Disney's Colorado connections, from Fort Collins to Vail

As the original Disney theme park, Disneyland, in Anaheim, Calif., celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, a lot of attention is being paid to the company’s history in the Golden State.

But Colorado has its fair share of Disney lore as well, from the state’s ties to a never-built ski resort in Mineral King, Calif. to providing inspiration for the Main Street, USA, section of Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Here are five surprising Colorado connections to the Disney legacy.

Fort Collins inspired Main Street, USA

Disneyland is almost as synonymous with Main Street, USA — the area closest to the park’s entrance, brimming with charming storefronts including an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, penny arcade and firehouse, all designed to look like an idealized American town at the turn