Ride Guide to
Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress

One of the final attractions Walt Disney worked on, the Carousel of Progress is a beloved classic of the Disney World experience and an inspiring look at the impact of progress on daily American life.

Tomorrowland
Carousel
Any Height
21 min

Know Before You Go

What you will - and won't - find in this attraction

Scary
n/a
Darkness
Low lighting during the show
Drops
n/a
Speed
n/a
Loudness
n/a
Dizzyness
n/a
3D Effects
n/a
4D Effects
Smoke effect
Enclosed Spaces
Large rotating theater. Cast members encourage guests not to exit during the entire 21 minute show
Characters / IP
Walt Disney

Attraction Overview

Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress is a classic attraction located in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. It is a unique and nostalgic experience that takes guests on a journey through the evolution of technology and everyday life.

The attraction is housed in a circular theater that rotates, allowing guests to witness scenes set in different time periods. The heart of the experience is the Audio-Animatronics stage, where a family, known as the "Progress Family," shares their story and showcases the advancements in technology and daily living over the years.

The show consists of several acts, each representing a different era, starting from the early 20th century and progressing into the future. As the stage rotates, guests are transported through time, witnessing the changes in household appliances, entertainment, communication, and more. Along with the catchy theme song, "There's a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow," the show presents a heartwarming and optimistic message about progress and the potential of the future.

Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress offers a charming blend of history, innovation, and Disney storytelling. It celebrates the spirit of innovation and the ways in which technology has shaped our lives. It's a tribute to Walt Disney's vision and his belief in progress and optimism.

The Carousel of Progress was one of the final attractions that Walt Disney personal supervised. Originally created for the 1964-1965 New York World's Fair, it was later relocated to Disneyland before finding its permanent home in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

Over time, Disney has made updates to the show to reflect advancements in technology and to keep the experience fresh for guests. These updates have included changes to the script, audio enhancements, visual effects, and the addition of new scenes and elements.

One notable update was in the 1990s when the final act, representing the future, was revised to better reflect the technological advancements of that era. In this updated scene, guests were introduced to modern innovations such as virtual reality, voice-activated devices, and high-definition television.

While the attraction has seen updates, the core themes of progress and the importance of family have remained intact. The nostalgic feel and the classic elements that have made Carousel of Progress beloved by many are still present, making it a cherished part of the Magic Kingdom experience.

Please note: the attraction lasts 20 minutes, and guests are asked not to leave once the show has begun. So be sure to make any necessary arrangements before enjoying the Carousel of Progress.


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