Disneyland Goes to the World’s Fair – A Look Back at the 1964 Special
Originally broadcast in 1964, Disneyland Goes to the World’s Fair is a classic episode of Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color serves as a fascinating behind-the-scenes preview of the attractions that Walt Disney and his Imagineering team created for the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair.
The special does more than promote the fair; it highlights Disney’s revolutionary use of Audio-Animatronics and the innovation happening behind the scenes at WED Enterprises (now Walt Disney Imagineering). These efforts weren’t just about building exhibits for New York—they were laying the groundwork for future Disneyland attractions.
Four Groundbreaking Attractions
The episode highlights four major pavilions from the fair, each showcasing the storytelling and technical mastery that defines Disney parks.
- It’s a Small World – Sponsored by Pepsi-Cola and UNICEF, this boat ride promoted peace and global unity by taking guests on a musical tour through over 100 countries. The attraction was relocated to Disneyland’s Fantasyland after the fair and remains a beloved favorite today.
- Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. – Walt Disney’s tribute to Abraham Lincoln used cutting-edge Audio-Animatronic technology to bring the 16th president to life. After the fair, the attraction found its home on Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland Park.
- . – Sponsored by General Electric, this rotating theater show explored how technology changed American homes over time. After its debut at the fair, it moved to Disneyland and later to Walt Disney World. It still entertains visitors in Tomorrowland
- Ford’s Magic Skyway. – Guests rode in actual Ford vehicles through scenes showing the evolution of transportation. While the full attraction wasn’t relocated, many of its elements and ideas live on in other Disney attractions. Portions of the Skyway’s animatronic dinosaurs can still be seen on the Disneyland Railroad’s Grand Circle Tour.
Walt Disney’s Legacy in Motion
Walt Disney’s vision for the World’s Fair was ambitious, and it paid off. Not only did Disney revolutionize themed entertainment with these attractions, but he also used the fair as a testing ground for ideas that would shape Disneyland and, eventually, Walt Disney World.
This television special captures a defining moment in Disney history. It showcases how innovation, imagination, and collaboration created timeless experiences that continue to delight park guests around the globe.
