The Evolution of the Disneyland Environs

Abstract

Disneyland in Anaheim, California, can be thought of as the quintessential tourist destination. Its popularity is reflected not only in its millions of visitors, but also in the creation of an elaborate tourist-oriented commercial district surrounding the theme park. These environs have evolved slowly over time from orange groves and small farms to massive hotels and convention facilities, exhibiting distinct periods of growth and change. Since 1980, the resort life cycle proposed by R.W. Butler has become widely accepted and applied in research into the development of tourist areas. The Disneyland development scenario displayed characteristics of the growth and rejuvenation stages of the resort life cycle. Absent, however, were stagnation and decline. The tremendous popularity of Disneyland, coupled with one of the world's largest convention facilities, have led to an extended period of rejuvenation. Current plans for expansion of Disney facilities and additional hotels attest to the continuing economic strength in this resort complex. Cognizance of how this dynamic area has stayed any decline is essential to understanding the evolution and maintenance of major tourist attractions.