The Secrets of Disney. The Parks

ADVENTURELAND SECRETS

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN

Hidden throughout Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort are tributes to many Cast Members and Disney Imagineers who played a very important role in not only developing the theme parks, but The Walt Disney Company, as well. Many of these tributes are hidden in different attractions. In the treasure room of the Pirates of the Caribbean, Disney Imagineers have placed a coat of arms with the name "Marco Daviso." It is a tribute to Marc Davis, one of Disney's "Nine Old Men." He was responsible for animating many of Disney's well known characters, including Tinker Bell, Cruella De Vil and Cinderella, among others. In addition, he was responsible for the story and character development of many Disney attractions, including Pirates of the Caribbean, The Haunted Mansion and "it's a small world."

As you enter the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, take the right queue line instead of the left and peer into the dungeon windows on the right, shortly after you pass the turnstiles. There you will discover two chess-playing skeletons below. Study the pieces to find that their eerie match is deadlocked in a tie.

You may have noticed that as you exit many attractions throughout the park and step upon a moving walkway, foot prints are painted on the walkway indicating the direction in which Guests should proceed. Take note of the "foot prints" Disney Imagineers placed on the moving walkway as you exit the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. Those are the markings belonging to a peg-legged pirate!

SWISS FAMILY TREEHOUSE

Did you know that only two countries' flags are on permanent display over a Disney attraction at Walt Disney World? One, of course, is the American flag at the American Pavilion at Epcot, while the other is the Swiss flag, found at the Swiss Family Treehouse at the Magic Kingdom.

DOLE WHIP

Turkey legs, Mickey Mouse ice cream bars, and even churros are some of the fun treats at Walt Disney World, yet the popular Dole Whip holds a special place in many guests' hearts, and a trip to the Magic Kingdom wouldn't be complete without one. Be sure to stop into the Aloha Isle Refreshments stand across from the Swiss Family Treehouse for a treat you're sure to remember long after your vacation ends.

Lucky Guests staying at Disney's Polynesian Resort will also find the Dole Whip available at Capt. Cooks.

THE MAGIC CARPETS OF ALADDIN

One of the fun secrets about the Magic Kingdom is how Disney Imagineers sometimes whimsically extend the story of an attraction beyond the attraction itself, and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin is no exception. Be careful around the large golden camel in front of this attraction, as camels are known to spit, and at times this one will. . . with surprising accuracy!