Space Mountain Turns 50

All images: Disney

Can you believe Space Mountain turns 50 today? In the 1960s, Walt Disney wanted to build a roller coaster that simulated a ride through space in Disneyland. Unfortunately, the computer technology wasn't quite there yet, but when the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971, there was more than enough space for a new ride called Space Voyage. Imagineers were inspired by the Matterhorn ride to create a fully enclosed, fully immersive, galactic-themed roller coaster renamed Space Mountain.

Riding Space Mountain became a rite of passage for young Disney fans. With a height requirement of 44", it was something to strive for on a trip to Disney World. It was definitely a ride the kiddo looked forward to experiencing. 

Space Mountain has popped up (with a few variations) at Disney Parks around the world since it first opened in the Magic Kingdom in 1975. It opened in Disneyland in 1977 and is now home of the Season of the Force, a Star Wars overlay, from March to May. Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland are both home to Hyperspace Mountain, and Star Wars-themed adventure through the galaxy that is actually quite fun. And a new version of Space Mountain is scheduled to open at Tokyo Disneyland in 2027.

While the classic ride with its particular soundtrack will always be fun, at Disney World there are a few seasonal variations that are only available during parties. At Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, it becomes Deep Space Mountain, and you ride in complete darkness to a Halloween soundtrack. It is unexpectedly exciting because you can't see where the track is going next! At Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, it becomes Space Mountain Holiday Run, with a soundtrack of Christmas music and Christmas colored lights as well. I've also ridden once with all the lights on, and I'm honestly not sure which is more thrilling, all the lights on or all the lights off. Whichever version you ride, Space Mountain is a real blast!