Walt Disney World Resort’s iconic “it’s a small world” attraction, which has been a staple at Magic Kingdom since the park’s opening in 1971, is showing signs of wear after decades of operation. Recently, Disney Park guests noticed damage to the attraction’s colorful clock tower facade.
“it’s a small world,” which first premiered at the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair, holds a special place in Disney history. The attraction was created to support the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and was designed by Mary Blair and Alice Davis, with music by Richard and Robert Sherman.
When the ride opened at Disneyland Resort in 1966, it became an instant classic, and it wasn’t long before a version was introduced at Walt Disney World Resort.
The ride’s facade was repainted in 2021, bringing fresh colors to the decades-old attraction. The iconic clock tower’s smiling face and painted numbers were updated with glittering gold hues. However, recent reports indicate that one of the numbers is showing signs of damage.
According to WDWNT, the top half of the number three has disappeared, leaving behind a noticeable mark on the blue wall where it once stood. The cause of the damage is not entirely clear, but it appears to have been caused by an unruly guest.
Most of the clock numbers are too high for guests to reach, but six and three are closer to the ground and may be more vulnerable to accidental or intentional damage. Walt Disney World Resort has yet to announce plans to repair the damage.
“it’s a small world” continues to play an important role in Disney parks worldwide. Disneyland Park in California is currently updating its version of the attraction as part of the resort’s 70th anniversary celebrations. New elements, including Coco (2017) dolls and a new final verse to the song, will be introduced later this year.
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