A Look Back at the Backlot Tour at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
In 2010, we took our last ride on the Backlot Tour at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Though the attraction would close in 2014, this final experience was a chance to relive a piece of the park’s history. The Backlot Tour had been a staple since the park opened in 1989, back when it was still called Disney-MGM Studios. I had the chance to experience it in those early years, and it was truly something special. The tour was longer, with more working production areas, and the atmosphere was alive with the magic of moviemaking. By 2010, it had been scaled back significantly, but even then, it remained a beloved attraction that still had plenty to offer.
When the Backlot Tour finally closed, it made way for exciting new developments at Hollywood Studios. Toy Story Land brought vibrant playtime adventures to life, while Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge transported guests to a galaxy far, far away. These immersive lands redefined the park, focusing more on storytelling and interactivity than the behind-the-scenes experience of the Backlot Tour. While I miss the charm and nostalgia of the old tour, it’s hard not to appreciate the incredible worlds that took its place.
Before even entering the Backlot Tour, there was the iconic splash fountain and the adjacent gift shop filled with sight gags and nods to Hollywood humor. The fountain, a tribute to the park’s movie-making theme, was inspired by the classic Disney movie Splash starring Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah. It often caught the attention of guests with its playful water sprays. The store itself was a delight, featuring gags like crates labeled “Acme Explosives” and packages marked “Fragile: Contains Rubber Chickens.” There were also fun references to fictional movie props and whimsical production mishaps, making the shop a memorable stop before or after the tour.
One of the most memorable experiences from my visits to Disney’s Hollywood Studios was the Backlot Tour. It was a true gem of the park, offering a peek behind the curtain into the magic of movie-making. From the moment I stepped into the queue, I knew I was in for something special. The Pearl Harbor exhibits immediately set the stage, showcasing props and models that brought the iconic film to life. It was a fitting tribute to the power of storytelling through cinema.
Before even boarding the tram, one of my favorite parts was the live-action PT boat show. Volunteers from the audience were transformed into actors, decked out in rain gear, as massive water explosions erupted around them. The special effects demonstration was both thrilling and hilarious, giving a glimpse into the craft of filmmaking.
Then came the main event—the Backlot Tour itself. As the tram rolled out, we were treated to views of the iconic Earful Tower, once the park’s symbol, standing tall above the production buildings. Passing through the prop shop was like stepping into a movie storage room, with countless treasures from films both old and new. One standout was the massive model of the Con Air airplane, a perfect example of the impressive practical effects used in Hollywood blockbusters.
A highlight for Disney history fans like myself was spotting Walt Disney’s personal plane. Sitting proudly on display, it was a nod to the man whose vision made it all possible. And of course, no Backlot Tour was complete without a trip through Catastrophe Canyon. The simulated earthquake, complete with fire, rushing water, and trembling ground, was a breathtaking display of practical effects at their finest.
Another unique perspective was the behind-the-scenes view of the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show. Seeing the elaborate set pieces and stunt vehicles from the backlot vantage point added a layer of appreciation for the precision and planning behind each thrilling sequence.
The tram ride also took us past a fascinating collection of vehicles used in various productions. From futuristic sci-fi creations to classic movie cars, each had its own story to tell. It was like a rolling museum of cinematic history.
At the end of the tour, we were welcomed into a post-show exhibit that felt like a treasure trove of film memorabilia. The costumes on display were spectacular, featuring iconic outfits from Star Wars, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Each piece was a testament to the craftsmanship of movie magic.
Adding to the fun, we even got a behind-the-scenes peek at the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers show. Watching the action unfold from a different perspective was a treat, giving a sense of the coordination and effort that went into every performance.
Finally, the tour concluded with two cinematic tributes from the American Film Institute. The AFI’s Top 50 Villains exhibit celebrated the most memorable antagonists in film history, reminding us just how powerful a well-played villain can be. Next to it, the display honoring AFI Life Achievement Award winners paid homage to the industry’s most influential figures.
Looking back, the Backlot Tour was a celebration of the magic that happens both on and off the screen. While the attraction may be gone, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced it. Disney’s Hollywood Studios has continued to evolve, but the spirit of storytelling remains stronger than ever. And for that, I’m forever grateful.
