This view through the middle of Discoveryland might appear strange to the modern visitor for several reasons. First, the obvious absence of Space Mountain to the right, later built right up to the edge of the lush green planters seen here.

Second, the view towards Star Tours is far more open than today — and the two planters outside the entrance to Videopolis Theatre have an interesting story to tell as to why. It’s well-known that the two round windows in this side of Videopolis were originally intended to connect with overhead walkways leading directly inside Discovery Mountain, when it was planned to be a far larger, indoor area comprising several attractions. What’s less talked-about is that these walkways were, in fact, partially constructed during the original phase of Discoveryland.

Original plans show two elevated walkways extending from the building, only two come to an end at two large staircases — standing exactly where these planters lie. However, the story goes that Michael Eisner, upon taking a preview tour of the park, was so horrified at how they blocked the view of his much-trumpeted Star Tours he requested they be removed immediately. And so, the hard-worked crews who had just finished painstakingly welding the complex structures together had to start all over again to remove them. The two areas remained as planters and were eventually surrounded by railings and given unusual trees, filling out the empty space.

Tags  Discoveryland • Disneyland Park • Space Mountain • Star Tours • Videopolis