A Lifetime of Influence

Where the Magic Began - Marceline, Missouri

Walt Disney spent his formative boyhood years here in Marceline. In the years since, his Marceline roots influenced the trajectory of Walt's life, and have become part of the heartbeat of much of what this true American visionary created. 

Main Street USA in every Disney Theme Park around the world is Walt's not-so-suble nod to the main street here in Marceline. Trains that ran through the heart of our city daily inspired Walt's deep and lifelong love of the railroads that crossed America. Coming as a surprise to no one, the first play that Walt ever attended was Peter Pan, a name held in endearment by Disney fans around the world. 

In 1956, Walt and his brother Roy returned to Marceline, celebrating, at least in part, the naming of our community pool after Disney. His next visit "home" was in 1960 when our local elementary school was also named in his honor. 

Here in Marceline, we remain a community that has the same guiding principles that inspired Walt. If you are a returning guest to Marceline, a warm welcome home. If you are a first-time visitor, our community welcomes you. Walk the streets that Walt Disney walked, and experience our hometown magic!

"‘I have nothing but good memories of Marceline." ~ Walt Disney