For Disney fans who have ever wondered about the history, artistry, and Imagineering genius behind their favorite rides, Behind the Attraction is an absolute delight. This Disney+ original docuseries, produced by Dwayne Johnson’s Seven Bucks Productions and narrated with an upbeat and humorous tone, takes viewers on a deep dive into the creation and evolution of Disney’s most iconic attractions. Across two seasons, the show has covered a wide range of beloved rides, offering fascinating insights, rare archival footage, and interviews with the Imagineers who helped bring these experiences to life.

As a family favorite in our household, Behind the Attraction has ignited a deep appreciation in my 5-year-old for the creativity and effort that goes into building the rides she adores. The show’s engaging storytelling and fun facts make it accessible for both adults and children, turning a trip to a Disney park into an even more immersive experience.

Breaking Down the Magic: What We Learned from Each Episode

Season 1 Episodes:

  1. Jungle Cruise – Inspired by Walt Disney’s love for adventure films and documentaries, Jungle Cruise was one of the original Disneyland rides. The episode highlights how the attraction evolved from serious river expeditions to the comedic, pun-filled experience we know today.
  2. Haunted Mansion – This episode reveals the challenges Imagineers faced in blending spooky and silly elements. One of the most fascinating aspects is the “stretching room” illusion and the ghostly ballroom scene created with an old magician’s trick known as Pepper’s Ghost.
  3. Star Tours – We learn about the groundbreaking motion simulator technology that brought Star Wars to life in theme parks and how it eventually paved the way for the highly immersive Galaxy’s Edge land.
  4. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – Fans of this thrilling drop ride will love the behind-the-scenes look at how Imagineers blended storytelling with ride technology to create a truly eerie and unforgettable experience. Plus, the episode covers the reimagining of the ride into Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout at Disney California Adventure.
  5. Space Mountain – This episode explores how Disney managed to build a roller coaster inside a darkened dome and how Space Mountain has been adapted in different parks worldwide, each with its own unique spin.
  6. The Castles – Disney castles are more than just theme park icons; they’re the heart of each park. This episode details how Cinderella Castle, Sleeping Beauty Castle, and their international counterparts were designed to evoke fairytales and inspire wonder.
  7. Disneyland Hotel – A fascinating look at the history of Disney’s first-ever resort hotel and how it set the stage for future Disney resorts around the world.
  8. It’s a Small World – This charming episode dives into the history of the attraction, initially designed for the 1964 World’s Fair, and highlights the work of Disney legends Mary Blair and the Sherman Brothers in bringing the ride to life with its colorful designs and iconic song.
  9. Trains, Trams, and Monorails – This episode explores how Disney revolutionized in-park transportation with systems like the Monorail, the Disneyland Railroad, and the various tram services that enhance the guest experience.
  10. Hall of Presidents – A deep dive into one of Disney’s most historically significant attractions, featuring how the Imagineers created lifelike animatronic presidents and evolved the show over the years.

Season 2 Episodes:

  1. Pirates of the Caribbean – Originally envisioned as a walk-through wax museum, Pirates of the Caribbean became one of the most beloved boat rides in Disney history. We learn how Imagineers created realistic animatronic pirates and how the ride inspired the blockbuster film franchise.
  2. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – This episode explores how a classic mining town aesthetic was transformed into a thrilling runaway train ride and how Disney incorporated real-world geology into the rock formations.
  3. Indiana Jones Adventure – Learn how Imagineers combined groundbreaking ride technology, immersive storytelling, and thrilling special effects to bring Indiana Jones to life in Disneyland.
  4. EPCOT – This episode covers the ambitious vision behind EPCOT, Walt Disney’s dream for a futuristic city, and how it evolved into a theme park showcasing innovation, culture, and cutting-edge attractions.
  5. The Food – Disney parks are known for more than just attractions; their food offerings have become an integral part of the guest experience. This episode takes a fun look at the creation of iconic Disney treats like Dole Whip, Mickey pretzels, and themed dining experiences.
  6. The Nighttime Spectaculars – Fireworks, parades, and projection shows have become a staple of Disney parks. This episode dives into how these magical nighttime experiences have evolved, from early firework displays to cutting-edge pyrotechnics and drone technology.

Why We Need a Season 3

While Behind the Attraction has already covered so many legendary rides, there are still countless attractions that deserve their own episodes. A third season could explore:

  • Expedition Everest – The creation of the tallest artificial mountain in Florida and its mythical Yeti animatronic.
  • Test Track – The evolution of high-speed car-based attractions.
  • Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway – How Disney brought 2D animation into a 3D ride experience.
  • The Mysterious Disney Mountains – From Matterhorn to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, these towering attractions deserve their own spotlight.
  • Themed Lands – An exploration of how areas like Pandora: The World of Avatar and Toy Story Land were designed to fully immerse guests.

Final Thoughts

Behind the Attraction is a love letter to Disney parks and the Imagineers who make them so special. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan, a theme park history buff, or a parent sharing the magic with your children, this series is an engaging and entertaining watch. My 5-year-old’s newfound appreciation for the artistry behind her favorite rides is a testament to how well the show brings the behind-the-scenes magic to life. Hopefully, Disney+ continues the journey with a third season, exploring even more of the incredible attractions that make Disney parks so unforgettable.

Have you watched Behind the Attraction? What ride would you love to see featured next?