Abandoned Disney Theme Parks: River Country and Discovery Island
Abandoned Disney Theme Parks: River Country and Discovery Island
Walt Disney World, beloved by millions for its enchanting attractions and towering mascots, once held more expansive and diverse projects, some of which met untimely endings, leading to instances of abandoned Disney theme parks. Two such notable parks are Disney's River Country and Disney's Discovery Island. These historic parks, while not part of the conventional theme park experience, are poignant reminders of Disney's past endeavors.
Disney's River Country: The First Water Park at Walt Disney World
River Country, the first water park at Walt Disney World Resort, opened in 1976 as a splash of adventure and fun for park visitors. With its idyllic array of water slides, splash pads, and various amenities, it quickly became a favorite among families. However, by 2001, the park faced significant challenges, with declining attendance and issues related to water safety.
The park's closure was not a sudden decision, but rather the result of a strategic move by Disney. The company had built more accessible and modern water parks, such as Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, which drew more visitors. River Country was left to wither and decay, its structures and attractions abandoned to the elements for years. In 2007, Disney decided to demolish the site to make way for a new project. However, the Disney Vacation Club resort that was planned for the location faced cancellation due to the ongoing economic challenges, leaving the site mostly obscured by nature.
Disney's Discovery Island: Home to Wildlife and Nature Trails
Discovery Island, located in Bay Lake, was never a traditional theme park but instead a zoological park featuring animal exhibits and nature trails. Known for its unique setting on a private island, it attracted visitors with its close encounters with exotic flora and fauna. The island was accessible only by special bus or boat, making it a hidden gem.
With the advent of the highly successful Disney's Animal Kingdom, which opened in 1998, the need for Discovery Island diminished. In 1999, the island was closed, and the animals were relocated to their new home. Despite its noble existence as a wildlife sanctuary, Discovery Island was left to rot, a testament to the ever-changing landscape of Disney's attractions.
Urban Exploration and Decay
The deserted and ignored nature of these parks has made them popular targets for urban explorers. These adventurers have found a variety of fascinating and sometimes disturbing relics on these sites. In the case of River Country, cast member photos and even dead animals, preserved in formaldehyde, have been discovered within the decaying buildings. Similarly, Discovery Island has been documented with eerie images of abandoned castles and other structures, hinting at the island's former glory.
Conclusion
While these parks are not conventional theme parks in the way we know them today, they hold significant cultural and historical value. They remind us of Disney's evolution and the complex decisions that shape its attractions. Whether through strategic planning or unforeseen circumstances, these abandoned parks remain a unique part of Disney's legacy.