Countdown - 84 Days to Go!

🚀 84 Days to Go: Space Mountain… to Infinity and Beyond?

Magic Kingdom - Photo Credit Memory Maker

Okay, so Space Mountain doesn’t actually launch you to infinity and beyond—but it’s still one thrilling adventure! After Walt saw the success of the Matterhorn, it confirmed what he already suspected: Disney guests were ready for more thrills. And while you might call Space Mountain a roller coaster, don’t be surprised if Imagineers or Cast Members gently correct you… it’s a Thrill Ride, thank you very much 😉.

So take your seat, secure that lap bar, and prepare for launch!

🌍 Space Mountains Around the World

Park	Opening Date	Notes
Magic Kingdom (FL)	January 15, 1975	The OG! Originally planned for Disneyland, but Florida got there first.
Disneyland (CA)	May 27, 1977	Due to space constraints, this version features side-by-side seating—more riders, faster lines!
Tokyo Disneyland	April 15, 1983	First park to debut Space Mountain on opening day. Currently closed for redesign—set to reopen in 2027 with a whole new vibe!
Disneyland Paris	June 1, 1995	Originally a Jules Verne-inspired launch coaster with inversions. Later revamped to align more with classic Space Mountain, but kept some unique flair.
Hong Kong Disneyland	September 12, 2005	A mashup of previous versions—some say it’s the best (or the wildest) of all!
Shanghai Disneyland	—	The only Disney park without a Space Mountain. Shocking, right?

🎃 Fun Facts You Might Not Know

1. Spooky overlays!

   • At Disneyland (CA) and Hong Kong Disneyland, Space Mountain transforms into Ghost Galaxy during Halloween—complete with phantom projections and eerie effects.

   • At Walt Disney World’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, you can ride in total darkness. Glow sticks = lifesavers.

   • Personal note: Maybe don’t make this your child’s first-ever Disney ride… I may have scarred my daughter for life. LOL.

Magic Kingdom - Photo Credit Memory Maker

1. Holiday cheer!

   • During Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, Space Mountain gets festive with twinkling lights and holiday tunes.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Photo Credit JillianWallin

1. Golden milestone!

   • The original Space Mountain just turned 50 years old. Cue the confetti!

2. World’s first indoor coaster!

   • Yep, Space Mountain was a game-changer in theme park innovation.

3. Speed illusion!

   • It feels like you’re flying—but you’re only going 28 mph. The darkness and sharp turns do all the magic.

4. Tech pioneer!

   • Space Mountain was the first computer-controlled coaster in the world. Disney tech for the win!

     
     

🐘 Final Thoughts

Space Mountain is one of Disney’s iconic mountains, yet surprisingly, only one park had it as an opening day attraction. Like many great ideas, the tech had to catch up—but once it did? The possibilities were endless.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just love a good trip into the unknown, Space Mountain is a must-ride. And again... just maybe… maybe… skip the phantom overlay if it’s your kiddo’s first time. I speak from experience 😅.

Disneyland Photo Credit Memory Maker