Bees, Snakes, and Other Creatures

Spiders, snakes, bees, wasps, etc. They are not something I like, even if I know they play a part in the ecosystem. In the last week, we've had two water snakes in our backyard pond and a TON of bees and wasps. I've never seen anything like it! But I'm thankful for the Word in Isaiah  chapter 11, verse 6 which describes what it will all be like when Jesus returns and establishes his kingdom: "The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them." AMEN!

 

The Disney Gallery Attraction Poster: Evolution of A Dream

Attraction posters continued to be one of the most searched for items on the Insights and Sounds blog. For good reason! First generation Imagineers created gorgeous works of art to celebrate and advertise the attractions at Disneyland. The tradition continued decade after decade. Here's the Imagineer's latest creation- a nice poster that advertises the preshow exhibition to the impressive Walt Disney - A Magical Life theater presentation. The exhibit is named Disneyland 70- Evolution of A Dream. This piece is in the style of the day for Main Street U.S.A., circa the turn of the 20th Century. 

There's posters for the attractions in each land at Disneyland on the blog as well as some for the Magic Kingdom, the "renewed" Epcot, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disneysea, California Adventure (yes, some great ones, actually!) and a smattering of them for other Disney parks. What a great number of treasures waiting to be found as you search here!

And watch for the November post which shares the rarest Disney attraction poster of them all...

The Grandsons Take a Dive at Casa Bonita

Not in the pool, mind you! Two of my grandsons dove wholeheartedly into the sopapillas at Denver's (in)famous Casa Bonita. Once known for meals that would stick to your plate if you held it sideways, it's now known for pretty good food (yes, really!) and for being a great but expensive place to spend some family time. And it was for everyone involved!
 

Rare Hong Kong Disneyland Attraction Poster

Some Disney park attraction posters are rare and some are really rare! This one was only shown publicly at the Hong Kong airport in late 2019 and early 2020. It was designed to give residents and visitors a small taste of what their reimagined castle would look like. The Castle of Magical Dreams turned out much better than I would have thought! The reaction has been more positive than not, and I agree 100%- each Disney castle park should have a unique icon. Don't you agree?

Never Forget the Attack on America This Day!

It was a day of great heroism in the face of incredible cowardice. Like the whole world, I watched the events unfold. Radical Islam extremists decided to attack us on September 11, 2001. We as a nation lost so much, but what did we gain? We as a people rallied together. People of all faiths, political preferences, and cultural backgrounds. We came together to grieve together and pray together and to help together. Let us remember this day. 

Let us not just talk but continue to pray for our nation and for our world. The senseless murder of Charlie Kirk and other political officials and influencers as well as ordinary citizens is not acceptable. We are better than that! Or are we? Shooting at school aged kids!?!?  God have mercy on us.

But back to today, 9/11. We should remember the sacrifices of those serving, the loss of family and friends. Let us honor those who gave their lives. Let us work together to preserve our God-given freedoms. Lord Jesus, have mercy on us and do not judge us according to what our sins deserve- either as a nation or as an individuals!

Living Beyond Our Limitations

Have you grown weary standing up against people that oppose you? Do you want to become someone stronger and freer? Ever feel like giving up when you once again face the struggles in your life? You know, the ones that tire you out, the secret places deep inside that you’d be ashamed to admit exist, the pain you’ve tried and often failed to overcome, the depression that haunts you. Thankfully, there’s hope.

Let’s cut to the chase: Without the power of God acting in your life and on your behalf, there is no hope but only human effort.

(Man, I haven't shared my personal Bible Study notes in a long, long, time! Do you miss them? If so, let me know.)

As those who follow Jesus Christ, we know we are choosing to go against the grain in how we live and have different priorities. This creates a tension we can’t deny. But all these troubles are in exchange for an eternal life with God instead of an eternity of pain and torment with Him.

This Christian life that we’ve chosen is a vigorous life- hard but rewarding!  

As a Jesus follower, we will have 3 main areas of trials and tribulations:

1- External Battles (Living against the grain of our culture)

2- Internal Battles (Nagging temptations, struggles, a “thorn in the flesh”)

3- I’ll share this one a few paragraphs down the line.

Some battles we win; others we lose. But Jesus has won the war! Let’s talk about one of our biggest battles- the fight against shame.

What creates shame in our lives?

Shame comes from many places:

·       Family History (Background, social status, ethnicity)

·       Our Personal History

·       Sexual and Physical Abuse

·       Our Sin - Our Temptations - Our Secrets!

Even as you are reading this, I bet these secret, darker places in your heart and mind are coming to the forefront! These are the same things that cause us to walk in brokenness instead of wholeness! Now, right now, stop and pray. Pray for God to protect your mind and heart from the attacks of Satan, who doesn’t want you to be whole and free! Below is a key verse to remember:

Ephesians 6:12   “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. “

The world hated Jesus first (John 15:18). He is our model as well as Lord and Savior! Just look at the temptations Jesus faced and at the hand of Satan no less! Look at Luke 4:1-13:

"Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. 3 The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’” (Deut. 8:3) 

5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours.” 8 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” (Deut. 6:13)   

9 The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here.10 For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; 11 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” (Psalm 91:11-12)

12 Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” (Deut. 6:16)  

13 When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time. 14  Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about him spread through the whole countryside."

Overall, Satan offered Jesus a way to live that left God out of the picture. Although we know Jesus is divine, the One True God, we also know that he had very real needs as a man on this earth. Imagine being in the desert, in the rough untamed wilderness for forty days. 

·       Hungry? See Verse 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Deut. 8:3) 

Satan offers: Meet your own need (the counterfeit of trusting God’s provision)

·       Power, Position, Influence?  See Verse 7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” (Deut. 6:16)  

Satan offers:  Power and position that comes from the world (a counterfeit of true authority and impact that comes from obedience to God) 

·    See Verse 10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” (Deut. 6:13) 

Safety, Security, Proving Yourself to Others?   

Satan offers: Trust in yourself and human wisdom (the counterfeit of God’s wisdom)

Ultimately, Satan offers results without relationship with God! Our enemy is trying to separate people from the Living God, the only one that brings hope, joy, peace, and eternal life. Just like Adam and Eve in the garden, Jesus was given and a chance to bypass obedience to God, taking glory from God. Where Adam failed, Jesus succeeded. 

We fool ourselves into thinking we can avoid a similar life of hardship and trouble. And our very nature fights against these things. But even if we gain some measure of success in that, we are missing out on God’s good plans for us. Plans better than we can imagine or create for ourselves.

Obeying God brings suffering, but it brings glory to God- and don’t miss this- we are often healed in the process!

How do we win those internal battles?  

1-     We must know and believe the promises of God.

o   Nothing can separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:35)

o   When we look to Him, we are never covered with shame (Psalm 34:4-5) 

o   Our sins are removed from us (Psalm 103:1-13)

o   God has good plans for us (1 Corinthians 2:9)

o   We are created intentionally and with purpose. Created for His Glory (Isaiah 43:7)

We can know the truth, but still feel lies. How you will choose to live will have as impact on your healing.

2-     Our Identity Comes from God now, not the world. Not from who others say we are. Not our parents, not our society, not our boss, the news, or our political affiliation… and not even our own self-doubt.

Proverbs 23:7- “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” (American KJB translation)

3-     We have power of Holy Spirit-   

·       Luke 11:9-14 tells us that the Father will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask!

·       God gives us the gifts we need to bring Him glory and do His will (Hebrews 2:3-13- and We are HIS family!)

NOTE: We have grace to succeed or fail!  

Ephesians 2:8-9. “8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. “

Salvation doesn’t depend on our performance. It’s a gift- but how we choose to live reflects our thankfulness for God and all he has done through Jesus Christ.

(Need more? Read Romans 61-23.)

Let’s get practical!

Those deepest ongoing temptations are signals you need time with the Lord. Spend a good portion of time in prayer, in reading the Bible, in worship.

Choose obedience. You are as free as you want to be- Every choice you make (obedience or sin) shows how free you will live. And who is your master. When we bring God glory as we should, we receive joy!

Focus on the work of the Kingdom and your love for God- not on your wounding! When we are self-focused, we tend to concentrate on what we DO NOT have vs. What we DO have! This is a practical application of this verse:

Luke 9:23- “Then he said to them all, “If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.”

How to Bring Healing and Wholeness

As I said earlier, you will have 3 main areas of trials and tribulations (see Jesus’ words in John 16)

1- External battles (you are used to these living in your culture)

2- Internal battles (thorn in the flesh, torment, temptation)

And now the last one…

3- BATTLES AND JUDGMENTS WITHIN THE BODY OF BELIEVERS (Yes, we can be our own worst enemy... this one hurts!)

1.     LOVE one another!  

Look at Matthew 22:37-39:

“Jesus said to him, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. The second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

“Can we love from afar?” It’s difficult! But we must go beyond our choices to love as well! 

2.     We Must also ACCEPT one another!

Just read  I Corinthians 1:10-13 here:

10 I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. 11 My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. 12 What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas”; still another, “I follow Christ.” 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul?  

We may not be divided by teacher or church, but we divide ourselves out in other ways:

·       Leader vs. Follower

·       Married or single

·       With or without children

·       By interests and hobbies (athletes vs. Creatives, introverts vs. Extroverts- other examples)

·       By our beliefs on secondary theologies

·       We need friendships with those different than us! God uses those not like us to bring pain to the surface so that he can heal! He uses our differences to conform us to Christlikeness. 

3.     Forgive One Another  

Here's two killer verses to wrestle with: 

Romans 15:7- “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”

Colossians 3:12-17-  

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

The hardest and sometimes most powerful? Confession.

1-Personal Confession before God (See 1 Peter 2:1- Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.)

2- Confession to Each Other

James 5:16- “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

I’m going to leave the following in caps. And I hope it makes an impact:

THE ENEMY’S PLAN IS DIVIDE AND CONQUER. SEPARATE OUT THE SHEEP, THEY’LL SCATTER, AND THE WOLF WILL PICK THEM OFF ONE BY ONE!

Let’s not help our enemy defeat us by playing into his hands! And let us not grow weary, but let us give God time to complete our transformation into Christlikeness.

Yes, our past, our sins, our secrets, can leave us living in shame! Certainly, we’ll be tempted by the enemy to meet our own needs and not letting God do His work in His time. We’ve got to know God’s word, know our identity, and then we must embrace His power to walk in grace!

Help us Lord to accept each other, forgive each other, and confess our sins before God and to our family in Christ. Amen!

Disneyland's Unbuilt Discovery Bay Comes to Life!

Did you know you don't have to go all the way to Disneyland Paris to see portions of Tony Baxter's unbuilt Discovery Bay? Of course, this master Imagineer slid some of the land into the French park, but as you can see, it also exists somewhere else. Above is a photograph and below is the concept art.

Ok, ok. It's AI generated. But look at what could be! Below, is an even better image to let you grieve even more about what the Walt Disney Company passed on decades ago. Imagineering can build wonders - even from original ideas- when given the chance. 

AI "reality"above, and the original Disneyland concept art below.

Doesn't it make you with the Island at the Top of the World film was a huge hit instead of a bomb? This incredible land would have nestled itself so well between Fantasyland and Frontierland with its San Francisco Barbary Coast theme! If you want to read about why this concept never made it off the boards and the jealousy that runs within the halls of Imagineering, take a look at this post.

After the Rain

How incredibly beautiful our yard looks after a rain! The colors seem to sparkle in the sunlight and everything looks for vibrant, more alive, more refreshed. "He covers the heavens with clouds; he prepares rain for the earth; he makes grass grow on the hills." So says Psalm 147 about the Lord God Almighty. Let me encourage you whoever you are in your life- God knows and is waiting for you to call to Him. Let Him refresh you! Everyone who seeks him will find God listens and cares.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

"Ascending by Degrees"- A Return to Greatness at Walt Disney World?

It was Disney fan extraordinaire Kevin Yee that coined the phrase "declining by degrees" to describe the persistent and continual lessening of the original standards found at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. You know, those impeccably high values for show and guest experience, and yes, value, that Walt Disney himself set forth. Perhaps it's only fair now to perhaps consider that Disney may be "ascending by degrees" at least when it comes to one aspect of change in Florida. (Let's forget the debacle of removing the Rivers of America just for one moment.)

The original concept art by Imagineer Herb Ryman for Cinderella Castle (top) was a masterclass example of elegance, restraint, and just plain good taste. The infamous "castle cake" overlay was just the beginning of a few cheap and ugly variations of the look, culminating in the horrendous rose gold layover deemed appropriate to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World. 

Thankfully that look is on its way out! The piece that debuted at this year's Destination D23 (above) shows a coming return to what it should be, a nod to the greatest Imagineering minds, those old school geniuses that brought excellence to all they did. 

It seems much like the area enhancements to Spaceship Earth at Epcot, the most successful design choices are the ones that return to the original feel when the parks were first thought out. Maybe, just maybe, a return to excellence, a full "ascending by degrees" will begin in Florida and then spread to the West Coast and "Walt's park". Here's hoping! 

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic Coming to The Magic Kingdom's Carousel of Progress

During Destination D23, Imagineer Chris Beaty announced that Walt in robotic form would be coming to the Magic Kingdom's Carousel of Progress. Instead of Walt being in his office as he is on Main Street in Disneyland's "Walt Disney- A Magic Life", here it seems as if he is in the Imagineering offices. This piece of concept art shows Walt on stage as the opening act for the beloved show. When this will happen is anyone's guess. But it seems that if you are a fan of the attraction in Tomorrowland, the show will be staying around awhile. What good news!

(Concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

A Night Out with the Rockies

They may currently be the baseball team with the most dismal record, but an evening out last night with friends to see the Colorado Rockies play was still great fun! Yes, Chicago whipped us badly, but what can I say?
 

Design Detail: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

This is certainly no surprise to anyone who is a theme park fan: When it comes to their newer attractions in the last decade or so, the men and women of Universal Creative are matching the design excellence that once belonged only to Disney Imagineering. The new Epic Universe park is the epitome of what they can accomplish so far. Dark Universe, in particular, stands out in this regard, but the grandaddy of their work seems to remain Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. It's not my favorite Potter themed attraction- that'd be a tie between Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Escape from Gringotts- but the sheer attention to detail is unsurpassed. You're not just in the movie, you've been taken out your ordinary world into theirs. My only regret with this award winning attraction is how intense it is on my body! Even with dramamine to kill the effect of riding, I still pay a pretty high place to do so. Yet, the experience as a whole is worth it if not for the queue through the castle. It's that well done!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.) 

It's a Symphony!

 

All Aboard the Mine Train Thru Nature's Wonderland!

Perhaps I'm nostalgic, but the early years of Disneyland were filled with anticipation. Walt Disney and his Imagineers were always up to something new, and the park felt fresh. Maybe guests were still in awe. It's seems like today we take "Walt's park" for granted. In 1960, the park began to promote the newest attractions. 

This insert / handout was for the terrific but now long gone Mine Train Thru Natures Wonderland. Think of it as the American West version of the Jungle Cruise, and you've got a good idea of what this brand new Frontierland attraction was all about. Lots of wild animals doing their thing among great wilderness landscapes and a funny old school narration to accompany the journey. The highlight was definitely at the end. The gorgeous Rainbow Caverns showcased waterfalls of all colors among deep, rich caves, stalagmites and stalagtites. All set to an otherworldly musical score. 

It was retro, vintage Disney Imagineering at its best! Speaking of vintage, this piece if from the great Vintage Disneyland Goodies blog.

(Art  copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

 

Laufey: It Was Just A Matter of Time

With her charming and playful personality and a penchant for smart, original, but vaguely familiar sounding music, it was just a matter of time before the world discovered Icelandic artist Laufey. She seemed to be mostly an undiscovered artist at least as far as the masses were concerned, but now even my young granddaughter knows who she is! Winning a Grammy for her album Bewitched in 2024 didn't hurt. On the other end of the spectrum, a duet with Barbra Streisand has made her familiar to an older generation as well. Laufey's new album is here- and she smartly released both the clean version along with the explicit one. Otherwise, it'd be a pass for me. I like her style too much , so I'd be sad to have to pass. 

When Is Your Imagineering Book Coming Out, Tony Baxter?

Journey into Imagination, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Star Tours, Indiana Jones Adventure, Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, and yes, Splash Mountain. The list of these incredible attractions make super fans lists of Disney Imagineerings's greatest park hits. Recognize the face? Of course, you do! It's Imagineering's legend Tony Baxter. He remains one of the best old school or new school Imagineers ever. Period. 

Look- Bob Gurr and Rolly Crump have done it.  Marty Sklar and Bob Weis jumped in. Randy Bright wrote one of the best long ago. Even the legendary John Hench dove in with an amazing one. Of course, others have written about the greats in Imagineering. All said, it's time for Tony to spill.  Don't you think?

Ten Best Unexpected Walt Disney World Experiences

Here are the Ten Best Unexpected Walt Disney World Experiences, 2025 Edition. Some would say it is not possible to rank them when there are literally hundreds of attractions, shows, dining and shopping options. But I'm here to tell you that as a veteran guest of the Florida complex, it is perhaps easier than you may think. How did I come to this list? By thinking about my many trips with family and friends and what we actually talk about when reminiscing. Of course, your choices will not and should not match mine! Just a warning: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind did not make this list. They're absolutely great- I love them!-  but they certainly are the expected choices. Stay with me!

Here goes in no particular order...

Bad photo- great experience!

Eating at the Top of the World aka California Grill- During a very special trip in 2009, my wife and I enjoyed a delicious and peaceful late night dinner at the top of the Contemporary Resort. We expected the high price but not the emotional rush. The view was gorgeous! We didn't even take a photo. Until the fireworks began, that is! 

 

Late Meal in World Showcase- Fast forward to a decade later. We're visiting Epcot with our daughter and her family. Finishing up a wonderful meal in Japan, and we are about the last ones there as we booked the latest reservation possible. This resulted in leaving an almost empty park. Enjoying the countries lit up late at night without the crush of the crowds and the noise that a busy park brings. An almost entirely silent walk through my favorite Disney park. Priceless. 

Getting happily lost in the Tree of Life trails, looking for carvings- In contrast to the previous two experiences which are centered on a restaurant meal as its origin, getting "lost" in Animal Kingdom among its many trails (and the hidden path- which is still there if you know where to look) is something we do every visit since the park opening in 1998. The lush surroundings, the sounds of the water, and the general vibes of the fourth park are quickly making it one of my favorites in all of Walt Disney World. Never did I expect that from this half day park! The addition of the Indiana Jones Adventure and Encanto will only making it stronger. And I can't wait.

Old school, big on charm.

A Trip on the Disney Skyliner- Call me crazy, but I'm a sucker for attractions that provide transportation. Boats, trains, people movers, etc. Who would have thought that simple transportation to keep the masses moving could be so much fun? (Notice I did not mention the bus system?)

PeopleMover- Since I mentioned it, yes, the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover remains a Magic Kingdom must do and one of the primary reasons why this park's Tomorrowland is better than the one at Disneyland. The views are great, the trip is relaxing, and it screams classic old school Imagineering. What more does a castle park lover need?

Meal Out at Disney Springs- Disney World's 5th theme park may not cost a dime to enter, but of course to experience it best means dropping some bucks. No, this isn't the Disney Food Blog, but some of the most enjoyable meals to be had in the complex are found here. From Raglan Road Irish Pub to The Edison to Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar and Morimoto Asia, the selection is top notch- even better than at Epcot, which I never expected possible. My Dine or Ditch series gives you a taste of what's best in the World and beyond into Universal and Disneyland as well. Check out the Raglan Road review here.

Riding the Waterways- Yet another transportation choice. Perhaps it's living in landlocked Colorado, but one of the great joys of a visit to Disney and now Universal Orlando Resort, is riding the water between theme parks, shopping districts and resorts. It's refreshing during the day, calming at sunset, and stunning under a dark sky. Part of being on vacation is doing things out of the ordinary. I'm always surprised how this puts a smile on my face.

Experiencing a Tropical Rain Storm and Watching the Night Sky Over the Seven Seas Lagoon- There's something so Florida about the whole thing! I remember years ago on our second visit to the world as a married couple experiencing this exact thing. We had just taken the monorail loop to an unopened EPCOT Center. Departing our train, a storm came in with lots of lightning and rain, reminding us we are in a tropical paradise of sorts. No one can create atmosphere as beautiful as the Lord God who created it all!

Following a Ride on the Original (and best!) version of Twilight Zone Tower of Terror with a ride on Rock N Rollercoaster-  By this point, you may have wondered when I got to an attraction as one of the best experiences in Walt Disney World. So, here it is. The one-two punch of these two thrill rides back to back make me a giddy teenager again. My wife can easily pass up both, but I cannot and will not resist. 

Spaceship Earth- Disney may have made major mistakes with the recent additions to my favorite (for now) Florida park, but they hit a home run with Spaceship Earth. Ever an old school style E Ticket, I expect newer attractions to surpass it in impact, but they never do. Now, if they'd only go a great job fixing the inside of this park's icon. Not even Cinderella Castle says Walt Disney World to me like this structure does, proving once again, that when the Imagineers want to and the suits give the budget, they can create some of the best attractions in the theme park industry- and in the United States and just not the Asian parks. 

Will my next trip in 2026 or more likely 2027 bring a different list of Best Walt Disney World Experiences? I hope so! Universal Orlando Resort and Epic Universe is riding high and part of our next Florida trip, so Disney better play its A Game!

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

California Adventure's Return to Excellence and It's "Bargain Basement Imagineering" at Opening

While some Disney fans like me think California Adventure has become a misguided mess (Pixar Pier and the like), others who were around at opening of the park in 2001- me included- know its not nearly the disaster now as it was then. When the announcement of a full re-envisioning was announced, anxiously awaited Imagineering to bring a bit of class to the park with Cars Land and Buena Vista Street. Yet, after a great rebirth, it seemed the park had mostly lost its way. In fact, I haven't even seen Avengers Campus or San Fransokyo because I just don't care. And count me in as one who loves Big Hero 6!

Those of us that still appreciate old school high quality projects are awaiting a sparkling new Coco boat ride, perhaps a greatly themed Pandora, and maybe even new additions to Avengers Campus. Will these balance out the cheap makeovers the park has been given since its amazing rebirth in 2012? Here's hoping! 

Let's look back on what was actually built come opening day. Why? First, it will help us appreciate the transformation and put it all in perspective- even if more recent decisions have made some of us question what the suits were thinking.  

As you'll see by looking at the concepts for the park version 1.0, the painters brush can be unintentionally (or intentionally) deceiving! Secondly, due to the cost-cutting measures of the leadership of the time, it reminds us what poor foundations the Imagineers are stuck working with while they continue trying to expand this greatly improved park. So, join me now as we go back in time to the opening of California Adventure through the artist's lens...



As we look at concept art from the first incarnation of California Adventure, let's compare what we saw in the preview center versus what the park really looked like to an opening day guest. Many visitors, myself included, expressed displeasure at what was found at this new park. So did the media and for a good reason.


Let's begin with the park entrance. The tile murals flanking the sides are really well done. The CALIFORNIA letters are a unique touch and both together clearly communicate this is not Disneyland. It's not a bad design, there's just no follow through. When the Disney advertising experts have to create a fictionalized version of the entrance for promotional purposes, this should be the first clue that the park has some serious problems and design flaws.

It is what we encounter once walking past the turnstiles that shouts "bargain basement" design. Looking right through the gates brings a very ordinary looking area, nothing to entice a visitor who is considering a day at this park.

The Sunshine Plaza reigns as the ugliest and least original park entrance area in Disney's history. Yes, this includes the even less imaginative Walt Disney Studios in Paris! Framed by an out of place replica of the Golden Gate Bridge, the environment matches a low budget outlet mall, appropriately setting the stage for what is found in most of the park.

The Sun fountain is an interesting structure, but it really belongs in an open garden at a hotel, in the midst of a walkway from the parking area or just someplace else. Not large enough in scale to impress, not a fitting centerpiece for the park. In some ways, it is appropriate. This is big and flashy with a contemporary edge- but it lacks substance.

Moving on, let's head to the Hollywood Pictures Backlot. At first glance, it is a pretty Disneyesque area, a more playful version of the main drag at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The centerpiece, and clearly the highlight at opening, is Disney Animation.

Frankly, this is one impressive showcase! Beyond the park's signature flight simulator attraction, this gem is filled with the kind of care in execution that should have been found all over the park. The Animation Courtyard has an impressive layout that dazzles, and The Sorcerer's Workshop, including Beast's Library, feels like a walk-thru dark ride, drawing guests in further and further inside. It's easy to spend an hour here just watching the transformation in the library. Well done, Imagineers! In a nod to the Studios old working animation area, The Animation Academy truly provides a fun and informative demonstration of the art of the wonderful and ageless 2-D process. (Below is altogether different concept for Disney Animation.)

Beyond this great little attraction is where the troubles begin. Wandering around the rest of this land, guests discover raw steel and bland walls lie behind the great looking storefronts. Even the seemingly impressive Hyperion Theater is really just one great optical illusion. Just a big box but one with state-of-the-art facilities inside. However, it is a facility with no lobby and no restrooms!

Nearby, the past its prime MuppetVision 3D show is found. Not too thrilling an idea or presentation. It's a quick retread from Florida to save some cash- and an attempt by Disney to relaunch a very tired but admittedly once charming franchise.

The worst of the (Back) lot, however, is the only dark ride found here in 2001. In one of the oddest moves ever for a Disney park, the Imagineers designed and built the strange Superstar Limo attraction. The building housing the ride is at once quirky and likable to some degree, but the experience inside is just plain bizarre. Hosted by an on-screen agent who seems like someone you'd never let your children be alone with, the limo ride takes you through a tongue in cheek and trendy Hollywood filled with animatronics of "B" list celebrities from the Disney Studio. It quickly became the laughing stock of the theme park industry and a symbol of everything wrong with California Adventure. Less than a year from its premier, this ride quickly disappeared forever.

In a bit of poor planning, the Backlot's main street becomes a dead end, so let's cross back over to Condor Flats, a recreation of a California desert airfield.

Condor Flats effectively marks the entrance to The Golden State district, the portion of the park that truly strengthens the California theme. The airstrip is a small area to be sure, but it houses the park's signature attraction, Soarin' Over California. All the quibbles of the queue and its minimal theming aside, this film experience is the emotional heart of the park. Californians are rightfully proud of their state and its stunning diversity of landscapes. The photography is exhilarating, the musical score heightens the mood, and the ride mechanism impresses to thrilling results. It is the single standout attraction in the park. This crowd pleaser should not have been duplicated at any other resort. Period.

The true icon of this park, and one that for the first time is positioned to please hotel guests instead of park visitors, is Grizzly Peak. No expense was spared in creating an authentic and beautiful mountain environment. The rockwork created by the Imagineers ranks with the best of their efforts, including Big Thunder Mountain and the younger Expedition Everest. The landscaping is superb. The network of waterfalls, winding paths and viewing areas makes this part of the Grizzly Peak Recreation Area the most beautiful location of the entire Disneyland Resort. 
(Below is an amazing piece of artwork. Like the others, makes sure you click for a larger image.)

The setting for the Grizzly River Run is spectacular and "E" ticket worthy. However obvious short cuts have been taken with this attraction, starting with the design of the watercraft. The promotional poster below shows a whitewater excursion with an authentically styled raft. Somewhere between concept and execution, the attraction ended up with standard theme park fare circular rafts. Certainly the same company that could imagine and engineer leading edge ride systems for other attractions could find a way to build an authentic raft that was safe while providing the desired thrills!

Further cost-cutting took place by the exclusion of animatronic animals. Every other nature-based attraction designed by Disney uses them to good effect. From slow moving rides like The Jungle River Cruise to the high speed adventures of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, there is simply no excuse for their absence except budgetary restraints. It's still a very fun attraction with terrific views of the park (and the less than beautiful city of Anaheim), but it could be so much more than it is.

Guests quickly noticed a trend in this new era Disney park: there may have been discounting on the attraction detail, but no expenses were lost when it came to the shops! California Adventure has some Disneyland quality shopping areas, and the Rushin' River Outfitters (below) is no exception.

Continuing a trend that began with Disneyland itself, the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail is a new take on the original park's Tom Sawyer's Island. Both provide plenty of fun as well as an area where younger visitors can run free. It is a nicely themed playground but not much more.

The limited number of attractions and cutbacks aside, this region of California Adventure provides the immersive environment that Disney guests are accustomed to finding at the parks. If only the rest of the small park had this much charm and care taken with it! The glaring shortcomings are only heightened when we enter into the San Francisco area, one far removed from the Golden Gate Bridge we found at the park entrance.

This tiny little sliver of San Francisco houses only restrooms, leaving guests who expected an elegant area such as New Orleans Square in a state of shock. In place of a fully realized cityscape, we find Golden Dreams, the film tribute to the history of the state. Originally envisioned as Circle of Hands, it was intended to be a heartwarming multimedia presentation of the brave men and women who settled and worked the land. Budget cuts again derailed the project. We are now left with a small scale but warm and politically correct vision of history. Unintentionally, this show is also one of the best arguments for Disney to stop using its a film stars as part of their attractions.


As we move around the bend, the beautiful Golden Vine Winery comes into view. Of course, so does the Pacific Wharf food court, Bountiful Valley Farm, and the surprising Paradise Pier.

The winery area charms guests with a sophistication not found elsewhere. Of course, like Napa Valley itself, we find a couple of pricy restaurants among the park's vineyard. Attractions? Oh yes, Seasons of the Vine is here- yet another film, this one highlighting the process of the art of winemaking from field to table. It is a slice of Epcot Center, an undiscovered gem. The music and photography perfectly capturing the area.

Across the way on this side of the bay is the Pacific Wharf. What could have been a wonderful setting for some California themed Disney attractions is reduced to mostly a food court with a couple of bakery tours using short films to tell the manufacturing story. The educational aspects of the park are important, however, they needed to be balanced out with traditional Disney attractions to justify the full ticket price.

Butting up to the Wharf is Bountiful Valley Farm, showcasing the agricultural impact of the state. Aside from yet another film, this one a clone of an additional 3D attraction from Florida, guests to the area are left without much to do except viewing tractors and watching a quite unimaginative fountain. In the age of "bargain basement" Imagineering, it's Disney storytelling at it's sorry best.

Controversial. Cheap and tacky. Off the shelf. Not what Walt would have wanted. Paradise Pier is all these things and more. And less. Much, much less.

Once guests had experienced the limited number of attractions in the other areas and the truly good live entertainment to be found, many headed toward Paradise Pier hoping to round out their day at Disney's recreation of a seaside amusement area.

The California Screamin' coaster stands tall over the area, and it is a roller coaster ride very worthy of a Disney park. Unfortunately, it is just a coaster- no great theming to be found here. No journey to outer space, no wildest ride in the wilderness, just an exposed track reaching for the sky. It is fun, day or night, but there are no Disney touches to be found except the giant glaring Mickey head. In this new fangled park, big, loud and obvious has mostly replaced the charming nuances of designers from earlier generations.

The rest of Paradise Pier is fleshed out with carnival games, kiddie attractions, swing rides, and an impressive Ferris Wheel. There's truly nothing magical or Disney here, yet the advertising department thought this was one of the best areas to show to promote the new park. What were they thinking? The public was not fooled, and the executives at Disney were left with an embarrassment on their hands.

Which brings us back full circle to the Blue Sky Cellar, housed in the old Seasons of the Vine building. Yes, it seems Disney is seriously trying to redeem itself by re-Imagineering the park. Starting with the areas that guests complained about the most, the makeover has started. The entrance to the park will be reworked. The Hollywood Backlot will get more improvements. The Pier will be a challenge but will still be a carnival. Plans even exist for a wonderful new land and a couple of great attractions worthy of the Disney of old. Will we see them? Will the proposed changes turn California Adventure from dud to star?

What can we learn from the "Bargain Basement Imagineering"? Concept art can be deceiving, and budgets can be reduced.  Disney has learned some important lessons from trying to fool us as they did in 2001. Now, after some serious recent disasters, they are going back to the basics of good design and Imagineering quality we saw in 2012... and I, for one, can't wait to see what lies ahead in the future! It may even make me return to the park once again. 

(All art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)