May 1977 – January 2015
LOCATION
Tomorrowland – The Starcade sat in the rear of Tomorrowland, between the Star Traders gift shop and the exit to Space Mountain. Today, this space is used for temporary exhibits and art displays.
BACKGROUND
When Space Mountain opened in 1977, Tomorrowland once again became one of the most exciting lands in the park. To mark Tomorrowland’s new era, the park also launched a massive two-story arcade, filled with a mix of brand new games and classic favorites. The Starcade opened its doors right next to the Space Mountain exit, so guests leaving the new coaster would flow right into the arcade.
EXPERIENCE
Like the Shootin’ Exposition in Frontierland, the Starcade games were pay-to-play. Guests were free to roam both levels, join group rounds of air hockey, or play individual racing and shooting games. The second floor of the Starcade had a Star Wars X-Wing model on display, and the lower level had a glass wall overlooking a small garden.
CLOSURE
The Starcade saw a steady decline in popularity from the 80s onward. And with the addition of more exciting arcade-style games in the park, like Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, the Starcade struggled to draw in many fans. In the mid 90s, the second floor closed completely, leaving the attraction at half its original size. From the 2000s onward, the Starcade had only a few games in the back, and basically became an extension of the Star Traders gift shop. Finally, in 2015, the Starcade closed for good, though no permanent attraction, shop, or restaurant has claimed the space.
TRIVIA
The second floor of the arcade had a massive mural depicting scenes from outer space.
When Star Tours – The Adventures Continue opened in 2011, the X-wing model from the 2nd floor was moved into the Star Traders gift shop.
PeopleMover riders could see through glass windows into the arcade’s 2nd floor, but the glass was blocked during the Rocket Rods’ brief run.
This was a really lame arcade, glad it’s gone.