From early concept art to the initial stages of design and ultimately to their final product, Disney Imagineers have perfected the art of creating incredible experiences that are wholly engaging and fully immersive for guests. Whether they’ve built a new theme park land or cruise ship, the attention to detail in every aspect of their work is unlike any I’ve ever encountered. Imagineers are also masters of storytelling. Everything they build is designed with a backstory in mind and comes hand in hand with an opportunity for guests to become a part of those narratives. This chance to escape the real world is among the many reasons I fell in love with Walt Disney World during my first visit. I was instantly taken with the notion that every park, attraction, and resort hotel we entered meant unlimited possibilities to play along and experience different worlds.
The magic of Disney Imagineering storytelling also extends to all of the restaurants they’ve created. One of my favorite restaurants to visit in the theme parks is Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. From the moment you step into Sci-Fi, you are immediately transported to an evening out to the movies in the 1950s.
Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater is themed to resemble the classic drive-in movie theaters that had soared in popularity during this time. Upon entering Sci-Fi, you will find yourself in a parking lot of brightly colored convertibles under a starry night sky. Fellow moviegoers are seated either at picnic tables in the back of the lot near the theater’s snack bar; or at a convertible, all of which have been retrofitted with dining booths. Carhops show you to your table or car for the evening and take and relay your order to the concession stand in the back. While you wait for your food to arrive, you can wander around and peruse vibrant posters advertising some of the biggest feature film hits of the time. Or sit back and relax and enjoy science fiction favorites from this decade on the big screen. Scenes from The Giant Gila Monster, Attack of the 50 Foot Woman, and Invasion of the Saucer Men are just some of the many kitschy movie clips you’ll be treated to.
Be sure to arrive hungry because the Sci-Fi Snack Bar boasts a “galaxy of tasty treats” for guests! Classic diner staples including an assortment of burgers, sandwiches, fried pickles, and crispy onion rings are featured on the menu, along with other crowd-pleasers like nachos, chicken wings, and pasta dishes. And the perfect complement to lunch or dinner here would definitely be one of Sci-Fi’s signature milkshakes – the Oreo Cookie shake is our favorite!
For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by life in the 1950s – so I am always thrilled for any opportunity to dine at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater! A meal at this restaurant offers such a neat glimpse into this Golden Age era, and the theming and ambiance here are outstanding. Disney Imagineers did an incredible job, as always, bringing this part of our history to life and making it effortless for guests to imagine and savor this moment in time.
