Disney lovers, do you ever wish you could just walk into the theme parks and say hi to Walt to thank him for the magic, the memories, and for creating everyone’s favorite mouse?
While Disneyland in California holds so many pieces of Walt Disney’s life and career – being the only park he got to dedicate before his passing in 1966 – Walt Disney World in Florida wasn’t as fortunate, opening five years later in 1971. But that hasn’t stopped WDW from paying tribute to him, so here is where you can say hi to the man behind the mouse at each park.
Partners Statue at Magic Kingdom
Whether it’s a passing smile or a full-on photo shoot, the easiest and most obvious spot to say hi to Walt is his statue at Magic Kingdom.
“Partners” stands 6 feet tall in The Hub right before Cinderella Castle, and features Walt and Mickey Mouse holding hands while Walt demonstrates his famous two-finger point toward what the two partners created together.
Walt Disney Presents at Hollywood Studios
Smack dab in between Toy Story Land and The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure at Hollywood Studios is where you’ll find Walt Disney Presents, a walkthrough exhibit that takes you through Walt’s life from his small-town beginnings to his technicolor career.
This magical museum features photos, models, sketches, and ends with an (optional) viewing of Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream, a 15-minute film that includes rare home movies, footage and audio recordings of the legendary creator.
The Animation Experience at Animal Kingdom
As the final WDW park – opening 32 years after Walt’s passing – it can be tough to find him at Animal Kingdom. But there is one lesser-known way to feel closer to the animator.
The Animation Experience can be found at Conservation Station within Rafiki’s Planet Watch, and gives guests the chance to learn how to sketch their favorite Disney animals. Not only will you draw a character with guidance from a Disney animator, but you can also take a look at the wall of blown-up photos, featuring pictures of past Disney animators, including Walt himself.
Dreamers Point at EPCOT
The latest way to say hi to Walt is at EPCOT with Dreamers Point, located in World Celebration. This section includes a new statue of Walt titled “Walt the Dreamer” and depicts him thinking up ideas for the Florida parks.
Dreamers Point opened on December 5, 2023, which would have been Walt’s 122nd birthday, and offers guests the chance to sit side by side with the statue.
