Every Disneyland guest who heads from Main Street USA to the castle passes by a central garden, right in the hub of the street. But not many stop to appreciate this garden, and the hidden gem within it: the Partners Statue.
The Partner’s Statue debuted in Disneyland in 1993 as part of a celebration of Mickey’s birthday. Disney legend Blaine Gibson designed the statue, taking inspiration for Walt’s likeness from a bust he sculpted in the 60’s, and taking inspiration for Mickey from Fantastia. The statue is larger than life, standing at 6’5 (though Walt was only 5’10). Walt and Mickey stand at the heart of Main Street USA, proudly watching guests enjoy the happiest place on earth.
The plaque below the statue reads: “I think most of all what I want Disneyland to be is a happy place…where parents and children can have fun, together” –Walt Disney
Buena Vista Street also has its own Partners Statue, called the “Storytellers Statue”, which marked the official opening of the new California Adventure in 2012. This statue is focused on Walt’s beginnings in Hollywood and all the adventures that lay ahead. Its plaque reads:
“It was July 1923. I packed all of my worldly goods – a pair of trousers, a checkered coat, a lot of drawing materials and the last of the fairy tale reels we had made – in a kind of frayed cardboard suitcase. And with that wonderful audacity of youth, I went to Hollywood, arriving there with just forty dollars. It was a big day the day I got on that Santa Fe California Limited. I was just free and happy!”
Next time you’re walking through Main Street USA or Buena Vista Street, take a moment to appreciate the Partners Statues. As an added bonus, both statues are in great locations for family photos!