Disney 100: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic and Memories on Tour

In my opinion, the main draw to attending this event is seeing the “relics” on display. Pieces of Disney history and lore have been pulled from the bowels of Disney storage rooms to be displayed and lit behind glass for the public gaze. These relics serve as the centerpieces for each room as you travel through the Disney century.  

Some of these relics are movie props like the jumbo book featured in the opening of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, the model Nautilus from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, or the dress Emma Stone wore in Cruella. Other relics include theme park memorabilia like the classic Mickey Mouse ears and cap or a souvenir program. Really unique items like a musician’s lead sheet for “Whistle While You Work” and a glass bottle that was fashioned to create sound effects in early Disney animations are also on display. There are a lot of historically significant items to see in each and every room. 

I applaud the event for focusing on the wide gamut of creativity that Walt Disney and his team of artists have achieved over one hundred years. Yes, the animation work is featured, of course, but the exhibition gives room for all aspects of Disney innovation in music, nature filmmaking, amusement parks, and even animatronics. Equals parts entertaining and informative, the exhibition highlights the greatest hits of Walt Disney. This exhibition is a trip down memory lane for veteran fans of Disney. 

“Equals parts entertaining and informative…”

There are a couple of caveats to this wonderful world of relics. Since it is set up as a museum experience, I can’t recommend bringing young children if they have short attention spans. There are certainly some interactive stations along the way, including a digital coloring book table, but it isn’t enough to keep high-energy kids entertained. Also, I think the $35 price of admission is a little steep for an experience that will likely take you one or two hours to enjoy. After a couple of hours of nostalgic wonder, you will exit through the gift shop so you don’t miss out on the “exclusive” Disney 100 merchandise available for purchase. 

Chicago is not the first or last city scheduled to receive the Disney 100: The Exhibition treatment. Kansas City will get its own opportunity next, and I would imagine more city destinations are in the works. This exhibition is highly recommended for hardcore Disney fans and for those who have always wanted to visit the theme parks but never had the chance. All you need is a little bit of magic… and a ticket!