The Disney company has been around a long time and with that comes hundreds of things you've never heard of. The movies and parks are full of Easter eggs and hidden treats that make Disney what it is today. Here's the scoop on 10 Disney facts you probably didn't know.
Discovery Island is an abandoned park
You probably know Discovery Island as a part of Animal Kingdom, but it used to be its own park. It closed in 1999 because Animal Kingdom was offering the same natural experience and was larger and more popular. All the exotic animals have since been relocated to Animal Kingdom, but the island is full of abandoned buildings and overgrown plants!
You're missing out on the Kiss Goodnight
After the park has officially closed, the rides shut down and most people rush to the exit. However, the main street shops remain open for another hour. Around thirty minutes after park closing, you'll experience the Kiss Goodnight. It's a special nightly farewell to the guests from Mickey himself. You'll hear "When You Wish Upon a Star" and watch the castle light up. It's an emotional moment and something all Disney fans should do.
Magic Kingdom is elevated
Yes, Magic Kingdom actually resides above ground. Disney's tunnel system enables Cast Members to get from place to place out of visitor sight, which means the tunnels are ground level. Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion will take you partially below ground.
Mission: Space was Disney's first ride with two versions
The opening of Mission: Space presented Disney with mixed reviews. Most of the complaints stated that it was too intense. Disney listened and now offers two versions of Mission: Space for those who would much rather a gentle approach.
Captain EO has had a bumpy ride
The classic ride retired after a 10 year run in 1986. Michael Jackson's passing led to a call for Captain EO's return. Disney brought it back, but then retired again. The 80s ride closed permanently again in 2015. Will Disney bring it back? Who knows.
Disneyland is full of cats
We're not talking about the cheshire cat or the Aristocats! There's 200 feral cats roaming around Disneyland. They keep the pests at bay during the night. If you see one during the day, say hi from afar and thank them for their brave service.
There's a secret basketball court
Well, it's no so super secret anymore. You know the Matterhorn? There's a basketball court in there. It's on the third floor and it's hidden away to the public. We don't think it's going to waste because the Cast Members definitely use it.
Steve Jobs was a huge Disney guy
Steve Jobs didn't just own Apple. He was a major shareholder with Disney and one of the brain children for Pixar. There were several tributes to Steve Jobs after his death including a mention in Brave and Disney's flag being flown at half mast. However, the most notable one appears in Cars 2. There's a white car with the Apple logo and a number 84 on the side.
Most Disney princesses don't have siblings.
Can it really be that all Disney princesses are only children? Pretty much. Merida has her brothers, Harris, Hubert, and Hamish, while Ariel's sisters take up the length of a song. The recent addition of Elsa and Anna is exciting as two sisters share the spotlight but besides them, the princesses are alone.
Honorable mention goes to Cinderella and her step sisters. However, if we're counting blood-relative sisters, Anna and Elsa, Ariel, and Merida are the only ones with siblings.
Disneyland has a time capsule
The classic Disneyland park is full of history including a time capsule. The "Time Castle" was buried in 1995 by Sleeping Beauty Castle for the 40th Anniversary Celebration. It's set to be opened in 2035 during the 80th anniversary.
This list doesn't even scratch the surface of all of Disney's secrets for their parks and their movies. Next time you're visiting the parks or watching the movies, keep an eye out. You just might spot something you never noticed. What's your favorite piece of Disney trivia?
Leave a Reply