Description And Comments

Description and comments Unless you are over the age of 50, you’re unlikely to remember Disneyland Park’s Flying Saucers, a long-lost Tomorrowland attraction that only lasted 5 years in the early 1960s. But Imagineers have long memories and have retreaded the concept of hovercraft bumper cars as the basis for a tribute to the Radiator Springs resident Ferrari fanatic. You first queue inside the Casa Della Tires shop (where memorabilia from Luigi’s and Guido’s careers is on display), and then pass through a garden of automotive-inspired topiaries, before boarding your own supersize tire. Using a system similar to an air hockey table, your two-passenger vehicle (up to three with a child) lifts up on a thin cushion of air. You then get about 2 minutes to scoot around the arena, trying to bump against other riders. A soundtrack of actor Tony Shalhoub singing Italian-American standards add to the festa Italia fun.

Luigi’s Flying Tires may be an example of nostalgia being better than reality; the tires accelerate gradually and can be tricky for first-time riders to control (see our tips below). With the epic wait times this glacially-loading attraction attracts, riding enough times to become an expert driver appears an unrealistic prospect for all but the most avid annual passholders.

Touring Tips

Luigi’s is a slow-loading cycle ride under the best circumstances, and its forefather, Flying Saucers, was notoriously unreliable. Even if this new version isn’t a maintenance nightmare, expect long lines all day. Your only hope for a reasonable wait is to be among the first people in the queue upon opening.

To steer, first shift your body weight to find your tire’s center point of balance, so that it sits evenly on the air cushion. Then gradually lean your body weight in the direction that you want to move, without going so far that the tire’s leading edge drags on the floor. Single riders may initially find it easier to get the feel of balancing and steering. To reach maximum velocity, try to aim for an open corner away from the crowd.

Special Comments

Must be 32" tall to ride; more fun to watch than ride.

Special Needs

Other Attractions in Cars Land

Touring Plans with Luigi's Flying Tires

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