Discover "it's a small world"
Our tips:
- Keep an eye on the clock
- Look out for familiar characters
- Christmas in a small world
"it's a small world"
"it's a small world" is the famous boat ride in Fantasyland. You sail past nearly 300 Audio-Animatronics dolls: children from every corner of the world singing the well-known song in their own language. The attraction opened in Disneyland Park on 28 May 1966.
The concept
The attraction was created for the 1964-1965 New York World's Fair, in support of UNICEF. Afterwards it moved to Disneyland. The song "It's a Small World (After All)" was written by brothers Richard and Robert Sherman. Art director Mary Blair gave the attraction its cheerful style, with bright colours and simple shapes. Alice Davis designed the more than 300 costumes.
The Experience
You sail along the canal of the Seven Seaways from country to country. Along the way you'll spot Peter Pan and Tinker Bell in England, Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket in Italy, and Woody, Bullseye and Jessie in the south-west of the USA. By the end, you'll understand why it really is a small world.
Discover "it's a small world"
Keep an eye on the clock
Every quarter of an hour, the clock tower, some 9 metres tall, opens up. A parade of 24 figures passes by and two toy jesters announce the time.
Look out for familiar characters
Since 2009, Disney and Pixar characters have also appeared among the dolls, such as Cinderella in France and Ariel under the sea.
Christmas in a small world
Over the Christmas period, the façade is decked with thousands of lights and the dolls sing Christmas songs too.
Visitor information
There is no minimum height. Children under 7 must be accompanied by someone aged 14 or over. If you use a mobility scooter, you'll need to transfer to a wheelchair. The attraction is part of Lightning Lane Multi Pass, which lets you choose a time slot in the app so you spend less time queuing. Disneyland Resort hotel guests can also select it with the Lightning Lane Entry Benefit (once, on one day of their stay). In certain wind conditions, the attraction may close during fireworks shows. According to Disney, "it's a small world" Holiday returns for the Christmas period from 13 November 2026.
A song you'll keep humming
"it's a small world" is a true Disney classic that has been recreated in several places around the world. Outside, take a moment to enjoy the moving façade too.
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