Yes, Virginia, that little sister park next door to Walt's magnificent Disneyland still holds some great experiences in spite of it recently losing its way. Arguably, Disney California Adventure hit its peak in May of 2015 when the beautiful remake of Condor Flats opened as the Grizzly Peak Airfield. Changes since that time have been a "brand withdrawal" to quote Robert Iger, but there's still fun to be had.
10- The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Undersea Adventure: Sure, this is another case of it not being what it could have been, but isn't that the true motto of California Adventure since its opening in 2001? In spite of its strong start, the last minute or two falls flat- but the overall attraction brings some old school family friendly magic due to lovable characters and all that amazing music. And a ride that lasts longer than 2 minutes. One of few in this park's attraction line-up.
9- Monsters, Inc.: Mike and Sulley to the Rescue!- In a park known for attractions with lengthy names, this small little dark ride is often overlooked, just about as often as someone still makes fun of the ill-conceived Superstar Limo. Clever details abound here. I'll be sorry to see it go when the new Avengers Campus is complete.
Preview of what's to come.
8- Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout- The jury's out on this one, but it is now a unique as well as a thrilling adventure. The Rocket animatronic is an unexpected surprise, something they did not have to do. Does it feel like more of a screen based attraction than Twilight Zone Tower of Terror? Absolutely, but the images are so crisp, I almost don't mind.
New coaster colors are a distraction from what
once was a San Diego feeling on the Pier.
6- Mariachi Divas: This Grammy winning group of ladies rocks the Wharf area with classic, beautiful Mexican music. There are times when I'm watching them under the gorgeous California sun, and I feel as if I am at World Showcase at Epcot and not in the middle of Anaheim. A true gem!
5- Soarin' Around the World: It may be a lesser attraction since it's changed from Soarin' Over California, but it is still breathtaking and worth the time of any guest to the park. Still a must-do for me, each and every trip.
Thrills may be ahead,
but serenity can be found here.
4- Buena Vista Street: Charm, charm, charm. This new entrance area is filled with it. The park as a whole is a richer experience because of it. Hopefully, the suits won't screw it up by shoving new Intellectual Properties where they do not naturally fit. The Imagineers in charge of the project should be proud of how they created an area every bit as warm as Main Street U.S.A. but with an entirely different feel. The Red Car Trolley adds just the right touch to it all! Nice work!
3- The Food Options: I do not frequent the Disney Parks for the food. That said, some of the tastiest options at the entire resort area are to be found here. The park was designed with this in mind when foolish heads thought guests would dine in expensive restaurants while hopefully ignoring all the cheap carnival rides and duplicated attractions from Walt Disney World.
Lots to explore!
2- Grizzly River Run: The trees have filled in, making a view of the park from this water thrill ride a beautiful experience day or night. After just riding Kali River Rapids at Animal Kingdom, let me tell you that California got the better attraction by far. A few Audio-Animatronic characters would make this a true classic.
1- Radiator Springs Racers: A super "E" Ticket and the park's main draw. Imagineer Kevin Rafferty's masterpiece transformed this place into one worth a visit if only to experience the truly beautiful Cars Land. Photos do not do the place justice. You have to see it to believe it. Will the suits ever allow the Imagineers to design and built something for this park that's so "Walt Worthy" ever again? That remains to be seen.
(Top photo by Gregg L. Cooper. All other photos by Mark Taft.)
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