What if I told you the man who brought magic to the world had a fascinating story all his own? Right here in San Francisco’s Presidio stands The Walt Disney Family Museum. It’s a place dedicated to the life and legacy of Walt Disney.
The Walt Disney Family Museum isn’t just another museum. It’s a journey through Walt’s personal and professional life. The museum opened its doors on October 1 2009. It’s housed in three historic buildings that were renovated. These buildings are part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The main building is at 104 Montgomery Street facing the Parade Ground.
Diane Disney Miller was Walt’s daughter. She founded the Walt Disney Family Foundation. This foundation formally owned operated and funded the museum. It was her vision to honor her father. She wanted to showcase his incredible story. The Walt Disney Family Museum isn’t formally associated with The Walt Disney Company. However the museum often works with different parts of the company. This collaboration allows the museum to display items from the Walt Disney Archives.
Inside The Walt Disney Family Museum, you will find 40000 square feet of exhibits. These exhibits feature the newest technology. They also display historic materials and artifacts. You can explore Walt’s early drawings. Watch animated movies and listen to music. One highlight is a twelve-foot diameter model of Disneyland.
The museum’s lobby showcases 248 awards that Disney won. These include the Presidential Medal of Freedom. There are also many Academy Awards. A special Oscar represents Snow White. It features one full-sized Oscar. Seven miniature Oscars represent the Seven Dwarfs. There is even a Fantasia-inspired digital Theater. It screens Disney films daily.
Ten permanent galleries take you through Walt’s life. The journey starts with his family history. It ends with his death on December 15 1966. You can also see pieces from Walt Disney’s Carolwood Pacific Railroad. His beloved Lilly Belle locomotive is on display.
Randy Malamud from the Chronicle of Higher Education praised the museum. He said it compels us to think twice about Disney’s work. Edward Rothstein of The New York Times compared the museum to a ride. He noted it tells a story much like Disneyland itself.
The Walt Disney Family Museum offers something for everyone. It has exhibits for adults. It also has film screenings and classes for kids. You can visit the museum store for unique gifts. Or grab a snack at the café. The museum is open Thursdays through Sundays. It is located next to the Lodge at the Presidio.
So step inside The Walt Disney Family Museum. Explore the life of a true visionary. Discover the man behind the magic.