Known as the "Happiest Place on Earth," Disneyland opened on July 17, 1955. More than just an amusement park, this "theme park," with its five themed "lands," was the first of its kind, and continues to fulfill Walt Disney's dream of creating a place where parents and children can have fun together.

Now Disneyland has grown to eight different lands, with over 40 attractions designed to appeal to guests of all ages - the young as well as the young at heart.

Main Street, U.S.A. -- Just inside Disneyland's entrance gates is this re-creation of the main street of a small town in the early 20th century. There's City Hall, the Cinema, turn-of-the-century vehicles, and a variety of small shops.

Adventureland -- This exotic land combines elements of many foreign locales like jungles, bazaars, and tiki gods. One of Disneyland's most thrilling attractions, The Indiana Jones Adventure, is located in an ancient temple.

Frontierland -- Along the banks of the Rivers of America the wild, wild, west comes to life with attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and the Mark Twain Riverboat. Young and old alike can explore the mysteries of Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer Island.

New Orleans Square -- Stroll the streets of New Orleans' picturesque French Quarter, dine on gumbo and po'boy sandwiches, and listen to the sounds of a Dixieland band. New Orleans Square is home to two of Disneyland's best known attractions: Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion.

Critter Country -- Splash Mountain and the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh make every day a zip-a-dee-doo-dah day!

Fantasyland -- In this land of enchantment and make-believe most of the attractions are based on a classic Disney animated film, like Dumbo, Peter Pan, Snow White, Alice in Wonderland, or Pinocchio.

Mickey's Toontown -- Visit the homes of Disneyland's most important citizens - Mickey and Minnie, Goofy, Donald and Pluto. Attractions include Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin and Gadget's Go-Coaster.

Tomorrowland -- Take an undersea voyage of discovery with Nemo and friends in Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage or get a glimpse of the future as you board a space shuttle to Endor, battle the evil Emperor Zurg at Buzz Lightear Astro Blasters, or take a thrilling space coaster ride on Space Mountain.

Disneyland Live Entertainment -- A variety of live entertainment acts are featured throughout the park, from jazz and marching bands to comics and singing pirates.

Disneyland Attractions at a Glance

There are many opportunities for kids to meet and greet their favorite characters. Consult the daily Times Guide for regularly scheduled times and locations. In addition there are usually characters available early in the day near just inside the Main Entrance and around Town Square, and on the terraced area along Small World Way.

Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage -- This underwater submarine ride gives guests a glimpse at life under the sea - including some surprise appearances by Nemo, Marlin, Dory and the rest of the "Finding Nemo" gang.

Disney's "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration began October 1, 2006 and has continued into 2008. Cast Members throughout the parks are passing out "dreams" to guests - everything from special Mickey ears and Dream Fastpasses to an overnight stay in the Disneyland Dream Suite above the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction in New Orleans Square.

Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer Island -- Explore Dead Man's Grotto, climb to the top of Pirate's Lookout, pump the bilge to reveal a pirate's treasure - these and other activities await visitors to Pirate's Lair. Lafitte's Tavern hosts a musical pirate show and an exciting pirate stunt show featuring Captain Jack Sparrow.

"it's a small world" is undergoing an extensive refurbishment and will not reopen until November 2008.