On June 14, 2024, we celebrate a milestone that marks Disneyland Resort’s enduring legacy of innovation. Sixty-five years ago this Friday, the magic of Disneyland was rekindled with what felt like a grand “second opening.” In a dazzling TV special on ABC titled “Kodak Presents Disneyland ’59,” Walt Disney unveiled six new and updated attractions, capturing the hearts of millions. Among these groundbreaking attractions were the Submarine Voyage, Matterhorn Bobsleds, and the Disneyland-Alweg Monorail System—pioneering rides that have since become iconic. (Source: [thewaltdisneycompany.com](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/))

Walt Disney famously said, “Disneyland will never be completed, as long as there is imagination left in the world.” That vision has driven Disneyland, and all Disney parks, to continuously evolve. From the moment the first guests walked through the turnstiles in 1955, Walt was already dreaming of ways to expand his enchanted kingdom. (Source: [thewaltdisneycompany.com](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/))

Walt’s travels across the globe infused fresh ideas into Disneyland’s DNA. For instance, the Matterhorn Bobsleds drew inspiration from the Swiss Alps, following Walt’s visit during the filming of “Third Man on the Mountain,” and the monorail system took cues from European innovations, enhancing Tomorrowland’s futuristic charm. These ambitious ideas were brought to life by the creative geniuses at WED Enterprises, the precursor to Walt Disney Imagineering. (Source: [thewaltdisneycompany.com](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/))

The broadcast of “Kodak Presents Disneyland ’59” on June 15, 1959, was more than a spectacle; it was evidence of Walt’s savvy use of television to share his vision with the world. As Art Linkletter asked Walt how he felt, Walt’s response was heartfelt: “Like an expectant father: nervous, but wonderful.” This televised event included a grand parade down Main Street, U.S.A., further cementing Disneyland’s place in American culture. (Source: [thewaltdisneycompany.com](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/))

Fast forward to today, Disneyland Resort is poised for another impressive leap forward. With a $1.9 billion investment through DisneylandForward, the next decade promises new and exciting experiences for guests. President of Disneyland Resort, Ken Potrock, highlights the ongoing commitment to innovation, creativity, and storytelling. And it’s not just Anaheim that’s evolving; Disney Experiences worldwide are also brimming with new attractions and imaginative expansions. (Source: [thewaltdisneycompany.com](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/))

We’d love to hear your thoughts and memories of Disneyland ’59 and how innovation continues to shape your Disney experiences. Share your stories in the comments below and join the conversation. And don’t forget to share this piece with fellow Disney enthusiasts who believe in the magic of imagination!

Photo Credits: The Walt Disney Company [thewaltdisneycompany.com](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/)