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.

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?

My Favorite Disney Park Photos: Disneyland Paris

In the series of "My Favorite Disney Park Photos", this particular one could seem to be a very odd selection. Yet, it tells quite the story of the excellence of Disney Imagineering and attention to detail. (I could have even saved this one for a "Design Detail" post.) When the Disney Imagineers created Disneyland Paris under the clear direction and leadership of Tony Baxter, nothing was left to chance. This meant digging deep into the French culture and giving the park an air of elegance that has never been matched since.

Eddie Sotto may not have gotten his 1920's America that he desired, but that doesn't mean he didn't knock Main Street U.S.A. out of the park. Take a look at this beautiful stained glass ceiling art! Stunning, right? It's a tribute to the Parisian stores like Galeries Lafayette that stun locals and tourists alike with its beautiful displays and absolutely gorgeous windows and ceilings. Was this necessary at Disneyland Paris? Of course not, but the park is made all the richer because of these decisions. 

The main park itself has not been given a major upgrade since its opening. But it is every bit as eye popping as it has ever been because of the original excellence of its design.

(Photo copyright Mark Taft.)

Imagineer Eddie Sotto Reveals Disneyland Paris' Splash Mountain

Splash Mountain at Disneyland Paris? It's been rumored for years. Of course, now that Disney leadership has flipped the attraction into the seemingly less reliable Tiana's Bayou Adventure, it is probably never going to happen. But former Imagineer Eddie Sotto reveals the truth.
 

Look at these images that show the proposed plan for the French park. There it is, plain as day: Zip A Dee River Run aka Splash Mountain. Rights next to the Cowboy Cookout restaurant in the real frontier of Frontierland, just below the thematic crossover into Adventureland.

Want to see Imagineering's concept art for it? I happen to have it here.

You'd think this would be my favorite reveal of Mr. Sotto's. But check out this amazing story (with concept art) by the man as he reveals a plan for New Orleans Square at Disneyland. an unbuilt project that still has a remnant of what was planned in Walt's park today.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

A New Autopia Poster for Disneyland Paris

Those great Imagineering attraction posters are some of my favorite pieces of Disney theme park memorabilia, and here's a brand new one from Disneyland Paris! (Will they create them for Disney Adventure World when the revised studio park opens in 2026? Let's hope so!) 

I'd say this new poster for Discoveryland's Autopia is not one of my favorites, but it does have some cool elements, particularly the shiny centerpiece red car. 

Now, I'll admit Autopia is one of few attractions I haven't ridden there. During our first trip in the 90's, my youngest son was this much too short for Space Mountain. My wife came to the rescue and took him for a spin in the cars. (Surprisingly, Star Tours is the other attraction I haven't ridden!)

Imagineer Tony Baxter's pet project for Europe is a park that must be seen to be believed! It's sets a very high standard for what a Disney castle park should be. So, go see it- even if you don't see all of it.  ;)

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Promotional Poster

It's not every day that the Florida Magic Kingdom adds a brand new attraction. When Big Thunder Mountain Railroad made its debut at the Walt Disney World resort, well, it was truly the beginning of visitors falling in love with the "Wildest Ride in the Wilderness!" 

Imagineer Tony Baxter and team made the best of a bad situation. When the suits dismantled the plans for Imagineer Marc Davis' Thunder Mesa- including his plans for the great musical boat ride, the Western River Expedition in favor of a revised version of Disneyland's beloved Pirates of the Caribbean- Tony tried to save as much as he could. Convincing management that the thrill attraction was worth pursuing as a sort of "Phase One", the roller coaster ride was given the approval. What a wise decision! Fans loved it from opening day. It became a staple of every castle park built. Aside from China's Shanghai Disneyland, of course, which wouldn't dare place anything so American in its Disney park. 

This promotional attraction poster for Florida's original was just the ticket to announce this now iconic experience. 

Fueling My Disneyland Paris Dreams

Really, I wasn't going to share this, but I just couldn't resist! This stunning poster of Disneyland Paris caught my eye. Definitely without a doubt, France's Magic Kingdom is the most beautiful Disney castle park of all! Imagineer Tony Baxter and team designed a masterpiece. Even without a few classic attractions, this one would be the castle park I would choose if I could only go to one. Why? It's almost because of what it doesn't have in addition to its strengths: There's no dated Tomorrowland (sorry, Disneyland in California); there's no misplaced attractions (sorry, Tokyo Disneyland, but the Haunted Mansion from Florida's Liberty Square shouldn't sit next to Dumbo nor does not belong in Fantasyland); and there's definitely no spinner in Adventureland (looking at you Magic Kingdom). To borrow a phrase from a famous umbrella wielding nanny- Disneyland Paris the Parc is practically perfect in every way. 

Goodbye, Figment, Goodbye

My beloved mascot of EPCOT Center and Journey into Imagination. What is there to say about Figment that hasn't been said? Imagineer Tony Baxter created him with a dash of childish delight, and I just couldn't get enough of the attraction and theme song! Of course, it became obvious I just had to buy a stuffed version of this little dragon. Be it a Kodak project made it all the better! It's been over 40 years he's been at my home. My kids played with him, but over time, he was delegated to a dark corner of the closet. 

Quite an appropriate picture of how Disney CEOs Michael Eisner, Robert Iger, Bob Chapek, and Robert Iger again have treated him. They have largely ignored him, just pimping him out when they need a merchandise sale boost and want to convince unsuspecting park goers that they really do have the beloved Old Epcot in mind. 

As for me, as we pack up our life and move to a new home, it's time to admit that little purple dragon needs to move in to the afterlife. Tired eyes, broken horns, a sacking neck that doesn't sit straight, dirtied body, and a tear or two means it's time to say goodbye. So, goodbye, Figment, goodbye. One day, maybe a new generation of Disney CEOs- ones who can really dream with childlike wonder- will bring you an attraction worthy of your name...

A Look Backwards at a Different Epcot Design from Harper Goff

The EPCOT that never was- and the Epcot that could have been. All we've got is the Epcot we have, but it wasn't always like this. There was once a great vision for Disney's second park in Florida. Leave it to those original Imagineers to come up with the best ideas... and here is one of the ones that's still great even if it din't make the cut.

So much detail to be seen here in this concept art.  Imagineer Harper Goff created this beautiful rendering of an EPCOT we will never see. If you click on this huge piece of concept art and look at it closely, you'll find the Netherlands and other unbuilt and interesting design choices. 

The B&W version.

This is a water based Epcot, if you'd like. And I do! It's even more of an urban style showcase than what was eventually built, focusing on classic, romantic architecture as the centerpiece of each pavilion. There's lots of side streets and nooks and crannies to explore. Certainly, the park would have a bustling but very intimate feel with its contrasts of open plazas and smaller courtyards and walkways to explore. 

The downside of it all? It is very Eurocentric- I can only see China and perhaps Japan in the upper right hand side of the park, perhaps that is Morocco slightly south of those. What I don't see is a U.S.A. pavilion. Do you? Aside from the Mexican temple, I do not see anything for South America or Africa- nor can I find Canada. Maybe you can. Front and center in the middle of the large lake, the classic architecture you'd come to expect looks seamlessly blended into more modern structures. 

The once planned Costa Rica pavilion would have been a nice fit!

Venezuela too!

Back to the water features. The great designers of the past always incorporated water features to give guests the impression of cooling off on the intense Florida sun. Instead of just World Showcase Lagoon, you find a main lake plus a smaller one that hosts a Romanesque amphitheater for an evening show. There's canals as well. No, not for Venice gondolas like Tokyo Disneysea but for a different kind of attraction. If you look closely, it's an early version of what looks like a World Cruise attraction where there looks to be show scenes built under the bridges. (If it sounds like what was planned for California's Westcot, it does to me as well! Look at that article including Tony Baxter's ideas here.)

The man was clearly inspired and quite successful at what he did, but I do not see much room for expansion aside from what could be easily removed structures on the West and East sides of the park. Perhaps this is why the design that was finally built was chosen. (I really do have to finish that "If I Built Epcot" article. I have one great idea that no one seems to have used yet... But I'm pretty sure another Epcot/Westcot will never come to be.)

A simple monorail station seems to sit at the entrance of his park with a large square plaza beyond the entrance gates. Inspired by or vaguely reminiscent of what is now found at the end of the Future World path to the lagoon. 

Would Harper's EPCOT work? Most likely it would. I'm sure there's a fascinating story to be told as to why this version of the park was bypassed in favor of what was built. Could it be the suits had plans for massive expansions and many more countries to be represented? History- and Disney's own documents and concept art seem to give us an affirmative answer. I just wish today's Imagineers had the guts to look backward before building something new in this park.
 
(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

The Best Journey into Imagination Video I've Ever Seen

That most beloved attraction of all time at Epcot: The Original and Greatest Journey into Imagination. Imagineer Tony Baxter created the charming Figment and his pal Dreamfinder as guides for the most fantastic, magical attraction since the park's opening. Have you ever seen a video as great as the one below?

The first five minutes of the ride video are muted due to copyright issues, but after that, you get the full attraction experience. And it's just wonderful! If the above ever disappears, go here.

Thanks to Disney Dave for taking this way back when. Enjoy!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Beating Disney at It's Own Game: Disney vs. Universal Day Three- Magic Kingdom

If you want to beat Disney at its own game, it takes a bit of advance planning, but it certainly can be done! Hitting them in the wallet can certainly work in your favor- and in favor of all guests in the long run. Yet, flexibility is key if you really want to walk this out. And one more thing: you've got to be willing to make a sacrifice or two. But I believe it is more than worth it. How? Read on.

Today would begin the Walt Disney World portion of our trip. This would be the day I finally got to experience my most anticipated new attraction in any theme park: TRON Lightcycle / Run at the Magic Kingdom. Now, that pesky Virtual Queue would become a problem as we were off property staying at Universal Orlando Resort's Dockside Resort. How could we beat the system?

From a financial standpoint, we were saving well over $140 per night by staying at Disney's competitor and for a much nicer experience than All Star Sports. (Two bedrooms and a breakfast table, chairs, a microwave, and a refrigerator.) But it all came at a price: We had to use Uber to get to and from Universal to Disney. Thankfully, that was inexpensive, about $25 more or less each way depending on the time. The more expensive price than Uber was when it came time to book an attraction that getting in a virtual queue was a necessity. 

We narrowed it down to two attractions: TRON and Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind. We were not going to Florida and missing either one of these. Then we prioritized the new Magic Kingdom E Ticket at Number One, so that if we missed riding the first day, we had another one to try again. But here's how we beat Disney at its own game.

A great spot for breakfast and a happy son!

The night before, we scheduled our ride for 6:15am the next day. Now, it's not like waking up at 5 minutes before that necessary 7:00am time slot to get on your phone, but there were unexpected benefits to being up that early. But we had to be up early anyway, so what was an additional half hour? Nothing.

After doing a bit of research, we decided our landing spot would be the Grand Floridian. Our plan was to arrive early, walk around a bit, and be on our phones at the needed time in hopes of securing a spot in the queue. Next, we would stop to have breakfast at the Grand Floridian Cafe before taking the monorail to the Magic Kingdom. It was ambitious, but it ended up being the perfect plan.

We arrived at 6:35. This allowed of plenty of quiet time with no one around to walk through the resort and the grounds, taking plenty of photographs with the lovely glow of early morning. It was peaceful and beautiful as the rising sun changed the landscapes every few minutes. We set our phone alarms for the correct time so that we didn't have to watch the clock and could enjoy the serenity. After snagging an early boarding group, we enjoyed a terrific breakfast at a leisurely pace. 

With a short monorail ride, we entered the Magic Kingdom and queued left for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. We have a family joke that has been going one for over a decade now. Our youngest daughter loves this coaster, so whoever rides it must send her a photo of the ride when she's not with them. Quick photo and playful text sent, we walked right on for two successive rides on the Wildest Ride in the Wilderness. Still fun after all these years. Imagineer Tony Baxter and team sure knew how to create an instant but enduring classic. 

Speaking of Mr. Baxter, Tiana's Bayou Adventure was not open, but a quick walk by left me wondering what would be in store for guests who loved the original Splash Mountain. I'd soon have my answer. My thoughts on this Princess and the Frog makeover are here.

Not the best version but still never missed.

In any Disney castle park, Pirates of the Caribbean is one of the best attractions to be found. The truncated version of the California original is in Florida, but it is still a must-see adventure every visit for us. The attraction was in tip top shape. From the multiple Audio-Animatronics to the volume of the sound effects, everything worked terrifically. 

One thing I just love about visiting the Magic Kingdom is that the guests do not shout out dialogue or sing the attractions theme song and disturb other riders. In Florida, it seems people are a bit more respectful of others who paid way too much to experience things only Disney used to create. Passholders and regular visitors to Disneyland would be their reputation a favor by following similar standards. 

It was time to ride TRON. I couldn't wait. The walk to Tomorrowland seemed like an eternity- even longer than it takes Disney to build something new unless it is a DVC location or a brand new hotel. Priorities, people, priorities. 

Oh, the thrill of experiencing a brand new attraction for the first time! Now, I'm a person who watches all the YouTube videos, partially out of curiosity and also because I know the in person experience will greatly differ than what can be seen on a computer screen.

When the attraction debuted at Shanghai Disneyland, I was so jealous. When it was announced for Florida in 2017, I was thrilled. When I finally rode it for myself seven years later... I was truly disappointed. 

A view from the queue.

After having just ridden Islands of Adventure's most popular roller coaster, Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, I couldn't help but make the comparisons. Yet, on its own, TRON disappoints- and it kills me to say it. The queue to the ride is terrific. It should be as it carries the visual look of the movies. The build up is great with the voiceovers and the idea of a thrilling race across the Grid. So far, so good.

Once on it, I found the lightcycle itself uncomfortable. The ride is very smooth- and incredibly short. The outside portion looks more fun than it is. Certainly, good advertising for the ride, but you don't really have a chance to get used to the ride or the story of the race before it all ends. Let's be honest- fans of the film want to ride in the darkness of the Grid. Why does it begin outside? By the time your eyes adjust to the darkness, the ride is half over. And the whole thing runs about one minute long. One minute. 

Beyond the brevity of the ride, I found the indoor visuals lacking. With all their storytelling skills and creative tricks, there should have been a better way to experience the race than how it was done. Will I ride it again? Sure- with other family members who haven't been before, but probably not on my own. I'd consider TRON an epic fail. Wasted potential of what should have been as good if not better than Space Mountain next door. 

A much better experience.

Aside from the unnecessary long lines due to Genie+, the Magic Kingdom's first roller coaster remains a very satisfying experience. It is a bit rougher for all the wear and time for a track replacement, but that aside, it reminds Disney fans of the storytelling excellence of the old school Imagineering greats. Great story, compelling setting, and a ride worth the wait. TRON and Space Mountain are like opposite sides of a coin. The older Magic Kingdom coaster is a classic for a reason.

While in Tomorrowland, do what the locals do: Ride the Peoplemover. When I think of the attractions that have been removed at Disneyland but still exist in Florida, this one is at the top of the list. (With my humblest of apologies Country Bear Jamboree!) I could hop on this  several times of day and still enjoy it just as much as the first ride. Viewing the Contemporary Resort from the transportation system of the future just feels right. Those Imagineers went out of their way to make sure everything was in theme and the visual intrusions of show buildings were out of the ordinary. You really can't say that anymore.

One big misstep, but a better overall experience awaits in Florida.

Much like Pirates, we do not miss the Haunted Mansion on our visits. The big curiosity this visit would be the addition of the Hatbox Ghost. While I do think the Florida mansion is an overall better experience, the placement of him is just wrong and so is the cartoonish queue. The rest of it, however, I find to be a much better storytelling device to ride through each scene. The Portrait Gallery takes on a whole new feel when you're in your Doombuggy, and the Florida exclusive Library is a real fine addition, befitting the grandeur of the creepy old house on the hill. Again- all of it in fine working order.

On the opposite side of the scale, there were many things not working in the classic It's A Small World. That was disappointing as it is one of my very favorite old school attractions. I just love the sweet sentiment behind it, and I also absolutely love the theme song by the Sherman Brothers. The sound settings were off and some of the dolls did not move. There were burned out bulbs in the finale. It's a broken world after all- just as it is in reality. 

After a visit to Ariel's world, we walked to the train station and got off in Frontierland to head to the Jungle Cruise. As is customary, our skipper was really good, but the line had swelled well beyond the normal range due to Genie+ again. What a disaster this money making gimmick has produced. The lines seemed to be at least 50 percent longer because of this change. I hate the new Disney for pulling crap like this. Really.

It's now time for me to give out two awards. The first one goes to the Worst Lunch during our entire trip. Actually it was my worst meal at Walt Disney World ever. The "winner" is Comic Ray's Starlight Café. My hamburger meat was dry. But the worst offense was the bun itself. The entire bun, top and bottom, was so hard that I had to use a bit of force to push my finger into it. To make matters worse, the fries were undercooked. I never return my food- but I made an exception this time. 

The second award was for Worst Dinner during our trip. Yes, also to be found in the Magic Kingdom. You've guessed it- Pecos Bill Cafe. We tried to eat in Adventureland- at the Tortuga Tavern actually. The menu looked terrific! But it was closed. The closest thing available was around the corner. And boy, was it busy! Now, the food wasn't that bad- but compared to all of our dinners, this meal was the bottom of the rung. If only Cosmic Ray's was this good...

After our meal, we took a quick ride with Buzz Lightyear and then headed out of the park. We had just been to Disneyland a year before, so we had been on everything we wanted. Besides, there are way fewer attractions at the Magic Kingdom compared to Disneyland. With it getting dark, we wanted to be outside the park before the fireworks. A quick monorail rode out of the Magic Kingdom to the nearby Contemporary Resort. As we waited for our Uber, we watched the fireworks. Almost exactly when they were over, our ride arrived, and it was a short ride home. We beat all the crowds and had a great day- meals aside.

A visit to the Magic Kingdom is still satisfying, but even less so this visit. Maybe the unplanned stop in First Aid had something to do with it. (No story here.) It definitely had something to do with the sub-par eats. But how I long to be in the park for several hours after dark- and at no extra cost. But those were the old days when Guest Satisfaction meant more than the profit margins. Sorry, Walt. Things have changed with the company you built. They are greedy, pure and simple.

Our second day at Walt Disney World would be at my favorite Disney park in Florida: Epcot. And I couldn't wait. The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival was in full bloom. Would it be a good one?

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

The Pros and Cons of Tiana's Bayou Adventure

There's a lot to like about Tiana's Bayou Adventure! But it is not all good news! There are some things that just aren't well done or missing the mark of a great attraction. Especially when compared to Splash Mountain. Instead of breaking it down into segments, I'm going to comment on both sides at the same time.

The attention to detail and bringing in the flavor of New Orleans is evident. This seems like the part the Imagineers worked hardest on, but they missed or forgot about the most important ingredient of any great attraction: The story. It's just not compelling. It's one note played out over 9 minutes. There's no drama, no tension, no sizzle. Princess and the Frog was a very good movie. Here, it seems they tossed out what made it so and instead replaced it with something bland and rather forgettable. Even Tiana herself can't rise above it. Thankfully, the physical ride is built on the backbone of Splash. The story just doesn't excite. There's really no adventure here in spite of the name.

Many of the Audio-Animatronics in Tiana's Bayou Adventure are excellent. Truly top notch. The way Tiana and Louis move is on par with those found in other recent Imagineering accomplishments. They are remarkable in fluidity and believability. Very well done. They are just not given much to do other than talk to those passing by on a log.

On the other hand, the lesser known (newer) characters seem flat and lifeless. The animal band- which is a key part of the story- feels like it's right out of Chuck E. Cheese. The eyes are key here, and this is a fail. How can you fall in love with the characters if they don't feel real? Eye movement conveys personality. I can't imagine much animal band plush or merchandise being sold.

The setting of the story is fantastic. It is truly beautiful. The darkened landscapes with Spanish moss hanging from the trees makes you forget this was once another place and story.  Seemingly endless fireflies buzz about creating a quite moody, unexpectedly romantic environment. I'm mixed on the exterior. Perhaps placed by New Orleans Square at Disneyland it will feel like a better fit than it does in the Magic Kingdom. 

Mama Odie is just not a likable character, and to make matters worse, she's a stereotype. Why is she central to this attraction? Her annoying and overplayed (overacted?) cackle reminds me way too much of the old hag in Snow White. Yet, Imagineering elevates her to multiple appearances as if she is the star of the show. She's not- and she shouldn't be- but at least she is actually doing something.

This is more than I can say about our lead character. Doesn't Tiana have something to do besides finding a band? I wish she also worked in the kitchen next to her employees cooking some delicious dishes for the party. Perhaps she's become like too many modern bosses who doesn't work themselves but only stand on the sidelines giving orders. Tiana looks great and sings as sweetly as ever, but she needs to be more than a narrator.

The music shines. Each segment hits the right notes, pun intended. The grand finale, Secret Spice, just works. It's an unexpected ear worm but a totally different and appropriate song for this new ride. Zip A Dee Doo Dah is iconic, so the replacement had to be as good if not better. Secret Spice isn't quite as good, but it is different. Think Kool & the Gang's well loved Celebration done New Orleans Jazz style. Former Maroon5 player PJ Morton had a tough act to follow. But his tune works well. Riders are just not in the finale scene long enough to get the full impact of his creation. This is too bad as the Mardi Gras party is the highlight of the whole thing.

Will Tiana's new adventure satisfy those who loved Tony Baxter's iconic attraction? No. And Tony was wise to back out. Taken on its own, Tiana's Bayou Adventure is fun if imperfect. Years from now, will it be remembered as a classic in the same league as Pirates of the Caribbean or the Haunted Mansion. Absolutely not.

(Photograph copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

An Evening at Epcot, A Look at Our World

Spaceship Earth is a beautiful icon! World Showcase is just stunning- especially at night! Not only is it the focal point of what once was Future World at Epcot, it stands as a symbol of discovery and optimism. Not the discovery of Disney intellectual properties and characters but the discovery of the world around us. The great original Imagineers that designed this place believed in the ability of man to make the world better if he chose. The place has been inspiring folks since its opening.

Let me repeat myself. Here are the hard, cold facts: EPCOT Center ceased to exist years ago.

The character invasion of of Epcot's recent years is here to stay, be it Ratatouille in France, Guardians of the Galaxy in the old Universe of Energy building, Coco in Mexico, or even more Disney film characters in Future World to go alongside Nemo in the Living Seas. The two true unique characters designed specifically for the park, most interestingly, Dreamfinder and Figment, are being left to rot in the now embarrassing Journey into Imagination with Figment. (Sorry, Mr. Tony Baxter.)

Fans are blaming the suits at the Walt Disney Company for this change, and in many ways, they would be correct in doing so. Always responsible to shareholders of the company to turn a profit, they must act to ensure that should grow much larger year after year. Guest experiences are now added in ways that are designed to extract cash from the buying public, from the lowest end customer who can afford a single day at the theme park of their choice to those on the other end of the spectrum, rich guests needing the ill-advised cabanas in the Magic Kingdom (thankfully now long gone) or the $15k meal at Disneyland in the former Disney Gallery space. 

Satisfying investors is the new bottom line of the last 40 years or so. Altruism no longer exists, at least in the corporate world, unless its to gain favor in the minds of consumers. Granted, Walt Disney himself ran a company as well and had to account for his sound business practices to brother Roy, but he kept the satisfaction of the guest foremost in his mind. Certainly, a respected form of altruism.

Still, the business folk are not the only reason change is coming to Florida's second Disney theme park. In addition to the changes in corporate America, I assert that we primarily have ourselves to blame. 

Yes, it is our fault Epcot is changing. Why? As a people, we've changed. We've wandered from the original vision which was established for the park as inscribed on the dedication plaque:

To all who come to this place of Joy, Hope and Friendship - Welcome.

EPCOT is inspired by Walt Disney's 

creative vision. 

Here, human achievements are celebrated through imagination, wonders of enterprise  and concepts 

of a future that promises new 

and exciting benefits for all.

May EPCOT Center entertain, inform and inspire

 and above all, 

may it instill a new sense of belief and pride 

in man's ability to shape a world

that offers hope to people everywhere.

The EPCOT Center that opened in 1982 was built to educate, inform, and inspire and instill pride in man's ability to shape a hopeful world. What was the inspiration? The wonders of this incredible world. Wonders of exploring not only what could be designed by the most gifted of human minds (Transportation, Energy, Communication) but also of those designed by an even bigger creator, worlds created by one infinite in wisdom and power (The Living Seas, The Land, The Wonders of Life, Space). An exciting world awaiting exploration laid out by the Ultimate Imagineer. A world also given to us to nurture and steward.

Now, bear with me here. Especially those of you who have not explored any world of faith or who have and have rejected the thought of a Creator. (I'm not going into that argument. I'm sticking with my original point that it is because of us that the park must change, so please keep reading.) Here's the logic:

The Disney suits follow the dollar. That's their job. It's what we pay them to do. Yet the changes at Epcot all begin with us. Every time we enter the parks, buy merchandise, or view the latest slice of filmed or live entertainment, we are telling the suits at Disney what we want and how much of it we want. When we stopping buying, they rethink their approach and their products. It really is that simple. And what do we want now? We want to be entertained. 

By and large, we no longer want to be the investors in our world and contributors to making it better. We just want to consume. We have looked away from our intended purpose which began with God in stewarding His beautiful creation. Boy, lest you think I'm pointing fingers, I want you to know I struggle with this! It's way easier to kick back and relax than it is to work hard to make a difference. It goes even deeper.

Since you and I have moved away from giving God the credit for His creation and/or accepting the roles He gave us, we instead look to man for fulfillment and answers. We're no longer fascinated by the fact we can have 1- Infinite worlds to explore, 2- An opportunity for a relationship with the Infinite Creator God, and finally, 3- a responsibility to positively impact the world we live in. This covers the gamut from caring for creation to protecting the rights of the most vulnerable of people. We have shifted our focus, so business has shifted their focus in order to make a profit from us.

We humans (park guests and the Imagineers that create attractions) have moved from being inspired by God's creation and the gifts He has given mankind. Instead, we rely on broken and selfish people to fill us and make us happy. Eventually, this brings us to a place of discouragement and general hopelessness when our plans fail or when the people we look to let us down. 

It's even more of a downward spiral when it comes to purchasing products. The goal of the advertising agency is to get us to buy and keep buying. Isn't this the true goal of marketing? To make us unhappy without the product they are selling? Then to also make sure that we are never thankful for what we do have, keeping us prone to buy more. It's a vicious cycle.

When people or products fail to create long term fulfillment, we look for something else or for something within ourselves. We begin idolizing our own capabilities, strengths, and seemingly limitless potential, instead of giving the honor to God who created us and the world we live in. The trade off is emptiness because we often disappoint ourselves. Sometimes that is the worst of all to handle.

Due to our self-focus and our humanism, despair engulfs us as we look around and see man's plans fail. Even men with good solid other-centered goals. Why? Because men desire different things. Even good things can be in conflict with each other because priorities are different from person to person.

Rulers of nations view life differently, some good and some evil. Common people have differing values, so my plans may conflict with your plans. The result of all this tension? We get frustrated, angry, and burned out. Or on a global scale, war replaces peace as men strive to get what they want. Everyday there are new battles being fought in the streets among conflicting groups and ideologies. All this tires our souls and damages our spirits.

Sooner or later, we decide we've had enough. Our desire for comfort becomes the primary focus of our lives, bringing with it increasing desire to just be entertained and taken into worlds different than the one we have (talking Cars, magical princesses, Star Wars, etc). The Walt Disney Company has data compiled over generations telling the suits what we want so they can sell it to us. 

You and I can go into a movie theater after a grueling day, and we can walk out a few hours later feeling happy and fulfilled because we've forgotten our real life situation. Isn't this true? I know it is for me. For some of us, we go even further and decide we want to live there full time. It's why we love the theme parks. It's why a place like EPCOT Center has an incredible fan base from folks that experienced its greatness in the early years. We left the park not only happy but hopeful for that great big beautiful tomorrow. Who wouldn't want to experience that again and again?

The problem with this phony lifestyle of entertainment is It only temporarily satisfies us. So we lavish high praise on what man has created and desire to live in that place, keeping the real world safely, quietly, in the background.  When addicted to it, our entertainment becomes our prison because we trade in a very real and exciting world for one that is imaginary. We trade what's best for what is less than what we can have. 

A constant life of fantasy (or Fantasyland) is good for no one.

"On the Tombstone of America, the inscription will read: They Entertained Themselves To Death." - Leonard Ravenhill

Let that sink in. This quote above, by the renowned English pastor, applies not only to America as a nation but us as individuals. 

Back to Epcot. All our love of and addiction to entertainment and imaginary worlds is why the park is changing.  We're no longer enthralled with science and nature and new discoveries. Nor are we fascinated by the God that created it all- which leaves us looking to ourselves and others. The cycle of emptiness continues as looking to others will never fulfill our human hearts. 

It's too late for the direction of Epcot, but not for us. When we honor Him and reflect on who He is and what He has done, our world becomes filled with wonder, joy, thankfulness, and hope. The more we look to God, the more we become who we were intended to be- beautiful and unique individuals all reflecting His glory. With this freedom and true self, we become inspired. We want to go deeper with Him, know more about Him and the world He created. 

(Photographs from ResortTV.)

New Look at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad- the Wildest Ride in the Wilderness

After two posts in a row about Universal Orlando Resort, I wanted to make sure my Disney Bloggers membership card wasn't pulled from me, so I have a pretty great piece of concept art for today's post. Look at this very cool rendering! What you're seeing is a rare Big Thunder Mountain Railroad illustration. Check it out in its largest form for all the details- broken track, canyon gorges, and water features. 

When Imagineer Marc Davis' original plan for Thunder Mesa with its Western River Expedition, a cowboy and Indian version of Pirates of the Caribbean were cancelled, the runaway mine train attraction as part of the larger complex was saved. Young Imagineering protégé Tony Baxter jumped on the chance to elaborate on the original design. The end result? An instant classic built in multiple parks and our family's very favorite mountain attraction. 

The "Wildest ride through the Wilderness" is very good at Disneyland, even better at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, and just plain fantastic at Disneyland Paris where the riders begin their adventure aboard by going under the river. In fact, Frontierland in France is the best of them all with an expansive, thematically consistent area rich in detail, story, and top notch execution. You've got to see it to believe it.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Anyplace you ride it, you'll find one great attraction in the old school, Disney Imagineering tradition. And what a great thing that is!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Goodbye to Disneyland's Splash Mountain- Grab a Poster

Fan favorite Splash Mountain made a great big, well, splash when it debuted at Disneyland in 1989! And today, sadly, it has closed forever to make way for Tiana's Bayou Adventure. Will it be as good or as beloved as Splash Mountain? Time will tell. Will the music be as memorable? That's debatable. Zip A Dee Doo Dah is an enduring classic and has a place in musical history.

Some would argue that Splash is one of the very best, if not the best, attractions spearheaded by Imagineer Tony Baxter. That'd be quite an argument as you could make up a whole theme park of his projects- and it's be filled with much loved attractions like Journey Into Imagination, the Indiana Jones Adventure, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and even all of Disneyland Paris!

Here's not one but two attraction posters for Splash Mountain. Get them before they disappear. As you'll see below, the final version is enhanced and a bit different from the one at the top.

Here are all the other Critter Country attraction posters.

Goodbye Splash Mountain- Thanks for all the memories!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Rare Indiana Jones Adventure Concept Art

I can almost bet you have not seen this piece of concept art before! I most certainly had not, but what a find! The Indiana Jones Adventure must be considered as one of the crowning achievements of Disney Imagineering. Adding this major "E Ticket" to Walt Disney's first theme park, shouted loud and clear that Disneyland would not play second fiddle to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Imagineer Tony Baxter and his team worked tirelessly to bring the famed explorer and his travels to life. And, boy, did they succeed!

This Imagineering concept art is pretty rare I'd guess- and I have many pieces in my collection, including a limited edition opening day piece that I purchased the Saturday of the Adventureland attraction's grand opening. Back when the wait was close to four hours, I rode it once- and immediately got back in line for another go round. My reward? A whole different excursion though the temple. Wow!

This piece is by one-time Imagineer Christopher Bradley. It's got an almost photo real quality to it, and it captures all the mystery and intrigue of an unforgettable attraction.

Can't wait for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny? Me, neither! 

If you love the movies as I do, and equally love those incredible theme park attractions that bear Indy's name, check out this article for more concept art and stories from Indy based attractions. There's also many, many pieces I've shown on the blog that you'll have to search for. Treasure awaits!

Hopefully, the 5th Indiana Jones film will be a hit and spawn more attractions- including that Indy themed mini-land at Disneyland Paris!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Happy Birthday Disneyland Paris!

What a gorgeous Magic Kingdom the Parisian Parc is! Truly! There is none other like it. Happy 31 years! With the ultimate Frontierland, stunning Discoveryland, and a castle to beat all others, Disneyland Paris is certainly the most beautiful castle park ever created. Imagineer Tony Baxter and team excelled expectations. This lovely photograph should give you the itch to go if you haven't and the desire to return if you have. (And here's some of my great vintage photos from our first trip in 1998.)

Disney World's Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Pirates of the Caribbean, Western River Expedition and Tiana's Bayou Adventure Puzzle

Yes, that title is a mouthful!

There's exactly one single scene in Walt Disney World's great Big Thunder Mountain Railroad that I wish had made its way over to Disneyland, and the concept art above shows it. Certainly Florida's Magic Kingdom had the blessing of size that Walt's Anaheim park did not. This alone may be the reason for the exclusion. Perhaps the Imagineers on Tony Baxter's team just wanted to offer something new instead of a straight clone. (Wouldn't that thinking be welcomed today by us hard core theme park fans?) 

Even my last visit to the World, I couldn't help but walk by Big Thunder itself and wonder what it would have been like if Western River Expedition and the whole of the Thunder Mesa mega-complex had been built. (See here for the details.) The upcoming Tiana's Bayou Adventure aka Splash Mountain probably would not have been built- but I think it would have been a more than fair swap to get something that unique in Florida. There wouldn't have been an East Coast version of Pirates of the Caribbean, though. Regardless of how it is a much lesser version of the original, it is pure old school Disney. Not having it - and no slam on Tiana's cooking skills- but that would be something harder to digest.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

My Favorite Disney Park Photos: Disneyland's Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad makes for one really nice photo or desktop image! I left this one big enough that you can use it that way if you wish. In the midst of memorial events for the passing of my mother in law, we did the most joyous thing she'd want: We all went to the Happiest Place on Earth for the day. Disneyland doesn't disappoint.  Neither does Imagineer Tony Baxter's first epic blockbuster attraction. I can't take credit for this photo as my youngest daughter snapped it. But she did a great job, don't you think?

There will be a full trip report at a later time from our whole group of seventeen people. Eight of us had never been to Walt's park before- and what stories I'll have to share.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Mary and Bert's Jolly Holiday at Disneyland

When I begin to give "New Imagineering" credit, it goes pretty well in some cases- and then I remember they are continuing to leave Mary Poppins on the table. That said, a strange little carousel in Epcot's World Showcase is not the best or most fitting way to honor the film that turned around the fortunes of the Walt Disney Studios in 1964. Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke and Walt Disney made movie magic and cinema history.

When I look at "Classic Imagineering" of the Golden Age, it goes very well in most cases- and then I remember they had the exact same opportunity to place a wonderful "E Ticket" type adventure in Walt's park. Disneyland, of course, is the perfect place for a Mary Poppins attraction. Perhaps the only place it belongs.

Where would the attraction's home be? It just has to be Fantasyland. Imagineering's Tony Baxter had a wonderful concept. (See here.) Now, it's time to brush it off, upgrade it to something grander without losing the original charm, and use up that old Motor Boat Cruise area. 

Imagine that all those new tricks from Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway were used in a fresh way to bring Jolly Holiday to life. All guests exiting the ride would say Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)