On January 15, 1975, Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland witnessed the opening of two new attractions: Space Mountain and Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress. Now don’t get me wrong, I love Space Mountain, but if I had to pick between these two attractions I would always choose the Carousel of Progress. It’s a true Disney Classic. In fact, it is one of the only attractions in all of Walt Disney World to have been touched by Walt himself.
So why do I have such strong feelings for this attraction?
1. This attraction has Walt Disney written all over it! One reason I love this attraction so much is because I know Walt envisioned, designed and created it. Carousel of Progress, originally called Progressland, debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. It also was included in the new Tomorrowland at Disneyland in California before it eventually closed and moved to Florida. Walt loved the idea of progress and in making the future a better place for all.
2. It’s actually a great history lesson! The show follows your typical American family through four generations over the past 100 years. From the gas lamps in the pre-electric era, to the present day voice activated appliances, the show explains how inventions and technological advances add more comfort and convenience to our lives. Sure, some of the jokes are corny, but I still laugh, because, well, Disney.
3. There’s rarely ever (almost NEVER) a wait! Just walk right up and within approximately five minutes or less the door will open. It’s also important to note that it is AIR CONDITIONED! So if visiting in the summer (well, year round, we are talking about Florida here) the Carousel of Progress is a great place to get out of the heat and enjoy a few minutes of rest. It is also rather dark so it’s the perfect spot for a nap!
4. There’s a really catchy theme song. Can we all just sing it together now, please? Written by Disney legendary songwriters, the Sherman Brothers, they believe that Walt claimed “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” as his personal theme song. Walt was always optimistic and excited about where the future was taking us. 
So next time you are in Tomorrowland, don’t just rush past the Carousel of Progress on your way to ride Space Mountain. Stop by, visit with John, Rover, Patty, Uncle Orville, and the whole family. They would be happy to tell you all about the progress that we have made over the years. You might just learn a thing or two, and chances are, you will leave there singing. “Just a dream away!”
See you in the Future!
Katie
A Disney Life for Me 