As Disneyland celebrates its diamond anniversary, Orbitz senior editor Jeanenne Tornatore pays the parks a visit to look back on five milestone attractions that still capture the wonder and excitement of the most magical place on earth. Here’s a look back in celebration of Disneyland at 60.
Hi, I’m Jeanenne Tornatore, Orbitz.com Senior Editor. Today I’m coming to you from Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, where guests and cast members alike are enjoying Disneyland Resort’s Diamond Celebration. As we mark this momentous occasion, we’re taking a look back through six decades of magic brought to life. Here are five milestone attractions in the resort’s history.
Disneyland’s world famous Jungle Cruise embarked on its maiden voyage in 1955 and was the most anticipated opening day attraction. This simulated river
boat cruise tour led by Disney cast members has remained open and largely unchanged in theme and story since.
Just four years later, in 1959, Disney introduced the first steel tubular rollercoaster in the world with its Matterhorn Bobsleds. This thrilling, high speed run down the icy slopes of Switzerland’s most famous peak remains a one of a kind attraction even today. No other Disney Park has a Matterhorn Mountain.
In 1995, one of the most elaborate and sophisticated Disney theme park attractions was brought to life. Indiana Jones Adventure was a collaboration between George Lucas and Disney Imagineering working on designing construction. Boasting special effects, music from the film, and a compelling story, guests are transported to 1935, on a hair-raising quest through the Temple of the Forbidden Eye.
Next over at Disney California Adventure Park, we go Soarin’ Over California, a high-tech ride that debuted in 2001. This amazing simulation of a hang gliding trip to ok the virtual reality experience to the next level with the wind in your face, feet dangling over the treetops, and even the sweet smell of California oranges. Fifteen years later, it’s still one of the resort’s top attractions.
And most recently Radiator Springs Racers. Launched on the heels of the animated blockbuster cars, this highly anticipated attraction covers six acres,
the largest attraction by acreage in the Disneyland Resort, and combines classic storytelling in Disney dark ride fashion, with a thrilling race as its grand finale.
And of course, as Disneyland hits the big 60, it does it in milestone fashion, with new nighttime spectaculars that continue to bring exciting innovation to this most magical place on earth.
I’m Jeanenne Tornatore with Orbitz. For more information on visiting and booking travel to Disneyland, visit Orbitz.com/disney.
