Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress

Tomorrowland, Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress opened at the New York World's Fair in 1964 as part of GE's 'Progressland' Exhibit. It was designed by Walt Disney and quickly became one of the most popular attractions at the World's Fair. After the Fair ended, the attraction was moved to Disneyland where it remained until 1973, at which point it was moved to the Magic Kingdom.

Guests are seated in a theatre in front of a curtained stage. The seating area actually turns around the entire stage to go to the next scene. As you turn to the first scene, the attraction's catchy theme tune; "There's a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow" plays in the background. The first scene featured a typical, stereotypical audio-animatronic family. 

Through each scene you are told about day to day life and the amazing new technologies they have, such as a telephone and electricity. The ride takes you from the turn of the century through to the 1920's, 1940's and present day, although the present day scene was really a future scene.

Many see this ride as dated and in a lot of ways it is, however its also seen by many as Walt's Legacy as it is the last of his attractions that remains relatively untouched and in it's original form. You'll probably want to visit the Carousel of Progress at least once, many people will never go on it again, other's will love it and visit over and over again. Either way, it's a great way to get out of the heat for 20 minutes. The theatre is very cool and comfortable and is rarely busy so generally the maximum wait time is never over a few minutes.