Walt Disney World is so much more than theme parks with rides and roller coasters. Disney offers picturesque scenery, grand parades, phenomenal eats and numerous educational opportunities. Yes, that’s right, there are countless educational opportunities at Disney. Have you ever imagined being in the presence of all 45 U.S. presidents? Do you have questions about the formation of our Constitution? Do you wonder what it would have been like to watch Abraham Lincoln deliver his Gettysburg address? Have you ever wanted to see authentic presidential artifacts dating back to George Washington? If you answered yes to any of those questions, then The Hall of Presidents is one Walt Disney World attraction that you don’t want to miss.
What is The Hall of Presidents?
Walt Disney dreamed of an attraction where every president would come to life before your eyes. The originally animated wax figures that were conceived weren’t life-like enough for Walt. Then, Disney Imagineers were challenged to develop the first audio-animatronics figures in human form. These startlingly realistic audio-animatronics replicas have been running in The Hall of Presidents since opening day in 1971.
For over 50 years, this attraction has been updated every 4 to 8 years with the newest presidential addition. It is nestled behind Cinderella’s Castle in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom. The Hall of Presidents was designed to be a replica of Independence Hall in Philadelphia. There is a sign outside the building with the year 1787, which refers to the date the Constitution was signed.
Artifacts You’ll See in the Museum
The Hall of Presidents is recognized as a federal presidential museum because of all the historic artifacts in the lobby of this beautiful theater. You can find dresses of former First Ladies, boots, beer mugs, presidential chinaware, golf clubs, and other authentic artifacts dating back to the 1700s.
The Great Seal of the U.S.
Another impressive item located in the lobby is the Great Seal of the United States. It required an act of Congress for The Hall of Presidents to use the Great Seal. The only other place this Great Seal can be seen is in the White House. When you finish browsing the impressive lobby, you are ushered into a 700-seat theater to view a 25-minute film that covers the dramatic story of our nation’s founding, the origins of the Constitution, and the presidency. When the film ends, the stage reveals lifelike audio-animatronics versions of 45 U.S. presidents. Each figure moves, nodding their head or gesturing in some way, as their names are called. If you are wondering why there are 45 and not 46 figures onstage, it’s because Grover Cleveland served two non-consecutive terms as both the 22nd and 24th president.
As you can see, The Hall of Presidents is a must-do attraction at Walt Disney World. Be sure to check it out on your next visit to the Magic Kingdom.
About Bliss Welch: Bliss is a Quantum® brand ambassador and Ms. Wheelchair Tennessee 2013. Bliss is actively involved in the disability community. She uses a motorized wheelchair for mobility and enjoys traveling and spending time with her daughter. Click here to learn more about Bliss.
For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!
Return to the Life At iLevel page
