Picture it… The Golden Girls… Disney-MGM Studios… 1989. For those who had the opportunity to ride the Studio Backlot Tour, famously known as Catastrophe Canyon, you may remember the captivating experience of rolling through Residential Street. This unique area showcased the exterior sets of homes featured in many popular films and television shows. Among the notable movies that utilized these sets were Ernest Saves Christmas and Splash, Too.
In addition to films, Residential Street was home to the exterior sets of several television series that left a mark on pop culture. The most iconic show associated with this street is undoubtedly The Golden Girls. This beloved sitcom, which followed the lives and friendships of four women living together in Miami, became a cultural phenomenon, and its cheerful house was a highlight for many guests. The Studio Backlot Tour offered a glance at the magic of Hollywood, allowing guests to connect with the sets that brought their favorite stories to life.
The Golden Girls History at Walt Disney World
At the beginning of every episode of The Golden Girls, viewers are welcomed by a shot of the iconic exterior of the house, which has become synonymous with the beloved television series. The show utilized two exterior sets throughout its run. The original house was at 245 N. Saltair Avenue in Los Angeles, California. This charming residence still exists today and remains a private home, attracting fans and visitors who wish to see the location of the show’s memorable exterior shot.
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As the series progressed into its later seasons, the producers opted to film a replica of the original house’s exterior, built on Residential Street at the Disney-MGM Studios (now known as Disney’s Hollywood Studios) in Florida. This construction photo below from 1988 indicates that the set was completed by that time, which aligns with the timeline of the show’s fourth season. These two locations serve as lasting symbols of The Golden Girls, a show that has remained beloved by audiences for its humor, heart, and memorable characters.
In 2003, Residential Street was cleared for a new attraction called the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show. This thrilling show showcased a series of high-energy stunts, daring car chases, and remarkable special effects that captivate audiences. With skilled stunt performers and precision driving, the show created an exhilarating experience that brought action-packed movie scenes to life. This significant transformation of the park’s landscape set a new standard for live entertainment at the Disney-MGM Studios.
According to How Bowers of RetroWDW, the location where the former Residential Street set stood is now between two popular dining spots, Ronto Roasters and Docking Bay 7, which are part of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This area immerses guests in the Star Wars universe, showcasing themed cuisine and unique experiences.
So the next time you’re enjoying the delicious Endorian Fried Chicken Tip Yip, take a moment to look around you. You might be surprised to discover that you are standing at the historic location where the exterior set of the iconic television show The Golden Girls was filmed. This spot offers a unique connection to television history, allowing you to relish in the nostalgia of one of America’s beloved sitcoms.
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