Disneyland is our “Go To” place for everything happy. We meet up with family and friends and always (even on crowded days and in the rain) have a jolly good time.
We had often noticed the bright red caboose that sometimes tags along on the Disneyland Railroad, but had not had the opportunity to actually see the inside.
That is until recently. Oh my! What an incredible opportunity it was! Not only did we see the inside … we rode in it all the way around Disneyland.
Walt Disney named this delightful Victorian parlor car Lilly Belle after his wife Lillian. It’s a sight to behold, both inside and out.
Our personal conductor for the ride was Ashley. She was wonderful about explaining and describing the history and details of the Lilly Belle and its decor. She also shared little known tidbits about the four stations the trains stop at throughout Disneyland. Did you know that the telegraph machine message you hear at the New Orleans station was tapped out by Lillian Disney herself? She knew Morris Code and the message is Walt’s speech from Disneyland’s opening day.
If you’d like to experience the Lilly Belle, our advice is to arrive at the Main Street USA train station first thing in the morning, when the park opens. The resevation list fills up fast. Very fast. (Note: the Lilly Belle does not operate on rainy days or very warm days.)
Rumor has it that Johnny Depp, from Pirate’s of the Caribbean fame, sat in the chair NY is seated in. We’ve also read that it was where Walt himself sat while Lillian sat on the love seat beside him.
The Lilly Belle is one of the hidden treasures at Disneyland. We highly recommend riding it if you ever have the opportunity. It is simply magical!
You must make reservations for riding in the Lilly Belle at the Main Street, U.S.A. Disneyland Railroad station. However, you can board the regular train cars at the railroad stations located in New Orleans Square, Mickey’s Toontown (Fantasyland) and Tomorrowland.
All aboard ……… !!!!
Lisa says
This looks like so much fun!
Melissa Rheinlander says
How cool! I love doing stuff like that when we go on vacation 🙂
marina says
Wow, thanks for sharing!!Never knew there was a Lilly Belle!!
kailani says
I’ve always seen it but didn’t realize that you could actually ride it. I love the rich interior!
Angela @TheFreebieJunkie says
What a great experience
Caryn B says
Sounds like you had a great time and I love the photos. Don’t you love that about Disneyland? The hidden/off the beaten track things to do?
Dee says
That looks so awesome!