California Adventure 1.0 was a little confusing. There were big, clearly defined lands, like Paradise Pier and Sunshine Plaza. And then there were weird, little lands that were sometimes referred to as their own thing, and sometimes referred to as part of the larger “Golden State” region. Golden State was the most “California” part of […] Read more…
In the era of Disney blogs, podcasts, and YouTube channels, fans have access to more behind-the-scenes information than ever before. I’m loving the newfound excitement around celebrating Imagineering and celebrating contributions of particular Imagineers, which is why I started this “Imagineer Influence” series. Unfortunately, there are still tons of amazingly talented people that remain in […] Read more…
This summer has been HOT. With long heat waves, one of the resort’s two water-based thrill rides under construction, and much of Downtown Disney‘s shaded bar space behind walls, it was hard to get much of a break from the brutal California sun. But even with the high temps, the Disneyland Resort was shining with […] Read more…
Source: Yesterland May 1997 – September 1997 LOCATION Main Street USA & Fantasyland – This parade followed the usual route for Disneyland. It began near It’s A Small World, wound down past the Matterhorn, circled the hub on Main Street, and finished by the Disneyland Railroad station. BACKGROUND Disneyland frequently swaps out even the most […] Read more…
It’s not even Halloween time, but Disneyland is already looking ahead to the upcoming holiday season. This year, the holiday magic runs from November 10 through January 7. Source: Disneyland Resort THE MOST FESTIVE SPOTS AT THE RESORT Disneyland, California Adventure, and Downtown Disney all bring out the shiny decor for the season, though some […] Read more…
Sometimes when I visit Disneyland, my friends and family are puzzled by the pictures I take. This post is a perfect example. I was trying to get some nice shots of…trash cans. What on earth could possibly be newsworthy about trash cans? Well, as it turns out…in Galaxy’s Edge, the trash cans each feature a […] Read more…
January 2018 – July 2020 LOCATION Downtown Disney – The VOID VR experience had a prime location in Downtown Disney, in the central circular courtyard. The shop sat next to Disney Home, and faced the UVA Bar. Today, this space is home to Lovepop and Pele. EXPERIENCE The VOID was collaborative VR, with parties of […] Read more…
Welcome to Ask The Duchess – Vol. 78, a monthly Q&A post covering a variety of resort-related topics. Ask The Duchess answers questions submitted by readers. If you have a question you’d like answered, send me a message here. 1. Where can I learn to draw character sketches? (submitted by Nora) The Animation Academy within Disney […] Read more…
Happy August! I don’t consider summer over until Labor Day, but the Disney Parks certainly don’t feel that way. August marks a distinct shift, from summer to full on Halloween prep. You’ll see orange, yellow, and red colors coming into the resort rapidly over the next few weeks, and attractions with overlays will start transforming. […] Read more…
Every western town needs a saloon. It’s the gathering place for the community, and often the epicenter of local entertainment. So when Walt Disney started construction on his wild village within Disneyland, he knew the area needed its own special building. Meet the Golden Horseshoe. Walt turned to Harper Goff, a set designer who had […] Read more…
No matter the season, you’ll find an abundance of flowers beautifying the Disneyland resort. But one particular flower holds a special place in the group – a namesake specially cultivated for the mouse. Source: Disneyland Today The Disneyland rose is a rich pink and golden flower that is particular popular with butterflies. In the early […] Read more…
My favorite roller coaster in Disneyland is Space Mountain, without a doubt. I love whirling around in the dark, feeling like you’re going faster and faster as the turns get tighter. But before boarding a rocket ship, Space Mountain riders go through a large and winding queue, with some interesting views along the way. Let’s […] Read more…
Every once in a while, reading about Disneyland history gives you some pretty bizarre results. Some truly wacky events, attractions, and happenings happen in the park from time to time, including the topic of today’s post: Main Street‘s Olympic Pool. Source: Disneyland Today In 2004, the Athens Olympics were the biggest story of the summer. […] Read more…
June 2008 – present LOCATION Pixar Pier – The Midway Mercantile serves as the exit to Toy Story Midway Mania!, along the center of the boardwalk. But you don’t need to go on the ride to visit the shop. You’ll find it on the main walkway, about halfway between the Incredicoaster and Pixar Pal-A-Round. EXPERIENCE […] Read more…