Disney stories

The Walt Disney Company has several divisions and is also a major player in the leisure and tourism sector internationally. Its founder, Walter Elias Disney, an animator and film producer, was famous for creating the renowned Mickey Mouse character. His studio went on to create the first full-length animated feature, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937.

The company’s first major foray into the leisure sector was with Disneyland. This opened on 17 July 1955 in Anaheim, California. The park acted as a template for other parks with similar theme park rides, which also comprised similar areas such as Adventureland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.

Following Walt Disney’s death in 1966, the company developed Disneyland-style parks in other parts of the world. Disney-branded parks can currently be found in California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong and Shanghai.

Disney is renowned for its innovative and market-leading attractions, mostly based on its own characters and original properties. The Walt Disney Imagineering team has created numerous technologies and patents that have impacted the wider themed entertainment industry. Notable major projects in recent years include Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, Avengers Campus, and the redesign of Disney California Adventure.

The most largest resort by size is Walt Disney World, in Orlando, Florida, which opened on 1 October 1971. The destination features four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. There are also two outdoor water parks, other attractions, various hotels, and a vast transportation system for guests.

Disney has since branched out to provide other location-based experiences around the world. These include parks, hotels, water parks, cruises and leisure experiences.