Sixty years ago, Walt Disney and his Imagineers helped reshape the future of themed entertainment at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair. The event not only promoted unity and global innovation, it also gave rise to four groundbreaking Disney attractions. These experiences brought art and science together through cutting-edge Audio-Animatronics technology—laying the foundation for immersive storytelling still seen in Disney parks today.
A New Era of Imagineering Begins
Walt Disney introduced these new attractions on his television show Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color, highlighting how Disneyland had sparked a new creative frontier. “We had to learn to make our animated cartoons talk,” Walt said, “and we created a new field of animation.” This innovation became Audio-Animatronics—lifelike figures that continue to evolve thanks to the work of Imagineers.
Carousel of Progress
Debuting in General Electric’s pavilion, Carousel of Progress was a nostalgic yet forward-looking showcase of American ingenuity. The attraction, with its rotating theater and catchy Sherman brothers tune “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow,” later moved from Disneyland to Magic Kingdom in 1975. It remains one of the oldest attractions worked on by Walt himself.
Ford’s Magic Skyway
Walt’s “Highway in the Sky” allowed guests to board Ford cars and journey through time—from dinosaurs to early humans. This experience inspired the Omnimover ride system, now a staple in attractions like Haunted Mansion and Spaceship Earth. A side display of miniature international villages influenced the creation of Epcot’s World Showcase.
it’s a small world the Disney World’s Fair Legacy
Created for UNICEF and Pepsi-Cola, this beloved boat ride debuted at the Fair before moving to Disneyland. Featuring vibrant art by Mary Blair and figures by Marc and Alice Davis, it’s a small world celebrates cultural unity. Today, versions of the ride operate in five Disney parks worldwide.
Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln
In the State of Illinois pavilion, the first fully human Audio-Animatronic figure debuted—President Abraham Lincoln. The realism of Lincoln’s performance captivated audiences. Its success prompted Disney to open a version at Disneyland before the Fair even ended.
A Legacy That Still Inspires
These four attractions paved the way for everything from Pirates of the Caribbean to Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Walt’s vision of innovation through storytelling continues to drive Imagineering to this day. As we celebrate six decades since the World’s Fair, we look ahead to new stories that blend technology and wonder—just as Walt dreamed. Disney World’s Fair Legacy leaves a lasting impression.
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