Disney’s Hollywood Studios is known for the biggest and most immersive thrill rides in all of Walt Disney World.
This attraction has closed permanently!
📍Hollywood Studios | Sunset Boulevard
But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t attractions for Disney’s youngest fans. If you’re a fan of the Cars movie franchise, buckle up because Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a special treat for you: Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy!
This Kid Friendly Favorite Closed Permanently on 8 October 2024.
What is Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy?
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy is an entertaining show attraction that debuted in March 2019. Located in the Sunset Showcase just past Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, this attraction invites guests into the world of Radiator Springs and the Piston Cup racing circuit. The show features a state-of-the-art animatronic Lightning McQueen and a massive 17-foot-tall, 200-foot-long wraparound screen, which helps to create an engaging and dynamic environment.
What to Expect
Right from the start, guests are greeted by Lightning McQueen himself, who shares his experiences and racing tips in a high-energy presentation. The show integrates impressive special effects, including synchronized lighting, sound, and projection mapping that bring the racing scenes to life. Let’s be honest, forget all the technical mumbo jumbo, it’s Lightning McQueen!
The show also features other friends from the Cars franchise, like our favorite Mater.
The storyline revolves around Lightning McQueen teaching new racers about the ins and outs of the racing world. However, things take a twist when Chick Hicks, McQueen’s old rival, disrupts the training session. Don’t worry, no spoilers here!
Who is Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy for?
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy is designed for all ages, but let’s just say those between 3-8 will enjoy it the most.
Duration of the Attraction
The show itself lasts approximately 10 minutes. This is the perfect length to keep those younger audiences engaged and excited.
Seating Situation
Luckily, Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy is indoors so you get to enjoy the air conditioning, however, the seating leaves a lot to be desired.
Guests with back issues, beware! This attraction features bench style seating with zero back support. Let’s just say that if you have any style of back issues, you will feel every one of those 10 minutes.
Conclusion
In a park where we prioritize thrills, Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy is great to make sure that the little ones feel just as involved with the vacation as those that are young at heart.
See all our Theme Park Pages:
- Disney World Theme Park Overview
- Magic Kingdom
- EPCOT
- Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Disney's Animal Kingdom
Have comments or questions, be sure to leave them in the Comment Section Below!
This article was written by Erin Schreiver and reviewed by Steve Bell, founder of Military Disney Tips.
Erin is a military spouse who enjoys visiting Walt Disney World with her family, pin trading, and collecting Minnie ears and Disney coffee mugs.
Steve is a retired U.S. military member who has been visiting the Disney Parks since 1971 and writing about Disney military discounts and vacations for the military community for over 18 years.
Meet the Military Disney Tips Team | Read Steve’s Full Bio | Follow Military Disney Tips on Facebook
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