Gowalla has become the unlikely winner of a major location-based promotion with Disney. The deal allows visitors to the three US-based theme parks to check-in to rides while waiting in the queues. For this they’ll receive exclusive badges for the world renowned attractions.

Disney already sells pins for its most well-known rides, allowing people to show their dedication on their chest – they even have a trading club. Could a virtual version work just as well? Gowalla has designed over 100 virtual badges to be collected and so far no one has collected them all.

“Check-in here” stickers are becoming more and more visible in small businesses across the pond; will Disney push “check-in here” stickers in its other theme parks? If so the exposure to millions of guests from all corners of the globe could be massive for Gowalla.

Gowalla’s user base is sitting at approximately 600,000 according to their blog. A minute number compared to the 120 million visitors Disney receives to its parks each year.

By having a dedicated page for each park and attraction Disney can find out more about its guests and potentially offer free day passes for people who visit regularly or contribute the most content about their experience.

...I’m looking forward to seeing who gets the first Disney Wedding badge.