The Disneyland Branch of Bank of America (1955–1993) was a fully functional bank on Main Street, U.S.A., blending turn-of-the-century charm with modern banking services. Located to the right of the park’s entry gates, it served guests, cast members, and merchants until ATMs and changing financial needs led to its closure.
Here are 10 fun facts about this unique Main Street fixture, Disneyland Branch of Bank of America (1955–1993).
- Opening Day Vault: The bank opened with Disneyland on July 17, 1955, featuring an authentic 1904 vault from a Monrovia, California bank, installed to match Main Street’s 1890s aesthetic. Guests could peer inside, marveling at its massive bank safe.
- Old-Meets-New Vibe: The interior boasted antique chandeliers, 1890s Remington typewriters, and teller cages, yet offered modern services like check cashing and currency exchange. Tellers wore vests, string ties, and eye shades, creating a “last-century atmosphere.”
- Souvenir Money Orders: Guests could buy special Bank of America money orders in $1, $5, or $10 denominations, featuring a Disneyland Branch logo.
- Sunday Banking: One of the only banks open on Sundays and holidays, it catered to Disneyland’s unique schedule, serving park employees and visitors. This rarity made it a lifeline for cast members cashing checks.
- Walt’s Personal Tie: Bank of America had a long relationship with Walt Disney, funding Snow White (1937) and Disneyland’s construction. Walt banked at their Toluca Lake branch, making the Main Street location a natural fit.
- Three ATMs Arrive: By 1993, the bank added three ATMs, reflecting the rise of automated banking. These machines, placed for guest convenience, signaled the branch’s obsolescence, as ATMs popped up park-wide.
- Longest-Running Sponsor: Operating for 38 years, the bank was one of Disneyland’s longest-running participants, also sponsoring “it’s a small world” from 1966 to 1992. Its closure on July 28, 1993, was mutual.
- Post-Closure Life: After 1993, the space became the Bank of Main Street, briefly hosting Union Bank of California (1999–2000s) and selling pressed pennies. By 2009, it transformed into The Disney Gallery, preserving the vault as an art display.
- Merchant Hub: As the first president of the Disneyland Merchant’s Association, branch manager Les Wagman helped Main Street shops manage finances. The bank processed park transactions, a vital role in the 1950s.
- Costumes: The bank’s 1955 debut featured a Western Banker cover with tellers Harry Kenawell and Anne Richmire in period costumes, a snapshot of its charm.
