The History of Journey Into Imagination With Figment

One of EPCOT’s most iconic and classic attractions is Journey Into Imagination With Figment. This attraction has remained a fan favorite throughout the years, even though it has undergone quite a few renovations and changes. This attraction first opened as Journey Into Imagination in 1983 and featured the characters Dreamfinder, and the still iconic Figment. Journey Into Imagination is an example of how a beloved attraction can change over time yet still remain special in the hearts of guests.

Journey Into Imagination

The original version of this attraction first opened in March of 1983. The attraction introduced Dreamfinder who piloted the Dream Catcher which was a blimp-like machine that collected dreams. Dreamfinder created Figment, the lovable purple dragon, and together they traveled throughout a whimsical setting in search of dreams. This attraction captured imagination and what it means to dream. Guests were enchanted by Dreamfinder and his Dream Catcher, and of course by Figment who quickly became a park mascot. The attraction also featured the famous song “One Little Spark”.

The original attraction utilized the same omnimover ride vehicle technology as the modern iterations do today. The attraction exited into Image Works which featured interactive playground elements like a stage, kaleidoscopes, and other toys meant to intrigue guests’ imaginations. During this time, a face character of Dreamfinder roamed EPCOT while handling a puppet version of Figment.

Journey Into Your Imagination

In 1998 Journey Into Imagination and Image Works were closed, and reopened in 1999 as Journey Into Your Imagination. The attraction underwent a complete makeover and now featured Dr. Nigel Channing from EPCOT attraction “Honey I Shrunk the Audience”. The ride concept was changed to have guests discover their own imagination potential within the Imagination institute. Guests were taken through various labs including Sound, Illusion, Color, Gravity and Connections where they explored all concepts of what makes imagination possible. While guests were initially eager to see the changes made to the attraction, once it opened it was heavily critiqued. Guests weren’t happy that Figment was no longer featured in the attraction, and the ride path was shortened drastically from its original version. Because of negative guest feedback, Journey Into Your Imagination only ran until 2001.

Journey Into Imagination With Figment

In 2002 the attraction opened yet again, this time with Figment being heavily featured. The attraction was renamed as Journey Into Your Imagination with Figment, and featured Dr. Nigel Channing yet again but this time guided by Figment himself. Guests were delighted to find the return of the tune “One Little Spark”, this time being sung by Figment himself and even extended. Figment leads guests and Dr. Nigel Channing through several labs in order to gain better understanding of imagination. Guests experience the sight, sound, and smell labs which feature various visual, audio, and scent effects. The attraction ends with a tour of Figment’s upside-down house and with guests and Dr. Nigel Channing having a better understanding of what imagination is all about.

While many guests were pleased with Figment’s return, fans of the original attraction say that it remains in their hearts to this day. Which version of this attraction was your favorite? Did you ride the original 1983 version? Let us know in the comments below!

Featured Photo:  Emily Murray.