Disney World is constantly being updated and improved with new attractions and experiences to delight guests year after year. Some of their latest projects include constructing a Villains land within Magic Kingdom, a Frontierland expansion that will bring Cars Land to Florida, and an Animal Kingdom project to bring us Encanto and Indiana Jones themed attractions. However, much of classic Disney World is still open and thriving. With Magic Kingdom having opened in 1971, EPCOT in 1982, Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 1989, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 1999, there are vintage attractions that can be found throughout all parks. Continue reading to learn about some vintage attractions at Disney World.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
When you think of classic Disney attractions it is highly likely that you are imagining Dumbo the Flying Elephant in Magic Kingdom. This attraction was not only an original Disneyland attraction, but an opening day Disney World attraction as well. Dumbo the Flying Elephant has been delighting guests of Magic Kingdom since 1971. This gentle attraction allows guests to take flight in their very own Dumbo and even control the height of their ride vehicle. In 2012, this attraction was updated to include a second Dumbo carousel in order to increase ride capacity. A playground was added as an alternate wait area where parents are given buzzers to indicate when it is their turn to step in line.
“its a small world”
Located in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland, “its a small world” is a delightfully vintage attraction that has been entertaining guests long before Magic Kingdom opened. “its a small world” was originally created by Walt Disney for the 1964 World’s Fair. Its success brought it to Disneyland and Disney World, with it being an opening day attraction for Magic Kingdom. There has been little to no changes made to this attraction at Magic Kingdom throughout the years making it a well-preserved vintage attraction. Guests of all ages can enjoy this gentle boat ride celebrating world cultures.
Jungle Cruise
Jungle Cruise was an opening day attraction for Disneyland in California and Magic Kingdom in Florida. This attraction was designed by Walt Disney and was intended to be a cruise through the jungles of the world. Originally, live animals were going to be roaming the attraction but this idea was later scrapped in favor of animatronics and other figures. Over the years, Jungle Cruise has become a beloved attraction that still has many original vintage aspects to it.
Prince Charming Regal Carousel
Not many guests realize the history of Magic Kingdom’s carousel. Prince Charming Regal Carousel has a home in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland, but this attraction was originally constructed in 1917 for Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan. This carousel has been entertaining guests since Magic Kingdom’s opening in 1971 and is the oldest attraction in the park.
Have you ever experienced any of these vintage attractions? Or do you prefer more recent attractions? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured Photo: Emily Murray.
Written by
Megan Woodard
Contributing Writer
Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her family. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.
