September 2006 – September 2010
LOCATION
Golden State – Bountiful Valley Farm was a sprawling walkthrough on the eastern side of California Adventure. Guests could find it adjacent to the Pacific Wharf walkway, just after Sunshine Plaza. The Farmer’s Market stand was located in the center of the space, near San Andreas Shakes. Today, this space is part of the main drag of Cars Land.
EXPERIENCE
Details:
- Service Type – quick service
- Seating – adjacent patio seating
- Entertainment – none
Sometimes, all you want in a theme park is some tasty junk food. Despite its name, the Bountiful Valley Farmer’s Market really didn’t sell what you’d find at a typical farmers market. Instead, you could purchase fried food on the go – corn dogs, fried fish, and chicken strips. This was more of a grab-and-go spot than a restaurant, though there were comfy places to sit nearby and enjoy your food.
CLOSURE
Bountiful Valley Farm wasn’t closed so much as it was phased out. In a new exciting park with massive thrill rides and elaborate shows, the quiet farm never stood much of a chance. The farm had limited popularity at best, with most park visitors skipping it altogether.
After about a year, A Bug’s Land opened to satisfy two needs. First, it offered rides specifically for children, and second, it promoted A Bug’s Life. Rather than close, the farm instead integrated into A Bug’s Land, with its size slightly reduced.
By 2006, Caterpillar Inc. ended their sponsorship, and removed all tractors from the attraction. The farm became even less popular, especially among children. So when California Adventure announced its major overhaul project, no one was surprised to hear the farm hadn’t made the cut. Bountiful Valley Farm officially closed in 2010, and its land was split among A Bug’s Land and the brand new Cars Land.
TRIVIA
The Farmer’s Market took over the menu of Strips, Dips ‘n’ Chips, a Paradise Pier quick service spot that closed during one of the land’s many construction projects.