Walt Disney’s lifelong obsession with trains became an integral part of Disneyland’s landscape. In the early years of park operation, Disneyland ran two separate train systems – the Disneyland Railroad and the Viewliner. But Walt’s interest in transportation technology extended beyond trains. Disneyland also boasted a riverboat, smaller boat cruises, canoes, cars, rockets, and an extraordinary Skyway gondola system. Walt visited these attractions often when in the park, and visitors shared his enthusiasm for the ships, trains, and automobiles that gave Disneyland its kinetic energy.
Walt, daughter Diane, and grandson Christopher driving down Autopia’s raceway, 1958. (Pinterest)
Mickey and Walt captain the Mark Twain, 1955. (Pinterest)
Walt and Disney legend Bob Gurr take flight on the Skyway’s opening day, 1956. (D23)
Taking off on the Viewliner, 1957. (Designing Disney)
Walt and Mildred Nelson, wife of USS Nautilus chief machinist Charles C. Kirkpatrick, christening the Submarine Voyage, 1959. (Disney Parks Blog)
Walt conducting his favorite attraction, the Disneyland Railroad, 1950s. (Pinterest)
