“Walt Disney World is more than just a place; it is a complete Vacation Destination.” With that iconic line, the narrator sets the stage for The Magic of Walt Disney World, a charming documentary broadcast as part of The Wonderful World of Disney on March 31, 1974. Narrated by actor Steve Forrest, this special gave audiences a magical behind-the-scenes tour of the newly opened resort in Florida.
A Rare Look at Walt Disney World in Its First Years
Originally released theatrically on December 20, 1972, alongside Disney’s feature film “Snowball Express,” the documentary was later expanded and updated for television. This revised version aired on “The Wonderful World of Disney” on March 31, 1974, featuring new narration by Andrew Duggan and additional content to reflect the resort’s ongoing developments. The special highlighted many of the park’s opening-day attractions, including the Hall of Presidents, Country Bear Jamboree, and the now-retired Mickey Mouse Revue. The original featurette ran about 29 minutes and provided a snapshot of what the resort offered in its formative years.
From the Monorail to the Magic Kingdom
The Magic of Walt Disney World captured more than just rides and characters. It gave viewers a look at the resort’s groundbreaking transportation system, from ferryboats across the Seven Seas Lagoon to the futuristic monorail gliding past the Contemporary Resort. Every scene reinforced Walt Disney’s original vision: a place where innovation, imagination, and family fun all come together.
Resort Hotels and the “Vacation Kingdom” Experience
As part of the original “Vacation Kingdom,” the special also showcased the Contemporary Resort and the Polynesian Village Resort. These deluxe accommodations were featured prominently, complete with monorail service, fine dining, and recreational activities. The documentary emphasized that Walt Disney World was more than just the Magic Kingdom—it was an all-encompassing vacation destination.
The televised version in 1974 updated the original 1972 footage with new content and narration by Andrew Duggan, reflecting ongoing resort expansions. Even today, this early look remains a nostalgic time capsule for fans of Disney Parks history.
A Must-Watch for Disney History Buffs
If you’re a fan of vintage Disney or want to experience Walt Disney World the way it was in the early 1970s, The Magic of Walt Disney World is essential viewing. Fortunately, a restored version is available online for Disney fans eager to travel back in time:
Looking for More Magic? you might like these: Magi. Kingdom and the Magic of TV. The Magic of Christmas at Walt Disney World. The Magic of Chrismtas at Disneyland. 50 Years of Magic. The Magic of Walt Disney World 1972. The Magic of Disneyland 1968. or the Magic of Disney Animation form Walt Disney World.
More Wonderful World of Disney. Tricks of the Trade (1957). Disneyland 4th Anniversary Show. NBC Salutes 25 years of Wonderful World of Disney. Sandy Duncan Visits Disneyland 1976. Christmas at Disney World 1978. Disneyland the Park 1957. Adventure in the Magic Kingdom 1958. The best of Disney 50 years of Magic. Disneyland 25th Anniversary. After Dark 1963. Disneyland Showtime 1970. Disneyland 1967.
 offers a nostalgic tour of the Magic Kingdom and resort hotels narrated by Steve Forrest.){kind=link}