Photo TR: Going back-back to Cali

[jedimaster1227]

So, after over six years of waiting, I finally got back to California, this time for the next WDWCelebrations event, "Fifty-Five" in honor of Disneyland Park's 55th anniversary. In order to make sure I got to experience a little more, I came in five days early so that I could have time to enjoy Six Flags Magic Mountain, Universal Studios Hollywood and the Disneyland Resort, all at my own pace.

 

My first day was at Six Flags Magic Mountain, and started early at 10:00 am, ending at Midnight the same night. The park had me truly surprised by the end of the visit, not only because of its sheer size, but because of the great coasters it had and the unique atmosphere overall. To say that this has become my favorite Six Flags park would be an understatement, as it has become one of my favorite large parks that I've ever been to.

 

The first coaster we hit was X2, which is the sole ride that had driven me to dream of visiting this park for years.While waiting in the 1.5 hour long line, I had the chance to think more and more about what I was about to do, which didn't help. For the first time in years, I was actually afraid of a ride, and by the time I sat in my seat on the outside of the back row, I was shaking with fear. What happened next could only be described as a minute or so of complete confusion, disbelief and joy as I was beaten, thrown, battered, shaken and flipped in so many ways, that I could not speak for a good 30 seconds after it ended. My ride photo (which I will upload onceI scan it in) shows my expression, exemplifying how screwed up this ride was, and the effect it had on me. I knew I would love X2 before I rode it, but I didn't know I would really enjoy it as much as I did!

 

Next, we moved on to Viper, which is definitely one of the better Arrows I've been on. It is a great looking coaster (I think that shade of red really suits Arrow loopers well) and it rides pretty smoothly, save for a few jolts in the neck here or there. Not much more to say about this one.

 

Further down the path was Gold Rusher, which was a surprisingly fun Arrow mine train, so much so that we rode it twice (that could also be credited to the fact that there was no line for the ride). Colussus, Batman: The Ride and Scream were all fine coasters, though nothing significant about any of them to really write about.

 

Tatsu definitely took me by surprise as well, because of the sheer size of the thing. It straddles a fine line with that of Manta for the most intense B&M flyer I've been on, but I think I still prefer Manta (if only slightly). The ride still scared me a good deal, and the setting is truly fantastic.

 

Revolution was a little underwhelming, but that was probably because I was expecting an experience similar to that of SooperDooperLooper at Hersheypark. I don't want to sound like I'm whining, because I'm not with the majority on this one, but the over the shoulder restraints definitely make the ride experience less enjoyable. They don't ruin the ride, just make it harder to enjoy--thats all.

 

Terminator Salvation ended up being another pleasant surprise thanks to the great speed and layout that the ride sported. Since the audio had been down and the speakers were gone, my only gripe could really be that the ride is a little short for my liking, but with that aside, it is another great creation from GCI.

 

Due to a long line, I skipped Deja Vu, as I had done the one at Six Flags over Georgia before it was removed, so I wasn't in any dire need to get this credit.

 

Ridder's Revenge was probably the best standup coaster I've been on, as it was actually somewhat comfortable, very smooth, and very long in terms of the ride length. Goliath was also a great hyper as I had expected it to be. Having ridden Titan at Six Flags over Texas the year previous, I knew what to expect with this one, but it still delivered a great experience.

 

The night ended with two rides on Ninja, which is actually one of my favorite rides in the park, and arguably my favorite Arrow Suspended coaster I've been on. I know I'm in a minority here, but I never thought that Big Bad Wolf was all that spectacular, and up until recently, Flight Deck (formerly Top Gun) at Kings Island was my favorite suspended coaster. Ninja was very smooth, fast and handled the turns very well without much of the shimmying that had bothered me on some of the similar coasters of the genre.

 

Overall, my visit to Six Flags Magic Mountain was a fantastic one. Since getting out to West Coast Bash is not yet an option for me, being able to visit this park during my first California trip in years was really something special. I owe a special thanks to Stefanie and Wagner for driving me to and from the park, and for making sure I actually got to visit during my trip. The day was a great start to an incredible trip, but with nine more days to go, I had plenty ahead of me.

Our morning started out in the [long] line for X2, which gives some great views of Viper.

I'm gunna ride, thanks.

Sorry New Jersians. You can't do this anymore.

I seriously love the look of Tatsu and the Sky Tower on the mountain.

Why is it that a tree is bigger than Sleeping Beauty Castle?

Artsy for the index...

Because when I think Viper, I think Axe Twist.

Major props for Arrow on making a support collide with the lift hill. Edgy design equals edgy experience.

Oh, I see. The "S" twists like a snake. So it fits.

Not gunna lie, Tatsu scared the heck outta me.

Assembly info is still visible on the track, which is kinda cool, in a Six Flags way.

Thru the supports!

This was about the moment where I realized I should have held on to my glasses, so I grabbed them off my face and held on tight.

And it was right here where I started breathing again.

Since the human eye can't look directly into the sun, my camera lens has done it for you.

Tatsu really is great. I think I like Manta a little better, but it is incredible nonetheless.

I actually like the look of this one.

As you've probably guessed, I approve.

Ditto.

You know what they say all the time for Ninja?

"Hai-yah!"

Dear lord.

Where is Terminator Salvation: The Bench located?

Dancy-Dance Coaster construction. Where's DJ Lance when I need him?

There is actually a good amount of space to expand with in the park.

Once was enough, thank you.

I feel for Lenora and her pain.

 

She should've gone with Suntrust.

Take the entrance!!!

Take the partially-covered walkway!!!

I've dreamed of this moment for far too long.

Camo-fence really steals the show in terms of queue theming.

Somebody's got a new "do" thanks to the tunnel.

My vote goes for Pete Wentz, because he's the only one I think would survive Judgement Day.

 

See? It fits.

Superman didn't survive Judgement Day.

Do you see what I see?

Primitive post-Judgement Day Mickey drawings. At least that legacy survived.

"I can't see it. Where in my contract does it say I should make reference to a theme park?"

"I had to rap about a tunnel. You better say your lines or else I'll bring in Christian, and you know what he's like when he's angry."

The Grannynators were taking a nap during our visit.

A cool element, but man is it loud!

Looks nice from here...

I see four tracks. That means this old train has multiple routes. Which means it was used after Judgement Day.

 

See? It fits.

Excuse me for a second...

 

 

 

 

I need a moment.

I've got nothing.

Probably the best stand-up I've been on yet.

Probably the best looking I've seen too.

I believe this is where Freefall used to sit.

Two things closed in this picture. Both of them I wish I could have seen open.

Batman was fun and intense, as I expected it to be. I would probably call it the most intense of all of the Batman: The Ride clones I've been on.

It really is a parking lot coaster. What more can I say?

Turn this into Bizarro already so we can move on.

Goliath was fun, but I like Titan more. The extra helix makes all the difference.

 

 

(I'm not serious.)

"No more pokah-strokah. Opera Man cannot make jokah."

A little late for me, but what can I do?

Also closed during my visit. Shame, because I've never been on a funicular before.

And that was my day at Six Flags Magic Mountain!

Edited August 8, 2010 by jedimaster1227

[live2tell75]

S I don't want to sound like I'm whining, because I'm not with the majority on this one, but the over the shoulder restraints definitely make the ride experience less enjoyable. They don't ruin the ride, just make it harder to enjoy--thats all.

 

I totally agree. I had been so excited to finally ride Revolution after many years of wanting to ride since I was a kid. (After seeing the movie Rollercoaster) Once I did ride in 2008, boy did I get a major headache from the head banging on that ride. I wish I could have ridden it when it just had lap bars.

 

I'm enjoying your trip report so far, looking forward to more updates!

 

-Eric

[Midgetman82]

Hey, that Axe train was at Over Georgia, hmm. I like your pictures and the whole TR.

[themeparkman25]

delete

Edited January 20, 2011 by themeparkman25

[haiderodes]

I too agree that SFMM's Batman is one of the more intense of the clones. The only domestic clone I have yet to ride is the SFGAdv installation (was closed when I was there last month), but the others seem to lack the "kick" that the west coast version delivers. The weakest seemed to be a tie between Goliath at SFFT and Great White at SWOT.

[jedimaster1227]

Here's the start of the Disneyland Resort section of my trip report. Write up to come later.

After nearly seven years of waiting, I'm finally back at the Disneyland Resort!

Welcome to the Disneyland Resort Esplanade! Being able to walk in less than three minutes to both parks' gates is awesome.

I'm here! (And so is my five o'clock shadow...)

And I finally get to put my Annual Passport to use!

Grizzly Peak always impressed me...

The original Soarin' over California was something I didn't get to do during my previous visit. Comparing it to the clone at Epcot, there are subtle differences that set it apart (and actually lead my preference back to Epcot's version).

The queue is nice, but I prefer my blue trim lights.

Sure.

So fast forward to that evening at World of Color. As mentioned in the commentary above, I didn't take many pictures on my first day at the parks, just to make sure that I could focus on my experience first. I've learned from other trips that experiencing too much through the camera lens can (at least for me), make things harder to appreciate down the road.

I know it gets knocked by a lot of folks, but I'd give just about anything to get Paradise Pier in Florida.

 

In fact, take Animal Kingdom and I'll take Paradise Pier off of your hands.

Over at Innoventions in Tomorrowland, the citizens of the future predicted the coming of Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit to Universal Studios Florida. Notice the added detail of Jurassic Park beneath the coaster, all enclosed in the Universal Cinesphere 360 globes.

You do know that eating a stick of butter probably isn't the healthiest option for you. Though it definitely gives you a shiny/sweaty appearance.

The tech of the future.

If only this Timekeeper had actually retained its Robin Williams voice, Innoventions would be perfect.

Tom Morrow as narrated by Nathan Lane is pretty annoying.... Not gunna lie.

I decided to volunteer for the ABC Trivia Challenge pre-show for Innoventions...

He saw my name badge.

My knowledge of Wipeout meant that I won the game. Oddly enough, I didn't get anything for winning.

 

Damn you rug!

Notice the team is known as the Astro Blasters.

The sight of my wonderful name badge brought him to tears...

Then we saw Awesome-O.

Like I said, Awesome-O.

He stares at you whilst wielding a chalk sword...

He can also challenge the crowd to a Fresnonian Rap Battle when prompted.

Asimo has evolved from a long line of bipedal shells without souls.

His programming tells him that the ball is Nathan Lane's head. He then steps on the ball.

 

At this moment, I stood up and clapped.

Little known fact: I am practically obsessed with the story of the Rocket Rods, and I often find myself just looking at the track and the station whenever I get a chance to do so.

Proof? My favorite part of Soarin' is the moment where you fly over Mainstreet. You move towards the castle only to get a brief glimpse to the right, seeing Tomorrowland. Peeking behind a few facades is the red-lit sign for Rocket Rods.

 

I could describe the entire scene in vivid detail by heart. And I knew that before I ever went to Disneyland.

I also love the Matterhorn as much as Florida's Space Mountain, especially at night.

Now this, you can keep.

Unlike ours, California's Tomorrowland Terrace actually has people visiting it.

A little fact that I learned at my own event's History Walk... The old Mary Blair murals are actually behind these new mural panels, preserved but covered for now.

We caught Star Tours less than a week before it closed, and waited in for it nearly 45 minutes each time. Interestingly enough, the extended queue was used, revealing an extra Mon Calamari animatronic.

After seeing the original Enchanted Tiki Room for the first time since I was a very young child, I remembered every reason why I dislike Florida's version Under New Management.

Our event's private Walk in Walt's Footsteps tour took us into the Enchanted Tiki Room for a more in depth look at Walt's famous attraction.

We met one of the singing flowers and learned more about the show from one of the Tiki Room's tenured cast members.

Over in New Orleans Square, we found Club 33.

I seriously love New Orleans Square and would trade it for Liberty Square any day.

I have to throw one of these in here...

A look at the replica antique elevator in the lobby of Club 33.

And the stairway to the dining area upstairs (we didn't get to go up there unfortunately).

A look at the whole lobby (kind of small, but beautiful nonetheless)...

One of the few moments that I've ever been "giddy" in my life.

Authenticity rules.

I've seen this before...

This train station was actually used to represent a Civil War-era station seen in the Two Brothers section of the American Adventure and Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln shows.

Davy Crockett's Canoes was another attraction I was dying to try during the visit, but it wouldn't be done until my last day of the trip.

Another view of the Matterhorn.

Edited August 5, 2010 by jedimaster1227

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

Meet Jingles, Mary Poppins' horse.

The backside of Sleeping Beauty Castle is actually the front.

Snow White has a nice little garden that uses reverse force perspective to work.

Our tour guide's planned "special moment" was ruined by the nearby turn of Celebrate! A Street Party...

Dopey was a little thirsty.

The front side of Sleeping Beauty Castle is actually the back.

Walt puts the finishing touches on the Astro Orbiter.

L.H. Roth is actually me.

 

Legendary Honorary [Adam] Roth.

Walt's father gets a sun shot in thanks.

Smaller, in a humble kind of way.

Wondering what the Starspeeder 1000 is going to look like in Star Tours: The Adventure Continues?

Wonder no further!

I want.

For scale purposes...

See?

Looks nice here too!

Get ready for an onslaught of World of Color photos!

Color!!!

One of my favorite photos of the trip...

This needs to be moved, NAO!

The Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage also impressed me, growing on me with each ride like coral.

 

Ok, I know I'm lame.

A very large grouper...

They really need to start doing a DiveQuest tour of the Submarine Lagoon like they do at Epcot's The Seas with Nemo and Friends. If they did, I'd fly to California annually just do dive here.

Tiki Oom Mow Mow.

This sad, scared fish reappears throughout the ride, which adds something extra to see the second or third time around.

I like our Angler Fish scene a little better [when the KUKA arm works].

Dory jumped around so much, it was hard to capture her soul in photo.

A nice little touch at the end of the ride.

A look at the interior of the sub...

Hi Larry!

Our group viewing of Captain EO Tribute was tons of fun.

 

Man, do I LOVE this show!

Rocketeer for the win!

The other side of the mural panels, covering the other side of the old Mary Blair murals.

A look at the [dark] extended queue for the now closed Star Tours.

"It's a trap!"

"Big mistakey?"

Notice the K-Droid Boombox.

Back to my Rocket Rod obsession for a second. Here's where the track passes through the queue for Star Tours.

This guy completely ruins the photo.

I know most people dislike it, but I always loved the sunburst at the entrance of the park.

Okay, I'll give you some credit. This is tacky.

Sadly enough, I didn't get to experience Glowfest once during my visit.

The Animation Studio building ended up being one of my favorite places to sit and take in the atmosphere.

 

I want one of these ASAP.

Aladdin was fun, but not as great as I expected it to be. The show really relies on the Genie (luckily ours was really good), but I'm glad to see it is being kept instead of being replaced by the not-so-popular Toy Story: The Musical.

I actually really enjoyed this Tower. Not as good as ours, but it had a better drop sequence than the one in Tokyo.

 

Tokyo still has the best story and Florida still has the best ride.

The sets for Aladdin area really impressive.

*Drools*

*Jaw hangs on the floor*

Such an awesome area!

According to Lumiere, I most resemble Aladdin.

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

Moving on...

I actually really enjoyed walking through Tarzan's Treehouse, although once was enough for me.

It does provide great views of the park's tree line.

Beware of the bug-eyed leopard.

Aaah...

Oooh...

Tarzan is looking a little dusty...

Did I mention how much I love this show?

I seriously want to rig a D-Box theater to play this every day.

 

Anyone want to loan me $2000 to make it a reality?

I actually really like Innoventions here.

Its always nice to a see a throwback to the past.

My obsession continues to drive my photography further...

One of the impressive scenes from the fantastically-done, Sleeping Beauty Castle walk thru.

Mine Train thru Nature's Wonderland.

I loved the Sun Wheel as a kid, but I definitely like the new look of Mickey's Fun Wheel.

 

"Bienvenidos al Mickey's Fun Wheel!"

A simple but effective touch up makes all the difference.

Oh my! Paradise Bay has got a leak! It must have been that earthquake...

The Blue Sky Cellar is another unique attraction that I want in Florida.

A look at what this side of Paradise Pier will look like soon enough.

As long as we don't have Christian Bale singing on the side of the trolley, I'm fine with these.

Simple but effective... It fits.

Bringing more "character" to the Pier is fine with me.

An idea of how Goofy's Sky School will make use of existing theming for Mulholland Madness.

What the rethemed coaster should look like when completed. I love the Victorian-era lighting that is being applied to all of Paradise Pier.

A new Italian restaurant will be coming to Paradise Pier in the space currently occupied by Pizza Oom Mow Mow, Burger Invasion and the S.S. rustworthy.

A look at the new restaurant...

Also new to the area will be The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Undersea Adventure.

The ride is being billed as the next great Disney dark ride in the same vein of those found in Fantasyland at Disneyland Park.

It is cool to see the Imagineers draw inspiration from outside parks, including ones that no longer exist.

The ride should be pretty impressive from what the preview videos and photos show.

This attraction will be heavy in full size, full motion animatronics.

The Pacific Electric Railway cars will also be a nice touch.

Supposed to be one of three Ariel animatronics, this will be likely be the most advanced, from what has been shown so far.

Very clever!

Prepare for more World of Color photos, this time from the Grand Californian viewing area.

I really like how this one came out.

Wonder why I mentioned moving the Golden Zephyr earlier? This is why.

The viewing area lets you see patterns in the light that can't be seen in the normal ground-level viewing area for World of Color.

It is also easier to see the "dancing" character of the fountains from higher up.

The Buzz Lightyear scene...

Fire!

Burn the thing to the ground!

Lots of color!

We've only just begun...

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

 

[coastertube]http://www.themeparkreview.com/coastertube/play.php?vid=IMGP4469_q6tr[/coastertube]

Tilt-shift friendly.

To give you an idea of the height of the fountains.

Time to watch the show from another viewing area.

I guess the Jungle Cruise isn't the only place you can see the backside of water.

Did I mention that I am a fan of Paradise Pier?

Volcanic...

Lots of fire!

A cool little thing that the fountains do...

The last of these for a while.

It had to be done.

This one was just because I could!

There's a little bit of El Toro in California.

On the day of Disneyland's anniversary, there was a ridiculously long line for anniversary merchandise.

A look at the train station before the commemoration ceremony...

Disneyland busted out the Disneyland Orchestra to celebrate the 55th anniversary, but this wouldn't be the last surprise of the day.

A nice little set up for a beyond-modest event.

I completely forgot to try this, and I should have.

Taking a page from the 20th anniversary event for Disney's Hollywood Studios, there was an anniversary cupcake, even more sinful than the last.

A red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting, gold sprinkles and flakes, white chocolate and more.

I approve!

I'm gunna regret this in about 45 minutes...

At noon, the ceremony began, starting with the arrival of the Disneyland Orchestra.

Park Vice President George Kalogridis led the ceremony, introducing several guests after a few opening words.

One of Disneyland's most-tenured cast members was given the chance to speak at the ceremony. He is actually the boy picture to the left in the middle, wearing the plaid shirt. He also met his wife, who is also a cast member, while working at Disneyland Paris.

Then several children came out to sing "A dream is a wish your heart makes" in multiple languages."

Soon, more children came out...

With the larger choir out, the singing could be heard all the way down Mainstreet.

It was a true "Disney moment," for sure.

The the Fab Five came out with a few extra characters (namely Chip and Dale) to wrap up the ceremony.

Another surprise was the release of several dozen doves over the crowd.

And what's a party without confetti?

Very cute!

At about 4:00 pm, this was the scene at Mainstreet USA. Why? Because the anniversary sing-along was going to be finished with an anniversary flashmob, including 55 characters and many more cast members. I'll let my video do the talking (blame the jerk for standing up in front, even when we asked her to sit), but you should still get an idea of what was going on.

The Main Street Cinema also played some "newly discovered" footage from opening day at the park, including dedications of each of the opening day lands and much more.

A classic in so many ways. No where else in the world have I ever seen a full audience of strangers sing a song together in such harmony with animatronic birds.

I like this version better than Florida's, mainly because of the Piranhas.

I also like this one better, even though our Johnny Depp animatronic looks far more realistic.

So close to the Dream Suite, and yet so far.

Details, details, details...

Tarzan's Treehouse really does blend well into Adventureland.

Sitting in the front row, we got completely soaked. No lie...

I'm guessing this was added during the major refurbishment, right?

Something tells me that this kid's left hand won't make it back to the station with him.

Here's a petrified tree, and a piece of Disneyland history together.

Sadly enough, I didn't get to see the show at The Golden Horseshoe either.

Does anyone else see a face in this photo?

Another nice touch for the area.

I like this Thunder Mountain's layout/setup much better than the one in Florida.

[mr. cockblock]

Glad you had a great time at SFMM. You took some great pictures, thanks for sharing!

[Guy T. Koepp]

Very in depth, unbiased, and awesome TR Adam! You always pay attention to detail. It looks like you had a blast so far.

 

I look forward to seeing the rest of your trip.

 

Guy "Fair and Balanced." Koepp

[Across_the_Universe]

A great TR from 2 places I've always wanted to visit. SFMM doesn't look as bad as some people say, but I don't know. I'd just like to go to another Disney park, be it WDW, Disneyland, DLP, or even TDL. (The first one being the most likely.) I don't know when I'll ever get to go there. I just had such a great time at WDW, and I didn't even get to do all 4 parks! Ah well. I'll get to go again someday!

[Hilltopper39]

Great Trip report Adam, like Guy said very detailed and unbiased. Its fun to read a report on Disney from a real Disney fan wit such interesting details that I wouldn't ever notice.

Just curious, what was your opinion of World of Color? Ive read a lot of mixed reviews from loved it, hated it, not that impressed, not as good as fantasmic or Illuminatinos. So what did you think.

[jedimaster1227]

^To answer your question, I want to say that I loved World of Color, but I know I'd be speared in the head for doing so. I'll break it down so that my answer is at least a little more justified beyond pure fanaticism. From a technical standpoint alone, World of Color is a marvel. Not because of its unique technologies because, at least from the outside, it can be seen that much of the technology employed was derived from Fantasmic. It is a marvel because of the sheer scale of the project, and the amount of integration between technologies and effects that come together to make it all work. To have over 120 colored nozzles, some of which have full range of motion, each set to perform its own routine amidst the larger program of the show, is nothing short of incredible to see.

 

After seeing World of Color eight times during the course of the week (one night I saw it three times in a row from three different viewing angles), I feel that I've had a chance to absorb the show, and see it past the veil of pure "shock and awe" that comes from a 100-someodd foot wall of colorful water before me. To compare this to any water show seems to be cynical means to demean what it is, at least from a technical standpoint. To say that I'm hooked on the technical aspect alone for this show would be an understatement... So much so that I'll admit (for better or for worse), that much of the days following my return home were filled with thoughts of how I could replicate (on a much larger scale, and even smaller budget) some of the wonder of the show in the hopes that I could program it myself. And while I have come up with some ideas (some more fleshed out than others), it is one project that continually pops back into my head with a certain divine inspiration that I've not experienced for quite some time. Saying all of this, I feel like I'm in the film Inception.

 

From an entertainment stand point, the story didn't really hit me until the third or fourth time, but to call it a story is a stretch. I spent some time wrapping my head around the idea that every Disney concept has a story, and while this is still the case here, it is far more literal in its execution. The story is really presented in the song and the visuals, but it really is more of an artful compilation of Disney Animations' best (with a strange bit of Pirates thrown in the mix), both in picture and in sound. Once I moved past that, I looked into what was shown, realizing that each time I saw it, especially from a different angle, I saw another dimension of detail that the Imagineers pushed into it. Little things like an arrow being show from the left-most screen which runs all the way to the right, hitting the Fun Wheel which triggers a target-like glimmer make the show have a return appeal that is strangely unique. Looking down on the show from the Grand Californian viewing area, it is possible to see the lighting patterns on the platform, which are just as, if not more complex than the focus and programing of the water jets. Even further, looking at the show from the other side of Paradise Pier (near California Screamin') gives you a taste of what the mass of water looks like as a whole.

 

One more thing of note was being able to see what others around me experienced or how they reacted when seeing the show. Whether the greatest Disney fan or a casual guest, you could hear that sighs, "wows" and cheers at each of the show's various crescendos, and after seeing bouts of laughter, joy and even tears brought on to the general public by the show, I have a better appreciation of all that the Imagineers have delivered with this package.

 

To make a very long explanation short, after seeing the show as many times as I did, I feel like I "get it." To say that it is the greatest thing I've ever seen would be an understatement, but it ranks up there for me as fantastic experience (one that I would certainly welcome in Florida) that I would go out of my way to see if I could. I am enticed by the technical details of the show, but the overall package just surprised me in a way that I didn't expect--and each experience resonated with me so much so that I can still recall each individual detail from the show that I noticed from each of the eight viewings.

Nerdy shots are nerdy.

OMG! I actually show up in one of my photos for once!

Take the tunnel!

Take the other tunnel!

Take the lift hill!

TPR Turtle Fancy satisfied.

Details we don't have in Florida. Boo. To you.

For some reason, I really like the way this one turned out... (Pun intended.)

Queues that weave in and out of the ride layout are awesome. Snaps for Disneyland.

The Indiana Jones Adventure is still one of the greatest Disney attractions I've experienced (although the one in Tokyo is even better).

Detail overload.

 

End of line.

Indoor/outdoor theming is amazing.

 

I'm gunna have a hallway like this in my future home, just with fibre-optic lighting in the path.

"I know that there is no quirky co-star here with me, but that doesn't mean you have the right to stare!"

This triggers the falling jeep and the extra T-Rex, right?

Sallah is the man. That's all I've got to say about that.

You are my hero Sallah! You pimp you.

It reads: "Currently waiting for the next episode of the Bryan and Adam Show. Will wait 10 centuries more if I have to."

As you may have guessed, I approve.

The fedora brings out the green in my shirt.

Shrunken Ned gave me a cure for Insomnia. Sadly it worked. Now my productivity has been cut in half, but I'm sure he's coming out "a head."

Want.

Thinking of Robb...

I rubbed it the wrong way...

Outta place. Outta time.

I'll get to ride this eventually, right?

I think we're getting closer. I smell some Pooh.

Larry love.

Get back! I'm a sailor on the edge, and I've got an oar!

Oh Pooh.

I'm not gunna lie to you. If it weren't for the Monte Cristo at Cafe Orleans, I would have bought the whole tray.

Its a shame I hate caramel, otherwise I would have bought twelve.

Considering the fact that I've yet to visit any other Tom Sawyer Island (including Florida's version), this was a first for me.

In order to ensure the timeliness of the Columbia Sailing Ship and the Mark Twain, the raft to Pirate's Lair is on a time schedule, unlike the continuous operation of the rafts in Florida.

Off we go!

 

Oh wait.

 

I'm not on the raft!

 

Come back!!!

Do you know where we are now?

Any ideas?

We are actually on the stage for Fantasmic!

Something comes up from the floor here, and that is Fantasmic!

Hello World!

 

You stay classy, Planet Earth.

Looks kind of wicked, doesn't it?

Rope bridges are awesome. What else is new?

If you push the pumps, you can actually drain the boat to see the loot beneath the depths...

 

But then it fills up, which is not at all Fantasmic!

See? It is possible for other people to enjoy Disneyland when I'm there.

 

I'm not as awful as Bryan makes me out to be.

The canoes were fun, just a little wet for my liking thanks to a few skippers in front of me that decided to paddle their water directly into my lap.

"I never even got to see another episode of the Bryan and Adam Show!"

Okay, I was faking.

 

Will you still do the update?

Traffic jams on Pontoon Bridges are amazing. Four adults in a single section of the bridge will cause a flood, and lots of water to come about your shoes. Tis fun. Try it out some day.

I would have let go a long time ago.

You're doing it wrong.

Barnacle-y details...

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

How would you feel being strapped to the front of a ship for fifty five years?

I smell gold coins!

Unfortunately, you aren't able to go into Fort Wilderness anymore.

From what I can tell, this is the biggest change that came to the island during its pirate overlay.

The Dead Man's Chest is a cool little prop that pulses to the beat of Davy Jone's heart.

This little cave has a sensor that triggers the hanging skeleton hand of Ragetti...

As well as the popping up of a skeleton head of Pintel.

Another trick sensor.

Extra details in the cave make the place a little more impressive...

Then there is this nifty little animatronic, which is awesome to see in person.

The magic behind the magic.

Its all in the detail.

It even moves... Now all we need is an animatronic donkey.

One last look at the Fantasmic stage up close.

Hey Andrew!

On my last day at Disney, I saw Captain EO three more times. I love this show!

Ewok fancy fulfilled.

Before my camera died, I was able to get a few more photos in...

Our monorail doesn't do this.

Midget Autopia tribute!

Clever...

I spy Rocket Rods track!

Monorail Blue is so sleek looking.

One last index photo for the road.

Farewell to Disneyland for this trip (this is the last photo my camera took before dying at Disneyland).

Universal was fortunate enough to get a few photos before my camera died for good.

It wouldn't be a visit to Universal without a picture of the original globe.

Such a big CityWalk. I'm jealous!

They even rolled out the red carpet for us!

Universal Studios Hollywood gets my automatic approval.

And this is why we're here!

"Here we are on the escalator ride! The escalator ride!"

A special thanks to Joey for all of his help with the Gate A passes. It was great to finally meet you in person!

They've added these 3-D glasses to the tour for King Kong 360 3-D.

We're almost here!

And the last photo taken of the trip, thanks to my camera dying for good.

Edited August 9, 2010 by jedimaster1227

[daveydo5172]

Great pics and trip report...glad you enjoyed Magic Mountain so much....was good to hear a lil of the trivia about Disneyland....heres one you might not know....Coca-Cola(which seems to be a fave of yours) supplies both Disney Parks in the U.S. with all of the Coke products...at almost no charge...Coke gives them the products, in exchange for ALL of the publicity and advertising it wants/can get.....so that Coca-Cola sign you showed in the Indiana Jones pick, isnt just there because the "old Quality" of it matched the theming.

[1pizza14]

^ Really wow.. actually when you think of it... coke gets sooo much publicity.. all the rides shows ect..

[tigerxeyez]

Adam! Great pictures! I'm happy that we were able to help you get to SFMM, and that you had an awesome time!

[ebl]

This may have been the best SFMM/Disneyland/DCA trip report ever. Thanks for sharing it with us!

 

Eric

[senna]

Great report and pictures. A lot of your views about the Disney Parks and rides were the same as mine so it was interesting reading it.

[mcjaco]

I've only been to DLR three times, versus the forty or so times to WDW. I find each of them has their charms, and their deficiencies. Either way, I'll never turn down a trip to any of them.

 

Nice report, Adam!

[Lenaapple1974]

Adam, Awesome TR!! A++++!!!

 

You know, I would most definitely of taken a pic in the A, if it were an L that is.

I cannot wait for the day that I make it back to Disneyland. My hopes right now is that I make it there for 2012. The last time I was there was 1982. So very sad. But it will be an anniversary of sorts, so here's to hoping!! For now, your many, many, many awesome pics have me satisfied.

 

Thanks for posting!!

[nursemelis374]

Adam, excellent trip report! I normally don't even bother to read DLR reports because I go there so often but I have thoroughly enjoyed yours! Thanks for all the wonderful details and descriptions.

[XLRBR]

Adam, I now dub thee the "King of Detail".

 

Now that that's done, I'll say that this is a GREAT trip report! Reading (slash seeing) your view of some of the parks that I've visited many times gives me a new view on things. Awesome job!