Rare Color Photos From Disneyland’s Opening 62 Years Ago

Governor Goodwin J. Knight of California, left, and Walt Disney, right, accompanied by Virginia Knight, wife of the governor, back sent, take a ride in an old-time automobile around the 160 acres of Disneyland. Twenty-two thousand invited guests, including many notables, attended the opening of Walt Disney’s park.

Children ride in an old-fashioned stagecoach in the Frontierland area of Disneyland.

The TWA Moonliner rocketship dominates the Tomorrowland attraction at the Disneyland Amusement Park, July 22, 1955. Disneyland opened its doors on July 17, 1955.

The Mark Twain riverboat travel around Frontierland on its 15 minute voyage.

Sleeping Beauty’s Castle with park visitors.

Sleeping Beauty Castle with park visitors.

Chicken of the Sea Pirate Ship Restaurant located in Fantasyland. A recreation of Captain Hook’s ship from Peter Pan, it was demolished in 1982.

The entrance to Adventureland, home of the Jungle Cruise ride, features natural wonders and wildlife. Located to the west of Main Street, it is the land closest to the park entrance.

Tomorrowland represents the opportunities and abilities of the future, from earthbound science to extraterrestrial travel. Pictured is the red and white TWA-sponsored Rocket To The Moon standing 70 feet tall as the centerpiece of Tomorrowland.

The Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in 1955.

For more vintage photos of Disneyland’s first days, click “Next.”