Disneyland Theme Park

The Disneyland Theme Park in California has been a popular tourist destination for over 50 years. Appealing to families the world over, this magical place has far surpassed the original dreams of a man and his mouse.

Sleeping Beauty's Castle, Disneyland

Walt Disney was an innovator. From creating the first ever full length animated film to planning the now gargantuan Walt Disney World resort in Florida as he approached his last days of life, Disney was the epitome of ambition. Many argue that the best fruits of his labor can be found in Anaheim, California – home to the original Disneyland theme park.

Built in 1955, Disney sold his life insurance policy and nearly sent his family into bankruptcy in order to finance the little park of dreams. Today, Disneyland is visited by millions of people each year from all over the world and has expanded with Disney's California Adventure theme park, as well as parks not only in Florida but in Tokyo, Paris, and Hong Kong as well. The world loves Mickey Mouse today, but his home's beginnings were anything but ideal.

Disneyland was built extremely quickly and on opening day they were far from ready. Infamously referred to by Disney historians as “Black Sunday,” the concrete had not yet set and the park ran out of food and beverages halfway through the opening ceremonies. The invitation-only tickets had been duplicated, causing the park to be overwhelmed and filled beyond its ideal capacity. Since Walt had to choose between restrooms or drinking fountains, there were plenty of thirsty patrons, including women whose heels got stuck in the aforementioned wet cement. Its ABC broadcast was plagued with technical difficulties, putting the rocky start on display for the entire nation.

Despite this rough beginning, Disneyland was visited by multitudes of individuals that first year, and numbers have been great ever since. Disneyland prides itself on timeless family travel and entertainment, and you will truly find something for everyone in this spunky establishment of make believe nestled in the middle of Southern California's Orange County.

The Disneyland theme park is divided into seven different areas called “lands.” Each one surrounds guests with an elaborate theme that will entice all your senses. From princesses to pirates, each area of Disneyland caters to a different fantasy and idea, leaving every corner of the park unique and appealing.

Matterhorn roller coaster

Go through the passageway of Sleeping Beauty's castle and you will the sort of world that every child envisions. Little girls especially adore Fantasyland with its royal carousel and visits from Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, and many other favorite Disney heroines. In Fantasyland you will find child friendly fare, as well as a great opportunity for adults to reminisce about days gone by.

Tomorrowland is where adventures in space take place, as this land launches you into the future. From upcoming technology demonstrations to a soaring rocketship ride, Tomorrowland is the perfect sanctuary for kids with astronaut and scientist dreams. Featuring popular movie characters from Toy Story and Star Wars, Tomorrowland succeeds in fun with a futuristic flair.

Climb Tarzan's Treehouse and escape danger with Indiana Jones in Adventureland. Jungle themed with dangling vines and rain forest noises coming out of the perfectly landscaped trees, Adventureland is the perfect area for thrill seekers. The rides found here fuel your adrenaline and play off of wits, giving you an afternoon full of amusements and exploration.

Step into the Wild West complete with drifting cowboys and horseshoe tracks on the ground. Here you will find a “saloon” that sells chili dogs and lemonade, great stage shows, and a kid-safe shooting gallery. Frontierland is full of history lessons that are never boring, leaving your kids wild for learning.

Home to the famed Pirates of the Caribbean ride that inspired the popular Johnny Depp movies, New Orleans Square is also where you will find the Haunted Mansion and some of the best cajun food around. Enjoy the Southern feel of this area and enjoy the jazz music wafting through the walls.

Critter Country is where you will find Winnie the Pooh and his 100 acre wood friends, as well as the thrilling Splash Mountain, featuring one of the longest and steepest drops ever seen on a log ride. Little ones will love the friendly characters ready to take photos with your family, and you will want to make a stop at the Hunny Pot bakery.

Come visit Mickey and Minnie in their side by side houses and run into some other classic characters as well. Donald, Chip & Dale, and even Roger Rabbit can be found in this cartoon-shaped village complete with whimsically bright colors and abnormally proportioned buildings.

Disneyland has long been a favorite destination for vacationers, however, it can also be overwhelming. Almost always crowded, the ticket prices are not cheap, so you will want to make the most of your time and have a chance to see everything.

Many vacation packages such as AAA and the Disneyland Hotel offer “early admission” tickets, and Disneyland extends its hours during peak season. Their operation times and ride schedules are available online. These schedules are especially helpful to avoid disappointment if your child's favorite ride will be closed for repairs during your visit. Take advantage of this website and other places on the web devoted to the Disneyland theme park to plan your dream vacation. If you do your homework, you won't be disappointed.

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