The Real First Guest of Walt Disney World: Then and Now

The first guest to enter Walt Disney World was a young girl named Diane Disney, the daughter of Walt Disney himself. She was given the honor of being the first official guest on October 1, 1971, marking the official opening of one of the most iconic entertainment destinations in the world. This event was not only memorable for the young Diane but also for the entire Disney family, symbolizing the personal connection between the Disney patriarch and his vision.

The Official First Guests

The official first guests to Walt Disney World were a select group of individuals invited to preview the park before its opening. One of these guests was William Roper, who received lifetime passes as part of his privilege. Ironically, the story of the official first guests at Walt Disney World is quite different from what happened at Disneyland. Back in 1955, Disneyland’s first guests were given lifetime passes, but they were eventually abused, causing Disney to discontinue such practices in later parks, even though these passes remained functional.

While these official first guests received special treatment, it doesn't mark them as the true first visitors. In reality, three college students, Keith Padgett, Jack Sherrod, and Gary Walker, were the real first guests of Walt Disney World. They planned a race to be the first to enter the park, making them the true pioneers of the new world of Disney.

What Happened to the Real First Guests?

Unlike the official first guests, the real first guests, Keith Padgett, Jack Sherrod, and Gary Walker, were simply dreaming of making a memorable entrance, not realizing the significance of their action. Here's what happened to them in the years and decades that followed:

Keith Padgett: He is now the head of sales at a transportation company. His achievement remains a favorite memory for him and his family, symbolizing the beginning of an incredible journey with Disney.

Jack Sherrod: He runs a van conversion business in Jacksonville. While his primary focus is in his business, the memory of being the real first guest still holds a special place in his life.

Gary Walker: Gary is a trial attorney based in Marietta, Georgia. His career path took a different direction, but the memory of entering Walt Disney World first remains with him and his family.

These individuals, along with Diane Disney, stand as the true witnesses to the beginning of an era that has since grown into one of the world's most beloved entertainment destinations. Walt Disney World, much like its iconic figure Walt himself, is a testament to unyielding dreams and unwavering commitment to making magic.

Through the years, Walt Disney World has expanded to include multiple theme parks, resorts, and entertainment options, making it a major hub for tourism and family entertainment. The journey from those early beginnings to the present day is a story of persistence, innovation, and the enduring power of imagination.