There’s a great big beautiful tomorrow shining at the end of every day. As Walt Disney famously expressed, that’s just the right spirit! His uplifting and inspirational messages resonate today, just as they did throughout the previous century when this famous rotating show began.
At Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, guests have the unique opportunity to embark on a captivating journey through the 20th century, exploring the remarkable advancements that have transformed everyday life over several decades (specifically, the turn of the century, the 1920s, the fabulous 40s, and eventually the 1990s). This beloved attraction proudly holds the record for having more performances than any other stage show in the history of American theater – a testament to its popularity, charm, and nostalgia amongst Disney fans.
During this classic attraction, you will traverse through the 1900s, discovering the early inventions that laid the foundation for modern conveniences. Then, twenty-some-odd years later, you will step into the 1920s, followed by the fabulous 1940s, and eventually into the present-day 1990s. The current version of the attraction opened in 1993. Throughout this inspirational journey, you really are in for a real treat. You gain a deeper appreciation for the continuous progress that has shaped our world, leaving you with a sense of wonder and excitement for the future.
Upon entering the Carousel of Progress, Jean Shepherd welcomes you and later guides you through each show scene. This immersive experience invites you into the homes of four families, each representing a different era, where you will discover the innovations and technologies that shaped their lives and improved their homes.
Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress offers the perfect break from the sweltering Florida heat, providing 20 minutes in a comfortably air-conditioned theater. On particularly hot days, when the temperature soars above 90 degrees and humidity levels reach over 95%, this attraction becomes even more special. Even during peak seasons when the park is bustling with guests, you can typically expect to wait no longer than a few minutes. This is a welcome contrast to many other attractions in the park.
Carousel of Progress History
The original version of this rotating theatrical presentation was first showcased at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. The current version at Magic Kingdom is an updated iteration of the original. Opening on January 15, 1975, it featured a different version that included the song “The Best Time of Your Life” (often referred to as “Now Is The Time”).
The original sponsor, General Electric, wanted a catchy tune to encourage the audience to purchase their latest products. They aimed to highlight that technological advances were happening now, rather than in the future, which they promoted as great, big, and beautiful. Basically, NOW is the time to purchase our GE products, not tomorrow.
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In 1985, General Electric’s sponsorship of the attraction was not renewed. During a refurbishment in 1993, the familiar tune we know and love returned to the rotating theater. The image below depicts the former “gear” design entrance sign for the Carousel of Progress, which was in place from 1993 to 2016.
The Carousel of Progress is an iconic attraction that you definitely should not miss during your visit to Magic Kingdom. This charming show, which celebrates American innovation and the passage of time, has a nostalgic vibe that transports guests to various eras while highlighting the comforts of modern life. It is the perfect attraction to include as a part of your perfect day at Magic Kingdom!
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