Disneyland California Secrets

Since its opening in 1955, California's Disneyland has been the foundation of a rich and diverse history, sparking many interesting stories and urban legends. Although many of these are just rumors spread throughout the years, there are several fascinating and little-known facts that Disney does not necessarily broadcast to the general public.
  1. Club 33

    • Located at 33 Royal Street by the Blue Bayou and Pirates of the Caribbean ride, there lies a private, exclusive club open only to members and their guests. Club 33 was originally intended as a place where Walt Disney could entertain friends and business associates, but he passed away before plans could be finalized. The elegant club is comprised of two dining rooms where guests may enjoy gourmet meals paired with fine wine and several adjoining areas decorated with fine antiques and original artwork. It is also the only place in Disneyland that serves alcohol. Those interested in becoming a member should be prepared to be placed on a very long waiting list (at least 3 years), and if accepted, pay a steep membership fee and annual dues.

    Matterhorn Basketball

    • A basketball court is located in a small room at the very top of the Matterhorn ride structure. Although it had been rumored that the mountainous structure actually contained a full basketball court, the court is actually smaller than a regulation half-court. The space is used as a preparation and rest area for cast members who are on break.

    Disneyland Cats

    • When Disneyland was in its early years in the late 1950s and '60s, mice infestation was a prominent issue. In attempts to control the mice population, about 50 cats were let loose within the park. To this day, cats still roam Disneyland as well as Disney's California Adventure Park. It is not known exactly how many cats reside in the parks, but guests have reported that some of the felines are tame enough to interact with them. It is also reported that many cast members leave food out for the cats and have even given them names.

    Happy Birthday From Disneyland

    • If you are celebrating your birthday with a trip to Disneyland, make it extra-special by heading over to City Hall near the main entrance upon arrival. Tell a cast member that it is your birthday, and you will receive a personalized sticker announcing the occasion to wear on your clothing. Cast members and Disney characters will give you special recognition and birthday wishes.

    Flash Mountain

    • Upon exiting Splash Mountain, many scramble to see the candid photos taken while plunging to the bottom of the ride's largest drop. Once in a while, a guest will notice that the photo of their ride vehicle is missing. This is often because the picture was deemed inappropriate by a team of cast members who quickly scan over all photos before displaying them on the television screens for all to see. Some trouble-making park guests may choose to flip the bird or another rude gesture. Throughout the years, Splash Mountain has even been referred to as "Flash Mountain" due to the number of women who lift their shirts to flash the camera.

    Strict Dress Code

    • Although Disneyland has come a long way with its strict dress code since opening, there are still many rules and regulations that must be followed, particularly by cast members. These rules, which are stated in their own manual called the Disney Look, are put in place to preserve the brand's family-friendly, traditional values. June of 2010 marked the first time that female cast members were allowed to expose their full arms and bare-stockinged legs, and until 2000, male cast members were not allowed to have mustaches. In the 1960's, some male guests were even asked to leave the park if they had long hair.

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