The Frontier Trading Post in Disneyland’s Frontierland opened on July 17, 1955, serving as a themed merchandise shop that embraced the spirit of the Old West. Designed to mirror a rustic trading post one might find in a frontier town, this store offered a variety of items related to frontier life, including Western-themed gifts and souvenirs. Its ambiance and product selection aimed to immerse guests in the historical and adventurous spirit of the American frontier, complementing the overall theme of Frontierland.
Over the years, the Frontier Trading Post became known for its selection of unique items, from Native American crafts to Western wear, providing visitors with a tangible connection to the history and mythology of the American West. In 1987, the shop was rebranded as the Westward Ho Trading Co., a change that reflected a broader shift within the park towards updating and refining its themed areas and attractions. Despite this change in name and some aspects of its offerings, the essence of providing guests with a memorable and immersive shopping experience remained a constant goal.
The transformation from the Frontier Trading Post to the Westward Ho Trading Co. symbolizes Disneyland’s commitment to growth and adaptation, ensuring that each visit to the park offers something new and exciting while preserving the magic and nostalgia that have defined Disneyland since its opening. This commitment to thematic integrity and guest experience is a hallmark of the Disneyland Resort, making it a beloved destination for generations of visitors.
At a Glance
- Disney Resort: Disneyland Resort
- Disney Park: Disneyland Park Info News and Attractions
- Park Area: Disneyland Frontierland
- Attraction Type: Disney Shops, Extinct Disney Attractions
- Year Opened: 1955
- Year Closed: 1987
- Replaced: Original Attraction
- Replaced By: Westward Ho Trading Co