Space Mountain opened at Disneyland May 27, 1977, so yesterday was its 37th anniversary. This is one of my favorite rides at Disneyland, behind Pirates of the Caribbean and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. I find it interesting that it actually opened in the Magic Kingdom (1975) before it opened at Disneyland. It had been thought up in the 60s but there too many other projects in production so it was postponed. If you compare the two rides you’ll notice that the one in the Magic Kingdom seems to dominate the skyline where the one at Disneyland is much less imposing. This is because the one at Magic Kingdom is all above ground because of the water table, while the one at Disneyland is mostly underground. I like Disneyland’s version better because it is darker and thus feels faster.
As most rides at Disneyland do, Space Mountain has changed through the years. They added a soundtrack, the first burst of speed was increased, and now they have a Ghost Galaxy overlay during the Fall. Except for the technology changes I haven’t cared for the improvements they made. I finally experienced Ghost Galaxy last September and I was not impressed. What does impress me is that no matter what they do to this attraction it is still a thrilling ride through the dark that makes me scream with delight. At its core it is an awesome roller coaster.
And now it is time for my confession. I love the chocolate chip cookie that spins through the ride. I look for it every time. I know it is not a chocolate chip cookie but it really looks like one and I hope they never change it. It just wouldn’t be Space Mountain without it. Happiness squared.
Goofy Tip: Disneyland does not have Fastpass+ but you can Fastpass Space Mountain. If I enter the park at opening I try to ride this attraction first so I don’t have to stand in line. Otherwise I would Fastpass it because the lines can get long. But don’t wait too long to get your Fastpass or else they may all be used up.