5 Things You Didn’t Know About Living with the Land

December 10, 2024

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Living with the Land

Living with the Land might not be the most thrilling ride at EPCOT, but it’s a unique, educational experience you won’t find anywhere else. This leisurely boat ride, a throwback to EPCOT’s “edutainment” era, takes you on a journey through various climates and regions of the world. You’ll even get a glimpse into Disney’s real-world biotechnology labs. And on those scorching Florida days, Living with the Land offers a much-needed respite with its cool, air-conditioned environment.

The attraction celebrates 31 years today, so we’re diving deeper into the edutainment of Living with the Land, sharing some fascinating facts about this beloved EPCOT attraction. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-time visitor, we bet you’ll discover something new and surprising.

1. The Farm Scene Includes an EPCOT Easter Egg

As you embark on your journey through Living with the Land, your boat will first wind its way through a “dark ride” section showcasing various land environments, including the American prairie. While cruising past the quaint farmhouse, keep a keen eye on the mailbox. It holds a hidden Easter egg that pays homage to EPCOT’s history! The mailbox is addressed to B. Jones RFD #82, with the number 82 referencing EPCOT’s opening year of 1982.

Some Living with the Land enthusiasts believe the “RFD” on the mailbox is yet another Easter egg. It could be a nod to “Rural Free Delivery,” a U.S. mail service established in the late 1800s to deliver mail directly to rural homes.

However, other fans speculate that the “RFD” might be a playful reference to the Reedy Creek Fire Department, given their similar initials. The interpretation is up to you!

2. The Farm Dog Isn’t Unique to Living with the Land

Did you know there’s a hidden Easter egg on the porch of the American prairie home? It might not be immediately obvious, but take a closer look at the animatronic dog. If it seems familiar, that’s because it’s the same dog that appears in both Carousel of Progress and Pirates of the Caribbean at Magic Kingdom Park!

This particular animatronic holds a special place in Disney history. It was modeled after Walt Disney’s own dog, making it a personal tribute to the man who brought these magical parks to life.

3. The Animatronics Were Originally Designed for Another Ride

The animatronics you’ll encounter on Living with the Land aren’t just unique to the attraction. The buffalo and prairie dogs you’ll see in the desert scene originally had a very different destiny. They were created for Western River Expedition, a planned Magic Kingdom ride that never came to fruition.

Intended as a western-themed boat ride, Western River Expedition would have taken guests past singing cacti, buffalo, and prairie dogs, as well as more thrilling scenes like Mexican banditos and bank robberies. However, when Magic Kingdom opened without a Pirates of the Caribbean, guest feedback led Imagineers to change course. The original plans for Western River Expedition were scrapped, and the animatronics found a new home in Living with the Land.

4. The Attraction’s Product is Used to Feed Guests – and Disney World Animals

You likely know that the fresh produce grown in Living with the Land’s greenhouses ends up on the plates of EPCOT restaurant guests, like those at Sunshine Seasons. But did you know it also nourishes the animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom?

According to Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science, and Environment, the homegrown fruits and veggies, including lettuce, tomatoes, melons, and more, are enjoyed by a variety of animals, from gorillas to bats.

5. Living with the Land Used to Be Narrated by Cast Members

Living with the Land has remained relatively unchanged since its 1982 debut. It has undergone a name change from Listen to the Land and a reimagining, primarily affecting the opening scenes.

One significant change occurred in 2006, though it might have gone unnoticed by many guests. Prior to this, the attraction was narrated live by Cast Members, a unique feature compared to most Disney rides. In 2006, the narration transitioned to a pre-recorded voice, with Mike Brassell taking over. Brassell’s voice might sound familiar, as he also narrated the Tomorrowland Transit Authority from 2009 to 2022.

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Sara

Sara is a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, a Disney Earmarked agency. She lives in Alaska with her husband and 3 kids. Due to her extreme dislike of winter, she travels often to warmer destinations during the colder months. She visits the Disney parks and resorts frequently with her family and loves helping other families plan magical vacations. Contact her here for help with your vacation!