The Simpsons Ride

About The Simpsons

The Simpsons first appeared on the Tracey Ullman show in the late 1980s, and because of the popularity of those short scenes, the satirical animated family was given its own show that debuted in December 1989. Today, The Simpsons is the longest running television series in history and has shown more than 400 episodes. The show has won more than 20 Emmy Awards as well as various other honors, and in January 2000 the entire family was given a star on the exclusive Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Simpsons has spawned hundreds of different merchandising opportunities, from Simpsons DVDs to board games, computer games, music, clothing, Halloween costumes, toys, and hundreds of novelty items such as Homer Simpson beer bottle openers and Maggie Simpson pacifiers. With the release of The Simpsons Movie in July 2007, merchandising reached a new frenzy and “Kwik-E Mart” convenience stores were opened in several locations. With the rampaging success of the show’s products, it is no surprise that a theme park ride was developed.

The Simpsons Ride Experience

The ride based on the television show replaced the older Back to the Future rides at both Universal Studios theme parks. It is a simulator attraction with an extensive preshow and themed queue area that sets up the story of the ride and puts riders in the fun frame of mind to visit Krustyland, the setting for the ride simulation. Carnival tents, a tremendous Krusty-themed entrance, and extended clips and new ride-exclusive animation can be found throughout the queue and preshow areas to help guests feel like they are a part of Springfield.

The premise of the ride is that riders are visiting Krustyland to ride the popular “Upsy Downsy Spins Aroundsy High Flying Teen Operated Thrilltacular,” but danger appears when the villainous Sideshow Bob escapes from prison and is determined to wreak havoc on Krustyland and the Simpson family. During the six minute ride, the simulation travels through different Krustyland rides, shows, and attractions, all while being pursued and disrupted by Sideshow Bob.

Characters

See how it all began with the Season 1 DVD set.

During the course of the ride, including the preshow area and queue, more than two dozen popular Simpsons characters make appearances either as park guests, vendors, game operators, or in other Krustyland-themed roles. All voices are done by the show’s original actors, and characters who appear include:

• Milhouse Van Houten
• Patty and Selma Bouvier
• Professor Frink
• Barney Gumble
• Aliens Kang and Kodos
• Itchy and Scratchy

The exclusive animated sequences in the ride’s queue also include an animated cameo by Back to the Future scientist Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) in a subtle tribute to the now defunct attraction.

Safety Information

Motion simulators can be disorienting rides, and just as the preshow indicates that Grampa Simpson and Maggie cannot ride due to safety concerns, park guests must also meet safety requirements in order to participate. Guests must be at least 40 inches tall to ride, and The Simpsons Ride is not recommended for guests with heart, back, or neck trouble, guests who are pregnant, or guests who are sensitive to motion sickness.

A “Green” Ride

In addition to being a tribute to one of television’s most popular fictional families, The Simpsons Ride is also a tribute to responsible technology. The ride uses more than 2,500 LED lights – more than any individual ride in theme park history – to produce 3D animation effects and has upgraded efficiency electric motors and programming that minimize energy use. With IMAX screens reaching 80 feet into the air and high definition quality superior to any theater or home entertainment system, the ride experience is enhanced and strengthened in environmentally friendly ways that are truly revolutionary.

Riding Tips

Because of the show’s popularity, the ride will likely be heavily visited for some time to come. Riders may want to visit Krustyland first when lines are shorter, or in the mid-afternoon hours when more park guests are eating or visiting shows. Express passes are available for the ride, depending on park crowds and management discretion.

The Simpsons Ride is one of the newest attractions at both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood, and with superior animation and the appeal of one of television’s most popular shows, it is sure to be a popular and appealing ride for years to come.