It’s a Walt Disney World treasure, and one that’s often overlooked – the magnificent miniature carousel located in the lobby of Disney’s Boardwalk Inn.

Years ago, salesmen carried mini versions of large items as samples so that prospective buyers would not need to purchase sight-unseen.  These tiny, perfect replicas or “salesman samples” were used to demonstrate the features and selling points of an amazing array of merchandise including furniture pieces, farm equipment, the household “technologies” of the day such as stoves and washing machines, coffins and canoes, shoes and eyeglasses, weathervanes, and various patented machinery.

Small, intricate reproductions of fabulous carousels were brought to fairgrounds around the country; used as a sales tool for the full-sized amusement rides.

There seems to be some conflicting information about the beautiful example on display in the resort.  Some sources claim it was made in the 1920’s by famous artist Marcus Illions, and there is wording on the piece itself to that effect.  Others insist it’s of a newer vintage – circa 1980 – reproducing one of his full-scale works.  Since Illions was a carver of full-sized pieces, it’s possible that this is a copy of one such ride.  It is very much in the style of the artist featuring the sense of natural motion, the lively poses, and the intricate detail that he was known for.  In either case, it has certainly been touched with pixie dust to suit its Disney home.

Most guests barely give it a second glance and, indeed, it’s somewhat difficult to see.  With a current value of more than $80,000.00, it’s perched up behind a circular seating area and protected by plexiglass. Sitting in opulent silence, it will suddenly burst into life, playing Disney themes and slowly moving as hundreds of tiny twinkling blue lights turn it into a scene from a fairytale.

The detail is extraordinary – jaunty and jewel-studded with a gaily-striped canopy, lavish gold embellishments, and gilded poles.  A dappled mare hides Hidden Mickeys on her coat and there is a splendidly subtle Hidden Mickey on another horse that’s a challenge to find.

It’s the time of year when fireworks wear their autumn colors,

Villains come out to play,

and all the cool guys are hanging around.

Some old friends just fit right in;

while others get all dressed up

to celebrate!

We look at the everyday details; architecture,

attractions,

and ambience;

with new eyes.

And discover that some of the most spooktacular subjects of all

are the classic favorites!

Statuary – it’s everywherey!  Disney is in love with statues and guests will find them all over the parks, resorts, shops, and ships.

From a tiny finial to a larger-than-life likeness, Walt, Roy, and the cast of characters are recreated for the delight of visitors.  They hide in flowers, sit on benches, look up, peer down, wave, and welcome.

Among the most charming are the small bronzes surrounding the hub in front of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World.

Here, we find the classic characters, Dumbo, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, Donald, Br’er Rabbit; their personalities perfectly captured – an iconic pose, a special smile, a famous friendship.  They surround what is unquestionably the most well-loved bronze of all, Partners.

For cutting edge, we’ve chosen the monorail tree at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The Osborne Spectacle of Dancing Lights offers the lights and only the lights, with trees fashioned entirely of brilliantly-colored bulbs.

At the Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, the tree in the rotunda references one of the vintage black and white photographs that grace the lobby – “Wildflower Excursion.”  The branches are festooned with ornaments, lights, and bunches of wildflowers – a wonderfully woodland tree!

Ears, the symbol of all things Mickey, are found throughout the Disney properties.  Over the years, they’ve been adapted for every conceivable function.  In the Grand Canyon Concourse at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, they become minimalist sculpture.  Sleek and metallic, they form the entrances to the Fantasia gift shop.

The shop is colorful and fun with a red and blue sorcerer theme.  The roofless construction and large mouse ear portals help maintain a light and “eary” feel in keeping with this soaring space. The shelves are filled with lots of Disney vacation essentials like pins, autograph books, and photo frames.  There is a selection of clothing and household items, as well as toys, games, and seasonal merchandise.  Fantasia is open from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and is located on the 4^th floor, at the opposite end of the concourse from Chef Mickey’s.

Art is one of the recurring themes at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidana Village.  From the moment guests enter, they are surrounded by the beauty of African handwork.  The lobby, restaurant, and public rooms all serve as showcases for art pieces. There are lighted niches displaying sculpture, statuary, and jewelry; paintings glow from the walls.

African cultures elevated the items of daily living to art forms and the resort’s collections of pottery and currencies reflect the people’s pleasure and pride in everyday objects.   A water vessel was part of a family’s wealth; a well-crafted tool might be bartered for a bride.  These pieces, lovingly made and cherished as valued possessions, become part of the special ambiance of Kidana Village.

Photographs, videos, postcards, souvenirs; there are many ways to commemorate a wonderful vacation.  Few are as special as a portrait; a keepsake which not only speaks of happy memories, but can be enjoyed for years by generations of family and friends.

Tucked into a pleasant alcove in the lobby of the main building at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, the Portrait Artist is available daily from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.  Guests are invited to walk up for a sitting; no appointment is necessary.

Capture a little girl dressed like a princess; a father and son in Mickey ears; a mother and daughter on their way to afternoon tea.  It’s the perfect way to take home the magic!

Staying at a Walt Disney World resort has its rewards, not the least of which are the many fanciful touches in the guest rooms.  In keeping with the slightly more formal tone of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, the desk lamp features Mickey in his top hat.

On Christmas Eve, he and Minnie are often on hand to greet guests in the beautiful lobby where they arrive elegantly attired in dove grey; Mickey sporting the same handsome hat.

This spectacular vintage fire engine is just one of the wonderful Main Street vehicles that offer guests a one-way trip to nostalgia. Choose to cruise from Town Square to Cinderella Castle, or climb on board at the Castle for the slow-paced journey back down Main Street U.S.A. Thanks to photographer Jeff Bergman for this amazing photo of the fire truck parked right in front of the most famous address in town!