The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

The History of the Tower of Terror

Inspired by the classic TV series “The Twilight Zone” (1959-1964), this attraction immerses guests in the eerie atmosphere characteristic of this iconic show. Set in the Hollywood Tower Hotel, the story unfolds with a mysterious lightning strike that led to the disappearance of several guests.

Description of the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

As you approach the towering structure, you immediately notice its neglected state: tilted letters on the façade, flickering neon lights, and crumbling wings of the building that harken back to that fateful night in 1939. It was then that lightning struck the hotel, causing part of the building to vanish along with the guests in the elevator, who were transported into the Mystical Zone.

Stepping through the grand entrance, a chill runs down your spine. The once-opulent lobby is now shrouded in a thick layer of dust and cobwebs. Abandoned items—half-finished tea cups, forgotten suitcases, and a lone doll—suggest the hotel was deserted in a hurry. Unfriendly bellhops in vintage uniforms silently beckon you to proceed.

Your journey leads you to the library, where an old television suddenly flickers to life, and Rod Serling appears. His voice recounts the tale of that lightning strike in 1939, explaining how the elevator passengers vanished into the Phantom Zone. “You unlock this door with the key of imagination…”—his words forewarn of the eerie adventure ahead.

A hidden door abruptly opens, leading you into the hotel's dark and foreboding boiler room. As you navigate past old machinery and pipes, you hear strange noises and see mysterious shadows, all preparing you for the ultimate test—a ride on the cursed elevator.

Strapped in and seated, the elevator begins its unsettling ascent, creating a false sense of calm before it suddenly plummets, making your heart race. The elevator doors open to reveal haunting visions and scenes from the Twilight Zone. The feeling of falling and rising, over and over again, at relentless speeds, elicits screams of terror and delight.

Fun Facts

• Inspired by the 156 episodes of the classic television series “The Twilight Zone,” this attraction is a testament to timeless suspense and intrigue.
• The tower, standing at nearly 60 meters, draws inspiration from California's architectural styles, such as the Biltmore and Mission Inn hotels. The design ensures the structure seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape.
• One of the unique features of the attraction is the random sequence of drops. Each time you ride, the sequence of falls changes, making every experience unique.
• Hidden Mickey Mouse images are concealed throughout the attraction. One can be found in the star field before the elevator enters the shaft, and another on the grate of the first boiler in the boiler room.
• Although it feels like free-fall, the elevator is actually controlled by mechanisms that pull it up and down, reaching speeds of about 63 km/h.
• In the hotel library, you'll discover numerous references to episodes of “The Twilight Zone,” such as a small metal spacesuit and a fortune-telling machine, which were props from various episodes of the show.
• The attraction's soundtrack features music from different episodes of “The Twilight Zone,” adding an extra layer of mystery and tension to the experience.

Helpful Hints

• Be sure to take advantage of Disney PhotoPass+ on the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror to capture every thrilling moment of your journey.
• Each journey on the attraction can be unique due to the random drop sequences. Even if you've ridden it before, try it again to experience new sensations and notice additional details.
• To avoid long lines, aim to visit the attraction right after the park opens or closer to closing time. Lines are usually shorter during these times, allowing you to get on the ride faster.
• For the most intense experience, choose the middle seat in the back row of the elevator. There's nothing to hold onto in front of you, just a handle by your seat, which makes the drops even more thrilling.
• For your comfort and safety, strictly follow all the instructions and rules given by the ride staff. This will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey into the Twilight Zone.