If you’re craving a trip to the Hundred Acre Wood, chances are you’ve hopped in a Hunny Pot at The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh at Walt Disney World Resort. Did you know that this week, this buzz-worthy attraction turns 25? To celebrate, we’ve gathered the best vintage photos of Winnie the Pooh and pals, as well as of the attraction through the years.
Back in 1998, a sign in Fantasyland announced the future The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh attraction at Disney World.
While Pooh and friends anticipated their scrumptious adventure into the Hundred Acre Wood, they still had quite the presence in the park — including at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in 1997!
Rarer characters such as Owl, Kanga and Roo even made special appearances.
On June 4, 1999, The Many Adventures of the Winnie the Pooh opened its doors! Guests hopped in an oversized Hunny Pot and followed Pooh, Tigger, Gopher, Piglet and more in a delightful romp through the classic Walt Disney Animation film “Winnie the Pooh.”
If the ride’s exterior looks a little different these days, in 2010, the queue and façade were completely reimagined — including relocating a 120-ton tree to blend the space with the new Fantasyland expansion.
Guests now explore Tigger’s Bouncy Place, Rabbit’s Garden, Pooh’s Hunny Hives and more as they wander through the queue. It’s an interactive experience that’s sure to leave a rumbly in your tumbly!
Pooh and friends have continued to venture out of the Hundred-Acre Wood through the decades, from a group photo in front of Cinderella Castle in 2000 to an appearance in the Share A Dream Come True Parade that debuted in 2001 for Walt Disney World’s 100 Years of Magic Celebration.
In 2011, the pals even stopped by Disney’s Animal Kingdom! These days, you may spot them at Magic Kingdom or EPCOT — including everyday appearances at The Crystal Palace.
We hope you enjoyed this small smackerel of Disney history! Next time you embark on a blustery day on The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, keep an eye out for another nod to the attraction’s past — an homage to Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride which occupied the space until 1999.
For more ways to celebrate all things Pooh, put your trivia skills to the test or see how this willy, nilly, silly ol’ bear touches hearts around the world. And stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more looks back in time.