My thoughts on some of the WDW news and announcements from
D23:
-Tron in MK: I've never seen the movie, but the lightcycle coaster looks like so much fun and is a great fit into the theming of Tomorrowland. And it's even better that unlike originally thought, it will not be replacing the Speedway. So for once, we get a new ride without something else closing down. I'm really excited about that. But the Speedway does need some TLC.
-EPCOT: Guardians of the Galaxy will be an interesting addition to Future World. As will the space restaurant - it looks pretty cool. And I am thrilled for the confirmation of Ratatouille in France! That ride from
Disneyland Paris looks so cute and I'm glad it's coming to the States. And they mentioned it going into a new space in the pavilion, and no mention of Impressions de France closing, so it's cool that they'll get a ride without sacrificing the film. I think they need to keep that cultural, real-world part there, unlike how they let Frozen completely take over Norway.
-Hollywood Studios: The Mickey and Minnie ride sounds really cute, but I wish it wasn't going into the Chinese Theater and I wish the Great Movie Ride wasn't closing, especially so soon. Until Toy Story Land opens next summer like they're saying (hopefully no delays) that park just continues to get weaker. I love DHS, and it will be great once the new things open up, but we're still a few years away from that. I just think the GMR fit well into the central location of that building since it encompasses the theme of movies and entertainment as a whole, which is what the park is about. But it is what it is, and I am looking forward to seeing what the Mickey and Minnie ride is like. And no mention of anything happening with Tower of Terror, so fingers crossed it's safe for a while!
-Gondolas: This will be interesting to see how those work out. I think it's good to have another transportation option, but I hope it's not a disaster and that it doesn't look awful (i.e. being able to see all the structure and the gondolas themselves from inside the parks).
-Star Wars Hotel: I think I saw one rumor about this, but never did I think it was really going to happen. I wonder what it will be like but it will probably be nearly impossible to book. Not to mention the cost.
Overall, I was blown away that there were so many announcements, and I'm happy with most of them. And I honestly don't think they're done, since I feel like they have a lot more in mind for EPCOT.