🌴🏴‍☠️ Adventureland – Exotic Lands, Hidden Secrets, and Disney Legends! 🦜🌿

Lou Mongello: 00:00:09

Welcome or welcome back to the second in my series of Audio Guides to Walt Disney World. I am Lou Mongello, and before we get into Adventureland, I want to just sort of set the stage for you.

This has been a very interesting journey for me, going back to the original audio guide, listening to them once again, realizing just how different and young I sound.

g these audio guides in early: 2008

I was sort of figuring it out as I was going along, which I think we're all doing that in life, as it were. But I really wanted to give the sense of you and I walking together originally down Main street usa and eventually through the rest of the parks.

And when I recorded Adventureland, I was still living in New Jersey.

So I was flying back and forth from New Jersey to Orlando to do research, because the parks were still, even at that time, cheap, changing pretty dramatically, relatively quickly. And I wanted to make sure that what I was talking about was current for that time. I also had to capture the background audio.

So there was a lot of different steps to the process. So, of course, it begins with research.

And I was a trial attorney in my past life, so I had to make sure that the research was very wide and very deep and very thorough and very accurate, not just from a historical perspective, but in terms of what was there there currently. So I did a ton of research back at home with the resources that I had available to me.

And then I had to continue that research as I went down to Walt Disney World. Not just my eyes and ears on what was there, but even talking to people who had been with the company or cast members for a long time.

ript down. Because, again, in: 2008

It was physical CDs, which could only fit a certain amount of time. So these had to be under around 53 minutes in order to fit onto the CD.

Now, obviously, for any of the Lands of Magic Kingdom, I could have and have in the past gone way longer than an hour.

So it's taking this research, turning it into a book, turning the book into a script, and then paring that script down to only the most important, valuable or interesting bits of fun facts and trivia and history. And then once I had that, I had to literally walk it and time it.

So I would take that script and I would walk and talk to myself, recording just sample sessions of me going through the park, seeing which flow worked, seeing what I had to leave in and take out.

So really, the process of starting to research an audio guide to record, produce, and eventually distribute an audio guide took probably almost a year. Again, I was very thorough.

And because I did not live right behind Magic Kingdom, as I am very fortunate to do now, I had to sort of go back and forth quite often to do that. And then I had to go back again to. To do nothing but record background audio. So I had a little handheld recorder.

And because now I had the flow of where we were going to be virtually walking, I had to very slowly capture that audio.

And that does not happen in one take because there's a lot of different circumstances and noises that happen, from, you know, cast members, rolling carts of food or trash cans to screaming babies or fighting parrots, whatever it might be.

And there was many, many times I would spend literally hours in a very short section of Adventureland or near a certain attraction because I wanted to capture either a certain type of audio or because just life would get in the way and I would have to make sure I captured it as clean as possible. I then had to go back, find those spots, mix it all together, which I love the creative process. I loved the process of putting this all together.

And I did this all by myself. I did everything from the research to the writing to the editing to the recording, to the producing and even the distribution of the CDs on my own.

Because I wanted it to be as good and close to perfect and up to the standards I not only set for myself, but because we're talking about Disney, I think there's a level of expectation that we h that we have when we talk about this place.

And I wanted to make sure that I met or exceeded it as much as possible, because I only had one shot to make sure that I got this audio, that I got these stories, that I got this information, right? And then be able to put my name on it and share it with you.

So going through this process of re releasing them now as podcasts really has been a sort of wonderful trip down memory lane.

ually took place between like: 10:00

And again, as I started to go back and listen to the audio, you might hear that I sound a little bit different than I did back then.

So again, these are very much snapshots in time, not just for me and where I was in my fandom and in the process of learning and hopefully getting better in doing this, but where the parks were. So things you might hear might not be there anymore. They might not be in the same place. They might have changed, they might have evolved.

But I really want to give you a snapshot in time.

And I think still there's context in terms of the evolution and I think the growth and the continuing, like, maturing of the Disney parks and maybe even the evolution of our experiences as we go, maybe as children and then as adults and then possibly as parents or with friends. And I'd love to hear from from you, not just your thoughts about this and all of the audio tours, but how your experiences in the parks have changed.

And where does Adventure Land fit for you? Is Adventureland one of. Is it your favorite land in the Magic Kingdom? Do you like it better during the day or at night?

What ambient music or background music from an attraction or section of the park really sort of speaks to you?

And when you hear it and close your eyes, unless you're driving, don't close your eyes when you you hear it and close your eyes transport you to that place that brings you so much joy and that you probably miss as well. The best way to let me know and become part of the community and conversation is over in the WW Radio clubhouse on Facebook.

-: 9391

Or if you just want to email me, you can email louwwradio.com I read and reply to every email personally, so I would love to hear from you. All right, with that, let's get into the second audio guide to Walt Disney World. So, my friend, come with me to Adventureland.

Lou Mongello: 00:08:17

Here is adventure. Here is romance. Here is mystery. Tropical rivers silently flowing into the unknown.

The unbelievable splendor of exotic flowers, the eerie sound of the jungle with eyes that are always watching. This is Adventureland. Walt Disney once said this of the original Adventureland in Disneyland.

And that description holds true for the Walt Disney World incarnation as much of the theming of the land, along with some of its most popular attractions, were duplicated here in Florida.

As we cross from the central hub into the next land on our tour, we leave the Victorian charm and elegance of Main Street USA and days gone by and journey into the exotic lands of Adventureland.

Here the stage will be set for the stories of swashbuckling pirates, exotic rivers, African jungles, Middle Eastern adventures and South Seas journeys that will be told to us in a visual three dimensional environment. An important element of moving from Main Street USA into Adventureland is the transition itself, as it's critical, deliberate and multilayered.

And while it's very distinct, most guests might not ever consciously realize that it's even occurring. It's done through the gradual changes, not only in what you see, but what you hear as well.

The journey from the Hub to Adventureland takes place along the outskirts of Main street usa. As the Crystal palace restaurant borders both lands.

It serves as an important visual anchor that helps define both of these very distinct areas of the park.

Looking at the Crystal palace from the Hub, as you approach the Adventureland Bridge, notice how its glass, domed ceilings, stained glass and intricate detailing place it squarely within the Victorian era. However, as you approach the bridge into Adventureland, notice how the open porch has given way to paned windows and striped green awnings.

been whisked away to the late: 1800

More than just pedestrian walkways, bridges are symbolically used throughout Walt Disney World to define and distinguish lands, themes and story.

The exaggerated height of the Adventureland Bridge is not only to take guests over the river below, but but to specifically define the transition taking place.

The bridge was originally planned to be covered, as was seen in early artist renderings, and would have given the entranceway a much more ominous appearance than the drums and masks that adorn the current archway, giving us just a hint of what lies ahead. Additionally, other elements play an important part of this transition.

Notice how the colors of Main street go from the bright whites and pastels to the deeper, richer and more tropical colors in Adventureland. These colors are meant to be evocative of places one might visit in travels far from home.

And don't just pay attention to what you see, but what you hear, as well as the percussive jungle rhythms and pounding drums come into audio focus as you approach the bridge, subconsciously fading away the ragtime melodies of Main street, usa.

And while exotic, the are upbeat and happy, encouraging you to enter and explore a place of excitement rather than turn away from a land that might be somewhat foreboding.

Standing on the bridge and looking back at the central hub that you've just left, you leave behind the meticulously manicured lawns and landscapes as your journey begins with the first steps over the wooden bridge leading to the jungles of Adventureland.

Arguably more than in any other land in the Magic Kingdom, the landscaping in Adventureland really serves to not just define a location, but set a mood and tell a story.

Born from the creative mind of imagineer and landscape designer Bill Evans, who designed the original Disneyland Adventureland, plants and trees would be used extensively to turn a Florida swamp into the remote jungles of the South Pacific, Asia, the Middle East, South America, Africa, and the Polynesian islands.

From a variety of species of palm trees to South African honeysuckles, Japanese privets, Brazilian bougainvillea, broadleaf date palms, tangled vines from Mexico, and a variety of tropical flowers, they turn this land of fantasy into reality.

And while the arrangement, placement and upkeep of these elements may look random and chaotic, they were very carefully and artfully designed to bring these stories to light. As we make our way through Adventureland, you'll also notice that it's not meant to represent one theme or region.

Instead, we'll explore how a variety of elements and attractions are represented from the South Pacific and Hawaii in the enchanted Tiki Room at Aloha Isle, the Middle east near the Agrabah Bazaar, Africa and the Far east in the Jungle Cruise the Pirates of the Caribbean to the Spanish inspired Caribbean Plaza.

This was born not only out of a desire to represent exotic regions around the globe, but also as a result of finding difficulty in determining how to accurately define and display Walt Disney's desire to create Adventureland it was determined early on in the planning stages of Disneyland that no one destination could properly represent the concept of the word and the place known as Adventureland.

Presented with this challenge, A imagineers and designers envelop the guest with elements beyond just buildings and landscapes by surrounding us with detailed props and sets that include tiki statues, tribal masks, animal figures, cannons and other elements.

The land truly embraces you, invites you to explore, and gives you a sense that you truly have left behind the real world and all the modern conveniences and technologies that come with it behind.

After crossing the bridge into Adventureland, we encounter two merchandise kiosks on our left, known somewhat affectionately as we'll see as Bwana Bob's. Today it sells a variety of items such as pins, hats, shell jewelry and Hawaiian leis.

tem of ticket coupons. But in: 1980

In: 1985

,: 1971

Introduced by singer Glen Campbell as the spirit of eternal youth, he rode into Disney's contemporary resort aboard Monorail Blue, joined by two VIP tour guides. He introduced himself as Bob ex Mouseketeer Hope, and even asked the girls to wait for him in, of all places, Adventureland.

centennial in: 1981

The red tile roof, covered in bougainvillea, gives you the feeling that this building was lifted from a postcard from the tropics.

The building itself, unlike many of the others in the Magic Kingdom, does not use forced perspective, meaning that it was built nearly full size so as to hide Cinderella Castle in the distance.

This keeps not just continuity in architecture, but but also allows you to suspend disbelief while in Adventureland that you have in fact traveled a great distance, far from visual distractions which might otherwise ruin the illusion.

However, for those diners that wanted beautiful views of the canal and Cinderella Castle at one time, tables were located on the covered and screened patio which faces the central hub.

Inside, under the mahogany ceilings peppered with brass chandeliers and ceiling fans, was one of the most unique dining experiences anywhere on property at the time.

randa opened with the park in: 1971

In: 1977

The Restaurant closed in: 1994

Today, the building is still occasionally used for special events such as character meet and greets, but no longer serves any food.

As we pass from the now shuttered entrance to the veranda, this is a good place to stop and begin to take note of some of the architectural elements that characterize Adventureland. For the buildings throughout the land aren't specific to a time or place, just as the land itself is not.

Instead, they're hybrids, with their native elements having been combined with decorative embellishments such as tin roofs, statues, props and Victorian scrollwork.

And like Main street usa, Adventureland appears to have its own set of residents who might enjoy an evening in the rattan chairs, sipping a pineapple drink from the downstairs snack stand and listening to the wonderful music that echoes in the distance.

Take a look at the balconies above the restaurant and the buildings that follow, where the citizens have put out their potted plants and comfortable chairs to create a relaxing escape. You'll see more environments like this evidencing what may be the homes of locals further in Adventureland and again in Caribbean Plaza.

Trekking deeper into Adventureland on our right, we're approaching the Aloha Isle.

ly sponsored by Kikkoman from: 1977

Today it's hosted by Dole is home to the Dole Whip and other pineapple snacks such as soft serve ice cream and Fresh cut Pineapple Spears and is arguably one of the most popular snack locations in the Magic Kingdom. The soft serve pineapple Dole whip can also be found at Disney's Polynesian Resort in Captain Cook's Snack Company.

And speaking of the Polynesian, did you know that the theming and location of the resort is tied directly to Adventureland?

Nestled on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon across from the Magic Kingdom, it was specifically placed there to complement Adventureland, much as the Grand Floridian echoes the Victorian theming of Main Street USA and Disney's contemporary resort conveys the futuristic theme of Tomorrowland. In fact, if you visit the Polynesian, notice how the landscaping and theming closely resembles what you see here in Adventureland.

Across from Aloha Isle is a seating area with lava rock benches surrounding tall planters filled with Japanese privets, birds of paradise and other exotic plants and flowers.

Examine these benches very closely because they contain some interesting details as they were forged not just from the rocks themselves, but from other man made elements. Notice that within these benches you'll find wood pilings, doors, oars and ship's masts.

While they may seem out of place across from a snack stand, they tie in very closely to the massive structure and attraction that borders this. For at the far end of this area you'll find the sign inviting you to explore the Swiss Family Treehouse.

And if you look even more closely, you'll find a variety of carvings inside these rocks, including natives with spears, boats, fish, a sun and many more. And one can only imagine who may have carved these and why.

the legendary family from the: 1960

The Swiss Family Treehouse is a self guided walking tour of their fabled treehouse built from their wrecked ship and whatever else they could scavenge from the island they landed upon.

As you climb the tree, you can see how the family not just survived, but built a home complete with bedrooms, a kitchen, a working water wheel and more.

steps, more than: 1400

This is one of only four of these Disney created trees in the world, with the others being in Disney theme parks in Anaheim, Tokyo and Paris. The Walt Disney World Swiss Family Treehouse is known as a disneyodendron eximus, which loosely means out of the ordinary Disney tree.

And while everything you see in the tree was created by Disney, the one thing that's real is the Spanish moss that's draped on the leaves and branches. Take your time and explore and enjoy the unique views that it affords you of the park. And pay attention to the amazing detail, Disney included.

As you begin to walk through the queue, notice the planked walkway, pieces of the ship's deck now being used as handrails, and tall oars lining the path protecting the entrance to what's now their family's home. A number of cannons stand poised and ready to defend.

As you explore the treehouse further, take note of the many ingenious methods that the family used to survive and flourish.

Making use of only what was available on the island, they were able to fashion a sink from a large clamshell, create a hearth and oven from volcanic stone, and devise an ingenious water wheel system to supply running water through the use of ropes, pulleys and bamboo.

And fortunately, they were able to salvage a number of items from their wrecked ship, including furniture, flatware, lamps, mirrors, and many other items which undoubtedly made their tenure on the island a little bit more bearable. Despite their unfortunate circumstances.

Their home is quite elaborate and includes the ship's working organ playing the memorable swisspolka theme written by legendary Disney composer Buddy Baker.

In that same room, notice the Bible and dictionary on the table as continuing the education of his children while shipwrecked was still of high importance to the family. In fact, one of the signs reads, we shall never hunger of food for the mind or the soul.

Notice, too, rooms like the Crow's Nest, where the boys sleep and stand lookout, the library and the kitchen, each with many of the comforts of home.

As you exit the treehouse, notice the flag pole above the queue as it flies the Swiss flag and bears the distinction of being the only non American flag flown outside a Walt Disney attraction each and every day.

,: 1971

But for now, this unique attraction retains its immeasurable charm by virtue of its simplicity and classic, unparalleled Disney attention to detail. Across from the Swiss Family Treehouse is the Island Supply Company.

This seems like it may be a great place to go inside and get some supplies before we push on to some of our next adventures. But before we do, let's look at a bit of the long history of this location.

The Island Supply Company was once home to another shop, the Tiki Tropics Shop, and another one of the Magic Kingdom's lost treasures.

Club Arcade, which closed in: 1972

Reminiscent of Disneyland's Safari Shooting Gallery in Adventureland, it featured a number of electronic shooting games where guests could feel as though they were truly on safari, hunting virtual elephants, tigers and zebras.

A similar game room with slightly different theming would appear a few years later in Adventureland near Pirates of the Caribbean with the Caribbean Arcade.

med after the elephant in the: 1967

Today, the quaint Island Supply Company is themed to and is stocked with everything we might need to truly relax in paradise. Remember, Adventureland isn't just about pirates and river excursions.

Lest we forget that the Caribbean and South Seas are full of gorgeous beaches and great fishing, and the Island Supply Company has everything one might need for a real or imagined day of lounging on the beach, fishing or surfing the big waves.

From props and signs telling us the high and low tides to where one might rent a boat or fishing gear to the real world souvenirs, including tropical clothing. Nestled within rustic boats, Island Supply is a fun place to explore and shop.

And one quick thing to note here is that the shop opens to the main pathway across from the treehouse, but also into one of two of Adventureland's breezeways to Frontierland.

Viewing this walkway from the Adventureland side, you can see that the Imagineers were very careful not to put any visual intrusions into the carefully crafted theming of Adventureland.

And if you follow the covered walkway past the Island Supply, you'll come upon the Zanzibar Trading Company, importers of exotic gifts from the four corners of the globe.

Just like the real Zanzibar that's located on an island off the coast of East Africa, it's a trading port of call where one can find unusual gifts from around the world as well as safari themed character merchandise. At one time, this Location was known as Tropic Toppers.

other safari necessities. In: 1988

You can still see the Zanzibar Shell Company name painted above the archways at the building's corner under the Trading Company sign.

Much like we'll see as we explore the rest of Adventureland, this small shop is filled with treasures which you can purchase, but others you must seek out to find.

For example, look up on some of the high shelves where you'll find decorative items such as urns with slightly charred tags that are ready to be shipped to a man by the name of Serious Burns at the Ashes to Ashes mortuary on the colony of Rurrupenthe.

ause you remember it from the: 1954

He escaped along with other prisoners who helped him build and eventually become the crew of the Nautilus submarine. And if you remember the film, you'll understand why the tag is charred.

This is but one of the many wonderful hidden items, tags, maps, and so much more that can be found here and elsewhere throughout Adventureland and in all of the Walt Disney World Resort.

rincess jasmine from Disney's: 1992

Of course, it's no coincidence that you can meet Jasmine and Aladdin on the far end of this series of shops next to the Agrabah Bazaar, a store that's adjacent to the Zanzibar Trading Company and sells safari themed clothing as well as carved wooden items from other parts of east and North Africa.

As you progress from Zanzibar to Agrabah, you'll also notice additional changes not just in the merchandise that's sold, but in the theming of the shops as well. Gone are the dark wood boxes and crates of Zanzibar, as Agrabah's Bazaar is reminiscent of a Middle Eastern open air marketplace.

after that movie premiered in: 1994

Located directly across from the Sunshine Tree Terrace, this area was located at the entrance to the Tiki Tropic Shop which sold tropical clothing, Hawaiian shirts, bathing suits and accessories after it had moved from its original Island Supply Company location. Today that location is closed and used for storage in offices and is located behind the doors where the Aladdin meet and greet area currently stands.

Next to the Tiki Tropic Shop was the Traders of Timbuktu.

While it still had the same marketplace like feel to it, it sold some of the hand carved items that one would find if they were to visit the western portion of the continent of Africa. It later sold Aladdin themed merchandise including shirts, collectibles and costumes for children and adults.

en it reopened in December of: 2000

At one time it was home to the Magic Carpet Shop, a small store that sold Middle Eastern and Asian imports and whose showpiece was a two foot tall roof replica of the Taj Mahal. The adjacent Oriental Imports store sold lanterns, hand embroidered clothing, figures and other accessories.

urai warriors helmets. Around: 1988

Although these shops have been consolidated under under the names of the Agrabah Bazaar and Zanzibar Trading Company, there's a remaining testament to their presence in the park.

If you stand outside these stores and look up at the roof of the Island Supply Company, you may never have noticed a large box with a number of spindles of multicolored threads perched there.

Presumably, this seemingly out of place item may have been left from the days when that area was home to both the Magic Carpet and Oriental import shops. With threads such as these would have been used to create the hand woven rugs and fabrics that were the hallmarks of these stores.

Today, the box and strings pay silent tribute to these unique shopping experiences. But enough shopping for now as there's much more of Adventureland ahead. So let's continue to explore.

,: 2001

Occupying a space that was previously open, save for a few decorative elements, the addition of the attraction has given Adventureland a much different landscape and vista, as well as the introduction of characters from an animated Disney film and a sense of motion to what was originally a relatively static environment.

At one time, this was an expansive plaza with a ticket kiosk, planters, ledges, tables and chairs surrounded by tropically themed shops and pavilions.

Today, it's the crowded marketplace and vibrant golds, gleaming metals, brightly colored carpets, and Middle Eastern awnings and tents of the Agrabah Bazaar that bring thematic continuity to Adventureland's newest attraction.

This hub and spoke ride is similar to Fantasyland's original Dumbo, but differs in that it has two rows of seats on each of the 16 flying carpets and gives riders a chance to control the height and pitch of their vehicle using a golden scarab mounted in front of them. The centerpiece of the attraction is a giant genie's bottle adorned with characters from the film and topped with the coveted magic lamp.

And I continue to say how everything Disney does has a story attached to it. And believe it or not, this simple attraction does as well.

According to legend, this magic lamp of the genie was discovered when the well that was originally located in the center of town was dug up at the turn of this century. One of the fun features of this attraction comes from the two spitting camels on the perimeter of the circular structure.

While one faces the plaza and shoots water on unsuspecting guests passing by, the other one faces riders who, if they're at the right height at the right time, might get a little surprise. Now, while these camels don't really spit, they do shoot water from their mouths and also have an interesting history.

at the Disney MGM Studios in: 1994

at parade closed in August of: 1995

While you're in this area, pay close attention not just to how the music has taken on a much more North African Moroccan flavor, but how songs from the Aladdin film may be heard in this style as well on the ride itself. And of course, don't just look up. Be sure you look down and notice a number of hidden treasures embedded in the streets.

es of the Caribbean opened in: 1973

ine Tree terrace. Until about: 1976

Today, it's a nice shortcut to another land in the park and is interesting because when the roof was built, Disney was once again able to prevent the very different theming of Frontierland from intruding on or interfering with the audio or visual cues of Adventureland.

The entrances to this walkway are themed differently on both sides as the Frontierland side gives the appearance of a western town, complete with raised wood plank sidewalks, antique Dietz gas lamps, and rustic wooden gates and railings. While the Adventureland facade is one of much more of a tropical motif.

We'll see another amazing example of more extraordinary ingenuity by the Imagineers later in the tour when we look at another prominent architectural element in Frontierland.

en it opened with the park in: 1971

ned with Disney in October of: 1969

They'd also sponsor the Sunshine Pavilion, home to the show and Terrace Snack Bar, which sold orange Danish pastry, orange cheesecake, orange juices and slushes.

A year later, in: 1970

nt from the Park's opening in: 1971

And in traditional Disney style, a backstory was created for him as well. This story was told in the theme song performed by Anita Bryant and written by the masters of theme park music, the Sherman Brothers.

Anita sang about how the orange bird lived in the Sunshine Tree and had all kinds of sunny thoughts that appeared over him in an orange cloud. Since that was how he communicated.

hat conveyed his thoughts. In: 1986

Today, the Sunshine Tree Terrace still serves the citrus swirl as well as soft serve ice cream floats, cookies and coffee as part of the Sunshine Pavilion. The neighboring Enchanted Tiki Room has a great deal of historical importance in the Disney theme parks for a number of reasons.

und during his travels in the: 1940

This eventually led to his original idea for a dinner show attraction in Disneyland.

Using this technology, Walt's concept was to have a Chinese restaurant that featured a Confucius like character offering words of wisdom to dining guests. But the idea of a restaurant was quickly scrapped after Walt didn't feel it would be practical.

iki Room attraction opened in: 1963

,: 1971

The original show featured more than 150 birds, flowers and tiki statues that talked, danced and sang songs such as the original attraction's theme song, the Tiki Tiki Tiki Room. Written once again by the Sherman Brothers. Originally, the show was hosted by four macaws named Jose, Michael, Pierre and Fritz.

Much like the rest of Adventureland, they came from a variety of locations across the globe such as Mexico, Ireland, France and Germany respectively.

Jose was voiced by Wally Bogue and Fritz might sound familiar as he was voiced by Thorold Ravenscroft, the voice of countless characters in Disney animated films and one of the singing busts in the Haunted Mansion outside the theater. A barker bird also voiced by Disneyland's Wally Bogue, beckoned guests for more than 21 years into the Tiki Room to see the show.

In: 1992

Under new management, the new 10 minute long show contains 88 singing birds, including the original cast of characters as well as the new owners of the Tiki Room, Iago and Zazu, birds from the Aladdin and Lion King films respectively. Several new musical numbers infuse a contemporary and relevant addition to the story.

Yet our Feathered Friends, the original four hosts of the Tropical Serenade, are still present in the attraction, with new voiceovers having been recorded for the updated show. In fact, you might also recognize the voice of Pierre as that's Jerry Orbach TV star and the voice of Lumiere from Disney's Beauty and the Beast.

And speaking of voices, one thing that's remained consistent in the Disneyland and Walt Disney World versions of the show are are the bird calls. All of these were performed by Ave Purvis Pollan, whose stage name was Dr. Horatio Q.

Birdbath, given to him when he joined the Spike Jonze and his City Slickers comedy band in the 40s and 50s.

He also performed unvoiced characters in the animated classic Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, such as Snow White's Animal Friends, the Queen's Raven and the Vultures.

nd songs were also updated in: 1998

The pre show of the attraction has changed as well as the new owners have agents, a pair of toucans named William and Morris after the legendary town agency of the same name. Voiced by Don Rickles and Phil Hartman respectively, they appear from behind a waterfall.

Discussing their clients, who we discover in the show to be Iago and Zazu and the deals they struck.

While very different from the pre show area of Disneyland's Tiki Room, which takes place in an uncovered outside area complete with a variety of animated tiki gods, is an entertaining introduction to the show that follows.

As you exit the Tiki Room and continue to your right, take a moment and notice the often overlooked tiered waterfalls and shallow pools on this side of the building. Water is an important visual and auditory element present throughout the parks and many times in Adventureland.

Much like the waterfalls here, the water is not just standing, but instead is flowing and moving, making Adventureland seem even more alive.

Keep in mind the water wheel of the Swiss Family Treehouse, the rivers and waterfalls of the nearby Jungle Cruise, and the pre show waterfall of the Enchanted Tiki Room. Later, we'll also see how water was once prevalent in Caribbean Plaza with its assortment of working fountains.

I mentioned earlier the brilliant use of transitional theming by Disney's imagineers and how they're able to keep visual cues and sight lines appropriate for wherever you are in the parks. One of the best examples of this sits atop the Enchanted Tiki Room and Sunshine Tree Terrace.

Although these buildings are part of the Adventureland landscape, they can be seen from Frontierland, so it was important that they reflect the appropriate styling of that land as well. Take a close look at the finials on the roof of the Sunshine Pavilion where you'll see a number of animal heads.

They were modeled after an Asian water buffalo so that they would fit in perfectly with the exotic themes of Adventureland from this perspective, while closely resembling a Texas Law Longhorn breed of cattle when viewed from the Frontierland side. And speaking of the roof of the Sunshine Pavilion, take a close look at the building itself.

You'll see that the Enchanted Tiki Room is housed in a structure with an eight level thatched roof pagoda. And although it appears as though the roof is covered in straw, it's actually sheet metal that's been cut and painted to look like straw.

This was done as a safety measure since Florida is prone to frequent and sometimes severe lightning storms.

Had the building been struck, the straw could have easily caught fire, and only the most curious of guests might ever realize this clever feat of imagineering. In the late 90s, the enchanted tiki Room was a starting point for a unique interactive experience in the parks known as the Adventureland Challenge.

It was a treasure hunt style game in which guests could play alone or as a group and follow clues in hopes of locating the golden idol, which a cast member explained was missing and hidden somewhere in Adventureland.

Guests would receive a map and instructions, and one clue would lead to another before you had to solve a puzzle on the back of the map indicating the location of the idol. Whoever found the idol first and answered all the questions correctly would receive congratulations and a certificate from Colonel Wayne P.

McSwagger, as well as a prize. Usually a front of the line pass for any attraction in the Magic Kingdom or a free snack.

unately discontinued in early: 2000

Continuing to the right, past the enchanted Tiki Room, you'll notice six large tiki statues arranged in a semicircle across from the entrance to the magic carpets of Aladdin, seemingly drawn by the deep jungle drums in the distance. We're beckoned to go over and take a look. From these tikis, we hear the familiar sounds of the Adventureland rhythms.

But be careful and don't get too close as they shoot water from their mouths, cooling off playing children or an unsuspecting passerby. These tikis were originally made out of wood, but were replaced by fiberglass figures to allow for the shooting water effects.

They were also moved slightly at one point to this location, farther from their original spot, closer to the Jungle Cruise entrance on the lower landing.

They're a small but important part of Adventureland as they add another level of authenticity and believability to the grand collage of visual storytelling that's taking place all around you.

The last of the only three attractions in Adventureland that were operating on the Magic Kingdom's opening day, the Jungle Cruise was also an opening day attraction in Disneyland.

While it was inspired by a: 1955

It's long been rumored that Walt Disney wanted to have live animals throughout the Jungle Cruise. But that idea was abandoned, however, for a number of reasons.

Disney realized that not only were the Imagineers unable to keep the animals in the locations they wanted them, but the fear that many of the animals would be asleep during the middle of the day when the temperature was at its highest, meant that people might ride the attraction, yet never see any animals.

in Disney's animal kingdom in: 1998

Along your jungle cruise journey, you travel through three continents and four the South American Amazon, African, Congo, Egyptian, Nile, and Southeast Asia's Mekong.

oats were redesigned during a: 1998

And the original red and tan striped canopies were replaced with a more rugged and weather looking tan version.

One of the biggest appeals of the world famous Jungle Cruise beyond what you can see on your journey is what you can hear, as the skippers are the most important part of the show. With a narration that's evolved from a dry dialogue to an interactive comedy routine.

Your expedition really includes a show that's performed by your captain. And if you're worried that he or she is spending too much time on jokes and not enough time navigating the dangerous rivers, don't be.

The boats on the Jungle Cruise move along a guided rail system and can only travel about 3.2ft per second, so the skippers don't have to worry about steering, they just do it for effect. They can however, control the forward and reverse speeds of the boats.

And as Disney is always been concerned about the environment, compressed natural gas is used to power the 27 foot long jungle Cruise boats as it's clean, burning and environmentally friendly.

The river itself is quite shallow at only around an average of about three and a half feet deep to accommodate the ride guide system as well as the animals. In fact, it's actually dyed brown using dyes that are natural and biodegradable to give it an authentic look and to hide the bottom.

The river is fed from a canal behind the Magic Kingdom where a large pipe carries water to the moat surrounding Cinderella Castle. From there it flows into the rivers of the Jungle Cruise.

And if you look closely, you can follow the river from the Adventureland bridge, past the Swiss Family Treehouse to the Jungle Cruise itself. On your 10 minute long journey, you'll encounter many dangerous and not so dangerous creatures, as well as some inhabitants of the jungles.

Now, while none of the animals are real, of course, believe it or not, there are no audio Animatronics figures in the entire Jungle Cruise.

As well, the animals in the attraction are technically not audio Animatronics figures as their insides would not be able to withstand the water and elements.

Instead, they use a simple system of air pressure and pneumatics, meaning they have a limited range of motion and movement that's usually restricted to a back and forth action along around the Amazon, the first of the rivers that you'll encounter. You'll be inspired to travel past inspiration falls to the Congo, where you'll find campsites overrun by many of the jungle's inhabitants.

paid subtle tribute to in the: 1999

Did you know that this is actually the tail section of a plane that was used for the Casablanca scene in the Great Movie Ride in Disney's Hollywood Studios? That's right.

the original one used in the: 1942

Disney, however, bought a real Lockheed 12A plane and chopped it in half. The front of the plane is used in the Great Movie Ride and the back half resides in the jungles of Adventureland.

Continuing on in your expedition, you pass the legendary Schweitzer Falls and take a unique look at the backside of water before venturing into the Mekong river and inside the temple ruins.

After you exit what is affectionately known as Shirley's Temple, be sure and wave to Chief Nami, also known as Traitor Sam, who is the resident head salesman before you disembark.

Filled with sight gags throughout, many of which were created by legendary Disney imagineer Mark Davis, the Jungle Cruise is a fun ride for adults and children alike, each of whom will take something different away from the attraction.

nce it opened specifically in: 1994

One of the greatest benefits of this refurbishment was the installation of a number of new jokes and props, making this queue almost an attraction unto itself for the curious guest.

Be sure to take the time and explore the queue, reading the signs that not only set the story, but pay tribute to many Disney imagineers, motion pictures, actors and real world explorers throughout history.

For example, located just outside the queue, look closely at the FastPass machines to the left side of the entrance, which are designed to look like crates and steamer trunks.

ium. Morgan Evans, proprietor: 1313

lush, overgrown jungles, and: 1313

Lou Mongello: 00:53:03

Park.

Lou Mongello: 00:53:04

Several of the items in the storage cages at the entrance to the queue that divides the Fast Pass and Standby lines are also addressed to various characters as well, such as Pamela Perkins, president of the Adventurers Club in Downtown Disney.

tta Kingsley, who in the late: 1800

In this you'll hear references to people like Sears and Hibler that pay homage to Ted Sears and Winston Hibbler, who worked on the original True Life Adventure series. You'll also hear of Reverend Gough of the Jungle Mission, who'll soon be returning to Holland and seeking a home for two chimpanzees and a Cuban.

This pays tribute to Harper Goff, Disney legend and imagineer who did extensive conceptual work on the Jungle Cruise and many other attractions in Disneyland and Walt Disney World, including 20,000 leagues under the Sea and Epcot Center.

Spend some time looking up and around the queue both before and after you disembark, and enjoy comical signs for things like the Jungle Navigation limited Employee of the Month, the Crew Mess lunch menu where everything tastes like chicken, the tattered shirt offering free kittens to a good home, and countless others. See if you can also find references to Disney legend and Audio Animatronics creator Watho Rogers, among others at the end of the attraction.

crates that pay homage to the: 1960

But have you ever dreamed of skippering a Jungle Cruise boat of your own?

Well, all you need to do is drop in a few quarters and grab the helm of one of eight remote controlled replicas of the Jungle Cruise boats at Shrunk and Ned's junior Jungle Boats located on the dock landing. Navigate your way around Tikis Spears, Shrunken heads, statues, a volcano and the Elephant Shrine, complete with real fire.

It's a great diversion and nice interactive experience for adults and kids alike. Between the exit of the Jungle Cruise and Shrunken Neds is a small, tropically themed tin roofed kiosk which has been shuttered for many years.

gn as the Oasis, it opened in: 1973

Originally, there were a number of small tables in the vicinity where guests could relax and enjoy their snacks watching the plaza swan boats ply the nearby waterway.

In: 1983

Not only was it not an opening day attraction, but Pirates of the Caribbean was never intended to be included in the Magic Kingdom at all.

Walt Disney and his team of imagineers believe that because of Florida's proximity to the Caribbean, a boat ride themed to that area wouldn't be exotic enough for Walt Disney World's Adventureland. Instead, plans were on the table for a major addition to Frontierland called Thunder Mesa.

In lieu of Pirates Walt Disney World guests would enjoy a pueblo styled village and attractions that included the Western River Expedition, an expansive audio animatronic filled musical attraction that would have been located near where the big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain attractions currently sit. In fact, it was even heralded as a frontier fantasy on the grand scale of Pirates of the Caribbean in California's Disneyland.

We'll take a closer look at what could have been when we explore Frontierland later in the tour.

But when hordes of guests who enjoyed the attraction in Disneyland or saw it promoted on the Wonderful World of Disney TV show came looking for it in Florida, Disney realized they needed to add this guest favorite and postpone permanently as it were.

lker decided in the spring of: 1972

rates, which was completed in: 1967

,: 1973

Walt Disney World's version of Pirates is a slightly abbreviated version from what's present in Disneyland. This is due to size limitations and a high water table that prevented the construction of a second waterfall drop.

Another difference is that while Pirates of the Caribbean in Disneyland is set in southern Louisiana, the Florida version is set in an ancient Spanish fortress in the Caribbean. And while the attraction itself in Disneyland is long, Florida guests get to experience a much longer and much more richly themed queue.

The rides themselves, however, are still very similar. The building in which Pirates of the Caribbean is housed is a fortress known as the Castillo del Morro.

It stands in the shadows of a working clock tower known as the Torre de Ciello, which means Tower of the Sky.

The building was inspired by one of the oldest of the Spanish citadels in the Caribbean, known as the Castillo de San Felipe del Morro in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

entrance to the building read: 1643

It's therefore appropriate to the story of Caribbean Plaza, which represents an island seaport from the Spanish and British colonies of the west indies from the 17th and 18th centuries.

The surrounding buildings in the plaza, with their Spanish styled architecture, red clay, tiled roofs, and use of muted colors, allow them to fit seamlessly within Adventureland. It creates fluid transitions both from Adventureland's plaza to the old southwest of Frontierland, which borders it on the opposite end.

From opening day until: 2006

Perched above an archway, Peg Leg Pete, complete with his trademark eye patch hat sporting the Jolly Roger scarf and anchor tattooed on his shaved chest, would squawk and ask guests if they'd come seeking adventure and salty old pirates. He even sang his own rendition of the attraction's theme song, Yo Ho Yo, A Parrot's Life for Me.

Today, Pete no longer stands at the entrance to the attraction, but can still be seen among pirates, but only in Downtown Disney's World of Disney Store.

Entering the fortress, we leave the golden hues of the castle's exterior and enter the dark labyrinth of dungeons, armories, passageways and other chambers, a stark contrast to Disneyland's serene Blue Bayou Lagoon.

But this journey into the Castillo del Morros signifies more than just a change in theme, as it marks the point in which you the guest have literally traveled back in time and where the Pirates of the Caribbean story begins. Here, guests can choose two sides of the queue, each of which depicts a different part of the fortress.

The left side represents where the soldiers may have lived, with dining area, fountain, serene courtyard, a munitions area and racks of locked rocks rifles.

The right side however, is clearly the military side of the fortress, complete with cannons aimed to fire barrels of gunpowder at the ready armory and dungeons.

Looking carefully down into one of the cells on the right hand side of the queue, you can see that dead men may not tell any tales, but apparently they still play chess, as evidenced by the two skeletons engaged in a stalemate chess match. Two pirates locked in a game in which there would be no winning move, still maintained the same poses, contemplating what to do next.

Show designer Mark Davis carefully staged the board this way. But during a refurbishment of the attraction in the 90s, the chess pieces were inadvertently moved.

When imagineers were unable to recreate the positions of the pieces, they referred to Davis original concept sketch where on the back they forced fortunately found the exact arrangement of the pieces in the game which forced the endless tie.

As we leave the deserted fortress and approach our boat docked in Pirate's Bay, we hear the sounds of pirates digging in the nearby caves, burying their newly discovered treasure. As you board your flat bottomed boat or bateau and begin your journey, you'll see to your right, a sign of things to come.

A pirate ship in the harbor. The same one we'll soon see up close.

d an addition made during the: 2006

Passing through the waterfall, we reach a beach scene where three skeletons met their fate over the now empty treasure chest by their side. To your right, the skeleton at the pirate helm in Hurricane Lagoon marks the beginning of your journey down the waterfall and further back in time.

While most people enjoy the 14 foot high, 52 foot long waterfall drop, the real purpose is to get guests and their boats under the Walt Disney World railroad tracks. The main part of the attraction takes place in a massive building located on the other side of the tracks.

That's why as you exit after the attraction is over, you travel back up on a Goodyear speed ramp and the boats then make a steep incline of their own to return to the loading area. The waterfall plunges you directly into the middle of the story and the action.

The pirate ship the wicked wench, helmed by Captain Barbossa, attacks the island fort that we recently walked through.

Our boat slips past and into the seaport town itself, where we're treated to a number of different show scenes, each with its own set of interesting details and characters.

Imagineer Claude Coates designed these incredibly detailed and lavish scenes by turning his artful sketches and paintings into three dimensional adventures.

Originally a background artist on films such as Snow White, Pinocchio and Fantasia, he and Marc Davis also worked together on creating the incredibly detailed scale model of the attraction in preparation for its construction. We first see the town's mayor, Carlos, being dunked in a well at the command of a pirate with a hook for his left hand.

And in time, with a flute player marking each dunk, listen as his wife calls from an upstairs window of the mayor's home, begging him not to talk and going so far as to calling him chicken. Of course, being dunked into an actual well hundreds of times a day for more than 35 years would take its toll on the figure and his clothing.

Imagineer Alice Davis, wife of Mark Davis and the person responsible for creating the original costumes for Disneyland's Pirates of the Caribbean and It's a Small World, came up with an ingenious solution by putting mineral oil on his shirt. It would always look wet without being submerged in water. We also get our first look at Captain Jack Sparrow hiding behind dresses to avoid capture.

made during the attraction's: 2006

Although he and Captain Barbossa were added during that refurb, the integrity of the original story, song and script, all written by Existencio, remain in place to this day.

ut other improvements made in: 2006

Figures, this classic attraction was improved and plussed, an imagineering term for taking a great idea and making it better, just as Walt wanted all of his attractions and parks to be. As we enter the town, now overrun by pirates seeking the elusive treasure, we come to one of the most infamous scenes in the attraction, the auction.

Believe it or not, this was a scene that almost never made it into the ride due to Walt's hesitation about depicting pirates auctioning off the town's women.

When it was determined that it's what pirates did and not necessarily what Disney did, it was left in take note of the amazing movements of the auctioneer. At one time, the most Advanced Audio Animatronics figure in the park.

He's so vital to the attraction that if he were to become inoperable for any reason, the attraction would be closed to guests, a condition known as 101. Listen closely as the auctioneer speaks. Does he sound familiar? Well, he should. He's Paul Freeze.

The voice of your ghost host in the Haunted Mansion and the poor mayor we saw earlier in the attraction.

And pay close attention as the pirate on the left hand side of the boat fires a warning shot across the water at the drunken pirates who are heckling instead of bidding. Watch as the cantina sign swings back and forth marking the location of the bullet hitting its target.

The next scene brings us into the heart of the town and has gone through a few changes of its own through the years. The most notable includes replacing pirates who are chasing the town's women in never ending circles.

With the women now chasing the pirates with rolling pins, drunken pirates can be seen carrying their treasure. And instead of chasing the town's women, the pirates are now on a quest for food and rum.

A young girl hiding from a character that was then known as the pooped pirate once inhabited the barrel in which we see the second Captain Jack Sparrow. Today, Captain Jack pops out to see the map of the town and key to the treasury.

These are held by a salty old pirate who's talking to his dog, who's more aware of what's happening in the barrel than the pirate himself. In the next scene, the town is ablaze, apparently having fire set to it by a number of drunken sailors located near the back of the set.

Torches still in hand, listen to the singing trio in front of the donkey stable as legendary voiceover artist Thurl Ravenscroft also heard as one of the singing busts in the Haunted Mansion provides one of the voices.

They continue singing and many of the other pirates continue looting as they seem too drunk to care that the town is on fire and they may be in danger. Only one pirate tries to board a small boat and escape hats teetering on his head and small treasure chest in his hand.

The incredibly realistic burning effects were created by imagineer Yale Gracie.

The effects were so convincing that when these were being tested in the original Disneyland attraction, the Anaheim fire Department chair almost shut pirates down, believing that Disney was using real fire inside the building to create the effect. Actually, the flickering flame effect was produced simply by creatively lighting pieces of cellophane blowing in the air.

Here, as in so many areas of the attraction, the atmosphere that's created is once again crucial. To the storytelling that's taking place.

The scene features so many different characters, each with its own personality, that it justifies riding over and over again to enjoy them all individually.

There are just a handful of the 65 pirate and villager audio Animatronics figures, as well as the 60 animals and birds located throughout the attraction.

s jail scene recreated in the: 2006

d Caesar, a comedian from the: 1950

According to Blaine Gibson, sculptor of the characters themselves, Sid was not the inspiration, although an unnamed architect at wed, the former name of Imagineering was.

Our final glimpse of Captain Jack Sparrow in the Treasure Room is the final chapter in this story, as the pirates have succeeded and found their loot.

Look carefully above the archway leading into the room and you may be able to spot a coat of arms bearing the name Marco Daviso, a tribute to Mark Davis and his contributions to the attraction.

In fact, as your boat approaches the dock where you disembark, note that it was Mark's idea to have you exit in the unload area and take the speed ramp up.

This was done so that guests wouldn't have to sit at the bottom of the hill with the boat and return up a waterfall, ruining the storyline and final scene's dramatic effect. Pirates of the Caribbean remains one of the most popular attractions anywhere in the world.

It's a fascinating, immersive experience with classic charm, exciting, exceptional effects and enchanting story, and represents some of the finest work from not only Walt Disney himself, but the most talented minds in imagineering from the past 50 years. So if you come seek an adventure, insult the old pirates. Aye, this be the proper place where dead men tell no tales.

As you exit the pirates attraction, you enter one of many shops in Caribbean Plaza, the House of Treasure, where you can purchase pirate gear, swords, flags, guns, costumes, nautical gifts and jewelry.

Believe it or not, at one time it was the only place in the Magic Kingdom where you could purchase pirate hats and unique items like the pirates creed of ethics. Although from what I understand, it was more of what you'd call guidelines than actual rules.

When the shop occupied this space, guests could exit out the other side into a small courtyard which can still be seen from the Pirates Keep Queue this quiet sitting area stands mostly unused, although it appears to be the home of some of the second story residences we'll see throughout Caribbean Plaza and is a wonderful use of forced perspective.

Outside in the Plaza del Sol Caribe Bazaar, this marketplace once sold candy and snacks as well as hats, sombreros, pinatas, pottery and artificial flowers. Today, you can get many of the same items as well as some tropical and pirate themed clothing.

rushed to open In December of: 1973

However, by the middle of: 1974

El Parada Yo Perico flies the flags of legendary pirates such as Edward Blackbeard Teach above its entrance. Inside the counter, service menu includes empanadas and tacos, and the expansive indoor and outdoor seating areas each have character all their own.

its menu and seating areas in: 1992

La Princesa de Cristal once occupied the space in the rear of the restaurant and featured glass cutting, blowing and engraving by the Arribas Brothers. After the El Parada expansion sweep, smaller merchandise vending carts selling glassware were placed in the breezeway to Frontierland.

These carts are still present today and now feature additional pirate themed merchandise such as collectible cutlasses and pewter and crystal pirate figurines.

The seating area that now occupies the crystal shop space resembles an old tavern or dining hall, complete with a flickering fireplace and hanging kettle and pewter mugs on hooks on the beams overhead.

ng fresh cider bears the year: 1872

who was Displaced during the: 1992

This shop sold nautical items such as brass cannons, globes, ship's wheels, rhinestone jewelry and clothing, and whose centerpiece was an authentic antique diver's helmet.

Both the pirate and nautical themes are carried out to the outdoor seating area facing the plaza as even the condiment bar has a ship's mast and pirate flag in its center. The rear of this area though is connected to the Spanish themed seating section of Pecos Bill's Cafe, the counter service restaurant in Frontierland.

The styles blend seamlessly though as the Spanish architecture and decor of this part of Caribbean Plaza transitions flawlessly to the Spanish inspired southwestern theme of this part of Frontierland. Another lost treasure of Caribbean Plaza was Lafitte's Portrait deck.

Open from: 1980

In the 80s, an outside company called Phototoons took over the space and guests now stood in front of backdrops and had characters inserted digitally into the photo after the shot was taken.

e until it closed in March of: 1997

Past the Ring Carver on your left, you'll see two false windows under the overhang that once opened into the shop. Prior to this space being used for photos, it was home to the Caribbean arcade.

Open from: 1974

Drop a dime into the Legendary Pirate and Bonnie's Fortune Telling Machine and you could get your printed fortune and some pirate wisdom on a small card.

You could also visit the postcard machine and get copies of Mark Davis original artwork from the attraction, such as the prisoners in the Cells and the Captain on the Wicked Wench. Another machine stamped coins into doubloons complete with a small hole so you could wear it as a necklace.

the Caverna de los Paratas in: 1979

And shops weren't the only casualties of the growth of Caribbean Plaza, for at one time it was home to a number of cool tranquil fountains with names like La Fuente Serena, Fuente Cielo Azul in the Pirates courtyard, the blue tiled Fuente del Arbolito inside the House of Treasure, and the Fuente de la Fortuna, or Fountain of Fortune, which was located across the plaza. Today, some of the names are no longer visible and the fountains are now used simply as planters.

And speaking of lost treasures, located near the old Fuente de la Fortuna, across from the entrance to Pirates of the Caribbean, stands a stage that for the most part remains unused. At one time, it was home to one of the Magic Kingdom's best live musical acts, JP and the Silver Stars.

This steel drum band from Trinidad played traditional songs with a Caribbean flag and was originally called the Adventureland Steel Band.

r Stars near the start of the: 1980

In: 1976

eft Adventureland for good in: 2002

a few years, beginning around: 2001

Aptly named the Crow's Nest, it's sponsored by Kodak and sells digital film cameras and picture frames.

But as its name suggests, however, as part of the story of this part of Adventureland, it stands as a lookout point to warn the town of possible invaders. And if you remember approaching the Castillo del Morro from the opposite side, you saw a tattered Pirates of the Caribbean flag atop a ship's mast.

There you also found a pirate skeleton keeping a watchful eye with his telescope from his lookout point. These two crow's nests serve as bookends to Caribbean Plaza and ensure that no invaders to El Castillo can arrive unseen from either direction.

When describing Adventureland, Walt Disney said that he wanted to create a land that would make his dream reality. So he pictured himself far from civilization in the remote jungles of Asia and Africa.

His imagineers carried on his vision in Walt Disney World and expanded upon it with elements from the South Pacific, Middle east and the four corners of the globe, all which blend together seamlessly to tell the stories of Adventureland.

Here, more so than any other land in the Magic Kingdom, one could argue that you get a true sense of being transported to another time and place where civilization meets nature, danger meets romance, and family fun mixes with exotic adventure.

It's a land where kids can be taught by Captain Jack Sparrow himself in the ways of swashbuckling pirates, enhancing the story they may have just witnessed in the attraction inside, where dangerous voyages through the most dense, dark and treacherous rivers of the world leave you laughing out loud and dreams of fantastic flight mix with inspiring stories of a family's ingenuity, survival and prosperity thanks to lush landscaping, incredible attention to detail and subtle music, all which help set the three dimensional stage upon which we are players. Adventureland is one of the truly incredible and immersive experiences in all of Walt Disney World.

But remember that this guide is only a small sampling of what mysteries and treasures Adventureland holds for the intrepid explorer, as there certainly isn't enough time to enjoy and appreciate all of its history and marvels. So I encourage you to go back and venture into this land on your own for you never know what discoveries await you.

Lou Mongello: 01:21:42

I hope you enjoyed our virtual walk and tour through Adventureland in Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom.

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Stay tuned for the next guide to Walt Disney World where we go from Adventureland to Frontierland and then through the rest of Magic Kingdom. Until then, I hope to see you in the clubhouse or on social, where you can follow me. I'm Lou Mongello on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

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