Disneyland fans know that there are a number of delightful secrets that are fun to look for, and even more fun to share with your friends. I'm going to reveal some of those secrets to you today!
Many people are aware of Walt Disney's apartment, located above the Firehouse in Town Square. Walt could spend the night there, sometimes with Lilly or the grandchildren. He made grilled cheese sammiches on his sandwich press! Maybe some of you have been lucky enough to tour the apartment; one of the most touching features is this lamp, which is kept lit as a tribute to Walt Disney, who would often light a lamp in his apartment window to signal his presence at the park (also so he could see what he was doing, presumably). Mr. Disney's beautiful lava lamp is never extinguished, just like dreams, wishes, magic, and imagination.
Here's a rare photo of the apartment, which was left just as it was when Walt passed.
Some secrets not as secret as others. For instance, many people know about the alternating red and white lightbulbs at the Coke Corner. As luck would have it, when they got to this spot, they found that there would have to be two white bulbs in a row, or two red bulbs in a row. "Say, Walt, if we just started from the corner and worked our way out, this wouldn't be a problem.", John Hench suggested. "No! Put a strawberry Zinger up there instead!". "A what, now?". "A strawberry Zinger!!" "But Walt..." "JUST DO IT!". To this day, a fresh strawberry Zinger is placed in the light socket every morning as a tribute to, I don't know, all the little children of the world or something.
Here's yet another Main Street secret. If you happen to turn right onto East Center Street, and head back to the lockers, you'll encounter a crazy wall. This is the famous "test wall"; its purpose is not known for sure, but as you can see, on the left side there are uneven bricks, while on the right you'll see something that is a bit more "urban" and realistic. Walt personally tagged that side, and you must admit that his skill was undeniable. They ultimately chose even, well-ordered bricks, but it is intriguing to think, "What if...?".
Now we've left Main Street, and I can share a secret that used to be found inside the Indiana Jones Adventure, one of the most amazing and elaborate attractions in Disneyland. Early on, Harrison Ford did not want his likeness used on the Indy animatronics, so they opted for frequent Disney star Joe Flynn's likeness instead. Clear photos of these animatronics are rare, so I'm thrilled to be able to show you this one.
Popcorn and Disneyland go together like chocolate and peanut butter, and the charming popcorn wagons seen throughout the park have little "Toasty Roasty Men" turning a crank, like some sort of Sisyphean punishment. Back by the Haunted Mansion, one of the Toasty Roasty Men (customized depending on where they are in the park) happens to bear the likeness of wrestler and Oscar™ winner (needs verification) Tor Johnson. It is known that Walt Disney was a huge admirer of Tor, and even let him ride the Carolwood Pacific on occasion.
And finally, a Haunted Mansion secret! These are the most popular with the fandom. For about the first three months, you might have been lucky enough to see a detail in the ballroom scene, specifically at the long table where a ghostly birthday party was in progress. Look closely! A platter with the disembodied head of beloved actor Paul Lynde could be seen. The head was soon removed - some say because it was too terrifying.
Well, there you go... a selection of incredible and true DISNEYLAND SECRETS! Be sure to amaze your friends with these the next time you get together.
