Disney parks are some of the most magical places on Earth! Whether you’re a kid, a parent, or just a big fan of Mickey and friends, there’s something for everyone. These parks are full of rides, shows, characters, and food that make you feel like you’re inside your favorite story.
TL;DR
There are 12 Disney theme parks located inside 6 Disney resorts around the world. These resorts are in the USA, France, Japan, China, and Hong Kong. Each one has its own rides and style, but they all share that special Disney magic. Let’s explore each one and learn where your next adventure might be!
1. Disneyland Resort — California, USA
This is where it all began! The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California opened in 1955. Walt Disney himself helped design it.
There are 2 parks here:
- Disneyland Park – The original park, with classics like Sleeping Beauty Castle, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Space Mountain.
- Disney California Adventure – Full of attractions based on Pixar and Marvel, and home to Cars Land and Avengers Campus.
2. Walt Disney World Resort — Florida, USA
This is the biggest Disney resort in the world! Located in Orlando, Florida, it opened in 1971. It’s almost like its own city!
There are 4 theme parks at Walt Disney World:
- Magic Kingdom – Features Cinderella Castle and rides like the Haunted Mansion and Jungle Cruise.
- EPCOT – A park devoted to science and world cultures. Don’t miss Spaceship Earth or the World Showcase!
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Full of action with rides like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Toy Story Land.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom – A mix of zoo and theme park! It’s got the amazing Pandora – The World of Avatar.
3. Disneyland Paris — France
Bonjour from Disneyland Paris! This resort opened in 1992, just a short train ride from Paris.
There are 2 parks in this magical European spot:
- Disneyland Park – With Sleeping Beauty Castle and a beautiful European twist to the classic rides.
- Walt Disney Studios Park – A behind-the-scenes look at movies and animation, plus new Avengers and Frozen lands!
4. Tokyo Disney Resort — Japan
Located just outside Tokyo, this resort is incredibly detailed and super clean. It opened in 1983. It’s very popular with Japanese families and tourists from all over the world.
There are 2 parks here, and one of them is pretty special:
- Tokyo Disneyland – Shares many of the same rides as the U.S. parks, but everything is a bit more polished!
- Tokyo DisneySea – Only found in Japan and known for its stunning design. It features ocean adventures and a Venetian harbor!
5. Hong Kong Disneyland — Hong Kong, China
Open since 2005, Hong Kong Disneyland is set against beautiful green mountains. It’s smaller but mighty!
This resort has 1 theme park (for now!):
- Hong Kong Disneyland Park – Features unique rides, including Mystic Manor (a fan favorite) and an updated Frozen-themed land.
6. Shanghai Disney Resort — Shanghai, China
The newest resort, Shanghai Disney Resort, opened in 2016. It’s a fresh take on Disney parks, with plenty of space and modern tech.
This resort has 1 huge park so far:
- Shanghai Disneyland – Includes the world’s largest Disney castle, a high-tech Tron Lightcycle roller coaster, and Pirates of the Caribbean with amazing effects.
So, How Many Disney Parks Are There?
Let’s add it all up:
- California: 2 parks
- Florida: 4 parks
- Paris: 2 parks
- Tokyo: 2 parks
- Hong Kong: 1 park
- Shanghai: 1 park
Grand Total: 12 Disney theme parks around the world!
Each Park Is Unique
Even though there are some rides you may find in multiple parks, each Disney park has something special. For example:
- Mystic Manor in Hong Kong – Like Haunted Mansion, but with an original story and no ghosts.
- Tron Lightcycle Run in Shanghai – A super fast and futuristic roller coaster that’s also now coming to Florida.
- DisneySea in Tokyo – Arguably the most beautiful Disney park on Earth!
Can You Visit Them All?
Totally! Some Disney super-fans make it their goal to visit all 12 parks. It takes time, money, and planning—but what a journey!
Each park offers magic, fun, and memories that last forever.
Tips for Planning a Disney Park Visit
If you’re thinking about going, here are a few quick tips:
- Start small: Try out a nearby park first before planning a world tour.
- Book early: Tickets and hotels fill up fast, especially during holidays.
- Use the app: Most Disney parks have their own app for maps, wait times, and mobile food ordering.
- Don’t rush: There’s a lot to see, so give yourself enough time to explore.
- Plan breaks: Disney days can be long. Take time to relax!
Final Thoughts
From the classic charm of Disneyland in California to the futuristic thrills of Shanghai Disney, there’s a Disney park for everyone. Whether you love princesses, pirates, or Pixar, you’ll find something to smile about.
And remember: growing up is optional in a place where magic is real!
