Overview

When the Disney MGM Studios opened on May 1, 1989, chairman Michael Eisner declared "Welcome to the Hollywood that never was and always will be." Evoking the Golden Age of Hollywood, you are transported back in time from the moment that you approach the main gates. Art Deco is the prevailing style as you stroll down Hollywood Boulevard surrounded by sleek chrome trimmed architecture and neon highlights.

As a fitting tribute to the studios of the past, a water tower is prominently displayed. The "Earffel Tower" adds the distinctive Disney twist of sporting a pair of 5000 pound Mouse Ears.

While the Earffel Tower has long been this park's icon, it's rivaled by the addition of the 122 ft tall Sorcerer's Hat that casts its magic over the center of this park. This glistening tribute to Fantasia is an amazing structure and a fitting match to the signature pieces of the other Disney theme parks.

Portions of the 135 acres that the Disney MGM Studios covers are devoted to television and movie production. The Backlot Tour is an exciting behind the scenes look into the world of special effects. You can watch Disney animators at work when taking the "Magic of Disney Animation" tour. Patterned after the popular TV show, "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-Play It" gives you the opportunity to get in the Hot Seat and win fabulous prizes. Entertaining stage shows and productions such as "Beauty and the Beast", "Voyage of the Little Mermaid", "Playhouse Disney-Live On Stage" and the "Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular" are sure to delight and thrill audiences.

Speaking of thrills, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and Star Tours provide fast paced rides for those who dare to try them. Take a nostalgic journey with some of Hollywood's favorite films in the Great Movie Ride. Join Kermit, Fozzie, Miss Piggy and friends in the madcap "Jim Henson's Muppet Vision 3-D". For a rare glimpse into the man behind the Mouse, "Walt Disney: One Man's Dream" is a fascinating exhibit of Walt's life and the path he followed to achieve his goal of creating the "Happiest Place On Earth."

MGM-Studios is home to the more recent Disney characters, as well as your old time favorites. Buzz, Woody, Jessie and other friends from Toy Story can be found at Al's Toy Barn. Along Mickey Avenue you may find your pals from Monsters, Inc., Lilo and Stitch, as well as 101 Dalmatians.

As evening descends, it's time for "Fantasmic!" With the use of lasers, pyrotechnics, animation and water screens, you'll be captivated as you watch Sorcerer Mickey and friends battle the Disney villains. It's an amazing finale to your exciting day at this unique park.

Dining at Disney MGM Studios is an entertaining experience in itself. The Hollywood Brown Derby is a detailed replica of its namesake. With caricatures and paneled banquettes, you almost expect to see Bogart and Garbo make an entrance. At the 50's Prime Time Cafe, mind your manners and eat your veggies or you'll have to answer to "Mom". At the Sci-Fi Drive In, keep your car lights dimmed so you can enjoy watching the black and white movie clips from your convertible. Your mouth will water when you inhale the savory aromas of Mama Melrose's Ristorante. Counter service eateries abound, with Toy Story Pizza Planet, Backlot Express and the ABC Commissary to name a few.



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