This is what Disneyland looked like when it opened 70 years ago (PICS)

Billed as the “Happiest Place on Earth,” Disneyland opened on July 17, 1955, marking the birth of the modern theme park industry. Walt Disney envisioned a clean, themed space for families to enjoy attractions inspired by his stories and films. Despite initial skepticism and challenges, Disneyland opened with a grand ceremony televised on ABC. On opening day, admission was $1 for adults and 50 cents for kids, with additional costs for rides. The original park featured five themed lands and 20 attractions, which have since expanded to over 50. A second park, Disney California Adventure, was added in 2001. The company continues to grow, embodying Walt Disney’s belief that “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.”