Certainly the visual focal point of the Magic Kingdom should be Cinderella Castle. However, some would argue that the skyline of the Magic Kingdom is actually dominated by the large white conical structure that makes up Space Mountain. Others would argue that Space Mountain also dominates on the fun scale as well. Whatever your opinion, it is definitely true that Space Mountain is perhaps the most popular ride in the park, despite the fact that Walt Disney World was not really intended to be a haven for thrill rides.
Thirty miles per hour with no loops? A thrill ride? Well – add the fact that this particular ride is in the dark and includes special strobe lighting effects that maximize the speed and you truly do experience some thrills. (Of course, you also experience jarring, jerking, and back-breaking physical effects as well.)
In January of 1975, the imposing structure that would be Space Mountain finally opened to a very happy crowd of teens and roller coaster lovers that perhaps considered the Magic Kingdom boring otherwise. (We do not agree with them but – oh well.) Analysis of this ride, however, supports the fact that Disney imagineers never do anything average. An amusement park is satisfied with the “Wild Mouse” type of roller coaster that Space Mountain really is. Only Disney would then take that Wild Mouse and construct a massive indoor home for it and fill it with wonderful special effects – including glow-in-the-dark stripes on each car that provide an interesting spectacle to those waiting in line and looking up! NOTE: Those stripes have been removed on the latest upgrade, but the view of the night skies has been much improved.
Minor changes have occurred over the years and some of them (changing the seating to allow for single seats rather than VERY personal triple seating) were quite welcome. Right now Disney enthusiasts are weighing in on the just completed upgrade which made adjustments to the line by adding more up-to-date exhibits, as well as minor adjustments to the ride itself. We welcome comments from those who think they noticed any improvement to the ride.
Some details:
- ECV riders will need to transfer to a standard wheelchair and then to the car itself.
- Be sure to get a fast pass! The line is always long on this one – both in time and in distance!
- Riders must be at least 44” tall.
- Don't ignore the health and safety cautions on this one. It's fun, but not subtle.
