Space Mountain is one of the 4 “mountains” located in Disneyland.  It opened in 1977 (Space Mountain in Walt Disney World opened in 1975) and has been through a series of renovations and improvements since its opening.  It is a space-themed, indoor roller coaster with high speed turns and drops that you get to experience in darkness.

In 1997, it received a bit of a face lift when the outside was painted in an array of colors to match the recent face lift of Tomorrow land.  The colors that adorned the outside were green, gold, copper and bronze.  The main ride itself was left unchanged during this renovation.

Beginning in April of 2003 Space Mountain began a 2-year project that would end just before Disneyland celebrated its 50^th Anniversary.  On July 15^th, 2015, Space Mountain was back open and the outside had been painted back to its original white color.  During this re-opening ceremony, Neil Armstrong the guest speaker, was presented with a plaque that read “Presented to Mr. Neil Armstrong for his courage and adventurous spirit that continues to inspire all mankind to reach for the stars”.  The plaque also had a famous Disney quote, “It’s kinda fun to do the impossible”.  During this renovation, there were some major ride changes which included a complete replacement of the original track and ride vehicles.  The vehicles would now hold 6 passengers instead of just 3 which helps to get more people on the ride quicker.

In 2015 Star Wars changed the way we see Space Mountain when it became “Hyperspace Mountain”.  During the ride, you are immersed into the world of Star Wars and battling the empire.  The sights and sounds of Star Wars come alive during the ride and even the ride vehicles have changed names, they are now referred to as “reconnaissance vessels”.  The setting is the planet Jakku from Star Wars: The Force Awakens and during the pre-flight safety video, you will also receive a briefing from Admiral Ackbar.

On June 1^st, 2017, you will be cleared to take off from the classic Space Mountain again as it gets ready to celebrate its 40^th Anniversary.   Buckle those safety belts and hang on for an out of this world roller coaster experience.

If you’re looking to blast off for a vacation to Disneyland, let me know how I can help you plan an intergalactic adventure.

To Infinity and Beyond Travel – Traci