The gateway to Fantasyland—and the symbol of all the magic of Disneyland® Park—is Sleeping Beauty Castle. An opening day landmark since 1955, Sleeping Beauty Castle has the distinction of being named after a Disney heroine nearly four years before Sleeping Beauty appeared in her title film role 60 years ago in January 1959. In fact, “Sleeping Beauty” was still in its early stages of production when Disneyland park opened.
Over the years, the colors and finishes on Sleeping Beauty Castle have been refreshed and updated since Disney Legend and Imagineering Artist Herbert Ryman first created the concept illustration of the castle. Today, 60 years after the film “Sleeping Beauty” debuted, Sleeping Beauty Castle is undergoing another refurbishment through spring in preparation for this summer’s opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
The refurbishment is part of Project Stardust—a number of enhancements to the Disneyland Resort, specifically Disneyland Park, to continue to deliver a world-class guest experience. The enhancements will range from overall beautification of the theme park to maximizing guest comfort and access. When Project Stardust is complete, Disneyland park will remain the beloved icon and international treasure it is today, while preparing the theme park for its next phase of significant growth, starting with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, where tradition meets a new frontier.
A number of efforts are already underway or completed. On Main Street, U.S.A., for example, curbs are being enhanced with slow inclines to help improve access when guests first enter. New brickwork adds to the storytelling of the iconic thoroughfare, and for the first time, the horse-drawn streetcar track was replaced in its entirety. In Fantasyland, reconfigured guest queues for Matterhorn Bobsleds, “it’s a small world” and Dumbo the Flying Elephant have improved guest access and comfort, while Tropical Hideaway in Adventureland now welcomes guests to a brand new area that was previously underutilized.
Throughout Disneyland Park, the locations of planters and outdoor vending carts are being adjusted to make room for additional walking space and new, more efficient stroller areas. There also will be more seating in Disneyland park than ever before when Project Stardust is complete. We look forward to sharing more about these efforts and carrying forward Walt Disney’s vision for Disneyland park, while preparing it for future generations.
Start Planning Your Disney Vacation Today!
More Disney News Stories
Disney Aulani Resort Opens August 2011
Behind the Scenes at Aulani – Find Out Who is Hiding Throughout the Resort When Guests visit Aulani they may notice playful figures, known as Menehune, hiding around the resort. According to Hawaiian legend, the little Menehune (men-neh-HOO-nay) are shy folk who come...
Disney Dreams Cruise Ship Sets Sail
New Disney Cruise Line ShipSetting Sail in January 2011 CELEBRATION, Fla. – When the Disney Dream debuts on Jan. 26, 2011, guests will begin embarking on innovation-infused journeys aboard a 4,000-passenger cruise ship where technology has been translated into...
Disney World Discounts for 2011
Disney World Discounts for 2011 This Disney World Special Offer has concluded. You can book one of these current Disney World Vacation Offers here in our Walt Disney World Vacation Package and Discounts section. Save up to 40% on your room only...
2011 Disney Cruise Line Discounts Deals Specials
Disney Cruise Line® is extending the following offer to Pixie Vacation client. I Offer Details: $200* onboard credit for new bookings on 3-night Bahamian cruises departing Feb. 3 or Feb. 10, 2011, and 4-night Bahamian cruises departing Jan. 30 or Feb. 6, 2011, on the...
Disney World 2011 Vacation Packages, Deals, Discounts
2011 Disney World Vacation Packages, Deals, Discounts This Disney World Special Offer has concluded. You can book one of these current Disney World Vacation Offers here in our Walt Disney World Vacation Package and Discounts section. Kids Stay and...
