It was on this day in 1971 that Walt Disney World opened to the public. Learning from all the troubles they had at Disneyland’s opening day, it was decided to hold the grand opening festivities until later in the month. When WDW began, the Magic Kingdom was the sole park. There was no Epcot, no Disney’s Hollywood Studios, nor Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As for Resorts, there were no All-Star Resorts, no Grand Floridian, it was the Contemporary Resort and the Polynesian Village. Enjoy this map to explore the World as it was in 1971. (CLICK IMAGE FOR LARGER VIEW)