Ready. Set. Launch Into the exhilarating world of the Grid at TRON: Lightcycle / Run! I represented Glass Slipper Concierge at the #AllTheDisneyThrills event on March 14 and spent one memorable night in Magic Kingdom experiencing Tron.
In 1982, Disney made filmmaking history with TRON, the first production of its kind to mix live action with computer-generated visuals and backlit animation. This iconic film went on to inspire video games, comic books, an animated series and the 2010 sequel TRON: Legacy—as well as this new Disney theme park attraction.
Tron Lightcycle / Run Attraction
This is a spoiler free review because I love nothing more than experiencing something completely new for the first time. :-) My goal is give you enough information to explain what the ride is like and help decide if you want to do it!
The attraction is located in Tomorrowland to the left of Space Mountain. Much of the outside part of the queue is covered by the ride canopy. I expect it to be a hot wait, but at least shaded from the sun! There were a few fans a well.
The premise of the ride is that you are on the ultimate race of survival! You leave the real world behind and join Team Blue in a quest across the Grid—the dark, computerized world with no horizons from TRON. While there is a short pre-show (and it has one of the biggest WOW factors), the queue is not interactive and there isn’t any storytelling.
One unique procedural thing about Tron it that you cannot carry on anything larger than a cell phone. Your personal belongings are stored in complimentary lockers that are opened by MagicBand or card. The ride vehicle has a small, closed compartment on the top to store your phone/wallet.
At the end of the queue, you climb aboard your very own Lightcycle and take off on a high-speed adventure, racing against the Grid’s most menacing Programs. Surge past your fierce opponents as you attempt to cross through 8 Energy Gates and secure your team’s victory.
There has been much discussion about the Lightcycle. You would need to be able to comfortably get yourself on a bike to be able to hop on this. Here is a short and silly video of me doing it. The last section of every Lightcycle has traditional bench seating for those that can’t or don’t feel comfortable with the bike setup. I was thankful I didn’t have on a dress OR sandals/flip flops.
Tron / Lightcycle Run Photos / Video
The attraction features both a video and a photo available in your Disney app. To ensure you receive both:
- Enable Bluetooth for the My Disney Experience app before riding, ensure you’ve logged into the My Disney Experience app sometime earlier that day, and keep your device out of low power mode. Make sure your mobile device is with you, safely stored in the small Lightcycle compartment.
- Wear a MagicBand or MagicBand+ that’s linked to your account.
In addition to the on-ride memories, there will also be PhotoPass photographers to capture your race across the grid memories!
How to Experience Tron / Lightcycle Run
The attraction officially opens April 4 but is in a soft-opening phase now through April 2. The ride will not have a stand-by queue. There are two ways to experience Tron:
- Virtual Queue: Guests will need to use the My Disney Experience app to enter the attraction. A standby queue will not be available. Each Guest can request to enter the virtual queue no more than once per day during regular park hours. Boarding groups for a virtual queue are limited, subject to availability, and are not guaranteed. Not all boarding groups may be called to return, based on availability of the experience. View important information about the virtual queue.
- Lightning Lane: Guests may also purchase Individual Lightning Lane entry for this attraction. Lightning Lane entry purchases are limited in availability, are subject to change or closure, may vary by date and are not guaranteed.
- Private VIP Tour: I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that Tron can be effortlessly enjoyed on your Private VIP Tour! This is truly your Best Day Ever and I’ve never had a client come home and say otherwise!
I have provided detailed step-by-step instructions on both options – and how to use them together – for my clients!
Tron Lightcycle / Run Review
I think the ride is a fantastic addition to Magic Kingdom, especially to have another thrill option for teens, tweens and adults. It is fast, but super smooth and feels relatively short. If you’ve recently been to Disney World, think of it like riding Slinky Dog on the FOP vehicle – but going even faster. I think it would be suitable for most anyone that meets the 48″ height requirement. No backwards, upside down, spinning or scary things like a Yeti. It wasn’t exhilarating to me like Guardians, but it is absolutely worth doing!
I had a few people ask me if it is better at night. I think it looks cooler at night, from the outside looking in. But the attraction is only outside under the exterior canopy lights for a few seconds so I don’t think it ultimately matters. I’d try my best for a virtual queue or lightning lane and be happy I’m getting on – no matter the time of day!
Energy Bytes
In addition to the ride itself, I am also very excited about the new snack stand – Energy Bytes. This is located just to the right of the attraction entrance. Energy Bytes offers breakfast items, savory snacks, sweet treats, and beverages inspired by Tomorrowland.
All the Disney Thrills Event
I’m always conflicted on sharing things in the parks that I got to experience that aren’t available on an ongoing basis. But, this event was SO well down and a ton of fun. The fun kicked off that afternoon in an amazing, immersive video gaming experience.
That evening, we enjoyed drinks, festive food, and Enchantment fireworks from Tomorrowland. The food offerings were so creative – think churro dips, double dipped Mickey bars and more.
Goofy and friends took the stage at a Tomorrowland dance party.
And these cuties were absolutely adorable!
Our night capped with the very first preview of Happily Ever After fireworks. It.Was.Amazing. Emotional. Inspirational. More on that to come!
Let’s Travel & My Services
As a Premier Level Advisor with Glass Slipper Concierge, I am recognized for providing the highest level of customer service, experience, and knowledge in the industry. I use my personal connections and firsthand expertise to craft bespoke Disney trips for the most discerning clients. On top of that, Disney vacations are expensive and I know how to get the best value for your time and money. If you’re looking to travel to Disney any time in 2023, NOW is the time to plan!
Most aspects of planning a Disney vacation look different and now, more than ever, it is crucial to have the most current, up to date information based on personal experience to plan your vacation. I travel to the theme parks monthly and have stayed in every single resort from coast to coast! I tour the parks the way you will be touring the parks – whether it is a “best day ever” on VIP Tour, strategizing on Genie+, or waltzing onto attractions with Express Pass, you won’t find a travel advisor with more passion or first hand experience. Let’s go there!
