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Did you know one of Disney’s first major thrill rides also features its own basketball court?
Credit: Disney
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Nestled within the enchanting structure of Disneyland’s Matterhorn Bobsleds is a little-known secret: a basketball court. This quirky feature makes the attraction not just famed for being the first tubular steel rollercoaster, but also for harboring this hidden gem.
Although many guests zoom down the slopes in their bobsleds, few are aware that just above the rollercoaster’s lift-hill engines lies a small area equipped with a full backboard and net, serving as an unexpected retreat amidst the thrill of the ride.
The basketball court itself is modest but charming, resembling what one might see in a small attic rather than a full-fledged sports facility.
The court does not conform to the dimensions of an official basketball area; instead, it is a half-court setup. Its compact size offers just enough room for cast members to take a break from their duties and engage in a quick game or shoot some hoops. The whimsical nature of having a court so high up adds to the legendary atmosphere of the ride, inviting curiosity and amusement among both staff and inquisitive guests.
Located in the upper third of the Matterhorn, the court is cleverly concealed from the view of riders zooming beneath.
Credit: Invisible Theme Park
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The Origin of the Basketball Court Myth
Throughout the years, whispers about the basketball court’s existence have circulated, often rooted in a playful myth concerning local zoning regulations.
In the 1950s, it was said that the City of Anaheim only permitted buildings of a certain height if they included sports facilities. This supposedly led Disneyland to install the court as a strategic move to sidestep potential fines. However, this tale is nothing but a curious fabrication.
While it served a comedic purpose in Disney lore, the truth is a more straightforward story. The legend, suggesting that the court was a clever loophole for zoning compliance, captures that unique Disney essence of storytelling. The whimsical nature of the rumor is part of what keeps Disneyland’s magic alive, sparking laughter and interest in the theme park’s hidden aspects.
The actual reason for the court’s installation is much simpler. Originally, the area served as a break room for climbers and cast members, who needed a spot to rest during rain and performances.
As the necessity for such spaces evolved, the basketball rim and markings were added in the early 1960s for entertainment during downtime. It became a playful addition rather than a mandated feature, embodying the unexpected surprises that Disneyland is known for.
Credit: Invisible Theme Park
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Unsurprisingly, the basketball court is not open to the public, making it a delightful little secret known primarily to cast members and serious Disneyland aficionados. Public access is restricted, as only individuals involved with park operations would typically have the chance to see this hidden space, preserving its mystique for the general public.
For those fortunate enough to have ventured to the court, experiences often include an element of excitement and camaraderie. Cast members share stories of spontaneous games played during their breaks, reveling in the joy of stepping away from their duties even if just for a moment. The court serves as a backdrop for memories made in between the hustle and bustle of the park.
