Embarcadero

May 2011 – present

LOCATION

Paradise Gardens Park – The Embarcadero marks the border between two lands: Grizzly Peak and Paradise Pier. If you’re passing from Grizzly Peak to the bay, follow the path to the right of Grizzly River Run and keep to the left. If you’re coming from Buena Vista Street or Pacific Wharf, you’ll see the Embarcadero on the right, across from The Little Mermaid.

EXPERIENCE

Details:

• Merchandise – Trading pins and The Little Mermaid toys & collectibles
• Price Range – Most goods run between $10 and $50
• Unique Features – seashell ornamentation inside the shop

The Embarcadero is Ariel’s corner. If you’re looking for anything mermaid-themed, this tiny shop has whatever you need. An added bonus: in the back corner, the Embarcadero houses a surprisingly huge selection of trading pins! And these aren’t just Ariel and her friends – the selection covers the parks, Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more.

SHOPPING TIPS

This shop is one of the smallest in the park, so it always feels cramped and crowded. But every time I’m looking to buy trading pins in California Adventure, this is the first place I go. Since most people don’t know they sell trading pins, they’re never short in supply!

In terms of traffic flow, the best time to visit this shop is in the evening, as the general crowds empty out and guests line up for World of Color. People will breeze right past the Embarcadero on their way out. But if you visit during the day, just be a little patient and you should have no trouble exploring this cute little store.

TRIVIA

Before California Adventure’s expansion and renovation, the Embarcadero building was technically part of a larger land called “Golden State”. Now, this land has been split in two: Grizzly Peak and Pacific Wharf.

Until 2011, the Embarcadero wasn’t even a shop; it was just a facade!