Happy Thursday and Welcome Back Main Streeters. Have you ever wondered where the inspiration for Main Street U.S.A. came from? I had always thought it came from Walt’s beautiful imagination, but this week I learned something new and boy do I have a very special blog to share with you as I am writing this on Mountain Time direct from Colorado.
Why am I in Colorado? Well, my husband (Chef Charming) planned this surprise trip, but as any good Disney obsessed human does, I was able to find a way to tie our time here in with some subtle Disney connections. You may be wondering “how so?”; well, today I literally walked in Walt’s footsteps, if even for a brief moment.
Main Street U.S.A. has the quaint town feel, the old architecture, and the nostalgia of time far gone. Imagine my surprise when I researched things to do in Colorado and I found a connection to Walt. Today, I found his inspiration for Main Street U.S.A. in Fort Collins, Colorado.
To be fair, Main Street is based on two separate places, the other being Marceline, Missouri. However, in Fort Collins I got the privilege to tour two original buildings that mirror some of the architecture that you would immediately recognize as you stroll down Main Street U.S.A.; the emporium and the iconic firehouse.
So if you ever find yourself in Colorado, you too can walk in Walt’s footsteps. Fort Collins has a tourism office that is proud to provide visitors with information on Walt’s whereabouts and how he drew inspiration from the small town to create what we know today as the warm and friendly streets that greet us upon entering Disneyland and Walt Disney World.
Until Next Week!
Erika is excited to be on the TMSM team and where Disney Parks are concerned, you won’t catch her dead on It’s a Small World. If she asks to ride that, this is a clear indication that she is in danger and you must send help. You will, however, catch her performing Random Acts of Disney (R.A.D’s), park hopping with her amazing group of impressively talented and kind friends (usually in some themed attire), hanging out by The Haunted Mansion, and ugly crying during fireworks… then begging for a Mickey Premium Bar to eat her feelings…this is a judgment-free bio.
Otherwise, Erika works for the State of Florida and is actively involved in her community. Erika believes in empowering others and spreading kindness to people from all walks of life. Erika also makes custom designed Disney inspired ears, etched glass, gifts, and accessories. You can check out, like or follow her work on FB, which also links to my shop’s Instagram: www.facebook.com/imagineering.emporium. She looks forward to getting to know everyone and sharing the magic of Disney!
- Will Galaxy’s Edge be available during Extra Magic Hours? - May 23, 2019
- Three Limited Disney Rewards for Summer - May 16, 2019
- Walking in Walt’s Footsteps - May 9, 2019