On October 1, 1971, Walt Disney World Resort opened near Orlando, Florida. The new park, centered on the Magic Kingdom, was built on thousands of acres and was planned as a full vacation destination. It expanded the Disney concept beyond a single theme park to include hotels, golf courses, and future parks. Opening day drew thousands of visitors who experienced attractions modeled on Disneyland and new areas unique to Florida. The resort quickly became a major driver of tourism in Central Florida and a symbol of modern American entertainment. Over time, it grew into one of the most visited vacation spots in the world, influencing theme park design globally.
