Once Upon Magic · History
The history of
Disneyland Paris
From the signing of a convention in 1987 to the opening of Disney Adventure World in 2026: over three decades of magic, challenges, and transformation in Marne-la-Vallée.
Some projects seem impossible — and become essential. The story of Disneyland Paris is that of an American dream planted in the heart of the Seine-et-Marne region, which has become one of Europe's most iconic destinations in just a few decades.
From the controversy surrounding the "American mouse" to welcoming hundreds of millions of visitors, from that first day of April 1992 to the opening of Disney Adventure World in March 2026, every chapter of this story tells of a major transformation.
At Once Upon Magic, as long-time enthusiasts, we share with you the key dates, moments of doubt, the resort's developments, and the announcements that have captured the hearts of Disney fans.
Key dates
Over 30 years of history
at a glance
France signs the founding convention of the Euro Disneyland project with The Walt Disney Company in Marne-la-Vallée. Work then begins on a vast area destined to become much more than just an amusement park.
A few days before the park opens, the Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy station is put into service. This direct connection to Paris becomes one of the destination's major assets.
The gates of Euro Disneyland open for the first time. The public discovers Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, the iconic lands, and a new Disney destination in Europe.
After a difficult financial start, the resort changes its name and adopts a clearer, more European identity, and one more associated with the tourist power of Paris.
Ten years after Disneyland Park, Walt Disney Studios Park opens its doors. Disneyland Paris then becomes a two-theme-park resort.
The attraction Ratatouille: The Adventure strengthens the bond between Disney, Paris, and French gastronomy, while becoming one of the flagship experiences of the second park.
The opening of the Marvel Avengers Campus land marks a major milestone in the transformation of the second park and the arrival of new immersive experiences.
Walt Disney Studios Park becomes Disney Adventure World. With Adventure Way, World of Frozen, and a spectacular central lake, the second park enters a new dimension.
Chapter 1 · 1987–1992
France bets on
the impossible
In the 1980s, Disney sought to establish a major resort in Europe. Several countries were considered, but France ultimately stood out thanks to its geographical location, its access to Paris, and the development potential of Marne-la-Vallée.
On March 24, 1987, the convention was signed. Construction work gradually transformed a vast area of Seine-et-Marne into a tourist destination designed to welcome visitors from all over Europe.
On April 12, 1992, Euro Disneyland officially opened its doors. Sleeping Beauty Castle instantly became one of the most recognizable symbols of the destination.
Chapter 2 · 1992–2002
Crisis, then
a rebirth
The early years were not easy. The resort faced economic difficulties, cultural criticism, and the need to adapt its model to the European public.
In 1994, Euro Disneyland became Disneyland Paris. This name change marked an important repositioning: the destination took greater ownership of its link with Paris and European tourism.
In 2002, the opening of Walt Disney Studios Park added a new dimension to the resort. Disneyland Paris then became a two-park destination, with renewed ambition.
Chapter 3 · 2018–2026
A historic investment to
reinvent the dream
In 2018, Disney announced a major investment plan to transform the second park. This evolution has been gradually taking shape with new lands, new experiences, and a more immersive ambition.
Marvel Avengers Campus opened in 2022, followed by several major transformations of the resort, including the reopening of the Disneyland Hotel in an entirely reimagined version.
On March 29, 2026, the second park became Disney Adventure World. With World of Frozen, Adventure Way, and its central lake, Disneyland Paris opened a new chapter of its history.
In numbers
Disneyland Paris
in a few figures
Our shop
Souvenirs
that tell this story
“Disneyland Paris is the place where dreams come true for millions of European families— and this story continues to be written.”
Once Upon Magic · Disney Culture
Your next chapter
starts here.
Find a selection of official Disneyland Paris souvenirs, carefully chosen for Disney fans and collectors.
Discover the shop© 2026 Once Upon Magic — Independent shop specializing in Disney merchandise. Once Upon Magic is not affiliated with The Walt Disney Company or Disneyland Paris. The mentioned brands, characters, and universes belong to their respective owners.
Some examples mentioned in this guide are no longer offered on the site. To check current references and availability, find Disneyland Paris souvenirs here.