DISNEYLAND PARK VERSUS THE MAGIC KINGDOM.....A COMPARISON

Disneyland Park is the name of the original park built under Walt Disney's instructions in 1955. It is in Anaheim, near Los Angeles.  During the last years of his life Walt Disney spent a lot of time there, promoting "upcoming" attractions like the Haunted House and Pirates of the Caribbean. So today, despite all the changes,  this particular park is linked to memories of Walt. 

The Magic Kingdom is an almost exact copy of Disneyland, inaugurated in Orlando, Florida in 1971. By then, Walt was gone.  From the visitor's point of view, it gives you an almost identical experience as the Los Angeles park.....unless you are a Disney historian or can "appreciate" the differences.  This is what this article is all about. 

If you look at the maps, the two parks are very similar. The Magic Kingdom is slightly larger, so a visit can be a slightly less crowded affair.

One of the most obvious differences, the castle in The Magic Kingdom is much much nicer.....but remember, the "castles" in these parks are just for the photo ops, they have little to do with what the park really offers. 

Disneyland's castle may be less impressive, but it compensates with other features which are unique. The Matterhorn is only in Disneyland. So is the New Orleans Quarter, and Toon Town.  

OK. Now the main thing.....the rides and attractions.  The main differences?  Both parks have key attractions such as The Haunted House, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain.  The building of the Haunted House in Disneyland is much nicer, but the ride is the same. 

There are some important differences in the less known rides.....For example The Flying Carpets and the Snow White ride are only in Orlando, Roger Rabbit's Ride is in Disneyland.  The Tiki rooms are different.....but in the end the two parks play to a draw. 

So here is the big one. Disneyland has two very good attractions that are missing in Orlando. The Submarine Voyage....and the Indiana Jones Ride.  The last one is particularly good.     

So if you don't care for history, or the fact the Disneyland has a little more style......When in Disneyland remember the uniqueness of those rides. 

SUBMARINE VOYAGE...only at Disneyland