Classic Disney Attractions That No Longer Exist

Disney is a theme park that is constantly growing and changing. Throughout the years, guests have seen many different versions of the Disney parks with attractions coming and going. Some classic Disney attractions like “its a small world” and Peter Pan’s Flight are still in operation today. Some Disney attractions have become new classics like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. However, there are some classic attractions that guests have had to say goodbye to. These attractions might be gone but they still have a special place in the heart of many. Continue reading to learn more about these classic Disney attractions that no longer exist.

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

This attraction opened alongside Magic Kingdom as an opening day attraction in 1971. Based on its counterpart in Disneyland called Submarine Voyage, this attraction was similar in function but re-themed to that of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne. This attraction consisted of a realistic submarine that is partially submerged underwater. Guests peer out through the windows to see underwater life and animatronic figures. This attraction, much like the version in Disneyland, became a classic instantly. Guests loved the experience, however the ride had a small capacity and the loading times were lengthy. In 1994 the attraction closed for maintenance and never reopened. After sitting vacant for some time the lagoon was eventually removed in 2004. Disneyland’s version of this attraction still remains, however it has been re-themed as a Finding Nemo attraction.

The Great Movie Ride

One of Hollywood Studios’ original attractions, The Great Movie Ride was a Disney classic for many years before it closed in 2017. This attraction explored the magic of the movies and Hollywood through audio-animatronics, intricate movie scenes, and even live acting from Cast Members. This attraction took scenes from movies like The Wizard of Oz, Casablanca, Alien, and more. Guests loved The Great Movie Ride for its interactive nature as the Cast Members narrating and leading the ride vehicles were part of the show. This attraction closed in 2017 and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway took its place.

Splash Mountain

Perhaps the most recently closed classic attraction, Splash Mountain was built in Magic Kingdom in 1992. This was the first log flume-style attraction in the Disney parks. Splash Mountain was unique in that it told a story through the movement of the attraction, audio-animatronics, and music. This attraction was beloved by guests for many years until its closure in 2023. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was constructed in its place using the same ride system and layout.

Maelstrom

Located in EPCOT’s Norway pavilion, this attraction opened shortly after World Showcase itself. Maelstrom was a boat ride that told the story of Norway’s legends and folklore. Maelstrom was famous for its troll scene in which the attraction flowed backwards, peeked outside high above the Norway pavilion, and then forward again and down a hill. The track system was quite advanced for the time. This attraction closed in 2014 to make way for Frozen Ever After, which uses the same ride system and layout.

Do you remember any of these classic attractions? What was your favorite Disney attraction that is no longer operating? We want to hear from you in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.