Imagine opening a time capsule in the year 6965—5,000 years after it was buried during the final days of the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair. That’s the vision behind two real-world time capsules buried at the end of the 1939 and 1965 World’s Fairs. They contain everyday artifacts and memorabilia from 20th-century America.
Though we won’t be around when those capsules open, the Walt Disney Archives gives us a glimpse into that historic era. Why? Because Walt Disney and his Imagineers played a crucial role in the Fair’s legacy, shaping attractions and innovations that still impact Disney parks today.
Walt Disney’s Lasting Impact at the Fair
Held in Flushing Meadows, Queens, the 1964–1965 World’s Fair carried the theme “Peace Through Understanding.” It provided Walt Disney and his creative team the opportunity to push boundaries. The fair served as a proving ground for revolutionary Audio-Animatronics and ride systems that laid the foundation for attractions we enjoy today.
Let’s explore four groundbreaking Disney experiences that debuted at the Fair:
Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln
When Robert Moses saw an early test of the Audio-Animatronic Abraham Lincoln, he declared, “I won’t open the Fair without that exhibit!”
Despite technical hurdles, Walt believed in the attraction’s power. And on May 2, 1964, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln debuted at the Illinois Pavilion. The lifelike figure amazed audiences—some swore they saw Lincoln walk and shake hands. Today, an updated version continues to impress guests at Disneyland.
Progressland and the Carousel of Progress
Backed by General Electric, the Carousel of Progress was a breakthrough stage production about American innovation. Audiences rotated around a central stage to witness the evolution of electrical living, narrated by an “average” American family.
The show later moved to Disneyland in 1967 and to Walt Disney World in 1975, where it remains as Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress—a nostalgic yet forward-looking tribute to technological progress.
Magic Skyway
Ford partnered with Disney to create an attraction that let guests travel through time in Ford cars. Visitors experienced a dramatic prehistoric showdown between Audio-Animatronic dinosaurs—some of which live on in Disneyland’s Primeval World Diorama.
“it’s a small world”
Commissioned by Pepsi-Cola and UNICEF, this late addition became a signature Disney experience. With more than 10 million riders during the Fair’s run, the charming boat ride and unforgettable tune have become iconic.
“it’s a small world” opened at Disneyland in 1966 and now delights guests at Disney parks worldwide.
The Archives: A Living Time Capsule
From attraction tickets to Audio-Animatronic components, the Walt Disney Archives carefully preserves these historic treasures. Rather than waiting 5,000 years, fans can view these artifacts in exhibits or through special programs.
Disney’s role in the World’s Fair represents more than innovation—it’s a testament to Walt’s belief in storytelling, progress, and global unity. And thanks to the Archives, that legacy continues to inspire future generations.
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