Disney Fans Share Rare Behind-The-Scenes Walkaround of Carousel of Progress Just Before Closure

Rare Walkaround Video Gives Fans an Unprecedented Look Inside Carousel of Progress Before Its Closure

As Walt Disney World’s iconic Carousel of Progress begins its biggest transformation in more than 60 years, Disney fans are getting one last chance to appreciate the attraction like never before.

Following the ride’s final performance on July 5, members of the fan community have shared rare walkaround footage captured inside the Carousel of Progress theater years before its closure. The newly released video from Carousel Club on YouTube offers stunning close-up views of the attraction’s Audio-Animatronics, props, and intricate set details that guests normally only glimpse from their rotating theater seats.

Related: Disney Removes Any Mention of Carousel of Progress from the PeopleMover

The footage was originally filmed in March 2022 by members of the Carousel Club YouTube channel but was intentionally held back until after the attraction officially closed. During select rides with an otherwise empty theater, the group received permission from Cast Members to carefully walk along the front of the stage while remaining off the show sets. Using camera extensions, they were able to capture incredibly detailed views of the scenes without stepping onto the stage or interfering with the attraction’s operation.

The result is one of the most detailed looks ever shared of the classic attraction’s show scenes, highlighting just how much craftsmanship has gone into the attraction since it first debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. From the turn-of-the-century family to the memorable Christmas scene and the futuristic finale, the video preserves countless details that many guests never had the opportunity to notice during a normal ride.

The timing couldn’t be more fitting. Disney has already begun work on a sweeping reimagining of Carousel of Progress that will dramatically update its storyline. The attraction will now begin in 1969 before moving through scenes set in 1985 and 1999, ultimately ending in a reimagined vision of the future. Guests will also be welcomed by a brand-new introduction featuring a Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic inspired by his presentation of the attraction at the 1964 World’s Fair.

Related: More Extended Evening Hours Added for Disney’s Hollywood Studios

With construction walls now surrounding the attraction and even the nearby Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover removing its Carousel of Progress narration, this newly released footage serves as a remarkable time capsule of a Disney classic that entertained generations of guests for decades.

If you’re hoping to experience all of the exciting changes coming to Magic Kingdom when Carousel of Progress eventually returns, our friends at Get Away Today can help you plan the perfect Walt Disney World vacation with great savings on tickets and resort stays.

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