Imagine yourself stepping into a world where yesterday meets tomorrow, where retro-futurism sparkles with bronze and copper hues, and where every corner promises adventure among the stars! Welcome to Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park—one of the most iconic lands that’s been captivating guests since opening day in 1955!
Whether you’re blasting through space on a rocket coaster, battling Emperor Zurg with laser cannons, or cruising underwater with Nemo and friends, Tomorrowland delivers experiences you won’t find anywhere else! This guide covers everything you need to know about this futuristic land, from its fascinating history to hidden secrets that most visitors miss!
What Makes Tomorrowland Special
Tomorrowland stands out as the only original Disneyland land that was designed to constantly evolve. Walt Disney himself said it best: “A vista into a world of wondrous ideas, signifying Man’s achievements…A step into the future, with predictions of constructive things to come”. Unlike Fantasyland or Adventureland, which capture timeless themes, Tomorrowland had to keep pace with actual technological progress—making it the most transformed land in the park’s 70-year history!
Today’s Tomorrowland showcases a unique retro-futuristic aesthetic inspired by visionaries like Jules Verne, blending Victorian-era imagination with space-age optimism. The result? A land that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking at the same time!
A Journey Through Tomorrowland’s History
The Original Vision (1955-1966)
When Disneyland opened on July 17, 1955, Tomorrowland represented what the year 1986 might look like. But here’s the thing—the land opened rushed and unfinished, with only a handful of attractions ready for guests. Budget cuts meant Walt had to get creative, even repurposing sets from the 1954 movie “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” as a walkthrough attraction.
The showpiece was the TWA Moonliner, a 76-foot rocket that towered over Sleeping Beauty Castle and housed the “Rocket To The Moon” attraction. Corporate sponsors like Monsanto, American Motors, and Dutch Boy Paint filled the land with exhibits, though Walt wasn’t thrilled about the heavy corporate presence.
Major additions came in 1956 with the Astro Jets (now Astro Orbitor) and Skyway to Fantasyland. Then in 1959, Disneyland experienced what Disney called its “second opening”—three groundbreaking E-ticket attractions debuted: the Disneyland Monorail, Submarine Voyage, and Matterhorn Bobsleds.
The 1967 Revolution: New Tomorrowland
By the mid-1960s, Tomorrowland looked outdated. Technology had caught up with Disney’s predictions, and the land needed a complete makeover. Walt threw himself into reimagining Tomorrowland, though sadly he passed away before seeing it completed.
On July 2, 1967, “New Tomorrowland” opened at a cost of $23 million—more than the entire original park. This wasn’t just a refurbishment; it was a total demolition and rebuild. The additions were incredible:
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PeopleMover: A revolutionary transportation system showcasing Walt’s vision for future cities
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Adventure Thru Inner Space: Where guests “shrunk” to explore the molecular world
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Carousel of Progress: Brought from the 1964 World’s Fair, this was the only attraction Walt personally touched that still exists at Disney parks today
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Flight to the Moon: An enhanced space journey with animatronic pre-shows
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Rocket Jets: Offering sky-high thrills from atop the PeopleMover platform
The aesthetic was sleek and white, embracing “Googie” architecture with its geometric shapes and futuristic lines. This Tomorrowland became the template for the Magic Kingdom’s version when Walt Disney World opened in 1971.
Star Wars Arrives (1986-1997)
The mid-1980s brought major changes. In 1986, Captain EO starring Michael Jackson replaced the Space Stage. Then in January 1987, Star Tours opened, marking the first permanent Star Wars presence at Disneyland. These additions shifted Tomorrowland away from pure science and toward science fiction franchises.
The Jules Verne Era (1998-Present)
In May 1998, Tomorrowland underwent another massive transformation, this time inspired by Disneyland Paris’s Discoveryland. The clean white buildings were repainted in bronzes, coppers, and golds, creating a retro-Victorian aesthetic. Space Mountain’s iconic white dome got a bronze makeover that divided fans.
The idea was brilliant on paper—capture Jules Verne’s vision of the future as imagined in the 1800s. But the execution fell short. Budget cuts limited the scope, and many guests felt the steampunk theme didn’t match California’s mid-century vibe. The disastrous Rocket Rods attraction (replacing the beloved PeopleMover) lasted only a year before closing permanently.
Since 2003, Disney has been slowly refining Tomorrowland, removing the most unpopular elements while keeping the retro-futuristic aesthetic. Today’s version strikes a better balance, though many fans still dream of a complete reimagining!
The Look of Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland’s current design tells a unique story. Instead of showing tomorrow as we imagine it today, the land presents tomorrow as Victorian-era futurists like Jules Verne envisioned it. Think ornate bronze metalwork, planetary motifs, and vintage sci-fi aesthetics.
The color palette of bronze, copper, and rust tones creates warmth rarely found in futuristic settings. Buildings feature curves and swooping lines reminiscent of rocket fins and spacecraft. The Astro Orbitor centerpiece at the land’s entrance sets the tone with its kinetic, planetary design.
One clever design choice: the bridge from Main Street U.S.A. to Tomorrowland is twice as wide as other land bridges. Why? So guests can see the Contemporary Resort in the distance—a view blocked from every other land to maintain theming. Since the Contemporary fits Tomorrowland’s futuristic aesthetic, Imagineers made it visible.
The land also features “agrifuture” landscaping with edible plants like orange trees, lettuce, kale, strawberries, and grapes planted throughout. This subtle detail reinforces themes of sustainable futures and food production for growing populations.
All the Rides and Attractions
Tomorrowland packs eight attractions into its cosmic realm. Here’s your complete breakdown:
Space Mountain ⚡
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm)
This is the big one—Disneyland’s most iconic thrill ride. Opening on May 27, 1977, Space Mountain was Disneyland’s second roller coaster and remains a must-do attraction.
You’ll blast through complete darkness on a twisting, turning journey through space. The on-board soundtrack pulses with futuristic music while projections of stars, comets, and celestial bodies streak past. Though you’re not actually going as fast as it feels, the darkness and tight turns create an incredible sensation of speed.
Disneyland’s version features a single track (unlike Florida’s dual tracks) and sits in a much smaller building. The ride runs about 2.5 minutes but packs drops, sharp turns, and surprise moments throughout.
Pro tip: Every September and October from 2009-2019, Space Mountain transformed into “Ghost Galaxy” for Halloween. More recently, it’s been converted to “Hyperspace Mountain” during Season of the Force events, adding Star Wars theming with TIE fighter encounters.
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue ⚡
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm)
Step aboard a Starspeeder 1000 for a 3D motion simulator journey through the Star Wars galaxy. Opening in its current form on June 3, 2011, this attraction features over 250 possible storyline combinations.
Your flight goes hilariously wrong when the bumbling droid captain C-3PO accidentally takes control. You’ll visit planets like Tatooine, Hoth, Naboo, Coruscant, and more, with randomized sequences meaning every ride is different.
The attraction includes characters from across the Star Wars films and Disney+ series like “The Mandalorian,” “Ahsoka,” and “Andor”. The 3D effects and motion simulation make you truly feel like you’re dodging asteroids and escaping Imperial forces.
Note: Star Tours has been closed periodically for refurbishments. When operating, the exit dumps you into The Star Trader gift shop.
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
Height Requirement: None (all ages)
This interactive dark ride lets you become a Space Ranger on a mission to stop the evil Emperor Zurg from stealing battery power. Opening on May 5, 2005, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters puts you in an XP-40 space cruiser equipped with handheld laser cannons.
Here’s what makes the Disneyland version special: unlike Walt Disney World’s fixed laser guns, yours can be removed from their mounts for better aim. Your vehicle also spins 360 degrees using a center joystick, letting you target hidden high-value spots.
Different target shapes award different points—triangles are worth the most, followed by diamonds, squares, and circles. Light-up targets are worth even more. Competitive families can spend hours trying to beat each other’s scores, and sharp-eyed guests find hidden targets that casual players miss.
Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage
Height Requirement: None (all ages)
This attraction offers something rare—a real submarine experience. Opening June 11, 2007, Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage reimagines the classic Submarine Voyage that operated from 1959 to 1998.
Your submarine “dives” below the surface (though it actually stays in shallow water) for a 13-minute underwater adventure. You’ll peer through portholes as the world of Finding Nemo comes to life through a clever blend of physical sets, animatronics, and “underwater” projections.
The storytelling follows Marlin and Dory’s search for Nemo, complete with the menacing anglerfish scene and the “mine mine mine” seagulls. The hydrophone technology creates realistic underwater audio.
Accessibility note: Guests who can’t navigate the steep spiral staircase into the sub can experience the attraction from a topside viewing room with large monitors. The view is slightly different but captures the same story.
Autopia
Height Requirement: 32 inches (81 cm) to ride, must be 54 inches to drive alone
As the only original opening day Tomorrowland attraction still operating, Autopia holds special significance. Opened July 17, 1955, it captured America’s fascination with freeways and automobile culture.
You’ll drive your own gas-powered sports car along a winding track with working pedals and steering. The course includes bridges, inclines, and views of the Matterhorn. Along the route, you might spot Honda’s humanoid robot ASIMO and a bird animatronic.
Each vehicle seats 2 adults or 3 children comfortably. The track has a center guide rail preventing collisions while still letting you steer.
Big news: Disney announced that Autopia will convert to fully electric vehicles by 2026, eliminating the engine noise and exhaust fumes that some guests find unpleasant. This makes sense for a land about the future!
Astro Orbitor
Height Requirement: None (all ages)
Think Dumbo the Flying Elephant, but space-themed and higher up. This classic rocket spinner sits at Tomorrowland’s entrance, serving as the land’s kinetic centerpiece.
You’ll control your rocket ship’s ascent and descent while spinning around a central axis of planets. The elevated position (you board via an elevator) offers fantastic aerial views of Disneyland, including Sleeping Beauty Castle and the surrounding lands.
The attraction has its roots in the original 1956 Astro Jets. After several iterations including Rocket Jets (which sat atop the PeopleMover platform), today’s Astro Orbitor sits at ground level with a Victorian-era inspired design.
Fair warning: The rockets are small, so fitting two adults is a squeeze. Lines move slowly since only a few rockets load at a time. But the views, especially at night when Tomorrowland’s neon comes alive, make it worthwhile.
Disneyland Monorail
Height Requirement: None (all ages)
The Monorail isn’t just an attraction—it’s functional transportation between Tomorrowland and Downtown Disney. Opening June 14, 1959, it was America’s first daily operating monorail system.
The 13-minute round trip covers 2.5 miles and offers elevated views you can’t get anywhere else. You’ll glide over Fantasyland, through Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, and see California Adventure from above.
There are two stations: one in Tomorrowland and one in Downtown Disney. This makes the Monorail perfect for taking a break outside the park, grabbing lunch at Downtown Disney, then returning refreshed.
The Mark VII monorail trains feature seating that faces the windows, maximizing your sightseeing experience. Watch for Hidden Mickeys in the pillars near waterfalls!
Disneyland Railroad – Tomorrowland Station
Height Requirement: None (all ages)
One of four train stations on the Grand Circle Tour, the Tomorrowland Station offers the closest access to Space Mountain and Autopia. The railroad makes a complete loop around Disneyland, with stations at Main Street U.S.A., New Orleans Square, and Toontown.
The most scenic stretch runs from New Orleans Square to Toontown, passing through the Grand Canyon and Primeval World dioramas. But the Tomorrowland Station is perfect when your feet need a break or you want to exit the park quickly!
Where to Eat in Tomorrowland
Alien Pizza Planet
Type: Quick Service | Price: $ (Under $15)
This Toy Story-themed restaurant serves Italian-American favorites with a cosmic twist. The pizza options include:
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Mega Pepperoni Slice ($8.99)
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Mozz-114 Cheese Pizza Slice ($8.49)
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BBQ Chicken & Pineapple Pizza Slice ($9.49)
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Artichoke & Pesto Pizza Slice ($9.49)
Beyond pizza, they offer pasta dishes like Spaghetti & Meatballs ($13.49), Countdown Chicken Fusilli ($13.49), and the unique Chicken Sesame-Ginger Vegetable Noodles ($14.49). Don’t sleep on the Alien Macarooooons ($8.29)—these adorable alien-themed macarons filled with various buttercreams consistently get rave reviews.
Galactic Grill
Type: Quick Service | Price: $ (Under $15)
Galactic Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with plenty of options for dietary restrictions. Their breakfast menu includes the Soy Chorizo Country Breakfast Burrito (vegan option, $11.99) and Chicken Tenders & Waffles ($14.49).
For lunch and dinner, try the Meat-eorite Burger ($17.29), Galaxy Fish ‘n’ Chips ($14.99), or the Chopped Salad ($11.99). They also offer a Veggie Wrap ($13.49) for plant-based eaters.
The restaurant features mobile ordering, making it easy to skip the line. Magic Key holders and Disney Vacation Club members receive discounts here.
Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace
Type: Special Event Dining
This venue hosts premium dining experiences, particularly the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Party. For special events like New Year’s Eve, they offer dining packages with exclusive viewing areas for fireworks.
The outdoor covered space provides unobstructed views of the fireworks (though not the castle projections). Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance through the Disneyland app.
Shopping in Tomorrowland
The Star Trader
The largest shop in Tomorrowland, The Star Trader is Star Wars central. Before Galaxy’s Edge opened, this was the primary Star Wars merchandise location at Disneyland.
You’ll find everything from Star Wars clothing and toys to high-end collectibles and pins. The store features a build-your-own lightsaber station (the simpler version, not the expensive Savi’s Workshop experience). An X-wing fighter hangs from the ceiling, and asteroid murals line the walls.
The shop connects directly to the Star Tours exit, so you’ll pass through after riding. Mobile checkout is available through the Disneyland app.
Little Green Men Store Command
Located at the Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters exit, this shop celebrates all things Toy Story and Pixar. You’ll find pins, plush characters, apparel, and toys featuring Buzz, Woody, and the Little Green Men themselves.
The theming is fantastic—original PeopleMover cars serve as checkout counters and retired Rocket Jets became display shelves, all repainted in Star Command colors. Skyway buckets used to hang from the ceiling but were removed during the 2005 conversion.
This shop tends to be less crowded than The Star Trader, making it a pleasant browsing experience. Look for exclusive Pixar pins here!
Tomorrowlanding
This smaller shop near the Astro Orbitor sells collectibles including pins, MagicBand+, and other Tomorrowland-specific merchandise!
Special Events and Entertainment
Disneyland Band
On select days, the Disneyland Band performs live in Tomorrowland. Check the Disneyland app for showtimes. These performances offer a chance to sit, relax, and enjoy classic Disney music performed by talented musicians.
Season of the Force
During this limited-time event (typically March through May), Tomorrowland transforms for Star Wars fans. Space Mountain becomes Hyperspace Mountain, featuring TIE fighter encounters and Star Wars music. Check Disney’s calendar for specific dates.
Projection Shows
Space Mountain’s exterior occasionally features projection shows for special events. For example, in 2025, the TRON canopy displayed limited-time red lighting to promote the new movie. The Fantastic Four film got projection shows on Space Mountain from July to September 2025.
Changes Over the Years
Tomorrowland has seen more changes than any other Disneyland land. Here are some key attractions that have come and gone:
Closed Attractions:
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PeopleMover (1967-1995): This beloved transportation system closed when Rocket Rods was installed. The track remains visible but unused, with PeopleMover cars still displayed at Little Green Men Store Command
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Rocket Rods (1998-2000): Replaced PeopleMover but was a mechanical disaster, closing after only 2 years
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Adventure Thru Inner Space (1967-1985): Guests “shrunk” to molecular size before Star Tours took over the building
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Captain EO (1986-1997, returned 2010-2015): Michael Jackson’s 3D space adventure
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Circle-Vision 360 “America the Beautiful” (1967-1984): A travelogue attraction replaced by various Circle-Vision presentations
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Skyway to Fantasyland (1956-1994): Cable car transportation to Fantasyland
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Star Wars Launch Bay (2015-2020): Currently closed, this walkthrough featured props, costumes, and character meet-and-greets with Chewbacca and Darth Vader
Major Renovations:
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1967: Complete demolition and rebuild costing $23 million
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1998: Jules Verne-inspired redesign with bronze color scheme
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2005: Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters opens
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2007: Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage replaces original Submarine Voyage
Fun Facts and Hidden Secrets
Did you know?
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Push the Talking Trash Can once roamed Tomorrowland, interacting with surprised guests. This radio-controlled robot was operated by a cast member in plain clothes.
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The Observatron at the top of the old PeopleMover platform was designed to come to life every 15 minutes with music from Space Mountain and Le Visionarium. However, mechanical failures mean it rarely operates today.
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Space Mountain is an original Magic Kingdom ride. Unlike most Disneyland attractions that were copied to Florida, Space Mountain debuted at Walt Disney World in 1975 before coming to Disneyland in 1977.
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Carousel of Progress is the only attraction in Walt Disney World that Walt Disney personally worked on. It operated at Disneyland from 1967-1973 before moving to Florida.
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The rockets on Astro Orbitor weighed too much for the PeopleMover platform after the 1998 refurbishment, forcing Disney to relocate them to ground level at Tomorrowland’s entrance.
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Walt Disney envisioned Tomorrowland as a testing ground for EPCOT concepts. The PeopleMover demonstrated intermediate-speed transit, while underground show building access prefigured the Magic Kingdom utilidors.
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Buzz Lightyear’s sign used to be the Delta Dreamflight cloud-shaped sign—Disney just painted over it. You can still see the cloud shape from certain angles.
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The Monorail was the first in America to cross a public street when the track extended to the Disneyland Hotel in 1961.
Hidden Mickeys in Tomorrowland
Eagle-eyed Disney fans love hunting Hidden Mickeys—those three-circle Mickey Mouse silhouettes hidden throughout the parks. Here are confirmed Tomorrowland Hidden Mickeys:
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Star Tours: Look for two Hidden Mickeys when traveling to Coruscant—one in the spaceport’s flashing lights and another in the back window as you return home.
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Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters: In the queue murals, you’ll find Mickey’s profile in an Earth-like planet’s land masses. Some targets inside the ride also form Mickey shapes.
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Space Mountain: The speakers on the ride vehicles look like Mickey heads (may be unintentional). Inside the People Mover view of Space Mountain, there’s a Hidden Mickey on the wall near Tom Morrow.
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Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage: Hidden Mickeys appear in the dive lockers in the topside viewing area. Look for them on pipes near the attraction.
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Autopia: Behind the Winner’s Circle building, you’ll find a Hidden Mickey on the back wall.
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Monorail pillars: Near waterfalls, Mickey shapes appear on support pillars.
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Astro Orbitor area: A puddle next to the granite ball creates a Mickey reflection at certain times.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to experience all of Tomorrowland?
Plan 3-4 hours to hit all major attractions with moderate crowds. If you arrive at rope drop (park opening), you can experience most attractions in 2-3 hours before lines build. The fastest riders report completing all Tomorrowland attractions in under 2 hours during early morning low-crowd periods.
What’s the best ride in Tomorrowland?
Space Mountain consistently ranks as the favorite. However, families with young children often prefer Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters or Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage since they have no height requirements.
Is Tomorrowland better at Disneyland or Walt Disney World?
Disneyland’s Tomorrowland offers Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Star Tours, and Autopia—attractions Florida doesn’t have. Walt Disney World has TRON Lightcycle/Run, Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover, and Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor. Many fans prefer the variety and PeopleMover at Walt Disney World, though Disneyland’s unique attractions give it an edge for others!
What’s the best time to visit Tomorrowland?
Hit Tomorrowland at rope drop (park opening) to experience Space Mountain and other popular rides with minimal waits. Alternatively, visit during parades and fireworks when crowds concentrate elsewhere. The last hour before park closing also offers shorter wait times.
Does Tomorrowland have rides for toddlers?
Yes! Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Disneyland Monorail, Astro Orbitor, and the Disneyland Railroad all welcome guests of any height. Autopia requires 32 inches, and Space Mountain/Star Tours require 40 inches.
Can you see Star Wars characters in Tomorrowland?
Star Wars Launch Bay previously offered meet-and-greets with Chewbacca and Darth Vader, but it’s currently closed. For Star Wars character experiences, visit Galaxy’s Edge. The Star Trader still sells extensive Star Wars merchandise.
How do Lightning Lanes work in Tomorrowland?
Space Mountain, Star Tours, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, and Autopia all offer Lightning Lane access through Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Lightning Lane Premier Pass purchases. This lets you skip standby lines by reserving specific return times.
Is the food good in Tomorrowland?
Alien Pizza Planet serves solid pizza and pasta, with their Alien Macarooooons being a fan favorite. Galactic Grill offers more variety including breakfast options and accommodates dietary restrictions well. Neither ranks among Disneyland’s best dining, but both provide convenient, filling meals.
What happened to the PeopleMover?
The beloved PeopleMover closed in 1995 to make way for Rocket Rods. When Rocket Rods failed spectacularly, the PeopleMover track was left abandoned. Many fans campaign for its return, but Disney hasn’t announced plans to revive it.
Planning Your Tomorrowland Visit
Best Strategy: Arrive at rope drop and head straight to Space Mountain, then work your way through Buzz Lightyear and Star Tours before crowds build. Alternatively, save Tomorrowland for evening hours when many guests are watching parades.
Genie+ Priority: If purchasing Lightning Lane Multi Pass, prioritize Space Mountain and Star Tours as these accumulate the longest waits.
Hidden Gem: The Disneyland Monorail offers a relaxing break with air conditioning and unique views—perfect for escaping midday heat.
Photo Ops: The Astro Orbitor at night with Tomorrowland’s neon glow makes for Instagram-worthy shots. Sleeping Beauty Castle viewed from the rockets is another winner.
Dining Tip: Use mobile ordering at Alien Pizza Planet and Galactic Grill to save time. Both restaurants accept Magic Key holder discounts.
Your Tomorrowland Adventure Awaits
Tomorrowland represents Walt Disney’s most ambitious vision—a land that must constantly evolve to show us not just tomorrow, but a better tomorrow. While it’s transformed dramatically over seven decades, the core optimism remains! This is a place where families pilot rocket ships, save the galaxy from evil emperors, journey to the ocean floor, and race through outer space—all before lunch!
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned annual passholder, Tomorrowland offers something special. The thrills of Space Mountain, the interactive fun of Buzz Lightyear, the unique experience of the Finding Nemo submarines, and the nostalgic charm of Autopia combine to create a land unlike any other in Disneyland!
As Walt Disney famously said about Disneyland: it “will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world”. That spirit lives strongest in Tomorrowland, where yesterday’s future and tomorrow’s dreams meet today! So blast off on your adventure, aim for those high-value targets, and discover why this land has captured imaginations for 70 years!
Your journey to tomorrow starts now! What will you discover in Tomorrowland?