Our Top 3D Printed Projects in Theme Parks

Some people love them, others can’t stand them: amusement parks with extreme roller coasters, spooky attractions, adrenaline rushes, and moments of pure terror. Today, these parks no longer focus solely on the rides; they’re all about the full experience. That’s why the world’s biggest amusement parks attract countless visitors every year with immersive, carefully designed worlds. To make each visit as unforgettable as possible, every detail matters. And increasingly, 3D printing is helping make those details stand out. From wait line decor to restaurant theming and even roller coaster elements, custom 3D-printed designs are creating eye-catching, one-of-a-kind features throughout the parks. In this list, you’ll find some of the most interesting public projects and collaborations involving 3D printing in amusement parks. The real number is likely much higher, as parks don’t always disclose when 3D-printed components and props are used. Still, sharp-eyed visitors often spot them and share their discoveries on social media.

3D-Printed Exoskeletons in Disney Parks

Disney is using 3D printing to create exoskeleton structures for Project Exo, an initiative designed to bring oversized characters to life in its theme parks. The patented invention features a 3D-printed lattice framework that transfers the weight of the costume directly to the ground. This reduces the physical strain on the performer and supports more natural movement during interactions with guests. The system also incorporates a series of on-demand printed “bio-elements” such as muscles, fat, and other biological features. These components help Disney rapidly produce detailed, realistic textures that move and respond convincingly to physical motion and external contact.

Photo Credit: Disney, Walt Disney Studios

Disney Uses 3D Printing at Connections Café & Eatery in Epcot

At Epcot’s World Celebration, a new blend of technology and history is taking shape at Disney. As part of Epcot’s multi-year transformation, Disney has introduced a intricately designed 3D printed flooring at the new Connections Cafe and Eatery. The restaurant’s decor helps celebrate the innovation and heritage of Epcot. For this project, Disney Imagineers used a sustainable biopolymer material to print the flooring of the cafe. The design is inspired by the original concept of ‘Epcot City’ by Walt Disney, including the original radial layout. The geometrically precise designs were then 3D printed to serve as a template for the inlays, which were later poured by artisans and then sanded and buffed. The result is a dynamic homage to the vision of Epcot and Walt Disney himself. This project is part of a broader initiative by the Walt Disney Company to incorporate new technologies into storytelling. From its concept to creation, the 3D print floors continue to showcase the spirit of evolution, which Walt Disney often called a “living blueprint of the future.”