Always remember that this whole thing was started by a mouse. Walt Disney
It’s almost hard to comprehend that every single magical, memorable Disney moment began with this simple idea. But Walt Disney was brilliant…he was a visionary artist…a storyteller… Oh how I’d love to tap into his creative mind.
Late last year, I picked up a rectangular brochure at D23 Expo and added it to my list of places I’d like to visit. Who knew that less than one year later, I’d actually be stepping foot inside The Walt Disney Family Museum, which takes visitors on a chronological journey through Walt’s life. Even before I spent some time at the museum, I had a reverence for this man who’s achievements include but are definitely not limited to the creation of Mickey Mouse, Disneyland, and the largest entertainment company. I could have spent hours inside the museum and not fully absorbed everything I wanted to know about this man.
The museum is located in San Francisco’s Presidio, which is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and offers a picturesque view of the Golden Gate Bridge. During our visit, several of the bloggers ate lunch outside as the area surrounding the museum is lush, green, and serene.
The Walt Disney Family Museum is divided into 10 galleries, and walking through each one is like a step back in time. Walt Disney was a storyteller, and a visit through the museum feels very much like we’re walking through the story of his life. The museum utilizes “state-of-the-art technologies, listening stations, and video screens” to engage visitors and help them get a sense of who Walt was.
Throughout our visit, I learned so much about this incredible man and gained a new respect for him and his legacy. I knew that Walt was a man ahead of his time…a man who took risks and believed in what he was doing. He is credited with innovating the world of film and animation with a number of firsts including the following:
- First animated film with synchronized sound (Steamboat Willie, 1928)
- First animated film in full-color three-strip Technicolor (Flowers and Trees, 1932)
- First feature length animated film (Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, 1937)
- Multi-plane camera, invented for use on The Old Mill, 1937
- First stereophonic sound system for film (Fantasound for Fantasia, 1940)
Because I have a special place in my heart for Disneyland and all the memories that have been made with my own family growing up and now with my children, my favorite gallery was the one which displays a 14 foot model of the Disneyland of Walt’s imagination. Right before entering that gallery, we learned that the wooden bench on display was where the idea for Disneyland originated. He was watching his daughters ride the Merry Go Round at Griffith Park and imagined the Disney-themed park.
The last gallery serves as a tribute Walt Disney, and includes newspaper articles, letters, telegrams and more, from people expressing their appreciation for this man who is now a legend.
After spending some time at the museum, I’d really like to go back someday to delve deeper into Walt’s life. I’d also like to sit inside this Fantasia-themed theater and watch a Disney classic!
The museum is open daily except for Tuesdays and admission is $20 for adults and $12 for children between the ages of 6 and 17. Be sure to check out the calendar for an updated schedule on coming screenings and discussions.
I always like to look on the optimistic side of life, but I am realistic enough to know that life is a complex matter.
Walt Disney
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Photos: Disney
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Never heard of this museum but it’s pretty neat. I think mickey is much cuter nowadays though, almost a bit creepy with the long, mousey nose. But I suppose he doesn’t look nearly as much like a mouse now
I’ve been dying to visit this place and it looks like it’s as amazing as I imagine it to be. Thanks so much for sharing!
Walt Disney was an amazing visionary! What fun to have a peak into his life.
I totally want to visit this place. I only live an hour and a half a way, so might be something I can do this summer with the kids.
Super cool. I did’t know this existed.
This is so cool. I have to take my kiddos to see this sometime super soon!