The Original Disneyland: A Tale of Multiple Locations

Disneyland, the iconic amusement park, has captivated visitors since its opening on June 17, 1955. However, few know the fascinating journey behind its original location and the various sites considered before it became a reality. This article explores the initial plans, the decision-making process, and the eventual choice that led to Disneyland’s acclaimed existence in Anaheim, California.

Walt Disney’s Early Vision: Burbank Studios

Walt Disney’s vision for Disneyland was initially conceived next to his studios in Burbank. The idea was to create a magical space for his employees to use as a recreation area or even as a full-fledged theme park. However, the budding attraction faced immediate challenges due to the limited space.

"Walt Disney originally wanted to build an attraction next to his studios in Burbank but the site was too small,"

Feasibility Study and Alterations

Undeterred, Walt commissioned a feasibility study to find a site that could accommodate the growing ambition of Disneyland. The study revealed that a much larger area was necessary to truly bring the dream to life. This marked the beginning of the search for a new location.

Considering Multiple Locations

Several potential locations were evaluated:

Land Near Burbank Studios: Walt's first choice was a plot of land adjacent to his studios. However, it was deemed too small to accommodate the grand vision. Universal Studios: Another property close to the entrance of what is now Universal Studios was also considered, but it was objected to due to obvious reasons by the new studio. Dodger Stadium: The area where the current Dodger Stadium stands was one of the evaluated sites, but ultimately did not meet Walt’s criteria. Nu-Pike Zone of Long Beach: A location in the Nu-Pike Zone of Long Beach was also surveyed, but the opportunity was passed up. Cooley Ranch: In the Inland Empire, just north of Riverside, a family-owned ranch known as Cooley Ranch was also considered.

These various options were examined in hopes of finding a suitable location, but none seemed to fit the broadened size requirements.

Discovery of Anaheim

Walt and his brother Roy visited Anaheim, a then-sleepy village with large family-owned farms. On this land, they discovered a perfect fit—a large, scenic area that would be near the Santa Ana Freeway. This location offered both the necessary space and a picturesque setting—the rest, as they say, is history.

"Once he found that large family-owned farm in the then-sleepy village of Anaheim the rest was history."

In Anaheim, Walt Disney and Roy purchased the land and began the construction of Disneyland, an undertaking that would forever change the entertainment industry and become a destination that millions of people look forward to visiting each year.