When you visit Disneyland Paris, you’re no doubt caught up in the excitement of the attractions, shows and encounters with your favorite characters. But have you ever considered exploring the hidden treasures and secret passages that add a mystical touch to this theme park?
In this article, I’m going to take you on a journey through Disneyland Paris to reveal the secret passages you might never have noticed, as well as the hidden spots that deserve a special visit. By discovering these hidden treasures and secret passages, you’ll be able to create an even more rewarding experience, appreciating the details and magic that permeate every nook and cranny of the park.
Disneyland Railroad Panorama
As soon as you enter the park, you might be tempted to take a look at the Disneyland Railroad Panorama. This hidden spot is an excellent photo opportunity located next to the Disneyland Railroad exit. Unfortunately, this magical spot is now open only very rarely. However, if you arrive early in the morning at opening time or wait until the park exits in the evening, you may be able to meet characters who will greet you warmly.
Liberty Arcade
On the left-hand side of Main Street U.S.A., you’ll find a secret passageway, the Liberty Arcade, unique among all the Disney parks worldwide. Recognized by its arches adorned with the Statue of Liberty logo, this passageway offers a double advantage: it shelters you in case of rain, and allows you to avoid the crowds that throng Main Street U.S.A during the day, especially during the parade and at park closing time.
Discovery Arcade
Across Main Street U.S.A. to the right is the Discovery Arcade, another secret passageway adorned with arches depicting Vitruvian Man. Like the Liberty Arcade, it offers shelter from the elements, helps you avoid the crowds and gets you quickly to Discoveryland.
The Statue of Liberty’s inauguration hall
Hidden within the Liberty Arcade is a room commemorating the inauguration of the Statue of Liberty, a touching tribute to Franco-American friendship and a reminder of the historic importance of this symbol of freedom and equality between the two nations. This room is a real hidden treasure, allowing visitors to better understand the close ties between France and the United States, while exploring the enchanting world of Disneyland Paris.
The Sleeping Beauty Gallery
Inside the Sleeping Beauty castle, take the staircase to the left and you’ll discover a magnificent gallery of stained glass windows depicting history, with a breathtaking view over Fantasyland. This gallery allows you to immerse yourself in the enchanted world of Sleeping Beauty while enjoying unique works of art.
The Dragon’s Lair
In the basement of the castle, you can meet the largest animatronic in Disneyland Paris: Merlin the Enchanter’s dragon, in his mysterious lair. This unique experience lets you see the dragon up close, with its realistic movements and puff of smoke.
The Well of Wishes
To grant a wish during your visit, go to the right of the castle, next to the castle theater, where Disneyland Paris has installed a magic well. This place invites you to take a moment of reflection and reverie to make a wish. I recommend this place for a magical photo!
The secret passage to Frontierland
This little-known passageway links Main Street U.S.A. to Frontierland, offering a clever shortcut to escape the crowds and save precious time during your day at the park. By taking the Liberty Arcade and turning left at the end of the arcade, you’ll discover a real hidden treasure that will not only make your travels easier, but also help you make the most of every moment at Disneyland Paris.
The Ramparts of Fort Comstock
At the entrance to Frontierland, the stairs on the left take you to the ramparts of Fort Comstock, a rarely explored visit that transports you into the atmosphere of the Wild West. As you climb these steps, you’ll discover a fascinating world where the history of the Wild West comes to life, with breathtaking views over the land and its surroundings. This hidden gem invites you to plunge back into the pioneer era and appreciate the authenticity of Disneyland Paris from a whole new angle.
Frontierland Pontoon
Just behind Rustler Roundup Shootin’ Gallery in Frontierland (the shooting range), you’ll be able to access a peaceful wooden pontoon, offering a breathtaking view of Big Thunder Mountain. This hidden spot is the perfect place to relax and admire one of Disneyland Paris’ iconic landmarks. Take advantage of the peacefulness of this pontoon to get away from the hustle and bustle of the park for a while, while contemplating the majesty of Big Thunder Mountain.
Phantom Manor cemetery
Just outside Phantom Manor, on the left, you’ll find the Ravenswood family cemetery, a mystical and captivating place. As you wander among the tombs and mausoleums, you’ll be immersed in the dark and haunting history of this cursed family. If you listen carefully near the great tomb, you may even hear a heart beating, adding an even more mysterious dimension to this visit.
The passage between Frontierland and Adventureland
By turning right after the Frontierland entrance, you’ll discover a secret passageway leading quickly into Adventureland, an ideal way to bypass the crowds and save time on your day at the park. This shaded passageway offers a tranquil escape between two worlds, allowing you to move from the atmosphere of the Wild West to the exoticism of Adventureland in the blink of an eye. As an added bonus, you can also walk directly to the castle from this passageway.
Aladdin’s Enchanted Passage
Considered by Disneyland Paris to be an attraction in its own right, this magical passageway lets you relive the best scenes from the animated film Aladdin, while remaining relatively uncrowded. Explore these magical settings to immerse yourself in the enchanted world of Agrabah and let the magic of Aladdin’s story sweep you away. An immersive experience that will make you rediscover this Disney classic in a unique way.
The Skull of Adventureland or Skull Rock
Next to the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, you can not only admire the Adventureland skull, but also go inside by following the Skull Rock sign. This mysterious place immerses you in the pirate atmosphere and transports you to a world of maritime adventure. Explore the depths of this hidden spot for an experience that evokes the intrepid spirit of legendary pirates and is ideal for an original photo.
Keelhaul Caverns and Davy Jones’s Locker
Still close to the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, you can explore two little-visited, highly immersive passages that plunge you into the world of pirates. Keelhaul Caverns and Davy Jones’s Locker invite you to enjoy an authentic pirate experience, with detailed settings and a captivating atmosphere. These hidden spots are a must for all pirate adventure fans.
The Belly of the Earth
Another grotto can be found elsewhere in Adventureland, behind the Robinsons Tree, offering a cool, peaceful retreat from the crowds. Le Ventre de la Terre is a sanctuary of tranquility in the heart of the hustle and bustle of the park. Discover this hidden spot to enjoy a moment of calm and freshness, ideal for regaining your strength before continuing your adventures.
The passage between Discoveryland and Fantasyland
To the right of the “It’s a Small World” attraction in Fantasyland, a passageway takes you quickly to Discoveryland, bypassing the crowds and providing welcome shade. This secret passage is a real asset for optimizing your visit, allowing you to move easily from one land to another while avoiding congestion. Please note, however, that this passage is only open on busy days and outside parade times.
Discoveryland’s Starlight Room
On the Videopolis level, an entrance leads to a room with a magnificent starry sky, ideal for recharging your phone and relaxing. This tranquil space offers a welcome break from the excitement of the park. Enjoy the beauty of the twinkling stars on the ceiling as you recharge your electronics and recharge for the rest of your day.
