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
Disneyland 2010 Room Discount
Disneyland Room-Only Offer You can enjoy special savings and choose to experience the fun and excitement of Holidays at the Disneyland® Resort with these special room-only rates. Offer Details: Book now and you can save at least 20%* when they stay two or more...
Save on Disneyland Resort Vacation Packages
$300 Savings on a Disneyland Resort Vacation Package You can save $300* on a 4-day, 4-night Disneyland® Resort vacation package. This package features a 4-day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper® Souvenir Ticket, which is your passport to two amazing Theme Parks filled with...
Disney World 2011 Feb 17 – April 16 Room Discounts
Save up to 30%* on Walt Disney World® Resort stays most nights Feb. 17 - April 16, 2011. Find great rates available in every category - from select Disney Value Resorts to select Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts. This Disney World Special Offer has concluded. You...
Disney World Room Only Package Feb. 6 – April 16, 2011 up to 35% off
Make 2011 Memorable with this Disney World Vacation Room Only Offer. 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 sail free on select 2011 Caribbean cruises
Disney Cruise Line has announced its second kids-sail-free offer for 2011. To qualify for this offer, you must book a verandah stateroom (categories 4A to 7A only) with two full-fare guests. Kids must be 17 or younger and stay in the same stateroom. Most seven-night...
