Billed as the “Happiest Place on Earth,” Disneyland opened on July 17, 1955, ushering in the birth of the modern theme park industry.
Walt Disney wanted to create a destination where both parents and children could have fun together — a clean space that immersed families in elaborate theming, with attractions inspired by his stories and films.
Despite strong skepticism from financial backers and operational challenges in transforming 160 acres of orange groves, Disney promoted the park by appearing in a weekly television show and eventually hosted a grand opening live on ABC.
Opening day entry prices were $1 for adults and 50 cents for kids, with each ride as an added cost, according to Don Munsil of MouseSavers.com, who tracks historical ticket prices. Main Street USA, Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland welcomed guests to experience 20 attractions.
Today, the original park has grown to more than 50 rides, shows and exhibits. A second park, Disney California Adventure, was added to the resort in 2001. With plans for the property to be rezoned in order to expand its theme park footprint over the next several decades, the company embraces Walt Disney’s saying that “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.”
