The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Hurtle up and down into the Twilight Zone aboard a haunted elevator ride.
Updated: 2026-01-16
Composite Review (4.8 / 5)
Verdict
A “masterpiece” of theme park immersion that is equal parts terrifying and thrilling. The drop is the headline, but the atmosphere is the star.
The Experience: “You’ve Just Crossed Over…”
Reviewers almost unanimously agree that this is one of Disney’s best attractions, not just for the thrill, but for the storytelling. Guests “check in” to the Hollywood Tower Hotel, frozen in 1939, and are guided by the voice of Rod Serling into the Twilight Zone.
- The Atmosphere: The immersion starts the moment you step into the queue. Riders rave about the “dusty, cobweb-filled lobby” and the “creepy, non-smiling bellhops” (Cast Members) who set the tone perfectly. Many reviews mention that even if you hate drops, the ride is worth doing once just for the queue and pre-show.
- The Thrill: The drops are randomized, which is a huge selling point. “You never know when you’ll drop or how many times,” keeps repeat riders on their toes. The sensation is described not just as falling, but being pulled down faster than gravity, creating genuine weightlessness.
The Good: What People Love
- “Best Theming in the World”: Frequent praise for the attention to detail—from the half-finished coffee cups in the lobby to the “Fifth Dimension” scene where the elevator moves horizontally.
- The Randomization: “Never the same ride twice.” Guests love that the computer selects a different drop profile each time, making it infinitely re-rideable.
- Nostalgia & Spookiness: Fans of the original TV series love the authentic nods, but even those unfamiliar with The Twilight Zone appreciate the “eerie, old Hollywood” vibe.
- The View: If you can keep your eyes open, the doors open at the top for a split-second view of the entire park, which many describe as “breathtaking” before the scream-inducing plunge.
The Bad: Common Complaints
- “Stomach-Churning”: This is not for those with a weak stomach. A significant number of negative reviews come from guests who underestimated the intensity of the drops. “My soul left my body” is a common sentiment.
- Motion Sickness: Unlike a roller coaster, the repeated vertical motion can be particularly rough on those prone to motion sickness.
- Terrifying for Kids: While the height requirement is 40 inches, many reviewers warn that the psychological terror (darkness, ghosts, suspense) is often too much for younger children who meet the height requirement but not the “scare threshold.”
- Breakdowns: There are occasional mentions of the ride being temporarily down, which can be frustrating given the long lines.
Top Tips from Reviewers
- Secure Your Belongings: “Hold onto your ears!” Anything not strapped down (sunglasses, phones, bags) will float into the air during the drops.
- Don’t Skip the Queue: Take time to look at the details in the lobby and library; it’s considered by many to be the best queue in Disney World.
- Chicken Exit: If you want to experience the queue and pre-show but can’t handle the drop, you can ask a bellhop for the “chicken exit” right before boarding the elevator.
Summary
“A classic that still holds up.” Whether you are a thrill-seeker screaming with joy or a terrified passenger clinging to the safety bar, the Tower of Terror offers an unforgettable experience that defines Disney Imagineering at its peak.
Reference
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/hollywood-studios/twilight-zone-tower-of-terror/