Theme Park Insider

Get News by E-mail

Carousel of Progress

Animatronic show

Last edited by James Rao
This venerable audio-animatronic show is one of Walt's original 1964 World's Fair attractions. The carousel theater rotates around a central stage allowing several different scenes to illustrate how technology has changed the lives of an audio-animatronic family over several generations. The classic song "There's a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow" bridges the gaps between each scene.

[Update this description | Read previous versions]

Photos:

Photo of Carousel of Progress

[See all photos | Submit Photo]

Safety

Reader reviews of Carousel of Progress

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
98 votes, so far

An oldie but a goodie. Perhaps it would do better at Epcot instead of in the middle of Kidzville USA. - Brandie S

The only thing the guy on the right of me had gas.It smelled real bad. - richard comisky

While this attraction is definitely showing its age, it is still worthy of its place at the Magic Kingdom. Catch it while you can as rumors abound that CoP will soon become just another monument sitting on display at Epcot or the Smithsonian, which would be a complete shame. - James Rao

A good idea and full of interesting facts, it is however a little dull and comes with an irritating repetitive theme song - Emily G

Oh dear. Has no place in a modern theme park and the looped tune will drive you insane! - Mark Moore

As Tomorrowland continues to become Pixar-land I have an idea for the future of The Carousel of Progress. While I’d hate to lose it in Orlando, I think they ought to pack it up, and move it to the Smithsonian’s Museum of American History in Washington D.C. It’s never going feel like it fits in there as Stitch, Buzz and the little green men continue to take over that section of the park. I say put in a place where it will be seen as the milestone attraction it is. Then they can stop worrying about keeping it up to date and forward looking. Let it spin on blissfully doing what it does best; reminding us about where we were, and what was and is important. Until then, be sure to stop by each and every time you are at the Magic Kingdom to see one of Walt’s highest achievements. - Rob McCullough

Disney's gift to the future generations...hopefully Disney chooses to NEVER GET RID OF IT!!! It is essential they keep this for all to appreciate and enjoy. - Wilfredo Alvelo

Yes, the ride is a little outdated. But I really appreciate the ride for it's more sophisticated yet educational entertainment. My family really enjoyed it as well. It's also a great break from the rain or heat on a typical Florida summer day. Would be nice to see them update it though. The last set seems to be caught in the 80's. Maybe something more up to date would be better. Good ride either way. - Don Neal

A wonderful way to look at innovations that have changed an average family. Has a catchy song! This ride has been around the block a few times (starting at the worlds fair in 1964-65, moving to Disneyland and finally ending up at the Magic Kingdom) it is a wonderful ride (because you move)/show - Alex Gamso

Has Theme Park Insider helped you have a better vacation?

Thank you for supporting the site!

Search Theme Park Insider

Reader Reviews, by Theme Park

United States Top 10 *

International parks

Readers' Top Themed Rides

Top Roller Coasters

Top Live Shows

Top Movies/Animated Shows

Theme Park Insider on Twitter

@ThemePark

Which would you prefer when staying on-site at a theme park: Early entry, front-of-lines access or free dining? Vote: http://bit.ly/b6Ng0s
2010-07-30 00:36 Link

RT @DisneyParks: BREAKING: We’re extending “Disney’s Main Street Electrical Parade” at Walt Disney World http://bit.ly/9TO6Mu
2010-07-29 13:42 Link

RT @FLallday: If you're looking to buy Disney tix, try doing so before Aug 1st (this Sunday) as tickets might increase that day!
2010-07-27 19:58 Link

RT @goddard_group: Here's an exclusive first look at SIX FLAGS DUBAILAND. Designed to be the first Six Flags branded park to be built... ...
2010-07-27 19:58 Link

Theme Park Reviews, Features, Advice

Theme Park News Archive

2010

Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul.

2009

Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec.

2008

Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec.

2007

Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec.

2006

Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec.

2005

Dec.

2004-2005

Staff column archive