Among the many imaginative attractions that once brought smiles to visitors at Walt Disney World, one stands out for its playful charm and creative execution: Honey, I Shrunk the Kids: Movie Set Adventure. This unique playground, inspired by the hit 1989 Disney movie Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, captured the essence of childhood wonder and made guests feel like they had been miniaturized into a giant backyard. For years, it was a beloved part of Disney’s Hollywood Studios (formerly known as Disney-MGM Studios), offering a one-of-a-kind experience that combined movie magic, interactive fun, and nostalgic storytelling.
Inspired by a Blockbuster Movie
The Honey, I Shrunk the Kids attraction was directly based on the science-fiction comedy film of the same name, which starred Rick Moranis as Wayne Szalinski, a quirky inventor who accidentally shrinks his children. The movie was a major box office success and quickly became a family favorite. In response to the film’s popularity, Disney Imagineers decided to bring the story to life through an immersive playground.
A Playground Like No Other
Opened in December 1990, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids: Movie Set Adventure transported guests into a whimsical oversized world. The moment visitors stepped inside, they were surrounded by giant blades of grass, enormous ants, massive film canisters, and enormous LEGO bricks. Everything was scaled up to make guests feel as though they had been shrunk to the size of insects, just like in the movie.
This was not a typical playground. It was a creative, explorable environment filled with fun surprises. The design was elaborate and detailed, capturing the imaginative world from the film. It was especially appealing to children, but even adults appreciated the craftsmanship and creativity that went into its construction.
Features of the Movie Set Adventure
The attraction featured numerous elements that allowed guests to play, climb, and explore in a safe but thrilling environment. Some of the most popular elements included:
- The Giant Ant: One of the most iconic elements, a huge animatronic ant modeled after Antie from the film, allowed guests to climb and ride on its back.
- Enormous Grass and Mushrooms: These towering props created the illusion of a jungle-like backyard, complete with sound effects and water misters for added realism.
- Giant Film Canisters and Rolled-up Film: These served as slides and tunnels, giving guests a chance to crawl and slide through movie-themed props.
- Super-sized LEGO Bricks and Cookies: Fun and colorful climbing structures made from everyday items, only massive in size.
- Water Features: Sprinklers and dripping hoses provided cool relief during Florida’s hot days, enhancing the illusion of being small in a big world.
Why Families Loved It
Unlike many attractions that focused primarily on rides or shows, this play area was hands-on and full of physical activity. It gave kids a chance to burn energy and be imaginative, while parents could either join in or take a breather on shaded benches nearby. The environment was fun, but also surprisingly relaxing for families needing a break from the busier parts of the park.
Its success lay in its interactivity. Children were not just watching or passively sitting in a ride they were actively engaging with their surroundings. It was the perfect example of Disney’s dedication to creating immersive experiences that appealed to all senses.
Behind the Scenes Magic
Disney Imagineers went to great lengths to ensure that the Honey, I Shrunk the Kids attraction stayed true to the movie. They consulted with the film’s creative team and used actual props and designs inspired by the film’s sets. The attention to detail made the whole experience feel believable, even magical. Subtle sound effects, like the buzzing of insects or the hum of a lawnmower in the distance, added to the authenticity.
Safety and Accessibility
Although it was designed for children, safety was a top priority. The entire playground was padded and supervised, and it was maintained with the same attention to cleanliness and upkeep as Disney’s more high-profile attractions. It was also made accessible to younger children and those with mobility challenges, with multiple pathways and observation spots for families to stay together.
The Closing of a Classic
As Disney Parks evolved, some older attractions had to make way for new experiences. After nearly 23 years of operation, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids: Movie Set Adventure officially closed on April 2, 2016. The area was part of a larger renovation and reimagining of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, which included the addition of newer themed lands such as Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Its closure was met with disappointment from longtime fans who had grown up with the attraction. Many families shared fond memories of playing among the oversized props and bonding in a way that only a Disney park could offer.
Legacy and Nostalgia
Even though the playground is no longer there, its legacy remains strong. Many fans continue to share photos, stories, and blog posts reminiscing about the fun times spent in the backyard of imagination. It represented a time when Disney used creativity to turn even a simple play area into an unforgettable experience.
For those who experienced it, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids: Movie Set Adventure was more than just a playground. It was a tribute to the power of storytelling and the joy of childlike wonder. It inspired a generation of kids to imagine what it would be like to be tiny in a world of giant toys and plants and for a few magical moments, they actually lived it.
A Disney Experience Worth Remembering
Disney World’s Honey, I Shrunk the Kids attraction might be gone, but its charm and creativity still resonate. It was an example of how Disney didn’t always need high-tech rides or massive franchises to impress. Sometimes, all it took was a familiar movie, a bit of imagination, and a playground full of oversized props to create something truly magical.
As Disney continues to evolve, the spirit of attractions like this one lives on in new forms. But for those who walked among the giant blades of grass and slid down a giant film strip, the memory of this unique playground will always be a treasured part of their Disney World experience.