theme parks


Disney Legend Bob Gurr on creating his Disneyland rides

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“Since Walt wanted the Matterhorn Bobsleds to open in just over a year later, along with a Submarine Voyage, a larger Autopia, and a Monorail, he asked if it could be built faster. He asked me to design a bobsled and two track layouts. He asked Arrow Development, Walt’s favorite outside manufacturer, to find a way. Arrow said bent up pipe would be the quickest way, thus it turned out to be the world’s first steel pipe coaster. See, Walt would know all about the various manufacturing possibilities and wound up inventing something new, just to get the attraction he wanted.”



The Disney Store Times Square opens. I’m without words

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On Tuesday, the Disney Store makes a triumphant official grand opening in Times Square, shutting down the so-called “Crossroads of the World” with an appearance by a rodent that’s huge even by Manhattan standards. The store has been open to customers for the past few days. I went, and although I’m pleased to see that… Read more »


The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opening: Media access

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I’m at the grand opening week of the new Harry Potter land at Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando. Daniel Radcliffe is here somewhere! I’ll see him tomorrow. And ride the ride. And more. It’s one big party-cum-reds release in 97-degree humid heat. Even the fake snow on Hogsmeade village looks like it could melt…. Read more »