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.

"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.)

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.)

Design Detail: Great Moments at the Movies

Great Moments at the Movies? You don't remember that Walt Disney World attraction? Sure you do! You know it by a different name. It's found over at Disney-MGM Studios aka Disney's Hollywood Studios. There it is at the centerpiece icon of the park, the Chinese Theater houses the iconic Great Movie Ride. 

Back in 1989 when the park opened- the year I first visited- the newest theme park was filled with amazing design detail as a love letter to the Hollywood of old. There are few attractions, but they were good ones. Of course, the Great Movie Ride was king. But the Backstage Studio Tour, the Art of Animation, and the Monster Sound Show made up a pretty great day. It was small but charming, a lovely way to spend an afternoon. 

There's been so many changes, and the park now ranks as my least favorite Disney park in Florida. Wasted space, too many poor quality attractions, and a very confusing layout headline its many problems. Yet, its history is rich and fascinating. Here's a look at 35 years of the park's history, including rare concept art and plenty of photographs. One part trip report from the first opening days and much, much more. Trust me, you'll find it fascinating! 

The Happiest Place on Earth Book and Disneyland's Tomorrowland Concept Art

 Imagineer Herb Ryman is probably one of my favorite Disney artists when I consider concept art and others renderings. His work on EPCOT Center is stunningly sublime and also dazzling. But for the first blog post of August 2025, I wanted to highlight his incredible work for Disneyland, specifically Tomorrowland's Monorail and Submarine Voyage stations. 

It's a tribute to the creative thinkers of Walt's day that they would stack two such important attractions on top of each other. Making the most of limited space, after all, was a tradition at "Walt's park". Fantasyland used this design trick to their advantage, creating layers of charm upon charm. In Tomorrowland, the goal wasn't charm but it was to create "A World on the Move" long before the 1967 version so many theme park fans rightfully adore- and it succeeded tremendously. 

This image is from the incredible new book, "The Happiest Place on Earth" by Don Hahn and Christopher Merritt. If you think you know all there is to know about the creation of Disneyland and have seen most of the concept art for it, you couldn't be more wrong. Get this book and get it now!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Tomorrowland in Red

Just love these two images of a very early Tomorrowland circa 1955! Imagineering's red pencil sketch reveals the first Rocket to the Moon concept, a ride that would thrill fans from an intellectual angle. This was years before Space Mountain, although the idea was firmly entrenched in the heart and mind of Walt Disney.

While it looks cool in red, I think it really shines when transferred into a simple black and white image. Sometimes less pizazz is more! This may be one of the reasons that Disneyland itself remains a Mecca of sorts for theme park fans. You can sense the days of Walt here if you look for it. But you don't have to search thousands of acres to do it. The original Magic Kingdom was there from the heart of the man. Guests know it and can feel it!

(Concept art copyright Walt Disney Company.)

Club Disney? Yes, It WAS Built- and the Unbuilt DisneyQuest

Ever heard of Club Disney? I was in one. It really happened! Anyone here remember DisneyQuest- the great indoor theme park that  was once found in Florida's Downtown Disney? It was a great stop at Walt Disney World on the days that the rain or the heat was too much. There was one planned for Disneyland as well, but it never made it off the concept art drawing boards. 

Back when the Westcot theme park (look here) was to be added to California- in the 1990s - before the suits decided the park was to be replaced buy the MUCH more financially safer and very inexpensive Disney's California Adventure, a West Coast version of the indoor gaming playground was all set up to happen. We've all heard the story before and we'll hear it again- plans change, budgets are reallocated, and priorities shift. It happened here. 

This project is not to be confused with Club Disney, the young family focused indoor entertainment center for those with kids 10 and under. One opened in Lone Tree, Colorado, just a few miles from our home. When we visited, it was a combination indoor play area and Chuck E. Cheese and Dave and Busters... enjoyable, charming, expensive, and not worth more than two hours of your time. But it was "Disney", so for this family far from both California and Florida, it was a nice little diversion. 

This new venture was long before Disney's Celebrity Sports Center from the 1960s that lasted until the early 1990s in Denver. (Yes, I had been inside exactly once. It was little more than a run down bowling alley by then. Not even sure who owned it.)

For now, both these are a piece of history. Will the ideas be resurrected again? Probably not, but you never know what could happen as the company and the U.S. economy changes over and over and over again.

(Concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)