25 years ago today, Disney California Adventure opened its gates to the public for the first time. With the following statement, then Disney CEO Michael Eisner welcomed the world to this second park at the Disneyland Resort:

To all who believe in the power of dreams, welcome. Disney’s California Adventure opens its golden gates to you. Here we pay tribute to the dreamers of the past: the native people, explorers, immigrants, aviators, entrepreneurs and entertainers who built the Golden State. And we salute a new generation of dreamers who are creating the wonders of tomorrow, from the silver screen to the computer screen, from the fertile farmlands to the far reaches of space. Disney’s California Adventure celebrates the richness and the diversity of California… its land, its people, its spirit and, above all, the dreams that it continues to inspire. —Michael D. Eisner, February 8, 2001

Daps Magic team member Doug Marsh was on hand for this special day. In fact, he was one of the first 30 people who entered the park on February 8, 2001 (He shared about the park that day in this post).

25 years later, the Disneyland Resort is celebrating this milestone in several ways. One of which is the handing out of new maps. These maps celebrate the history of Disney California Adventure and gives a nostalgic look back at the second gate at the resort. Check out what they look like below:

Along with the maps, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse were out greeting fans in their new outfits that debuted on Friday as part of the 25th Anniversary celebration. Here is a look from their first set of the anniversary day:

The marquee on the Carthay Circle Restaurant also was celebrating the milestone:

Here is video from their debut day on Friday February, 6, 2026:

Soarin’ Over California was also in high demand as guests flew over the Golden State on a nostalgia-filled journey. The attraction end opened just ahead of the park opening and the line has grown throughout the day.

There was also merchandise to commemorate the event, food, and the very popular novelty bucket. Photos of these can be seen here:

Disney California Adventure debuted 25 years ago, was transformed about a decade ago (a little more), and now is continuing to grow and expand as it heads into the coming decade. Just like California, it continues to grow and evolve with new inspiration and ideas. The future of Disney California Adventure is an exciting one and the past is worth celebrating!

What is your favorite Disney California Adventure memory? Share your memories of this park in the comments below!

More Disney California Adventure 25th Anniversary:

Thank you to Spencer, Johnny, and Doug for contributing to this report.