Disney theme parks history began with the creation of Disneyland. It was the brainchild of Walt Disney himself and was the only one where he was personally involved throughout the planning and construction process. Other parks with a particular theme in addition to the overall aim of entertainment and planned parks followed in the the years since, including those located at Orlando, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong and Shanghai. Generally, the individual parks associated with Disney Resorts have managed to hold on through some interesting times by staying connected to popular movies and entertainment stars.
The first of the theme-specific parks envisioned by Walt Disney is Disneyland, now part of Disneyland Resort. Since 2001, the resort includes a second theme park called Disney’s California Adventure Park. With over half a billion visitors to Disneyland, it’s been enjoyed by heads of state, royalty and presidents for fifty plus years.
Walt Disney World Resort was carved out of the swamps near Orlando, Florida and opened in 1971. It is the single most popular tourist destination in the world. It consists of four parks each with a different theme and two popular water parks plus numerous hotels, shopping opportunities, golf courses and other attractions.
Tokyo Disney Resort was opened in 1983 near Urayasu, Japan. It contains two parks for the individual tastes of visitors and the expected number of other recreational opportunities make up this resort facility. The largest parking facility found anywhere around the world is located at this resort.
Disneyland Paris was the second international location for Disney. It is located in the outskirts of Paris with two theme parks. It also has a Disney-themed golf park popular with adults and children.
Hong Kong Disneyland formally opened in 2005 with recognition as the second Asian park. Inspiration Lake Recreation Centre is associated with the theme park. It serves a dual purpose as an irrigation reservoir.
Approval has been granted to build a Shanghai Disney theme park in the Pudang District, China. The theme park is due to be completed in 2014. Other future projects emphasize expansion of existing parks or resorts.
Disney theme parks are usually part of a much larger complex that includes golf, water sports, shopping, dining, education exhibits and many hotels. Different hotels are also themed so that guests can choose the level of sophistication and style that is desired. The hotel stay is often associated with tickets at one or more of the parks so that visitors don’t need to leave the complex during the entire vacation stay.
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