10 Failed Disney Rides That Were Eventually Scrapped
With over 50 rides and attractions at Disneyland (and more being built every so often), it’s inevitable that the lesser-liked or poorly performing rides will be taken down. So, for each of the Magic Kingdom’s most beloved rides, there are a few not-so-lucky ones that had to be scrapped and replaced.
The reasons why rides are eliminated from Disney parks usually boil down to three major factors: Technical problems, audience rejection, or no longer fitting into the popular theme park’s bigger plan. Let’s explore some failed Disney rides that were eventually scrapped.
Rocket Rods
As part of Disneyland’s Tomorrowland expansion, Rocket Rods promised high-speed thrills but struggled with unbanked turns, making the ride unsustainable. Eventually, it was officially retired, marking the end of an ambitious dream.
The ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter
The ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter at Magic Kingdom aimed for thrills but became too intense for many families. Parents found it too scary for kids, and it didn’t strike the right balance of fun and excitement.
Submarine Voyage
Once an underwater adventure that transported guests into the ocean’s depths, the Submarine Voyage attraction soon became outdated and costly to maintain. Eventually, it was reimagined as “Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage,” breathing new life into the concept with a beloved Pixar theme at the helm.
Superstar Limo
Disney California Adventure’s 2001 debut included the failed Superstar Limo, a bizarre Hollywood-themed ride with celebrity figures. Its unsettling atmosphere led to its closure after just a year. It was later replaced by Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue.
Journey into Your Imagination
Disney revamped Epcot’s Journey Into Your Imagination in 1999, replacing Figment and Dreamfinder with Dr. Nigel Channing, disappointing fans. Negative feedback led to another rework in 2002, but the original charm never returned.
Discovery Bay
Discovery Bay, a steampunk-themed project by Tony Baxter, was never built after Island at the Top of the World flopped. However, its influence lives on in Disneyland Paris’ Discoveryland.
Honey, I Shrunk the Audience
This 3D attraction, inspired by the popular “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” film series, thrilled guests with giant-sized effects and in-your-face surprises. However, as the movie franchise faded from public memory, so did interest in the attraction, which was replaced with a more contemporary experience.
Maelstrom
A dark boat ride through Norwegian folklore, Maelstrom, took guests on a journey filled with trolls, stormy seas, and a delightful backward plunge. It was ultimately scrapped to make way for “Frozen Ever After,” which aligned better with modern audiences’ interests.
Skyway Rides
These aerial gondolas once provided scenic views over Disneyland and Disney World, offering a relaxing break from the crowds below. However, maintenance issues and changing safety regulations led Disney to retire them, leaving nostalgic guests wishing for their return.
Stitch’s Great Escape
Stitch’s Great Escape introduced a milder version of the ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter by presenting a comical rendition of the original experience. Despite being based on a much-beloved character, the attraction failed to win audience approval because most fans found it too noisy and confusing. Disney finally closed it in 2018.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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