Disney World for Car Lovers

The love affair between teenagers and cars goes way back.

Luckily, even the most enthusiastic car lover can find places to feed their fascination with cars around the World!

Disney World Attractions

The Tomorrowland Speedway

The Tomorrowland Speedway at the Magic Kingdom is a classic Disney World attraction. This ride began it’s life as the Grand Prix Raceway back on opening day, and has changed very little. This classic tribute to race cars is a nostalgiac favorite for the car lover.

Test Track

If you prefer your race car with a little, well… speed, you should head over to Epcot and take a spin on Test Track. This attraction, sponsored by General Motors, simulates a road test in an open vehicle. If you like feeling the wind in your hair, you’ll enjoy reaching a speed of 60 miles per hour on a section of outside track with 50 degree banked curves. The best news for car lovers is that this attraction is receiving a “modernization” in 2012.

You might want to plan to spend a little time in the Test Track Pavilion, too. There are exhibits that feature the latest in automotive technology and a futuristic concept car. Even the gift shop has a bit of car themed merchandise.

Rock ‘N Roller Coaster

You can enjoy high-speed thrills set to the soundtrack of Aerosmith on this Hollywood Studios attraction. G-Force speed in a super-stretch limo makes for one memorable car ride!

Lights, Motors Action Extreme Stunt Show

Now combine speed, thrills and some skillful driving in this live-action show at Hollywood Studios park. You’ll enjoy the precision choreography by Hollywood stunt drivers in highly modified Opel brand cars, accompanied by revving engines and squealing tires. This show is sure to please any car-lover!

Modified vehicles also play a starring role in many disney World attractions.

Kilimanjaro Safari

For example, the Jitney-style vehicles you’ll board to experience the Kilimajaro Safari at Animal Kingdom Park are actually custom built GMC heavy-duty trucks. These 10-ton, 32 passenger vehicles have been modified to run on clean-burning liquid propane, and are actually driven by the Safari Guide cast members up front.

Dinosaur

Also at Animal Kingdom park, head over to Dinosaur and board a battered Time Rover. On this journey through time back to the age of the dinosaurs, you’ll experience a turbulent ride on this computerized Enhanced Motion Vehicle (EMV.) Disney has patented the design for these ride vehicles – they feature a regular truck-chassis, enhanced with hydraulics and an onboard computer system that ensures that every ride is a uniquely thrilling experience!

Disney Special Experiences

Richard Petty Driving Experience

At the Richard Petty Driving Experience, racing fans can have an experience of a lifetime riding shotgun in a 600HP NASCAR race car for three laps at speeds up to 165 miles per hour. Or, for a more refined experience, ride along in one of the new Richard Petty “exotic” cars, like the Lamborghini to the left! Passengers must be 14 years or older to ride.

Oh – and to sweeten the pot – when a parent/guardian purchases a Ride-Along Experience, their Teenager (ages 14-19) can participate in a NASCAR Ride-Along Experience as well for $29 (plus tax where applicable). This Teen Ride-Along also includes a souvenir photo.

Ridemakerz

Build your own custom remote-control ride at Ridemakerz in Downtown Disney. You start by choosing the body style and build on by adding accessories. From sound systems to working headlights, you can customize your vehicle down to the smallest detail – a car lovers dream!

Disney has a resort for car lovers, too!

The new Art of Animation Resort is themed in sections, and your car lover may enjoy spending some time in Radiator Springs!

The “Cars” wing of this resort is expected to open in July of 2012, and will feature family-suite style accommodations. There will also be a Cars themed Courtyard.

 Stop in to the Sci-Fi Dine-In!

Treat your car-lover to dinner at the “drive-in” movie themed Sci-Fi Dine-In Restaurant inside Hollywood Studios Park. Enjoy a meal while seated inside a convertible under simulated stars.

Enjoy some classic movie clips on the big screen, for an authentic drive-in movie experience!

Visit a Car Show

In 2011, Disney World hosted an Auto Show at Downtown Disney. Called “Car Masters Weekend,” this auto show coincided with the release of the movie “Cars 2.” It’s not clear whether this will become an annual event, but it is something to watch for.

If you’re open to leaving Disney property during your stay, Orlando is host to some big car shows. The nearby town of Celebration hosts a large exotic car show annually, which has been named one of the 5 best Exotic Car Shows in the World. In 2012, the show will be held April 12 – 15. The Delorean Car Show and Convention will be held June 14- 17th of 2012.    If you have a car lover who would enjoy a little “car time, ” be sure to do a web search for upcoming Orlando car shows before your trip!