Tag Archives: Disney Park

March 30, 1996 – The Mike Fink Keel Boats Attraction Reopens in Disneyland

On March 30, 1996, the Mike Fink Keel Boats attraction reopened in Disneyland after being closed for two years. The attraction, named after the boats from the Davy Crockett television serial (specifically the episode “Davy Crockett’s Keel Boat Race”), had originally been open since December 25, 1955, before it closed in 1994. This reopening was short-lived, however, as the attraction was closed permanently on May 17, 1997. Versions of the attraction were available in Walt Disney World (opening on October 1, 1971), and Disneyland Paris (also known as River Rogue Keelboats, and opening April 12, 1992).

March 8, 1999 – The Swiss Family Treehouse Closes in Disneyland

“Explore the ultimate treehouse – and behold breathtaking views – inspired by the classic Disney film, Swiss Family Robinson.”

On March 8, 1999, the long-standing Adventureland attraction Swiss Family Treehouse closed in Disneyland. Based on the treehouse from the 1960 live action feature film Swiss Family Robinson, the man-made tree structure had been open since 1962; it was repurposed to advertise the latest animated feature film Tarzan by becoming Tarzan’s Treehouse. The treehouse was redesigned to fit the treehouse seen in the animated feature, added vignettes and mementos to explain Tarzan’s life story, and included a base camp area set up by Jane and Tarzan. Versions of the Swiss Family Treehouse still exist in other Disney Parks, such as Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris, and Tokyo Disneyland.