June 2012 – March 2015 BACKGROUND Before California Adventure’s major expansion and refurbishment, the park had a huge land known as “Golden State”. But when the park’s transformation was complete, Golden State broke off into three separate lands: Grizzly Peak, Pacific Wharf, and Condor Flats. Based on the mid 20th century Mojave Desert, Condor Flats […] Read more…
February 2001 – present LOCATION Paradise Gardens Park – Follow the main path along the waterfront, and you will see the Jumpin’ Jellyfish, just before the path veers left toward the ferris wheel. BACKGROUND Jumpin’ Jellyfish was one of the first rides installed in California Adventure specifically for the youngest park guests. Since California Adventure […] Read more…
July 1955 – present LOCATION Tomorrowland – When entering from Main Street USA, you will see the Astro Orbitor right at the front. BACKGROUND Like every other ride in Tomorrowland, the Astro Orbitor has continuously changed and evolved since Disneyland first opened in 1955. The original rocket ride, the “Astro Jets”, sat next to the […] Read more…
When you’re planning for a trip to the Disneyland Resort, it’s hard not to be excited. A great way to pump yourself up (and refresh your memory) is to watch some of the classic movies. I like to watch a movie or two per day leading up to my trip and it helps me get […] Read more…
One of the quieter and more scenic areas in the park has always been Critter Country; its restaurants offer beautiful waterfront views, and its décor is charming. But did you know about its hidden gem? If you follow the Harbour Galley deck, toward the Hungry Bear Restaurant, you will see some corner tables and a few […] Read more…
Everyone who has ever visited the Haunted Mansion can appreciate the tremendous detail and decoration, both inside and outside of the ride. There are so many tombstones, cobwebs, and eerie portraits in each and every corner of the Mansion; even frequent park visitors notice something new when they return for another ride. We are all familiar […] Read more…
June 2008 – present LOCATION Pixar Pier – Cross the bridge to the back of Pixar Pier or follow the walkway past the Golden Zephyr and Silly Symphony Swings, and you will see Midway Mania; it’s the largest building in the back of the Pier. BACKGROUND Toy Story Midway Mania! debuted in California Adventure in […] Read more…
July 2011 – present LOCATION Paradise Gardens Park – Whether you’re entering from Pacific Wharf or Grizzly Peak, follow the path along the right of the Park. You will see Goofy’s Sky School tucked in the right corner, across from the Silly Symphony Swings. BACKGROUND Goofy’s Sky School replaced Mulholland Madness, a virtually identical coaster […] Read more…
June 2011 – present LOCATION Paradise Gardens Park – When entering from either Pacific Wharf or Grizzly Peak, you will see Ariel on your right; it’s the large corner building across from the World of Color viewing platforms. BACKGROUND Imagineers conceptualized Little Mermaid dark rides for several of the parks worldwide, but none of the plans […] Read more…
Although Disneyland is loud and jam-packed with activity, sometimes you just need a minute to sit down and regroup. With streams of people everywhere and headline attractions in every direction, it can be hard to find a place to take a break or make a plan for the rest of your day. Here are some […] Read more…
February 2001 – January 2018 LOCATION Paradise Pier – Cross the bridge to the right of Pacific Wharf, and follow the main path along the bay – you’d see the entrance to California Screamin’ on your left, just before the King Triton Carousel. BACKGROUND When Imagineers were planning the boardwalk, a roller coaster was a […] Read more…
March 2005 – present LOCATION Tomorrowland – When entering from Main Street USA, you will find the Astro Blasters on the left, just after the Astro Orbitor. BACKGROUND Opening in the spring of 2005, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters marked a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Disneyland. The Astro Blasters ride in Disneyland is based off […] Read more…
February 2001 – January 2018 BACKGROUND When California Adventure was first conceptualized, Imagineers envisioned a pier similar to those found all over the coast of California. Originally, Paradise Pier resembled a seaside amusement park, but from 2008-2009, Imagineers refurbished and expanded the land. The new theme was reminiscent of a 1920’s Victorian boardwalk, with new […] Read more…
February 2001 – present BACKGROUND Hollywood Land was originally dubbed “Hollywood Pictures Backlot” and was much more focused on filmmaking and iconic Disney movies. The entrance originally featured a prominent studio gate, and there were no major attractions or headline rides in the land. When California Adventure began its expansion and renovation, the Hollywood area […] Read more…