Little Known Facts About Well-Known Places: Disneyland

The tapping sound coming from the Depot at the Disneyland Railroad station in New Orleans Square is a line from Walt's opening day speech ("To all who come to this happy place, welcome . . . ") in a variant of Morse code. However, early on in the park's history, the designers varied the messages, and often, for fun, they would make them off-color comments- until Walt happened to mention that his wife Lillian had been a telegraph operator and could decipher Morse code.

-from Little Known Facts About Well-Known Places: Disneyland by David Hoffman

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Since Tyler proposed to me last Friday at Disneyland, it's only appropriate that I post a review for this book, don't you think?! :)

It's no secret that I'm a fan of anything Disney related, so I was elated when my boyfriend fiance Tyler got me this book for Christmas a few years ago. After he surprised me with an annual pass to the Disneyland Resort in August, I dug this book out and re-read it, trying to absorb every single awesome detail. While I don't ordinarily share non-fiction books that aren't memoirs, I think this one is worth mentioning!

The Disneyland edition of Little Known Facts About Well-Known Places is full of entertaining information about all things Disneyland. When I first read this book, I was skeptical, thinking that I already know all there is to know about one of my favorite places; but I was happily surprised to learn a variety of facts, tips and secrets that I hadn't known at all! Information ranges from facts about working at Disneyland (including famous people, like Michelle Pfieffer, who used to work at the park!), history (like how the Matterhorn was the first rollercoaster to use a tubular steel track), tips (like how to tell where you are at Disneyland based on the trash can colors), and information on how to maximize your visit at the Disneyland Resort.

Do you know which teacup spins the fastest? Do you know where Walt Disney purchased the flagpole on Main Street? What common items are banned from sale at Disneyland and how much did it cost Walt Disney to build? You can find all of these facts and so much more in this priceless collection of information. I think the only thing missing is the best places to propose at Disneyland, but I'm totally biased! ;) This book is beautifully compiled with a fact or breakdown of data on each page so it's not overwhelming to read. I might even tote it around Disneyland on my next visit!

Bottom Line: Whether you're taking a rare visit to Disneyland or you visit the park on a regular basis, this is a must read for any fan of Disney! It will really help you to appreciate the talent and detail that Walt Disney poured into his dream and you will love and respect the Walt Disney Company for continuing with Walt's principles long after his passing. 5/5 stars.