Another California Location Takes on “it’s a small world,” Ride Departs Disneyland

Another California tourist destination will soon exhibit pieces of “it’s a small world” history as part of a larger exhibit on Disney Legend Mary Blair. Here’s everything you need to know.

Beginning May 22, 2025, The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco, California, will showcase “Mary Blair: Mid-Century Magic,” a reimagining of the 2014 “Magic, Color, Flair: the world of Mary Blair” exhibit. It will feature over 150 artworks and historical photographs “exploring her influential role in shaping the look and feel of many of Disney’s animated films and theme park experiences.” Guests can also participate in hands-on art activities and augmented reality experiences through their smartphones.

Mary Blair was “one of Walt Disney’s most imaginative and renowned designers and art directors.” Her watercolor art style is instantly recognizable in the many films she contributed to, including The Three Caballeros (1944), Peter Pan (1953), Alice in Wonderland (1951), and Cinderella (1950). She also illustrated several children’s books, some of which remain in print today.

Among Disney Parks fans, Blair is best known for her contributions to the original “it’s a small world” attraction, which first appeared at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair and later moved to Fantasyland at Disneyland Park. She left a mark on several other attractions, facades, and murals throughout Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, including the iconic murals in Disney’s Contemporary Resort’s Grand Canyon Concourse.

Mary Blair: Mid-Century Magic will begin welcoming guests in The Walt Disney Family Museum’s Lower Lobby and Theater Galleries on May 22. Admission to this special exhibit is free with a museum ticket ($25 for adults, $20 for students and seniors, and $15 for children 6-17), but a $5 donation is recommended. The exhibit runs until September 7, 2025.

The Walt Disney Family Museum is located in the Presidio in San Francisco, California. Founded by Diane Disney Miller, the museum showcases artifacts, photographs, artwork, and more from Walt Disney’s childhood, beginnings in animation, and time designing the Disney parks. It’s open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with the last entry at 4:30. Tickets are available here.

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