By Robert Vaux
Walt Disney opened Disneyland in California after years of receiving letters from fans asking to visit his studios. He felt that an amusement park which embodied the essence of his films would make for a much more interesting visit than the rather boring Disney Burbank offices. The results exceeded his wildest aspirations.
Opening
Disneyland first opened its doors in 1955. Over the next fifty years, some 500 million people passed through its gates.
Lands
Disneyland is divided into eight themed areas: Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Main Street U.S.A., New Orleans Square, Critter Country and Mickey's Toon Town.
Amenities
In addition to Disneyland itself, the grounds also contain a second park (Disney's California Adventure) as well as three hotels, a huge parking structure and the Downtown Disney Shopping District.
Rides
There are over 80 rides at Disneyland, ranging from old classics like the Haunted Mansion to more recent rides like Indiana Jones and Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased at the gate, on Disneyland's website, or through various travel agencies. Disneyland also offers periodic discounts, such as free admission on your birthday and seven-day passes for the price of four.
Resources
About the Author:
Robert Vaux has been a professional writer and editor since 1995. He has traveled throughout Europe and North America as well as parts of North Africa. Since 2000 he has been a professional movie critic at Flipside Movie Emporium, the Sci-Fi Movie Page and Mania.com. Vaux has a Master of Arts in English literature from Syracuse University.
