Frommer's Review
In 2003, the scarier ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter was closed permanently to make way for this newer and (allegedly) more family-friendly attraction. Unfortunately, Disney missed the mark on this one. Even though it features the mischievous experiment 626, otherwise known as Stitch -- a favorite of many younger kids -- the ride isn't really that child-friendly (at least not for the young set). It's not particularly exciting, either. Upon entering the attraction, guests are briefed on their responsibilities as newly recruited alien prison guards. Suddenly an alarm sounds -- a new prisoner is arriving and the pandemonium begins. Stitch, after appearing by teleportation, is confined in the middle of the room, but only momentarily -- the ride isn't called Stitch's Great Escape for nothing. Guests are seated around the center stage, overhead restraints on their shoulders (which are slightly uncomfortable unless you were sitting straight up when they are lowered) allowing them to "feel" special sensory effects. It's the attraction's long periods of darkness and silence that make this one inappropriate for younger children -- a fact made apparent by some of the screams you'll hear from the audience. Note: There's a 40-inch height requirement to experience the attraction, though this may change -- it's already been adjusted twice since the ride first debuted.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
