Disneyland in focus: The Viewliner

Today’s focus is 100% Viewliner—a few recycled photos and a few new ones. First shot shows the concept art by Sam McKim from 1957; stylistically, it is easy to see that this train of the future paved the way for the Monorail, right down to the color scheme. Billed as the fastest miniature train, the Viewliner was modeled after General Motors’ Aerotrain. Neither the Viewliner or the Aerotrain lasted long; the Viewliner was retired within a year of its debut on June 26, 1957 and the Aerotrain (which provided a fairly uncomfortable ride) after a decade. Today, the Aerotrain has found a new generation of fans through model trains. But I digress...shot #2 shows a proud Walt at the controls and a lucky Mouse-eared guest.



There were 2 Viewliners: Tomorrowland (Red) & Fantasyland (Blue). Here are 2 shots of the Tomorrowland Viewliner Station:





Over in Fantasyland, the Viewliner Station was situated near the Junior & Midget Autopia:





OK, I said 100%, but hopefully Viewliner fans won’t mind if I sneak in these 2 extra detail shots showing both Midget & Junior Autopia areas:





This shot shows the Fantasyland Viewliner cruising through Tomorrowland:





The Viewliner actually ran alongside the Disneyland Railroad at certain points in the journey, as can be seen in this image:



Here are a few more Viewliner shots to round out today’s post:





...and a detail shot:



The Viewliner made its figure-8 trip around the park in September 1958 to make way for the Monorail. See more vintage Viewliner photos at my regular website.