Walt Disney World debuts its new Hall of Presidents

June 29, 2009 at 4:32 AM · Can't wait!

June 29, 2009 at 8:09 AM · I will be honest - I was surprised and, frankly, disappointed that more people didn't visit this attraction yesterday. By the time I arrived at the park, they were letting all guests in because the turnout for the preview wasn't as good as expected.

You can't help but be proud of our country when you listen to Morgan Freeman re-count our history and then see all of our Presidents on the same stage. I found it very inspirational.

June 29, 2009 at 9:27 AM · The Hall of Presidents at Disney's Magic Kingdom has been brought up to the level of American Adventure at Epcot. It truly is remarkably well done. The waiting area in particular is quite impressive. George W. Bush's monogrammed cowboy boots, porcelain easter eggs from the White House Easter Egg Hunt, various memorabilia from previous presidents and portraits of some of the presidents including Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter and George Washington adorn the waiting area. During the show President Lincoln delivers the Gettyburg Address, which drew a hearty round of applause from the preview crowd. President Obama recites the Oath of Office then delivers a short speech, which also drew a healthy round of applause. The crowd at the 11am preview debut was almost at capacity. Seated directly behind my wife and I was Dewayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel. I had a moment to shake his hand and introduce myself. He seemed pleased to hear that not only do I read his articles but I also subscribe to the Sentinel.

Disney has hit the ball out of the park with the refurbishment. Well done indeed!

June 29, 2009 at 10:47 AM · All they need now is an animatronic John Roberts to screw up the oath, and it'd be perfect! (Sorry, couldn't resist!)

June 29, 2009 at 10:56 AM · It just hasn't been a very popular attraction in years, so the preview drew a fairly tepid response. I'm looking forward to seeing it on my next trip, though.