In some way or another, most of us grew up with a version of the Muppets – whether it be the Muppet Babies, the Muppet Show, the numerous Muppet movies, Sesame Street or all of the above, like yours truly. Jim Henson was able to breathe life into these zany puppets and make us laugh, cry, and feel all the things along with some valuable life lessons. In my opinion, there couldn’t be a more perfect duo than Disney and Henson, and the influence of what Henson’s creations mean to so many of us can be seen in many different ways throughout the park. While the parks and Disney as a brand are constantly changing, here are a few of my favorites, both current and laid to rest, Muppet themed attractions and shows throughout the Walt Disney World parks.

1.  Great Moments in History

RIP Great Moments in History, you had a great run! This show which took place in Liberty Square just outside of the Hall of Presidents in the Magic Kingdom was put to pasture on December 31, 2019. This show may not have been the longest running show (just three years, starting in 2016) but it certainly was one that captured the hearts of many. This is evidenced by the crowd that would gather around the viewing spot upwards of thirty minutes prior to showtime. I believe I first saw this show on my way to utilize a Haunted Mansion Fastpass, and until it’s final act, took pleasure in planning my day around. With favorites like Kermit, Piggy and of course, Sam Eagle, the reenactment of some great moments in history (of course, only the American parts!) is a true gem that will live on in our hearts forever!

1.  Muppets 3D

When I hear rumors of this attraction closing down, I stick my fingers in my ears and hum until the madness goes away. This show is pure Muppet perfection and in my mind completely irreplaceable. Like so many things in the Disney parks, the whole show, from pre-show to attraction itself is an amazing experience. No matter who your favorite muppet is, (I’m team Piggy-Kermy, myself!) you are sure to be blown away by the nostalgia and jovial joy this timeless attraction elicits. In the same fashion as Mickey’s Philarmagic, Muppets 3D brings your favorite sights, feels and even smells literally inches from your face to create an experience you can take with you throughout your vacation and beyond. 

1. Pizza Rizzo

Ok, I know I am going to get some flack for this one because well, the pizza is basically cardboard with sauce and moz, but humor me here. The theming of this restaurant, and the entire area surrounding it up to Muppets 3D Vision, is classic New York/Philly meets the Muppets. While Henson was a southern boy himself, born in Mississippi, his heart was up north as he spent most of his adult life in New York City. When you first walk into Pizza Rizzo, the place screams rustic New York state of mind to the point that your brian almost goes to a Sesame Street feel. With traditional red and white checkered curtains and pizzeria seating, Rizzo has really gone out of his way to make you feel as though you are getting the most authentic up-north pizza experience right in the heart of Orlando. 

1. Muppets Mobile Lab

A surprise Muppet show is the best kind of all! In Epcot, the imagination of the Muppets is alive and well via the Muppets Mobile Lab. Dr. Benson Honeydew and the squeaky squeaky but no talky Beaker have their own personal science lab they entertain guests with. Somewhat interactive, this fun show turns your thinking brain on without you even knowing it. There is no specific time, (although I’ve noticed sometime in the afternoon is the most typical) so be sure to keep your eyes and ears peeled for this incredible mobile Muppet lab!

The Muppets are just as classic Jim Henson as they are Disney and while many shows and representations of these lighthearted puppets have come and gone throughout the years, they all hold a special place in my heart. If you grew up watching the Muppets, or even Sesame Street as a kiddo like yours truly, these oddly intriguing characters not only taught us life lessons in our youth, but cultivated a center for empathy for generations to come. There has yet to be a muppet television show or live show at Disney that I haven’t absolutely loved, and the highlight of my birthday is when my mom calls me and does her best Kermit the frog impression whilst singing happy birthday! The Muppets and Jim Henson alike have and will continue to touch me and mine in so many ways throughout the years – they are truly the cornerstone of youth and coming of age. With the soon to be  launch of the new Muppet show on Disney’s streaming service, Disney+, I am hopeful that with all of the changes that Disney undergoes, Jim Henson’s dream come true will remain in the parks and beyond for years to come!