Join Disney legend Don Hahn, known for classics like Beauty and the Beast, and Chris Merritt, the former lead show designer at Walt Disney Imagineering, as they delve into Disneyland's intriguing history. They discuss the significance of the very first admission ticket sold, share stories behind the park’s horticultural design, and reveal insights from their book, "The Happiest Place on Earth." Listeners will also uncover the challenges faced by Disney attractions and the innovative spirit that shaped the park we know and love today.
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insights INSIGHT
Why Some Delay Epic Universe Trips
Many Epic Universe visitors delay visits until annual pass inclusions or multiple days can be spent there.
The park is well-regarded and worth exploring despite perceived accessibility or ticket cost concerns.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Adventures by Disney Baseball Trip
Adventures by Disney offered a baseball-focused trip visiting three major league ballparks with special access.
The trip included tours of ESPN headquarters and the Jackie Robinson Memorial, priced around $7,000.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The Disneyland Book Origins
Don Hahn and Chris Merritt shared how their Disneyland book stemmed from mutual curiosity and Disney history passion.
They uncovered unknown stories and archival materials that enriched the narrative beautifully.
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Len Testa & Jim Hill welcome Don Hahn & Chris Merrit, the authors of “The Happiest Place on Earth: The Incredible Story of Walt Disney’s Disneyland.” This show kicks off a two-part interview that reveals how Walt’s family fun park first came to be.
For this episode, listeners will learn about:
Who bought the very first admission to Disneyland Park back in July of 1955
When is the third “Prep & Landing” holiday special – “The Snowball Protocol” – expected to debut on ABC
Who did Walt bring in to help the Evans brothers with the horticultural aspect of Disneyland Park
What did Adventures by Disney’s “Take Me Out to the Ballparks” trip entail
Why was DHS’s “Legend of Jack Sparrow” show so short-lived
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The Disney Dish with Jim Hill 
