When entering the tunnels of the Magic Kingdom Park my eyes always scan the attraction posters that are displayed along the train station walls. Of course I already know what I am in store for – the attractions are as familiar to me as going home to visit my parents in the house I grew up in. What the posters do is spark my excitement with their bright colors and quick reminder of what is to come as I venture into the park.
Disney has been using attraction posters since Disneyland first opened in 1955. Walt’s version of an amusement park was far different than anything anyone had ever encountered; the Imagineers needed a way to depict the attractions that awaited them inside the gates. These beautiful and vibrant posters aligned the main entrance gates as if it were a theater lobby, some showing what lie ahead and some depicting up-coming attractions for the near future.
When Walt Disney World finally opened their gates and began their “show”, many of these audiences were not familiar with this new “amusement park” experience. Disneyland posters were re- purposed and became very helpful in the opening of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
Some attraction posters can still be found in the Magic Kingdom, mostly within the train station tunnel. But they are a piece of our American history and tell a great story. If you are interested in learning more about their history and how they were and still are used through out all Disney parks, check out this link. Poster Art of the Disney Parks
~Maureen