Everything You Need to Know About the Disney Family Museum
As every true Disney fanatic knows, it’s not enough to know every single line in each movie and song to rise to the top of the crowd. It’s even more than having a season pass or introducing your children to the magic of this one-of-a-kind community as soon as they’re born. Nope, to be a true, 100 percent mega fan, you have to be well schooled on the history of what made the most magical place on Earth full of creativity, charm and wonder. That’s why after visiting Disney World and Disneyland (and taking a Disney cruise, of course), you should make every effort to haul your family to San Francisco, California to tour the Walt Disney Family Museum. Though it might incite a few yawns from your youngest kiddos, there is still plenty of entertaining and exciting wonders to discover in this Disney playhouse. Here, a few tidbits to make you excited to trek:
What Is It?
If you’re in the market and the mood for roller coasters and character meet-and-greets, you might be a tad disappointed by this museum. As the name suggests, you and your fam will deep dive into the rich and interesting story that made Disney and all of its properties and entities what it is today. You’ll start with the very first storyteller and mouseketeer – Walt Disney – at the start of his life, leading all the way to his far-too-soon passing. While you’re touring around, you’ll have the chances to watch super-early footage that he made on screens around the museum, even giving you the opportunity to watch through the lens of some rather shaky equipment. One of which is a multiplane camera that was pivotal in the creation of Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs. What sets this apart from other places where you can study up on Disney history is witnessing the original notes from Disney on various animations, films and scripts.
Though exhibits change throughout the year, there are ten that remain permanently. These include sketches that are nearly 100 years old, a 12-foot diameter model of Disneyland featuring Walt-imagined attractions and even the notebook of notable artists, technicians and animators. Especially if you have kids who exercise their right brain more than their left, they will be fascinated by the special effects and the ability to explore this industry. Who knows, you might have an engineer growing under your roof who will one day work his or her genius for Disney!
What Should You Know Before You Go?
If you’re making a California road trip out of your vacation this year, speak with a specialized Disney agent who can help you book your trip to Disneyland and then, help navigate the right path to the museum. It’s important to know that you don’t need to schedule out too much for this excursion though.
You can definitely get through the entire Walt Disney Family Museum in a single day, but be prepared to spend a chunk of time touring. Luckily, since Disney thinks of everything, they knew families would linger and investigate, so there’s an on-site cafe that’s appropriate for hanger-induced tantrum snacks or a full lunch if everyone’s stomach is growling.
And though you might be captivated by everything you learn, unfortunately, you can’t snap photos inside the museum, so leave your heavy camera equipment at home. You’ll also want to make sure you dress comfortably, just as you would at a theme park, since you’ll be on your feet for several hours. Same goes for those children of yours – after all, who wants to put up with whiny kids half-way through a presentation?
Should You Bring Your Kids?
It’s probably a safe bet that you’ll enjoy touring around the Disney Family Museum more than your children, dependent on their age. While there are certainly budding history buffs who would love to spend all day reading every last line and taking the tour, your more restless kiddos might become weary quickly. You know your kiddos best and if you don’t think this type of educational immersion is their cup of Mrs. Potters’ tea, consider making this a trip just for you and your partner. Hire a local babysitter and allow yourselves to get lost in the historical wonders of the happiest place – and company – on Earth.
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