Top Ten Things I Miss From Disneyland Paris

Without a doubt, the title for the "Most Beautiful Magic Kingdom", belongs to Disneyland Paris. Imagineer Tony Baxter and team created the theme park as work of art (but I've already written that article here). 

There are many parts to the park that I found that I miss. Here are a few of them. Let me start with Number Ten and work my way to Number One.

Number Ten- The Discovery and Liberty Arcades. Even though things are changing inside to some degree, they are filled with interesting memorabilia, rich in history and artwork- as well as providing cover during inclement weather and a great way to exit the park when crowds are big. An undiscovered gem.

Number Nine- Having Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the middle of the Rivers of the Far West. When you have to go under the river to begin the ride, it provides an unexpected thrill. Ingenious and wildly effective.

Number Eight- Each land feels entirely separate from the others. This strengthens the theme of each land due to lack of visual intrusions, aside from seeing the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror once it opened. Makes it much easier to imagine you really are in the Old West or in Jules Verne's vision of the future. Just great design!

Number Seven- Walt's- An American Restaurant. If you've been there, you understand.

Number Six- Exploring the most beautiful of all Kingdom castles. Not the biggest, but certainly the best. The dungeon, the upper rooms, the tapestries, the gorgeous stained glass... and the secret entrance from one of Fantasyland's shops. This is everything a Disney castle should be!

Number Five- Pirates of the Caribbean. Disneyland's version is longer and almost as good- but not quite. The bayou of New Orleans Square is mysterious, but setting sail from a Caribbean isle port just feels right. Toss in some sword fighting pirates, an entirely new first and ending scene, and and a mesmerizing exterior fort, and you have the ultimate Magic Kingdom adventure.

Number Four- Frontierland. The best version of the Wild West since Nature's Wonderland was built in California. The panoramic views pull you into this piece of uniquely American history- and all without cuddly characters or islands taken over by pirates. The creepy Phantom Manor only adds to the drama.

Number Three- Alice's Curious Labyrinth. Designed on the animated classic and not the Tim Burton creepy monstrosity found in Shanghai. It's not always the biggest attractions that have the biggest impact. This smaller Fantasyland attraction is just a delightful way to spend half an hour.

Number Two- Racing through Space Mountain. Sure, Mission Two is not nearly as beautiful as the original version, but the ride is still incredible. And what can I say about the exterior? It's an eye catcher during the day but just unbelievable at night! With the Nautilus set in the sparkling lagoon, wow. Just, wow!

Number One- The thing I miss most about Disneyland Paris? Being there!
(Photos copyright Mark Taft.)