Disneyland at 70: Timeless Attractions That Continue to Captivate

On July 17, 2025, Disneyland celebrated its 70th anniversary, marking decades of innovative entertainment and artistry within the iconic California theme park. With an ever-increasing number of visitors, the park has managed to captivate audiences not just through its rides but also by creating immersive experiences that resonate with guests across generations. As part of the anniversary celebrations, experts from various creative fields were consulted to identify the top five rides that have stood the test of time and explore the reasons behind their enduring popularity.

Disneyland originally opened its gates on July 17, 1955, with an admission price of $1 for adults and 50 cents for children. Today, a single day ticket can cost upwards of $200. Despite the increasing costs and lengthy wait times, visitors flock to the park, drawn by the magic of its attractions.

According to Vince Kadlubek, co-founder of Meow Wolf, a collective known for creating immersive art experiences, Disneyland rides are not merely amusement attractions; they are intricate works of art. "You could take any single medium from any of these rides and it would most obviously be art – whether it’s sculpture, scenic painting, the sound design, the storytelling," Kadlubek remarked. He emphasizes the importance of joy and play in art, underscoring the unique ability of Disneyland to evoke genuine emotion.

Felix Barrett, artistic director of Punchdrunk, affirmatively states that the hybrid nature of Disney rides makes them unparalleled in the art world. He notes that the anticipation built during the waiting times for rides is itself a component of the experience, a strategy often referred to as 'queue design.' This innovative approach not only enhances the overall experience but also transforms the wait into an engaging prelude to the ride itself.

As part of the anniversary, five attractions were highlighted for their artistic significance and cultural impact:

1. **It’s a Small World (1964)**: This gentle boat ride features animatronic children from around the globe, conveying themes of innocence and global unity. According to Bethanee Bemis, a curator who has studied the intersection of American history and Disney parks, the ride's design, led by Mary Blair and the Sherman Brothers, remains relevant today despite some outdated cultural representations.

2. **Pirates of the Caribbean (1967)**: Originally a standalone ride, it has been adapted into a successful film franchise. Bemis notes the engineering challenges involved in its creation, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail, including temperature control to enhance the ride experience.

3. **The Haunted Mansion (1969)**: This ride utilizes classic illusions and narrative techniques, with designers like Kathryn Yu praising its ability to evoke emotional connections through storytelling and character development. The blend of physical and narrative artistry creates a unique experience for visitors.

4. **Radiator Springs Racers (2012)**: Inspired by the animated film 'Cars,' this ride recreates the landscapes of the American Southwest and reflects nostalgia for Route 66. Bemis describes it as a stunning work that combines storytelling with environmental immersion.

5. **Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (2019)**: As the most technologically advanced ride, it employs trackless vehicles to create a dynamic storytelling experience. Kadlubek and Stark, both designers and educators in immersive experiences, commend the ride for its narrative depth and the way it engages visitors through detailed set design and innovative ride mechanics.

The ongoing evolution of Disneyland's attractions highlights the theme park's commitment to artistic and experiential innovation. As the park continues to draw visitors from around the world, its ability to adapt while preserving its legacy remains a testament to Walt Disney's original vision. With technological advancements and a focus on storytelling, Disneyland is poised to inspire new generations of creators and dreamers well into the future.