After the 1.2 billion dollar makeover of Disney California Adventure Park, beginning June 15th, we surely can expect a “Disney Summer to Remember”.
Since my family will be celebrating it’s own milestones shortly, we thought a celebration in Disneyland would be just the ticket. Our “to do” list is growing by the day; considering the record crowds expected, I’m not sure we will fit everything into our 5 day visit. What follows are the “musts“:
Disneyland Hotel My boys have not experienced the remodeled hotel, so that is where we are choosing to stay. We’re counting on the classic Southern California weather so that we can spend an afternoon by the reimagined pool. (I hope they won’t miss the pirate ship too much!)
Trader Sam’s- Enchanted Tiki Bar Did I mention my older son is turning 21? I can think of no place I’d rather share a legal cocktail than this eatery/cocktail lounge.
From the Kahlua Pulled Pork Flatbread to the HippopotoMai Tai, the year old establishment is an homage to the Jungle Cruise, defunct Adventurer’s Club and Enchanted Tiki Room.
We’ll be sure to have an early dinner (after 8pm, the 21 and above rule stands, and that would leave out our 18 year old) and then spend some time relaxing at the nearby fireplace.
Disney California Adventure Aside from the much hyped new attractions, this park is getting the full “sparkle” treatment; fresh paint in every nook and cranny. From the moment you approach the new Streamline Moderne gates, you can imagine the Hollywood town that Walt Disney encountered nearly 90 years ago.
Buena Vista Street Art Deco store fronts and restaurants line this 1920′s Los Angeles entryway to the park. Its centerpiece will be a reproduction of Carthay Circle Theatre, home to the premier of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937.
The Red Car Trolley Take a ride into the past and travel to the Buena Vista Street Town Square area.
Cars Land A new 12 acre land, based on the movies Cars and Cars 2, will feature 3 attractions, 3 eateries and multiple shops; as you walk down “Route 66″, you will head to the long-awaited Radiator Springs Racers, Luigi’s Flying Tires and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree.
Mad T Party ElecTRONica will be replaced this summer by an all-new entertainment celebration. Located in the Hollywood Pictures Backlot, this Alice in Wonderland inspired party will feature bands, DJs, a light show and specialty snacks.
World of Color This water show takes place nightly in Paradise Bay, and is an absolute kaleidoscopic of color, projected on 1,000 fountains, fire and fog. The soundtrack includes songs from over 30 Disney movies, and is coordinated with the water ballet.
Matterhorn Bobsleds A Disneyland golden oldie! It is scheduled to reopen in mid-June after a full refurbishment, with brand-new bobsled vehicles. Each train will have 2 connected cars with separate seats for 6 persons (configured as Walt Disney World’s Space Mountain) and locking lap bars. My 18 year old, who will be celebrating his high school graduation on this trip, fell in love with this attraction when he was a small child. Parents with young children should note that there will be revised height requirements when the Matterhorn reopens: 42 inches- which is 2 inches taller than both Space Mountain and Splash Mountain.
Disneyland Park Eats My family is chomping at the bit; we can’t wait to again eat on Main Street at our favorite table service restaurant when the Carnation Cafe reopens with additional indoor seating (after expanding into the former Blue Ribbon Bakery) and some new menu items offered at breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor and the Candy Palace, which also have been closed for reburbishments, are scheduled to reopen on May 2nd.
Another eating highlight will be the 4 month old Jolly Holiday Bakery. Grab a sandwich and Merry Cherry Lemonade, take a seat under the umbrelled tables outside and gaze at the castle.
What are you looking forward to seeing most on your next trip to Disneyland Resort? Remember: ”Don’t Stay Away Too Long”…
Donna Marie @DIStherapy
Blogging DISabilities, DISsert, Running! and DISney at DIStherapy
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I’m thrilled for you after reading about your Disneyland plans, Donna! Your family is sure to have an amazing vacation. Can’t wait to read all of your reviews, especially the ones about CarsLand!
Thanks Kathy- can’t wait to get there!
Sounds like a great adventure, I can’t wait to get there Just for our first trip. Your tips add to the excitement and I can’t believe you have a almost 21 year old and a son graduating HIgh School. Fun Times for sure…
Thanks Diane. I love Disneyland; different but SO familiar!