All the secrets and anecdotes of Discoveryland at Disneyland Paris

Have you ever imagined travelling to a world where science fiction meets the past? Do you know the secrets behind every attraction and every corner of Discoveryland at Disneyland Paris? Find out today in this article on Discoveryland’s secrets and anecdotes.

This unique land, inspired by the futuristic visions of Jules Verne and steampunk innovations, is a land of adventure and mystery. In this world where imagination and technology merge, every corner conceals fascinating stories, hidden tributes and meticulous details, inviting visitors into an ever-renewed exploration. From the iconic Space Mountain to the intricacies of Star Tours, Discoveryland is a celebration of human ingenuity and Disney magic, offering an immersive and enriching experience to all who pass through its doors.

The history of the land

Discoveryland, located at the heart of Disneyland Paris, is much more than just a themed land: it’s a bold celebration of innovation and imagination. Inaugurated on April 12, 1992, this unique venue breaks with the traditional Tomorrowland concept of other Disney parks. Instead of focusing on ephemeral technologies, Discoveryland immerses visitors in a world where dreams of the future rub shoulders with the heritage of great European inventors, explorers and visionaries. By showcasing such iconic figures as Leonardo da Vinci, H.G. Wells and, above all, Jules Verne, Discoveryland presents not just a possible future, but a dream future, born of the spirit and times of these pioneers. The land’s architecture, at once innovative and rooted in a bygone aesthetic, serves as a portal to these fantastical universes, offering an immersive, timeless experience for visitors eager for discovery.

Quotes from great inventors

Discoveryland is a vibrant tribute to the great minds that have shaped our vision of the future. Sprinkled with quotations and direct references to these inventors and visionaries, the land invites reflection on innovation and exploration. For example, the quotation “Everything within the bounds of possibility must and will be achieved” is borrowed from Jules Verne’s 1880 novel “La Maison à Vapeur”. This phrase, located near the steampunk columns at the entrance, embodies the spirit of determination and possibility that drives Discoveryland. It suggests that anything that can be imagined within the confines of reality can, and inevitably will, be realized. Another significant reference is the phrase “Il sole non si muove”, or “The sun doesn’t move”, inscribed beneath the Orbitron attraction sign. This quotation from Leonardo da Vinci recalls his contribution to the understanding of the universe and his defiance of the conventional wisdom of his time. These words, charged with history and meaning, enrich the Discoveryland experience, offering visitors a deep immersion in the world of the pioneers who dreamed our future.

The secrets of Space Mountain

Space Mountain was originally conceived as the very heart of Discoveryland. Initially imagined as a futuristic mountain encompassing the entire land, it was not only to house the main attraction, but also to integrate futuristic vehicles, restaurants and stores within its confines. Originally named Discovery Mountain, traces of this initial name can still be seen in the queue, where the letters “DM” appear in several places.

Space Mountain at Disneyland Paris sets itself apart from its counterparts in other Disney parks. It’s the only version in the world to feature a propulsion cannon, an iconic feature that literally catapults visitors into space at breakneck speed. This unique launching method adds a touch of thrill to the attraction, making it far more exhilarating than other Space Mountain roller coasters. In addition to its innovative propulsion system, Space Mountain at Disneyland Paris offers a more intense and sensational experience, with gravity-defying loops and inversions, promising a thrilling adventure for thrill-seekers. This attraction is a true Discoveryland jewel, symbolizing the fusion of innovation, adventure and imagination, true to the visionary spirit of the great explorers and inventors who inspired this land.

Space Mountain, beyond its iconic character, is full of secrets and nods to history and literature. Originally named “Space Mountain: From the Earth to the Moon”, this attraction was inaugurated on May 31, 1995 by legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin, an event that marked its importance and its link with space exploration.

Furthermore, as you walk through the last room of the queue, you will catch glimpses of remnants from the original version of the attraction. Wall murals reveal the detailed design of the iconic cannon, chandeliers shaped like planets evoke distant space, and quotes from Jules Verne, the primary inspiration for the land, adorn the walls.

Another particularly captivating detail is the celestial vault painted on the ceiling of this same room, where the letters and numbers alongside the stars represent the initials and birthdates of the Imagineers who contributed to the creation of the attraction. This subtle personal tribute gives them an eternal presence at the heart of the attraction.

As for the Latin inscriptions, they add a touch of humor and mystery. On the walls, one can find the phrases “Ad Luna In Flamma Gloria” and “Ad Luna In Flatula Gloria.” The former, although slightly incorrect, could be translated as “To the Moon in a blaze of glory.” The latter, however, is an untranslatable pun, as “Flatula” does not exist in Latin.

Finally, the base of the cannon outside Space Mountain, which you can see from the queue, and a panel in the boarding room, refer to the Baltimore Gun Club, a direct reference from Jules Verne’s novel “From the Earth to the Moon.” This homage does justice to the inspiration behind the original Discoveryland, creating a tangible link between the attraction and the literary work that inspired it. These details, both playful and thoughtful, enrich the Space Mountain experience, transforming it into an adventure through history, literature, and space.

Despite the richness and depth of the references to Jules Verne in Space Mountain, it is unfortunate to note that these tributes to French heritage are gradually fading. With the introduction of the new Star Wars version of the attraction, part of the original essence of Discoveryland is lost. The transition to a theme centered on a popular American franchise marks a departure from the unique and historically rooted atmosphere that characterized Space Mountain. This evolution, although part of a strategy of modernization and alignment with current entertainment trends, seems to progressively erase the subtle tributes to one of the greatest French visionaries. For admirers of Jules Verne and the original history of the attraction, I invite you to read the book Space Mountain from the Disneyland Paris Attractions Collection.

The secrets of Café Hyperion

The Café Hyperion at Discoveryland is a veritable treasure trove of history and imagination, rich in detail and homage. Its name is a nod to the address of Walt Disney’s first Hollywood animation studio, located at 2719 Hyperion Avenue from 1926 to 1941, marking a direct link with the roots of the Disney universe. At the entrance to the ‘café’ sits an impressive airship, an element taken from the film ‘The Island on the Roof of the World’ produced by Walt Disney Productions in 1974, adding a cinematic dimension to the experience.

The café is designed to resemble an airport terminal from a bygone era, with ticket counters where, according to legend, visitors could once buy tickets for distant destinations served by the airship. These counters, located on old trunks, reinforce this illusion, as do the suitcases that seem to be waiting to board. Above the counters, a fresco depicts the journey that visitors might have undertaken, accentuating the atmosphere of adventure and exploration.

A mysterious poster reveals the fate of Captain Brieux, who commanded the Hyperion. After making 49 voyages, he mysteriously disappeared just before his fiftieth cruise, leaving the Hyperion moored and ready to set sail again, waiting patiently for his captain to return.

This story adds a layer of mystery and adventure, evoking tales of lost explorers and daring voyages.

The details continue to captivate visitors, such as the giant compass on the floor, and the dial of the café’s large clock, whose seconds hand is a small airship, accompanied by a second sculpted airship nearby. These elements create an immersive atmosphere that transports visitors to a world where the adventure and mystery of aerial exploration reign supreme.

The secrets of Orbitron

Orbitron at Discoveryland is an attraction that offers a unique experience of space travel, blending history, art and science. Inspired by the visionary work of Leonardo da Vinci, Orbitron allows visitors to sit in rockets and fly around a miniature model of the solar system. A fascinating detail is that the planets move in the opposite direction to the rockets, creating the illusion of higher-than-real speeds. This visual trick reinforces the immersive experience of the attraction.

The essence of this attraction is reinforced by a quotation from Leonardo da Vinci inscribed beneath its sign: ‘Il sole non si muove’, which means ‘The sun does not move’. This phrase underlines Da Vinci’s influence not only as an artist but also as an astronomer and thinker. The design of Orbitron’s rockets is inspired by the futuristic comic strips of the 1930s, notably Buck Rogers and Guy l’Eclair, thus integrating an element of popular culture into the attraction.

Each Orbitron rocket is unique and represents a constellation of the zodiac. Visitors can travel through space while discovering the different astrological signs, whose symbols are subtly integrated into the back of the rockets, at the base of the attraction and in the queue. This tribute to the constellations adds an educational and entertaining dimension to the experience, allowing visitors to connect with the stars while having fun.

The secrets of Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast

Buzz Lightyear Laserblast, one of Discoveryland’s best-loved interactive experiences, is steeped in history and full of secrets. Before it became the galactic laser battle we know today, this space was home to the legendary Visionarium. This immersive show, featuring the Timekeeper robot and the mischievous Nine Eye, took visitors on a 360° journey through time. Jules Verne and H.G. Wells made notable appearances, and the show’s music can still sometimes be heard in Discoveryland Station, a nostalgic echo of that bygone era.

One of the secrets of the current attraction is that in the Buzz Lightyear Laserblast queue, the score screens display the mysterious numbers 020464 and 112164. These scores, unattainable in the game, could be a hidden reference, perhaps to significant dates in the Disney universe. Another curiosity is the presence of secret targets on the attraction’s antagonist, Zurg. Located just below his ‘Z’ badge, these targets can earn players up to 50,000 points, a hidden reward for the most skilful shooters. To find out more, don’t hesitate to read my article on how to reach the maximum score at this attraction.

Another often overlooked but telling detail can be found in Buzz’s queue scene. The stacks around the attraction are stamped ‘Glendale, California’, the home of Walt Disney Imagineering, a nod to the creative source behind the attraction.

Another nod to this attraction are the 3 hidden Mickeys, which you can find in my list of hidden Mickeys in the park.

Finally, the ships that visitors board carry the reference XP-41, a code that has its own meaning. ‘X’ indicates undefined upgrade capabilities, “P” represents protection, and the number 41 follows the different versions of the attraction in Disney parks around the world, from XP-37 in Florida to XP-40 in Hong Kong. This detail illustrates the constant evolution and adaptation of the attraction over the years and in different parks.

The secrets of Autopia

Autopia at Disneyland Paris is a unique attraction that lets visitors get behind the wheel of futuristic cars, navigating through a journey dotted with innovations and surprises. Each vehicle is distinct, with sixty different designs reflecting a harmonious blend of art deco inspiration, retro touches and futuristic visions. This diversity creates a rich and varied visual experience, offering each driver a unique car for their adventure.

The Autopia route is enhanced by futuristic advertisements that add a touch of fantasy and creativity. These include an advert for ‘Solaria, the City of Eternal Summer’ and another for ‘Agrifutur’ with its giant fruit and vegetables. The latter includes a depiction of a couple strangely reminiscent of Grant Wood’s famous painting ‘American Gothic’, subtly integrating art into the attraction.

Another surprising element is an animated ‘it rolls, it flies’ advertisement, where a hand seems to mysteriously move, creating an intriguing and captivating visual effect. This unique feature contributes to the attraction’s magical, immersive atmosphere.

Finally, an advertisement for the ‘Rocket Café’, located close to Space Mountain and Star Tours, weaves a narrative link between the different Discoveryland settings, enriching the overall visitor experience. Autopia is more than just a ride; it’s a playful and imaginative exploration of creativity and innovation.

The secrets of the Nautilus Mysteries

The Nautilus, located in Disneyland Paris’ Discoveryland, is a fascinating attraction that invites visitors to explore Captain Nemo’s famous submarine, based on Jules Verne’s novel “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea”. This immersive experience plunges visitors into the world of the novel, meticulously recreating the interior of the Nautilus.

Inside this legendary submarine, visitors can discover rare and precious objects, such as a map of the East Indies dating from 1794 and an ancient book from 1638, artefacts that enrich the historical and mysterious atmosphere of the attraction. Another Nautilus treasure is its organ, inspired by the one in the Haunted Mansion attraction. This organ is not just a replica; it is the real organ used in the Disney film ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’, adding a touch of cinematic authenticity.

A surprising and less well-known fact about this attraction is that the submarine seen from the outside is not the same as the one visitors explore from the inside. In fact, the part accessible to the public is not located under the lake, but is an ingenious construction that gives the illusion of being on board the real Nautilus. This revelation underlines the talent of Disney’s Imagineers for creating immersive and detailed experiences, transporting visitors into a fictional world with remarkable authenticity and finesse.

The secrets of Star Tours

Star Tours, one of the iconic attractions in Discoveryland at Disneyland Paris, was transformed in 2017 after a major refurbishment, introducing new secrets while retaining the essence of the Star Wars space adventure. Taking you on an intergalactic journey, the attraction is packed with hidden details and nods to the Star Wars universe and Disney history.

In the queue, visitors can find Rex, the former Starspeeders pilot, and Rox-N, who greeted visitors in the original version, hidden in the queue, a discreet tribute to the characters from the first version of the attraction.

Another special detail to note is the number 1401, visible at the top right of the Starspeeder in the queue and on the cylinders at the bottom of the device, a tribute to the address of Walt Disney Imagineering’s premises in Glendale, California. This number is also mentioned as the flight number, integrating Disney history into the attraction experience.

What’s more, in the queue, visitors can hear announcements that refer to the Star Wars universe and its characters, such as the call to move the THX 1138 vehicle, a reference to the first George Lucas film, or the call for ‘Mr Han Ford’, a direct reference to the actor of the very famous Han Solo.

During the baggage scan, a number of objects also make nods to the Disney, Star Wars and Indiana Jones universes, including the presence of Nine Eye from the Visionarium, a sorcerer’s apprentice hat reminiscent of the film Fantasia and even a hidden Mickey!

Nearby, in the parallel corridor, shadow figures walk through, allowing visitors to recognise some of the famous characters. In Star Traders, close to the lightsaber workshop, is a small droid that helped Luke Skywalker train with a lightsaber in Episode IV.

Finally, it’s worth noting that Discoveryland Station, located in the same building as Star Tours, was not added until after the park opened in July 1993, demonstrating the ongoing evolution of this area dedicated to space adventure.

The secrets of Starport

The ‘Starport: Meet a Star Wars Character’ attraction at Disneyland Paris offers visitors a unique and immersive experience in the Star Wars universe. Located in Discoveryland, this attraction allows fans of the saga to experience an unforgettable moment by meeting one of the franchise’s most emblematic characters: Darth Vader. What makes this encounter particularly special is the opportunity for visitors to interact with the Sith Lord in real time.

Visitors are invited to enter a thematically decorated area, evoking the atmosphere of a space base, where they can prepare for their encounter with Darth Vader. The interaction is designed to be as realistic as possible, with voice exchanges where Darth Vader responds directly to visitors’ questions and reactions, creating a personalised and memorable experience for every fan.

The secrets of Videopolis

Le Vidéopolis at Disneyland Paris is a multi-purpose space located in the heart of Discoveryland, combining dining and entertainment under one roof. The venue, known for its futuristic architecture, offers visitors a unique experience, combining the pleasure of fast food at Café Hypérion with the chance to enjoy shows and entertainment.

A fascinating secret of Le Vidéopolis lies in its architectural features. As visitors pass between Café Hypérion and Space Mountain, they may notice huge portholes on the first floor of the building. Today, these windows conceal a radio station used by journalists to broadcast programmes. However, these windows originally had a completely different purpose. They were supposed to be part of a larger project: Discovery Mountain (which I mentioned earlier). Instead of the current Space Mountain, the Imagineers originally planned to create a huge dome housing several attractions and restaurants. These portholes were intended to be gateways linking Videopolis to Discovery Mountain, an ambitious idea that aimed to integrate different entertainment and dining experiences into a single structure.

The secrets of the Discovery Theater

The secrets of the other sets