Underneath the sparkle of Disney’s storytelling lies a universe full of artful secrets. Whether they are inside jokes (“Somebody called IX-I-I!” in Hercules) or visual clues (usual for Pixar movies), the films and attractions brim with easter eggs that enrich the experience for anyone willing to look just a little closer. In this article, we will uncover some of these playful secrets and how Disney parks carry the magic to make the imagination come to life. Let’s get started!
1. The Haunted Mansion- (Magic Kingdom)
A notorious fan-favorite ride, the Haunted Mansion has some nods to Disney films. One of the interesting references can be found on the ride’s exit, directly to the left. When you observe the Pet cemetery and the various tombstones, you’ll see a well-known character off to the far left-hand side. It is Mr. Toad, who previously had a ride in Magic Kingdom that was removed in 1998. J. Thaddeus Toad is a time-honored character, and his memory will live on immortalized as a statue.
2. Royal Reception Hall- (Hong Kong Disneyland)
Although found overseas, Hong Kong Disneyland is not the exception of collective easter eggs. At this popular attraction where you can meet Disney Princesses, there are statues and relics that are noteworthy. For example, there are some fairy-tale books written in their native language. The original novel Snow White, by Hans Christian Andersen, was written in German. Below you can see the opening monologue written in the language as a nod to the adored film’s origin story.
3. Living with the Land- (Epcot)
This niche yet precious ride has so many great elements in its storytelling that only true Disney fans understand. However, if you place close attention to the address on the mailbox outside of the farmer’s house, you will see it reads, “B. Jones RFD #82.” B. Jones is a fictional name chosen, the RDF stands for Rural free delivery, a mailing term and the number is the most significant aspect of the address as it represents the year Epcot opened, in 1982. Clever tidbits such as these are sure to attract the attention of Disney enthusiasts.
4. Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies- (Disney Sea)
If you can visit a Disney Park overseas, then Japan is the way to go for unexpected wonders. At Tokyo Disney Sea, there is a new area of the park called Fantasy Springs. There you will find many rides inspired by classic Disney films, one of these being Peter Pan. On the ride vehicle, you will notice that the backing is a letter and the address is well-known. It portrays the Banks’ family home from Mary Poppins which is a clever morsel of information considering both movies are set in London, England.
5. Journey of the Little Mermaid- (Magic Kingdom)
Plenty of fans, including myself, were perhaps not aware of this hidden surprise, which is sure to warm a Disney Adult heart. At the exit of the Journey of the Little Mermaid in Magic Kingdom, there is a rock formation that replicates Steamboat Willie. If you look towards the far left of the image below, you will see the boat’s helm steering wheel. Parallel to that towards the center, you can make out a flat Mickey face, with his iconic hat attached towards the outer right corner as a boulder. This is a nod to the 1928 animated short film directed by Walt Disney himself. The vision of Imagineers is like no other, only they can bring the magic of Disney to life.
The magic of Disney lives in the smallest surprises and discovering them is half the fun. However, the easter eggs shared in this article, are not even close to the many hidden wonders in the Disney parks. I hope that these shared treasures, brought you dear reader, a mix of curiosity, delight and admiration for the creative brilliance of Disney.
Written by
Maria Mora
For as long as Maria can remember, there was always a Disney movie playing in her house. Whether it was The Little Mermaid, Dumbo, or Tarzan, she became enthralled with all things Disney. She has visited the Disney Parks over 100 times and on different continents! Her love of Disney goes hand in hand with her love of reading, which has motivated her through the years to become a zealous writer. She hopes that whatever she does helps her community. After all, with a little faith, trust, and pixie dust, anything is possible!
