When guests walk into Disneyland, the very first thing they see is the Main Street USA railroad station, typically with a train parked out front. Many park visitors don’t realize that Disneyland actually runs multiple trains, and one train tows a hidden gem at the rear.
Train #1, the C.K. Holiday, dates all the way back to Opening Day in 1955. But this train has seen its fair share of change and growth throughout its lifetime, including a very special caboose that has become a legend in and of itself among Disney history buffs.
The Lilly Belle, named after Walt’s wife Lillian, is an elaborately decorated private car. The interior furnishings include leather, velvet, mahogany, and glass, complete with armchairs and marble tables. The style reflects Lillian’s taste, though she herself never set foot inside the car.
Walt always wanted a private car on the railroad. But in his later years, the project went on the back burner in favor of bigger attractions and new lands. The Lilly Belle didn’t take shape until the 70s, nearly a decade after his death. Today, the car remains private, though the occasional lucky guest may be invited to take a quick tour on slower days.
Have you ever been lucky enough to take a ride inside the Lilly Belle? It’s definitely on my Disney bucket list!
I can’t remember how, but I was able to ride in this car.
I also rode upon the tender for a trip around the park. I have no idea if that’s available any longer
If you start 10 minutes in, You will see the “Garand Canyon” turn into the “Lilly Belle”
This video also contains other side by side imagery of Disneyland taken up to 60 years apart
https://youtu.be/nI4v1KfbgQg
Sorry for the Garand Canyon typo.
This is embarrassing.
In the summer of 75 I was working at the stroller stand. Any time we saw “the red car” at the end of the train, several fellow cast members commented that Mrs. Disney must be in the park
That’s so cool!
Love it