Disney has been a huge part of our culture for decades. Whether we've watched the movies with our friends since we were little, or we used to take trips to one of the parks for some quality family time, there's a little bit of Disney in all of us.
But, like most giant franchises, there are many secrets hiding underneath the fairy dust and costumes.
Disneyland opened on July 17th, 1955. The sidewalks hadn't dried all the way, and women's heels were already sinking into the cement — it was the start of something incredible.
All these years later, families still come together to see the attractions and have a grand old time. But I bet that even if you've been there countless times, you never knew these 14 secrets before.
What is your favorite lesser known Disney fact? Do you know of any others that we've forgotten to include on our list?
Please SHARE these secrets with your fellow Disney-philes.
Thumbnail sources: Flickr 1, 2
1. All Plants In Tomorrowland Are Edible
Why is that? Now that's still a mystery. Eating the shrubbery is not encouraged.
2. 14 Of The Original Attractions Still Run
There were 18 total on the opening day, but 14 of them have stood the test of time.
3. Not All Teacups Are Created Equal
The purple teacup and the orange one with diamonds on it spin faster than the others on the Mad Tea Party ride.
4. Small World Is 22 Karat Gold
The details on the outside of the ride are made of real 22 karat gold leaf. Fancy!
5. Employees Have A Secret Basketball Court
Inside of the Matterhorn, there's a full court for each employee to use to their heart's content. Bonus fact: the abominable snowman inside is named Harold.
6. The Fire Station Holds A Hidden Apartment
There's also a light in the window that's supposed to represent Walt Disney's presence in the park.
7. The Monorail Was The First Of Its Kind
In 1959, it was the first daily operating monorail in the entire western hemisphere. That's pretty darn cool, if you ask me.
8. Real Human Skeletons Have Been Used As Props
When the Pirates of the Caribbean ride first opened, there were several human skeletons used as props. Today, only the skull over the headboard is a real human remain.
9. Steve Martin Worked There
In the '50s, he worked in the magic shop. If only his customers had known they were in the presence of greatness!
10. There's Only One Place To Imbibe On The Premises
So if you want an adult beverage, you better figure out how to get yourself a membership to Club 33. Or, you can leave the park itself and visit one of the many locations in the resort and surrounding areas.
11. Walt Was A People Person
He loved spending time with guests so much that he used to stand in the long lines with them while they waited, just to get to know them.
12. There's A Time Capsule In Sleeping Beauty's Castle
It's contents are unknown, so we'll all just have to wait 'til it's opened on the 80th anniversary in 2035.
13. The Indiana Jones Props Are Real
While you wait in line for the attraction, help yourself to an eyeful of real life props from the movie franchise.
14. Main Street, USA Uses 100,000 Lightbulbs
Now that's a lot of wattage…but it's completely worth the beauty.
What's your favorite part about going to Disneyland? Please SHARE with family and friends on Facebook to see what they love about it!
