Disney designed each land in Disneyland so that guests knew instantly they were stepping into a distinct world. Tomorrowland, the land of the future, was no exception. This land’s center courtyard was the gateway to the future, ushering guests into the world of 1985. And this courtyard had a special hidden gem as its centerpiece: the […] Read more…
October 2014 – September 2017 LOCATION Downtown Disney – Anna & Elsa’s Boutique stood just at the edge of the center circle of the shopping district. Whether you were coming from the hotels side or the parks side, you’d see Anna & Elsa’s Boutique on the Grand Californian side of the path, tucked between Sephora and […] Read more…
Welcome to Ask The Duchess Vol. 8, 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. Is the Matterhorn similar to Expedition Everest in the Animal Kingdom? (submitted by Megan) In some ways, yes. They both share a snowy […] Read more…
Was it just me, or did June seem to fly by? It was quite the eventful month at the Disneyland Resort, with special events, new attractions, the ongoing Star Wars Land construction, and newly announced plans for the future. As Disneyland hits the midpoint in the summer season, the heat doesn’t seem to be slowing […] Read more…
Source: Remain Seated Please February 2001 – May 2011 LOCATION Golden State – The Mission Tortilla Factory Tour stood at the corner of Golden State’s Pacific Wharf section (now its own land). Today, its prime corner spot is home to Ghirardelli. BACKGROUND California Adventure had a brand new concept for a Disney park: a tribute to […] Read more…
Disneyland is known for its awesome roller coasters and legendary dark rides, but there are so many awesome things to discover that are somewhat under the radar. One of my favorite things to do in both Disneyland and California Adventure is visit “walkthrough” attractions. These are trails, galleries, or buildings to explore on your own, […] Read more…
I’ve never been a big fan of autograph books. They’re awesome ways to keep track of all the characters you’ve met, but honestly, how often do you sit down to flip through them? So I’m always on the hunt for more creative ways to show off my autographs. A recent trip to Michaels gave me […] Read more…
July 1993 – May 2018 LOCATION Adventureland – This restaurant was tucked in the front corner of the land, next to the exit to the Enchanted Tiki Room. Visitors heading toward the Jungle Cruise would see the Oasis to the left: the tan building with mosaic detailing. EXPERIENCE Aladdin’s Oasis was Disneyland’s most exotic restaurant. […] Read more…
January 2001 – present LOCATION Downtown Disney – Marceline’s Confectionary is located near the center of Downtown Disney, on the southern side of the street. If you are coming from the parks, you’ll find Marceline’s on the left, just after Anna & Elsa’s Boutique. If you are coming from the hotel end of Downtown Disney, […] Read more…
If you’re a Disney World visitor, you probably think you know what your in for when you book your first trip to Disneyland. And to an extent, you’re right. The Magic Kingdom was based on Disneyland, so there are definitely parallels and similarities. But there are a few key differences between Disneyland and Disney World […] Read more…
When I visit Disneyland, I’m not big on making dining reservations most of the time. Unless it’s a special occasion, or I sign up for a dining package, I’d rather just stop at a quick service place whenever I get hungry. The following is my list of the top 5 quick service restaurants at the […] Read more…
Tomorrowland has been a core part of Disneyland since 1955. Its premise is simple: a land that time travels, showing what life will be like in the future. But for me, the most interesting part of Tomorrowland is that in some ways, it is actually a snapshot of today. Whatever we imagine for the future […] Read more…
October 2009 – January 2018 LOCATION Downtown Disney – RIDEMAKERZ sat right at the center of Downtown Disney, and the building curved to fit the open courtyard. Head toward the open bar in the center of the circle (Uva Bar), and you’d see RIDEMAKERZ; the tall tire signs were hard to miss. EXPERIENCE Details: Merchandise […] Read more…
Disneyland is known for its exciting coasters and nostalgic rides, but behind the headliners there’s so much more to discover. In fact, Disneyland holds so many hidden treasures, its almost like a museum in and of itself. Some of these treasures include a series of Orchestrions, early 20th century instruments meant to mimic the sound […] Read more…