effect.
Ariel’s Grotto hosts the “interactive fountain” and greeting area. Here, small children can play in an aquatic environment, meet the Little Mermaid herself, and get totally soaked. Pooh’s Playful Spot is a “splendiferous” playground from Winnie the Pooh, where children can bounce like Tigger and play like Roo.
