Photo TR: Going back-back to Cali again!

[jedimaster1227]

Following up on last year's trip report, I was fortunate enough to return to California this year to spend several days at the Disneyland Resort and to cover the D23 Expo. With my new camera, I ended up taking over 5000 photos during my week long visit, but I've whittled that number down significantly of those to share here. I'll provide write-ups where appropriate (like for the D23 stuff) as I get to it, but in the meantime, enjoy these photos as they come!

 

[coastertube]http://www.themeparkreview.com/coastertube/play.php?vid=00004_pj77[/coastertube]

I figured it would be appropriate to have the first photo be of the most major addition to the Disneyland Resort on the horizon...

While I'm not a Cars fan myself, this does look pretty impressive!

The Blue Sky Cellar remains as one of my favorite places to relax at California Adventure.

Our first dinner at the resort was a World of Color dinner package at the Wine Country Trattoria. After last Summer's visit, I had to get the amazing lamb shank again!

The dessert tray was also more impressive than it was last year with macaroon lollipops and chocolate tartlets.

Intamin ride... Intamin ride... Intamin ride...

While I miss the Sun Wheel, I really do love the LED lighting package that the Fun Wheel received in its overhaul.

 

(That's light emitting diodes for those of you who don't know... -BZ)

Since my last visit, Pizza Oom Mow Mow and the S.S. Rustworthy had been removed to make way for the Paradise Gardens restaurants. This is seriously a major improvement!

Oh, and now there's beer!

I never really noticed how nice the Jumpin' Jellies' lighting package was, but it fits surprisingly well into the new Paradise Gardens section of Paradise Pier.

Last time I was here, Mulholland Madness was still open.

The Goofy overlay works thematically, but I was a little disappointed by how much was really unchanged. At the end of the day, it is still a mess of metal, but the blue paint makes it a little less tough on the eyes.

Much like the Barnstormer was at the Magic Kingdom, the new station's theme surrounds a barn (or in this case, a farm where Goofy used to crop dust) that Goofy has turned into a flight school.

The man himself!

The queue has been filled with gags and details that tell the story of the refurbished attraction.

For the love of Larry!

The bulletin board is filled with tie-in gags to other attractions and characters in the Disney family.

There was blood on the saddle... Blood on the ground...

"If you're planning to learn to fly at Goofy's Sky School you should

 

stop"

Hy Flyer.

This poster will be sold soon at the Disneyland Resort.

The ride's cars have been slightly retimed to add a propeller to the front and a "student decal" to the back.

The transfer track has been rethemed, which is a nice touch.

Along the course of the track are instructional billboards that tell you how to perform a certain maneuver...

The lift is still very fast for a wild mouse.

Easy enough!

This display actually has moving features.

Watch the POV to learn how I flew the Goofy way...

Something seems to be missing here...

That being said, the removal of the Maliboomer has brought some fantastic balance to view of Paradise Pier.

The Fun Wheel has really grown on me in the last two years.

Over at Disneyland, our first stop was the original Enchanted Tiki Room.

Still full from my dinner at the Trattoria, I didn't get dole whip. Sadly enough, I never did get to go back and have some during the trip.

If only we could bring dole whips into the Walt Disney World version of the Tiki Room...

I think I'm experiencing deja vu.

The following morning started with a ride on a newer favorite of mine, the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage.

 

Guess why this pipe is significant.

Not our chariot today...

I'm a nerd.

But I love rides as detailed as this!

Dive!

Oh no!

 

(A hint of things to come!)

Edited December 1, 2011 by jedimaster1227

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

I was glad to see that Mr. Grouper hadn't moved from his spot since last year. In my absence, he even evolved to gain a blow hole!

This diver is searching for the remainder of the Bryan and Adam Show Deep South episodes. He hasn't had any luck yet.

Hey Tiki Tiki, you've got something on your nose.

Notice the fish in the clam?

And scared fish is still here too!

This ride's got crabs.

Seriously one of my favorite attractions in the park.

We must be in Tomorrowland... They've recreated the layout of the Rocket Rods!

Hello Beautiful!

She's sick today.

If I haven't said it before, I am a huge fan of Disneyland's version of Fantasyland.

And while I'm not a Disney fairytale kind of person, Alice in Wonderland (along with Pinocchio's Daring Journey) is one of my favorite rides in the area.

When the Queen of Hearts gets angry, the whole room shakes.

And the two-floored aspect of the ride is also a major plus!

Much like the remnants of the Rocket Rods, the remaining pieces of the Mine Train thru Nature's Wonderland has fascinated me.

I think it is extremely clever to reuse old thematic elements of old rides in the development of new attractions and areas.

The River Belle Terrace offers a great breakfast for those looking for fresh pancakes but are on a cheap budget.

We'll need electron beams and crystal prisms, gyroscopes and magnetism...

Give me a moment to stare...

I love Walt Disney World's ride for the layout and raving soundtrack, but I really do have a soft spot for this Space Mountain.

Star Port 75 is in the family too.

What a fantastic station!

Not as nice as Tokyo's but pretty cool on its own!

During last Summer's trip, I saw the Captain EO Tribute ten times. I love the show anywhere I see it, but Disneyland's rediculously-bouncing program makes this one far more enjoyable.

The show is no longer sponsored by Kodak.

I'm thrilled to be here!

 

Mind you, Bryan is probably going to strangle me for putting on my "flight glasses" before we left the terminal.

Forgive me.

The return of Star Tours has brought a surge of crowds into Tomorrowland...

Time for some more nerdom.

The fastpass machines are Gonk Droids!!!

Anyone want to arrange a walking tour of the track for me? Please!

Welcome home! You've arrived!

I didn't realize this until I took this photo, but the new marquee for Walt Disney World's Enchanted Tiki Room is based on this one!

Hiya Andrew!

Time for another one of my favorites!

Unlike the Aurebesh in the Star Tours queue, you can basically figure out what the glyphs here are saying without having a decoder.

If only... If only... *sighs*

Naturally, I pulled the rope.

Sallah's my boy!

Shouldn't he be considered a contributing to the Time Institute? He did provide the foundation for the Time Rover!

Noted!

Oozing with detail...

Hello Tokyo DisneySea!

Now I'm really home!

Every nook and cranny in New Orleans Square has a new detail to discover!

Like Fortune Red for example...

He uses his grimy finger to guide you...

Along the path...

To find your treasure!

Fortune Red is one of several fortune tellers found inside of Disneyland.

[QueerRudie]

OK: Memo to me- Wedgie is in order for the -total- geeiness of your Disneyism here... BUT.... I'll refrain due to the quality of teh StarPort 77 Porn in this TR.

 

(And I -really- did think I over-geeked on my last DL trip. I've been proven painfully wrong...)

[DerekRx]

So far I'm pleased, though am highly disappointed in your lack of Dole Whip. There is always room for Dole Whip, ALWAYS!

[BeemerBoy]

So far I'm pleased, though am highly disappointed in your lack of Dole Whip. There is always room for Dole Whip, ALWAYS!

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

One of my favorites at the resort... I even got one of my friends to give it a second chance, which he enjoyed much more than his first experience.

It's all about the "Mocoddity."

...Or stroller parking.

Get it?

Oh the detail!

I seriously have a craving to go walk around Port Orleans French Quarter now.

There's just a certain charm to this section of the park...

Details around every corner.

Another favorite atmospheric stop for me is the Court des Anges.

Mademoiselle Sally McWhirter teaches music lessons upstairs, and sometimes you can hear her.

Recently brought back, the shop isn't my cup of tea, but I think it is a nice touch to bring back a formerly closed option.

Robb and Kevin, I bow in your general direction.

The Phantom turns the popcorn in New Orleans Square...

On to another classic...

It just works so freaking well!

Is this haunted room actually stretching? No... It's actually sinking! (Kind of like Horizons.)

These possessed portraits made their way into Walt Disney World's Haunted Mansion a few years ago, but these can be found in the loading queue for Disneyland's version.

It will never get old.

Happy Birfday!

And a ghost will follow us home!

Picturesque.

This always takes a little getting used to.

As does this.

There was definitely blood on the saddle. Definitely blood on the ground.

Nights in white satin, never reaching the end,

Letters I've written, never meaning to send.

Beauty I'd always missed with these eyes before.

Just what the truth is, I can't say anymore.

'Cos I love you, yes I love you, oh how I love you.

If Disney could do it, why couldn't Hard Rock Park?

Moving on...

Confused? Me too.

Tears will definitely be the chaser for your wine.

Bryan, you have officially lost the ongoing goat hunt.

And I also win for the mini-horse hunt.

As a promo for the new (and fantastic) Soundsational parade, the drummers from the beginning of the show perform on their own over by it's a small world.

And do cool things like this.

And this.

And the boy band pose.

And the "Here's looking at you, kid."

Somehow I was shanghai'd into touring an Aulani preview model... I'll have photos to show for it.

Time for one of the coolest nonsensical attractions out there.

I get it!

I'll let you figure these out.

If only we could get these in Orlando...

Screw Ball.

"Weesa gonna die!"

Somebody's getting followed by a fan...

But she finds time to pose for a photo, and then promptly resume her flight.

Time for the goods!

Le Special de Monte Cristo is what I'm here for.

Well... That and the atmosphere!

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

Gumbo and all you can drink Mint Juleps? I'm in heaven!

My friend ordered the Jambalaya, which was delicious.

And for me, the Monte Cristo with the signature Blue Bayou potatoes.

The "Let the Memories Begin" ad in the Esplanade rotates to show guests memories as they happened.

I'm going-going, back-back, to... Orlando???

This is going to take some getting used to.

Yep.

EnginEars Toys had closed a few days prior to our arrival and by the time we left the entire building's facade was ripped off (I have photos).

The Carthay Circle Theater will be home to two new bars/restaurants, one of which will be dedicated to members of the new Carthay Circle Club, the park's answer to Club 33.

Just the week before, the Golden Zephyr had been torn out with the engine sent off to a nearby railroad museum.

After being shut off for several years, the rotating effect for the marquee for Condor Flats has finally been restored.

Again looking back, I realize I didn't even ride Soarin' this time around.

On to the Hollywood Pictures Backlot (or eventually Hollywoodland).

In preparation for the debut of Disney Junior Live on Stage!, the building's facade was updated to reflect a more 1920's-esque design, and the theater gained a new moniker as the Disney Theater.

I've been Recognized!

I definitely considered buying number five.

Works for me!

Again, works for me!

I was the only one in the group I was with that enjoyed this preview, but being a fan of the film (I will admit, I watched it on the flight to LAX), I was happy to see a well edited sizzle reel on the big screen.

The backlot's fountain has been masked by a massive DJ booth complete with a fantastic lighting package.

The Monster's Inc facade remains unaltered, although it looks very different during elecTRONica.

I thought this was a clever use of an otherwise-closed location.

I'll be back.

They even updated the Studio's sign to keep with the theme of elecTRONica.

I'm glowing on the inside.

Food Truck Fancy fulfilled!

The backside of the elecTRONica projector screen is well masked.

And there is plenty of merchandise to be sold...

In preparation for the arrival of the Buena Vista Street Red Car Trolleys, the sign for the Hollywood Pictures Backlot (and elecTRONica) was removed.

Good news Disneylanders! You have cake pops now too!

I thought this was clever...

The lack of lazy eye is upsetting.

What's all this Mary Blair artwork of, you ask?

*facepalm*

Welcome to Hawaii! Prepare for some Paul Rudd quotes!

"I'm going to give you a Hawaiian name... Peepyopee!"

"Okay Monster Man!"

"You sound like you're from Lahn-dahn!"

"Come on out. Oh, the weather outside is weather... "

Surfing Instructor: If you get bitten by a shark, you're not just gonna give up surfing, are you?

Peter Bretter: Yeah, probably.

Surfing Instructor: I once saw him beat a guy up with a starfish!

Peter Bretter: That's ridiculous.

Surfing Instructor: That guy was me.

"Too slow. Do less."

The Disneyland Hotel is currently in the process of a major overhaul. This pool recently re-opened with this fantastic looking slide complex.

The retro-ness is overwhelming.

Also recently opened was the Tangaroa Terrace and Trader Sam's... But I'll get to that later!

These towers are almost down with their respective refurbishments.

We were also shown a renovated room in the Frontier Tower of the Disneyland Hotel. The beds' headboard has lights in it!

I guess I did get to ride Soarin' after all...

In the lobby of the Frontier Tower is a huge scale model of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and the surrounding area.

[DJeXeL]

^That model is amazing. Did you check out the Big Thunder Suite?

[Nibbler]

In celebration of Star Tours, I say this..

 

"I find your lack of dole whip disturbing"

[805Andrew]

Nice pics to a set of parks of been to many times. I enjoy getting an outside CA perspective to these CA parks. Looks like DCA and the Cali Disney Resort will be great in a year and in coming years. Looking forward to it.

[niiicolaaah]

Nice pics. I LOVE the Blue Bayou. Finally ate there this summer and had the jambalaya, it was great! I LOVE DISNEYLAND!!!

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

The train depot for the Golden Zephyr shops and eateries was still intact at the time this photo was taken, despite the fact that the train itself had already been removed.

07.09.82

12.07.10

 

Get it?

The laser is actually a part of elecTRONica, zapping guests during the evening while throwing them into the realm of The Grid.

Retro!

Jean jackets... Very retro!

Creepies... Crawlies... Toads in a pond... Let there be music from regions beyond.

Then the mood shifts as Flynn's Arcade disappears, revealing warriors from The Grid...

Some good looking warriors...

'The aura was palpable..."

 

"Was it now?"

In elecTRONica, Eckert (a Castor look-alike) runs the show.

He forces programs to dance to songs by Daft Punk, which I'm fine with.

Programs in elecTRONica can also fly.

"Libations for everyBODY!!!"

Okay...

The former Hollywood & Dine restaurant space has been partially converted into a small recreation of Flynn's Arcade, as seen in the two films.

The set is pretty convincing, until you look up.

That being said, it is a fully functioning retro arcade featuring an equally retro audio loop full of classic 80's songs.

Neon signs represent notable 8 bit games of the arcade era.

This was definitely a nerd-tastic moment for me.

Why Florida, why? Why couldn't you do this too???

I had to at least play the game once...

This was a major moment for me.

Space Paranoids artwork adorns the brick walls...

Pac Man anyone?

Little known fact: I love arcades.

I'm really in heaven.

They even have a working version of the fictional game, Space Paranoids in Flynn's Arcade. This was the original game that took Encom to the top of the charts.

It's real!

You've been recognized!

Even the game tokens for Flynn's Arcade are branded for elecTRONica. I took some home as souvenirs.

Clever.

I've never had to wait for Monster's Inc., which is something I'm perfectly fine with.

"It took how long to post the last Bryan and Adam Show update?"

"No ma'am. Mimes are never funny."

Sully's been waiting a long time.

Didn't there used to be a scent used in this room?

I know the responses are pre-recorded, but the programming that allows Roz to respond to guests is so clever! It picked up on me taking photos of her and based her entire end spiel on that!

Want.

As the day went on, more details were ripped from the facade of EnginEARs Toys.

Not much longer now...

Ok, I'll give. I love Star Tours.

That Tusken dude looks like a lady!

Poor Captain Rex!

Hidden Mickey, for you fans...

Each piece of luggage in the queue has it's own unique label with some of the Lucas language, Aurebesh.

Patrick Warburton took G2-9T to the next level! Nice job pal!

The loading station for Star Tours at Disneyland is extremely narrow due to the space constraints of working the original attraction into an existing building. Star Tours at Hollywood Studios was built from scratch, which allowed for two additional simulators and a larger loading bay.

Oh no.

What am I doing here???

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

I must be in Los Angeles.

Back at elecTRONica...

I've resumed my geeking out for the night.

Laserman, a staple since elecTRONica was launched, recently debuted a relaunched version of the show featuring music from the TRON: Legacy Reconfigured album.

Having never seen the show in public before, I was quite entertained.

Video (and most photos) don't really do this spectacle justice.

The crowd really did eat it up too, so it wasn't just me.

That must be heavy...

There are now two angles from which the lasers emit. The original show only featured the vertical emitters.

While not the best show I've ever seen in a park, Laserman Reconfigured is unlike anything I've ever seen in a theme park.

If you get the chance, I highly recommend giving it your time.

The finale includes this last emitter on the ceiling.

Considering this was a previously closed space, I love what they did with it. And it is sponsored by Coca-Cola!

Projection mapping at night makes the studio which houses Flynn's arcade look much more like its fictional counterpart.

Change the scheme! Alter the mood! Electrify the boys and girls, if you'd be so kind!

Not once during my trip did I not see elecTRONica as extremely busy.

Even the projections on Monster's Inc. help turn the area into TRON City.

RECTIFY!

Where you go when you're buying "libations for everyBODY!!!!"

Every time the laser goes off another program has entered The Grid.

This doesn't look like the Hollywood Pictures Backlot to me.

Time to ride The Little Mermaid for the first time!

Scuttle's a pretty impressive animatronic.

The effect of diving under the sea is actually pretty impressive.

There are story elements on the ceiling and walls, in addition to hidden corners of the show scenes. This ride is very reminiscent of old style Disney dark rides, just built with modern technology.

One of several Ariel animatronics...

You move through the "Under the Sea" scene a little quickly, but the scale is definitely impressive!

Strawberry Dole Whip anyone?

Ursula's "bend and squish" was well programmed.

Don't wanna kiss the girl?

Ursula's end is depicted very briefly in the final scene of the ride.

A nice effect...

King Triton looks more human than any of the other characters in the attraction, which is kind of neat.

And they lived happily ever after... Until the direct-to-video sequel came along.

I think this is Jetsam.

What's this hidden in the shadows?

It's on the other side of your shell right at this show scene...

It's a hidden Mr. Limpet!!!

In a matter of hours, the building's walls at EnginEARs Toys were beginning to come down.

So long... Farewell...

They really are sparing no time when it comes to redoing the entry shops for Buena Vista Street!

One side of the old entrance's original ticket booth pass-thrus was still intact.

Slowly getting more used to this...

Though I blink expecting to read "Disney's Hollywood Studios."

Looks nice at night!

Sadly, the Matterhorn was closed for refurbishment during my visit.

Though I did think about waiting it out until it reopened...

While the size of the Sleeping Beauty Castle has always surprised me, I am definitely a fan of what it holds inside.

A hint of what's to come!

[cfc]

"Das Limpet!" Disney gets an extra point for working in a reference to a Don Knotts' movie.

 

"I wish, I wish. I wish I were a fish!"

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

You'd think you're looking at a film cel from the film Sleeping Beauty, but this is actually one of the animated dioramas within the Sleeping Beauty Castle walk thru.

Filling in the scenes between the dioramas are books that help tell the story of Sleeping Beauty.

While I've never been a major fan of the princess movies, I always find myself amazed by how stylistically similar these dioramas are to the look of the original movie.

Each of these scenes has an animated element...

And the kingdom slept...

It feels like you could just walk into it!

The depth of this scene has always impressed me!

The grandest scene in the walk thru is also the most strongly animated.

Elsewhere in Fantasyland, Rapuzel's meet and greet has been extremely popular, drawing in queues in excess of 60 minutes.

Pirates of the Caribbean also had a lengthy wait for the majority of the trip.

In the Floridaverse, you aren't likely to get wet on Pirates of the Caribbean. In California, not only is it guaranteed, but it is highly likely that you will end up at least partially soaked.

The Dream Suite is so close, yet so far out of reach.

As much as I love SeaWorld's lemon slushies, I'd give anything to have a Mint Julep bar in Walt Disney World.

Kungaloosh?

I had to recreate this from my last trip in order to see how it would turn out on my new camera. I'm very pleased!

I know it has its flaws, but I really do love California's Tomorrowland.

I have much love for California's Space Mountain.

And I mean lots!

Remember those fortune tellers I mentioned earlier? Shrunken Ned is another one, found in Adventureland.

Shrunken Ned is an animatronic shrunken head of a "doctor" who offers prescriptions for different ailments.

Last year, he offered me a cure for insomnia. The cure? Sleep.

There was blood on the saddle. Blood on the ground...

And a great big puddle, of blood all around.

I'm just glad Florida still has the Country Bear Jamboree. I didn't enjoy it at a young age, but the tongue-in-cheekiness of the show really entertains me now.

Story of my life.

The actual figure from the show smiles.

I'm a sucker for Disneyland Park history. The Mine Train thru Nature's Wonderland is one of those rides that fascinates me.

America Sings is another.

I never did get to try these, but they looked amazing!

I also forgot to try these, but they looked so good!

Before the start of Soundsational, one of Mainstreet's many citizen acts came out to entertain.

Over the years, I've slowly become more of a show person, and I will gladly go on record to say that when it comes to parades, Soundsational is definitely one of my favorites.

Mickey and the Fab Five lead the parade in the starting float.

Mickey rides the float, actually playing the drums to the music.

Goofy, Chip and Dale follow the premiere float, ending for the first set of cues for the parade.

Next up is the Aladdin set.

Soundsational has a huge cast that keeps the space between floats filled with entertainers.

Aladdin waves from his drum perch and occasionally bangs on the gong to the beat of the music.

One of the most elaborate floats following Aladdin comes in the form of The Little Mermaid.

Bubbles, moving parts and lots of hidden details make this float fun to watch.

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

This spinning hermit crab reminded me of the old snails from the Mainstreet Electrical Parade.

Most people were surprised by the inclusion of a Three Caballeros' themed portion of the parade, but it works really well!

It's Jose!

It seems they were able to find Donald after the Gran Fiesta Tour.

This section ends with two dancers in traditional Latin dresses.

Next up is the princess float.

The front features Aurora, Snow White and Rapunzel.

The back features Cinderella and Belle.

The Lion King float also features Turk from Tarzan and King Louie from The Jungle Book.

Fierce!

The next float features Tiana and the characters of The Princess and the Frog.

Tiana is at the front of the float...

The Peter Pan/Tinkerbell float features a mix of music from Pirates of the Caribbean and Peter Pan.

People were especially surprised when it was announced that Soundsational would feature a float themed to Mary Poppins.

Sure enough, it ended up being my most favorite, unorthodox float in the entire parade, both for music and design.

The carousel bikes actually move up and down!

The design is very different in style from the rest of the floats in the parade, but it works very well!

It is the largest of all of the floats and a great finisher to the parade.

Curvy chimneys!

The penguin moves around the piano, stomping on the keys in sync with the music.

So impressive!

By the middle of the day, the entire sign structure for EnginEARs Toys was gone.

That evening we gave the World of Color dining package at Ariel's Grotto a try. This was the spread of dips for the restaurant's sourdough. From left to right, you've got pesto, butter and a low fat homemade ranch dressing.

The bread is baked and served like this!

The appetizer is a small plate of chilled seafood.

Also included in the appetizer portion is a meat, cheese, olive and tomato plate.

There's also a salad included. The best part? Every aspect of the meal is refillable, meaning if you want more, they'll bring some at no extra charge.

My dining partner got the chicken dish from the menu, served with steamed veggies and mashed potatoes.

I tried the seafood cioppino, which was delicious!

The dessert plate is huge!

And the quality of what is included is clearly visible!

I love World of Color so much, I could eat it up!

The view from Ariel's Grotto is pretty nice! Next trip, I'll see World of Color from the Cove Bar for the first time.

While I prefer the menu at the Wine Trattoria, I highly recommend Ariel's Grotto as a secondary option for the World of Color dining package.

The classic pier signs still look good...

And this one was recently added.

This one replaced the sign for the former Sun Wheel.

The old World of Color gazebo photo op was updated to become a sailor Mickey meet and greet.

Catch-a-Flave was retimed to become the Paradise Pier Ice Cream Co. since my last trip.

Few references to the old Sun Wheel remain.

I miss you!

Wasn't sure if I had ever given this to Larry before.

California Screamin' was down for the first half of the day for unknown reasons.

This newsstand facade was added to one of the snack carts as part of the Paradise Pier update.

It even has a reference to Disney's Hollywood Studios!

This one seems to work quite well compared to ours...

The new Games of the Boardwalk work quite well.

It is all very clever.

[the ghost]

Very nice TR... and I didn't notice the hidden mickey in star tours, so I'll keep my eyes peeled. I've never seen Mr. Limpet, so not too sure what that is, but cool there's a little "homage" there for fans. Also VERY impressed with Ariel's Grotto. I have always talked about eating there, but I wasn't sure if it was worth it... but everything looks very good... and not to be to much of a food nerd, but even the presentation was great! Overall awesome TR! I wish I had been able to find the DLNT/WDWNT team at D23... oh well... maybe in 2013!

[cfc]

For all those who aren't familiar with The Incredible Mr. Limpet . . .

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdK3z3Uqiws

[jedimaster1227]

There's still more photos from the trip that I have yet to share!

More of the Games of the Boardwalk...

I wouldn't have a problem if these showed up (in theme) at other Disney parks.

I think this look suits me.

Here is the lush park...

Corn Dog Castle was behind walls last year... This time around, I got to try the greatness of the DCA Corn Dog!

Route 66 Souvenirs received a minor retime as Seaside Souvenirs, which worked out well.

Pretty sure the Maliboomer is still pictured here.

At some points in the day, the World of Color platforms are lifted to allow the nozzles to sit above the water for testing.

Paradise Park turned out pretty well too. Take a look Walt Disney World... You've got something already designed that you could drop into Pleasure Island.

I really do like the Golden Zephyr. I just wish it was on the other side of Paradise Bay.

Last year, this was merely frame and steel. This IS a prime example of a well-executed Disney dark ride. I cannot wait til ours opens in Florida.

This mural spans the entire ride station, much like the classic Fantasyland dark rides have in their stations.

Some pretty great moments in Scuttle's opening loop here.

Probably the most impressive Ariel animatronic of the ones in the ride.

Not easy to capture, but the size of the Under the Sea scene is pretty impressive.

Flotsam and Jetsam are well placed in the attraction.

Ursula is quite impressive as well.

For those that care to know: there is supposedly a hidden Mickey in the fireworks.

A perfect reutilization of existing infrastructure from the first decade of the park.

For Larry.

They've cluttered this area a bit, which is a shame.

Now on to my favorite area of the park...

The portal to Cars Land will open next year.

The Lucky Fortune Cookery and Cocina Cucamonga switched locations earlier this year.

MASECA!!!

The Mission Tortilla Factory closed a few months ago... Supposedly it will become a Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory soon.

The Bakery Tour is absolutely one of my favorite parts of Disney California Adventure. I truly hope it never leaves.

The forgotten icon of DCA.

A fish is missing its name... How sad.

Just beyond this wall is the Carthay Circle Pump House, which will likely serve as the new information desk and tip board location for the park's entrance.

The Cars Land wall cuts into the old Bountiful Valley Farms section of a bug's land.

I found Hopper!

For the index.

I see stairs to the new Carthay Circle Club!

The pump house has since been painted and detailed to near completion.

Reminds me of the old entrance to the park...

Is this where Captain EO is now?

The best character to ever theme an attraction to, EVER!

I've seen you before!

Some of the theming here carries mutual references with Toy Story Mania.

The Red Car Trolley end track near the Hollywood Tower Hotel has since been completed.

The track has blended well into the existing Hollywood Pictures Backlot.

Newsies Musical anyone?

Back in my favorite part of the park, I come here just to watch the video loop in the Animation Building.

Oh boy...

You had to have known this was coming.

You never really notice the shapes the fountains of World of Color make until you look at them in photos.

The projection screens blend in with the fountains.

"So wonderful... So beautiful..."

[Nibbler]

Looks like you enjoyed yourself, Have you memorized the End of Line Dance yet?

[jray21]

Great pictures. It's amazing how quickly DCA changes in just a short time. Every time I go, all the walkways are all turned around and more things are missing or opened. I can't wait until it is all finished!

[gisco]

Wow, is there anything you didn't do at the parks besides not get a picture of Dole Whip?

[jedimaster1227]

^Yup! I took lots and lots of photos of everything I did instead of getting a dole whip... Seriously will never forgive myself for that!

 

So yep, I have more photos! But I'm picking up the pace and streamlining the process a bit. This will be my last set of updates for the thread--it's a little more succinct, but a better set of highlights since I covered a good deal already.

 

We'll start with an in-depth tour of the D23 Expo Carousel of Projects Pavilion, presented by Walt Disney Parks & Resorts!

 

[coastertube]http://www.themeparkreview.com/coastertube/play.php?vid=00000_2q27[/coastertube]

I still love World of Color.

It still impresses me.

I was really bummed I missed getting to see the World of Color TRONcore (a play on the word Encore), but I really did like the new Pirates of the Caribbean segment.

It replaced what was actually my least favorite scene in the show (the Chernabog) with a heck of a lot more chaos.

The segment uses a lot more of World of Color's awesome lasers, as well as a ton of more fire, except now the fire dances!

Would you believe me if I told you that this is my last World of Color photo in this trip report? Because it is!

We ventured over to the Disneyland Hotel (something I didn't get to do last Summer) to see the new pool...

I seriously love the historical throwback!

My pool doesn't have these... Yet!

Okay... I'm addicted.

I love Mickey's Fun Wheel!

I'm not the biggest fan of the Cars franchise, but Cars Land will be reason enough for me to come back to the Disneyland Resort in 2013.

Bill Paxton, we've got trees!

Luigi's Casa del Tires has since received most of its facade.

Disney has slowly been releasing teasers for new park attraction posters that they will eventually sell. I'm going to be broke the day these come out.

The Animation building in the Hollywood Pictures Backlot recently received an updated video loop that nixed the Emperor's New Groove and Atlantis: The Lost Empire for more notable hits such as Toy Story 3, Tangled and a few others.

The Toy Story 3 segment was tastefully added.

Say goodbye to the train depot!

Just a few weeks before my arrival Corn Dog Castle re-opened. Since it was closed during my previous visit and the hype had always given it high-praise, I gave it a try. Definitely worthwhile!

Disney was testing a living character of R2-D2 at random times near the Space Mountain/Captain EO concourse.

He can fly! He can fly! He can fly!

Excuse my nerdgasm.

Yeah, I went there.

I have already booked Laserman to perform at my pool following the retirement of elecTRONica.

This still amazes me.

Rolling with the punches.

Hey Floridians! Here's one thing you can't do anymore...

So the following day, I participated in the Disney Trivia contest. Now let's get something straight. I grew up watching Disney movies, but my focus has always been the parks. I don't know much about anything else besides the parks regarding the company.

But somehow I got through the first two rounds to make it into the major rounds of elimination.

I actually made it into the top 40, but was eliminated when I couldn't answer the question as to who voiced Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast.

I treated myself to a breakfast burrito at the Tangaroa Terrace for my accomplishment.

That evening we went to Trader Sam's to check out the place for the first time.

 

It is filled with references to other Disney attractions and history. Does Miss Tilly sound familiar?

It should! Miss Tilly is the boat at the top of Mount Mayday at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon in Walt Disney World.

The menu is filled with drinks named cheekily towards other attractions.

 

Uh Oa was the goddess whom was angered by Iago in the Magic Kingdom's Tiki Room: Under New Management.

For those of us that were not yet of age to try the alcoholic drinks, they had these "no-booze brews."

I think it'll be in my best interest to stay away from the "Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum" the next time I visit.

 

I believe my fellow cruisers will agree with me.

The bar is designed to reflect a similar style as that found in the Tiki Room and the Jungle Cruise.

The windows each look out upon a Polynesian volcano, currently dormant.

"I ordered club soda and they gave me this."

My friends ordered the Uh Oa. The side bowls come filled with cinnamon which you use to spark the fire. Throw the cinnamon into the flame and it sparks.

After chanting "Uh Oa" loudly throughout the bar, the gods are angered by all the celebrating, and the volcanoes erupt.

This prop came to Trader Sam's straight from the Adventurer's Club.

 

Kungaloosh?

Sitting behind me enjoying a martini, is Bob Gurr, the designer of the original Disneyland Monorail and so much more! It was kind of an amazing moment.

I forgot how much I miss Mr. Toad's Wild Ride!

Never noticed this detail before!

It felt appropriate at the time.

Kungaloosh?

I guess I'm not the only one who bought a Dole Whip shirt!

[jedimaster1227]

(Continued)

My favorite part of the D23 Expo show floor was the Carousel of Projects pavilion.

The design of the pavilion is definitely a throw back to the 1964 World's Fair, but also a tribute to the division's many successes of the past.

I need a moment again.

Here we go!

The theater opens to reveal the bow of the Disney Fantasy, triggering the signature horn of the ship.

New (at the time) concept art of the Snow White Mine Train Coaster was presented in the New Fantasyland section of the pavilion.

The model of New Fantasyland gave me much reason to be excited for this coaster.

Dueling Dumbos in Storybook Circus will feature a less ornamental design for the ride itself, but will still look great!

The Barnstormer (also known as The Great Goofini) will be slightly retooled to tell the story of Goofy as a stunt pilot (as opposed to a crop duster).

The new Storybook Circus train station will be enclosed unlike the former ToonTown Fair station.

Casey Jr. will have a role in the Storybook Circus in the form of a water play area.

Over between The Little Mermaid and the Beauty and the Beast realms of New Fantasyland will be this small store and possible dining location.

A very basic mockup of the mine train coaster vehicle was on display.

One of the earlier models of the Carthay Circle Theater at Disney California Adventure was also on display. The building has since been slightly updated to better support its newer purposes.

The Amazing Destini was the culmination of several major Disney technologies. Think one of the coin-operated fortune tellers, except this one uses facial recognition and smart responses to talk to you, interact with you and involve you in the experience.

A little bit of backstage magic for your viewing pleasure.

I'm pretty sure that the Amazing Destini is a re-purposed version of the old Tom Morrow 2.0 animatronic that used to be located in Epcot's Innoventions. This is a much better use though.

Destini predicted that someday I'll become rich (how appropriate), and soon my photo appeared on the crystal ball. A large sticker of this fortune printed out afterwards as a souvenir.

Some close ups on the system.

It is surprisingly thorough.

They had a basic model of the Shanghai Disneyland Resort on display.

Aside from the castle, nothing else presented is definite, hence the very vague building details.

I'll admit, these vehicles are sleek!

I can't tell if he's sleepy or hungry.

A vehicle from Mater's Junkyard Jamboree was also on the show floor.

At the Disney Legends presentation, we were graced with a live performance from The Muppets.

The first skit was set to the tune of "I've grown accustomed to your face."

The audience was roaring!

It was pretty epic.

Then Kermit and Rowlf led a sing-along rendition of the Rainbow Connection.

Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs led the division's presentation at the Expo, with a little help from the Talking Mickey.

Before he began, a humorous video of him getting to know the parks and its cast was played.

We previewed an animation of how the Lumiere animatronic will move in his animatronic form when he debuts with New Fantasyland at the Be Our Guest restaurant.

Shanghai Disneyland's castle won't have a specific princess calling it home.

It will be the largest Disney castle ever made, with several floors and several different offerings.

The interior details were mostly teased...

The Sword in the Stone will be in the dead center of the castle.

The castle interior will transform throughout the course of the day.

The castle will also be the first to feature a ride inside of it. The details were scarce, but the one scene previewed featured an environmental transformation that took a dark cavern and illuminated it with golden light.

New concept art for the Radiator Springs Racers queue was also shown.

The queue itself will help to further establish the story of the attraction which takes place in between the two Cars films.

Taillight Caverns will feature illuminated stalactites resembling old Cadillac taillights.

Here's what the completed show scene looks like.

It was briefly teased that D23 would soon offer possible paid experiences that bring back former attractions exclusively. This could include a meal at the former Tahitian Terrace Restaurant or a viewing of America the Beautiful in Circlevision (obviously recreated for these events). Also discussed was the possibility of having dinner in the Haunted Mansion.

Announced at the presentation was the Fantasy Faire, replacing the Carnation Gardens section of Disneyland Park.

Think of it as Disneyland's New Fantasyland.

It will have a maypole.

As well as a show and dance venue.

Looks interesting!

We'll see how it is when it opens next year!

[jedimaster1227]

(And now our conclusion...)

The Walt Disney Studios presentation was pretty amazing, but unfortunately no photos were allowed.

 

To celebrate Pixar's 25th anniversary, everyone in the audience was given a cupcake!

And it was delicious!

Mickey's of Glendale, the Imagineer's private shop for apparel and souvenirs of choice was opened to the public in the form of a remote location on the show floor. It obviously was made for fans!

TRONorail!!!

I miss Lost!

Our preview for Wreck-It Ralph was amazing. Seriously looking forward to this movie!

Did you know the title character and the movie itself is based on an actual video game?

Bruce Boxleitner was signing autographs at the Expo.

Why did this catch my eye?

It took me a while to figure it out. Do you get it?

A photo of me with the voice of Rod Serling in The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

I want this suit so badly!

The Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives had some pretty impressive items. This included Walt Disney's original Disneyland cast member name badge.

They also had the first admission ticket for Disneyland Park.

They had the Declaration of Independence from National Treasure!

There was a nice sized collection of items from one of my favorite Disney movies, Hocus Pocus.

I found Winnie!

Anyone want a Dharma biscuit?

And here is Hurley's winning lotto ticket feature The Numbers.

They had a few items from Mickeys Toontown Fair on display. These were found inside of Mickey's house before it was demolished.

This is the original Mickey Mouse animatronic that was seen in the Mickey Mouse Revue that played at Magic Kingdom and later Tokyo Disneyland.

I love this pavilion!

Talking Mickey debuted on the show floor during the last day and a half of the Expo and drew a ridiculously long line.

This is the partner's statue that will debut on Disney California Adventure's Buena Vista Street when it opens later in 2012.

Flapper Minnie will be the statue found in the Disney Fantasy when it debuts next year.

Found this gem in the Exhibitor's section of the show floor! It now hangs in my room!

I love this photo op!

It isn't a secret that I love the Boudin Bakery Tour at California Adventure. I pray it is never removed, ever.

So much to love.

I am addicted to Boudin Bakery Bread Bowls!

Had to stop and mourn the loss of World of Motion by hugging its Roman columns which now reside on the Hollywood Pictures Backlot.

 

Seriously though, I don't miss World of Motion that much.

One last ride on Space Mountain to round out the trip!

Unfortunately the Matterhorn closed for refurbishment a few days before my trip started. By the time I ride it next, it should have new trains and possibly even some new show elements.

TPR Turtle Fancy fulfilled once again!

I decided early on that the Mint Julep Bar would be the last thing i would do before I left the resort to end my trip.

Two more Mint Juleps for the road! I seriously just sat there for a half hour, enjoyed my drinks, listened to some New Orleans music and took in the atmosphere. One of my favorite moments of the trip, despite being one of the last.

I clearly hated them.

I'm guessing that by the time I ever go up here, it won't be a Dream Suite anymore.

EnginEars Toys had been essentially ripped to the frame by the time I left. Funny, considering it was still mostly in one piece when I had arrived earlier that same week.

The last time I'd be seeing this sight again.

Farewell from California!

And farewell Disney California Adventure!

 

Thank you guys for reading this extended look at my most recent California trip... I shouldn't be back for a little while, so enjoy the break!