Hey howdy hey, adventurers! This week’s vintage Disney roundup is digging through [eBay] crates of classic Indiana Jones souvenirs in honor of the 31st anniversary of Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland Park.
A little bit of history before we dive in: the attraction opened on March 3rd, 1995, created in partnership with Lucasfilm (just after their last big collaboration of Star Tours, which opened in 1987). Inspired by the blockbuster film series, Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Forbidden Eye dropped guests into a crumbling temple, complete with the legendary Temple of Mara, rolling boulders, fire effects, and a ride system that felt unlike anything Disneyland had attempted before. The Enhanced Motion Vehicle technology (developed by Walt Disney Imagineering, and later used for DINOSAUR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom) gave each jeep its own unpredictable personality, making every trip through the temple feel slightly different.
Its debut also anchored a massive expansion of Adventureland and arrived just in time for Disneyland’s 40th anniversary celebration in 1995. At the time, it was one of the most elaborate and expensive attractions Disney had ever built, and it instantly became a must-do. (Psst: and don’t miss the pinball machine nearby in Adventureland!)
Over the years, the merchandise has been just as memorable: decoder cards, Temple of Mara medallions, logo tees, mugs, and replica artifacts. And for many, these souvenirs were the proof you survived the temple. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Speaking of that Disneyland 40th celebration, a collection of merchandise featured the one and only Mickey Mouse dressed as Indiana Jones — an epic crossover. Here’s a reasonably-priced one-size-fits-most crewneck from the era!
Available HERE | $55
About those decoder cards… these were given out to riders during the opening year to decode symbols on the walls of the queue. And guess what? You can still use them today as those hidden messages are still in tact, waiting to be discovered again!
Available HERE | $9.99
Another Treasure Thursday, another vintage button. I just can’t get enough of them! Show off your love for the common favorite Disneyland attraction by attaching this piece of flair to your jacket or bag:
Available HERE | $11.95
Deep in the Hundred Acre [Temple], you’ll find Indy-the-Pooh seeking golden treasure… honey! Insert relic plush find here:
Available HERE | $34.95
While there are plenty of fun vintage t-shirt finds for Indiana Jones Adventure, I can’t help hopping over to the east coast for a quick moment just to feature this Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular clacker board design!
Available HERE | $157
I know what you’re thinking… these souvenirs belong in a museum!
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