Tomorrowland Speedway

Tomorrowland
Magic Kingdom

Introduction | Attraction | Touring Tips | Kids and Characters | Dining | Shopping | Interesting Facts

 

INTRODUCTION

Every little kid dreams of getting behind the wheel of a automobile -- the Tomorrowland Speedway, located before you reach Space Mountain, realizes that dream with real gas-powered cars that can be driven by anyone tall enough to reach the pedal.

ATTRACTION

Tomorrowland Speedway is one of the original Walt Disney World attractions, dating back to the opening of the Magic Kingdom theme park on October 1, 1971.

While waiting in a long, winding queue, guests are directed past replicas of Indianapolis 500-style race cars. Along the way to the loading area, there's a history of Indy racing, captured in photos. There are images of the Yard of Bricks, the Scoring and Timing Pylon, Gasoline Alley and the unmistakable wing and wheel logo.

The loading area of the attraction features panels of the three annual Indianapolis Motor Speedway races -- the Indianapolis 500, the Brickyard 400 and the United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis. Other panels depict races around the moon, Saturn and other outer space destinations.

Riders are strapped into their cars and travel along the 4/10 mile track, with banks and turns, while hearing the calls of world famous announcer Tom Carnegie from sound speakers positioned around the track. As you cross finish line, the checkered flag is waved and you arrive in Victory Circle. The area is marked by the Indianapolis 500 logo and the display of a winning race car. Spectators can experience the attraction from the observation bridge, or from outside the attraction along the route.

TOURING TIPS

There is a height requirement at this attraction -- you must be 54" minimum to drive alone. Shorter children (minimum 32") may be passengers.

Guests must be ambulatory to ride this attraction.

Guests should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not ride.

The queue for this attraction is LONG and winding, up and down stairs. In addition, the wait is often long, even though the line moves steadily. Best time to visit is early in the morning.

This attraction is open one hour before regular park opening time on selected mornings as part of the Magic Kingdom's Extra Magic Hour. This is a great opportunity to try this ride with a manageable wait time.

Since the queue is long and in an unshaded area, it's a good idea to bring a bottle of water with you as you wait for your turn around the Speedway.

It takes about 5 minutes to make the circuit around this Speedway.

Cars reach a maximum speed of 7.5 mph with the Briggs & Stratton 9hp engines.

Cars follow along a guiding track and are somewhat difficult to steer. Be aware that inexperienced drivers may stop suddenly in front of you, or inadvertently ram you from behind.

There is a designated smoking area to the right of the Speedway's entrance.

KIDS AND CHARACTERS

There are no Disney Characters associated with this attraction. There are other character "meet and greet" opportunities throughout the Magic Kingdom, however. Check your daily Times Guide for exact times and locations.

Magic Kingdom Characters At A Glance 
Character Meet and Greet FAQ!

DINING

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe, a counter service restaurant, is located across from this attraction.

Magic Kingdom Restaurants At A Glance
Menus From Around the World
Vegetarian and Other Special Diets

SHOPPING

There is a Racing Specialties Cart just outside the Speedway that sells assorted racing miniature cars, clothing and hats.

INTERESTING FACTS

Previously known as the Tomorrowland Indy Speedway, the word Indy was dropped in 2009.

The Speedway is one of the original Walt Disney World attractions, opening on October 1, 1971.

The attraction features 146 authentic Autopia Mark VII race cars that travel around a 4/10-mile track.

The cars reach a top speed of 7.5 mph.

Tomorrowland Speedway features include an engine governor, belt restraints and shock absorbent bumpers.

Did you know that a checkered flag is waved at every driver who finishes at the end of the race?

If you have comments or tips to share with others about touring the Magic Kingdom, please email me. Thank you.