Star Tours - please explain

[Sydnerella]

I have a DS5 who is getting into Star Wars (amazing what kids get "into" without having seen any movies yet - they are a bit more than we are ready to show him at age 5).

Anyway, what is Star Tours like? I know it's a motion simulator - what else? Is it comparable to the full-on version of Mission Space or more tame? He loves roller coasters and is a daredevil with rides but I was wondering if this one would be too much so I would like to hear more about it and your experiences if possible!

Thanks,

Sydnerella's Mama

 

[FlightlessDuck]

I haven't been on Mission:Space, but from what I understand, it is more more tame. The "shuttile" you are in bucks, dips, dives, and jumps around a little. It's not that bad at all.

 

[doconeill]

Mission: Space is a different kind of simulator.

Star Tours is similar to other "ride simulators" where you essentially enter an enclosed box (cabin), with a projection screen and seats, and the cabin itself tilts and jerks and moves up and down, etc. The combination of motion and the projection gives a feel of actual movement, but nothing resembling the g-forces experienced on M:S.

If you've ever been on the old Body Wars in Epcot, it is essentially the same simulator system. They are also similar (but bigger) to full-scale flight simulators.

 

[PictureJumpr]

It is nowhere nearly as intense as Mission:Space on the orange side.

It is a move-to-the-film motion simulator where when you appear to be swooping down, you feel like you are falling, and when you appear to be swerving left or right, you feel like you really are, etc.

My mom (61) loves this one, but she refuses to go on things like BTMRR and Space Mountain because they scare her.

HTH

 

[dawneg]

Hi. My just turned 4-year-old was fine on it. You could talk about it a bit ahead of time to make sure he understands you're going to "land" safely and you'll get to see some cool things on your "flight."

 

[mickeyluv'r]

Mission Space is spinning while you are on it. Star Tours merely tilts. CLose your eyes, and half the effect disappears. It the movie as much as the tilting that give the effect of motion on Star Tours.

On the other hand -I didn't read when you are actually going - at some point in the future they are going to give this ride a much needed rehab.

This ride is similar tothe now defunct Back to the Future ride at Universal.

One thing that is worth seeing, IMO, is the ool gift shop at the end. Merchadise quality has diminshed in recent years, this is one fo few gift shops that still has kind of unique themed gifts, though not as cool as they once offered even here. Hopefully all WDW offerings will improve with the economy.

 

[Sydnerella]

I appreciate the info - I think he will be a "go"

 

[shyjade]

Thanks for the post and responses, I think I'll give it a try next time too! I was a bit worried about motion sickness but I did fine on Body Wars (way back when!) so you've all convinced me I can handle this ride. Yipee!!

DD12 & I love the movies and have been debating for a few years now if we should give it a try (we're both big ride chickens!!)

 

[Erica's Mommy]

We just got back and my 3 year old DD rode Star Tours and loved it! Mission Space is A LOT more intense. But I think he would be fine with Star Tours. DD had no problems and I didn't think it was too rough for her. Hope you have a great trip!

 

[claryche]

My DS rode it when he just turned 3 and loved it. It's one of his favorite rides. Of course another one of his favorite rides is BTMR. But still, it's really tame. I"m sure your DS will love it.

 

[DancinMama]

The ride is fun but for a 5 year old I think the stuff outside of the ride is going to be the best part for him. The giant At-At and Ewok village. The chance to ride a speederbike. We're taking our DS5 in June and I'm so excited to see the look on his face for those things!

Hope your's loves it!