March 23, 2010

Meet the Other Robinsons

Currently on display on Main Street U.S.A., in Disneyland's wonderful new Disney Gallery, is this small gem of concept art.

In our day of mega theme parks all over the world, it is all too easy to forget that Walt Disney was a true pioneer when it came to creating immersive and delightful atmospheres in which to place his attractions. Walt's original Magic Kingdom grew quickly as fans responded enthusiastically.

The Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse rose majestically among the jungle landscape and remained a fan favorite long beyond its transformation in Tarzan's Treehouse in the new century. Climbing the numerous steps upward to the treetop, this simple yet structurally complex attraction took explorers into a whole new world- and to the tune of the catchy Swisskapolka!

Variations of the attraction appear in Florida's Magic Kingdom, Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland - potentially coming to Shanghai Disneyland as well. All this proves once again, that sometimes the classics are classic for a reason and not every attraction must be a huge production to be a crowd pleaser.
(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

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