The Haunted Mansion at Walt Disneys Magic Kingdom is probably one of the best rides at the park. Opened in 1971 it remains one of those untouchable attractions (meaning, a ride that must ALWAYS be at the Magic Kingdom) at the Magic Kingdom sitting along side classics such as Pirates of the Carribean and Splash Mountain.
Now, I havent been on the California version so I cannot compare the two but, as a stand alone ride, its excellent.
But why is it so great?
First off, the special effects are excellent. It probably has the best special effects of all the rides at MK.
Secondly, the atmosphere is very good. The scenery, the sound effects, the Ghost Host (voiced by the great Paul Frees), and a wonderful collection of ghosts and ghouls (including the busts singing Grim Grinning Ghosts) make the atmosphere delightfully creepy.
Is it worth waiting over an hour to go on? Id have to say, like most of the rides at Disney, no. This is a Fast Pass attraction for sure. Dont wait over 30 minutes to get on. Its too short for that long of a wait.
Will the little ones like it? Id say kids over 8 should be fine but smaller ones may be frightened.
So, in conclusion, its a classic and a must see on a trip to the Magic Kingdom.
And wow... just... wow... I saw the new and improved version of The Haunted Mansion on October 12th 2007. It had vastly improved sound quality and a lot of the special effects were fixed.
Okay, I will admit that the older version of the ride was a bit run-down and a few of the effects looked dated but it was still excellent and most of the effects were fine.
But man, theyve really gone to town on this one. Madame Leota really floats, they added in a new room (the "Endless Staircase" , the wires are not visible anymore on the floating instruments, theres a new "wedding" room with some cool scenery and a fixed bride, and the sound quality is vastly improved.
So yes, still an excellent ride. One of the best at Disney.
I give this ride a 10/10.
|