What It Was Like – Magic Kingdom Opening Day

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey transport you back to October 1, 1971, for the grand opening of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

They explore what the park’s first day was really like, with low attendance, technical challenges, and some Disney magic that made it unforgettable.

They also dive into the nostalgic merch from that era, including the famous A-E ticket books, early park maps, and the iconic vintage logo that still has fans hunting down collectibles today.

What We Cover:

• Magic Kingdom’s surprising first-day turnout and the early technical hiccups.

• Why Disney chose to open the park in the fall off-season.

• The original A-E ticket system and how it shaped the park experience.

• Collectible opening day merchandise and how its value has grown over the years.

• The stories behind the original Magic Kingdom logo and other vintage keepsakes.

Tune in for a trip down Main Street U.S.A. as we discuss the magic and the merch of Magic Kingdom’s opening day!

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