Disney isn't done spending money, apparently. Fresh off their recent acquisition of Marvel Comics, the company has announced a major upgrade to modernize its Star Tours rides and greatly expand Fantasyland at Walt Disney World in Florida.
Already struggling at its theme parks as people cut back in the recession, Walt Disney World faces increased competition with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opening next year at nearby Universal's Islands of Adventure.
Star Tours, popular but aged, was originally built around the first three “Star Wars” films (which are really episodes IV - VI). It be updated to reflect the three prequels.
The Fantasyland expansion will open in two stages in 2012 and 2013. Over the next three years, changes will include an area where children can dance with Cinderella, celebrate Sleeping Beauty’s birthday and interact with Belle from “Beauty and the Beast.” Pixie Hollow, a Tinker Bell-themed experience that opened last year at Disneyland, will also be added.
Finally, the Dumbo the Flying Elephant ride will be renovated. Disney plans to double the size of the ride, adding a covered "three-ring circus" waiting area with interactive games and a play area.
According to Disney, the updates are intended to make the parks more interactive. Instead of simply shaking hands with characters or getting a hug, children will be “immersed in their world," Disney said. All they need is a social networking aspect and it'll be complete.
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