Disneyland had 18 attractions available on its opening day. The park opened in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 1955, with five themed lands: Main Street, U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.
The opening-day lineup included enduring favorites such as the Disneyland Railroad, Jungle Cruise, Mark Twain Riverboat, Autopia, King Arthur Carrousel, Peter Pan’s Flight, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and Mad Tea Party. Some offerings were shows or transportation experiences rather than rides in the modern sense, which explains why historical counts can vary slightly depending on what is included.
A common mix-up concerns the date. July 17 was the televised, invitation-only dedication and press preview, while Disneyland opened to the general public on July 18. Disney nevertheless treats July 17, 1955, as the park’s official opening date and anniversary. Several attractions opened later that summer, including Casey Jr. Circus Train and Dumbo the Flying Elephant, so they were not part of the original count.