Our Marketing Team went to California Adventure last week and I was so ecstatic about the experience that I felt a blog must be written! When California Adventure first opened in 2001 it wasn’t that popular, but Disneyland has spent a lot of money to improve it and I was really impressed. I especially enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and more personal space, which I did not find at Disneyland Park.
Mad T Party is the place to visit for some dancing and good times. Unlike Disneyland, California Adventure offers alcoholic drinks and Mad T Party has multiple drink stations set up for a night-life environment. We heard the live music from afar and quickly made our way to the most happening spot in both parks. The band ‘Mad T Party’, which is only performing this year for the Diamond Celebration, was rocking out to classic hits that everyone knows the words to and they were covered head to toe in bright attire. If it was up to me, I would have stayed there all night, but there was so much more to see!
At the beginning, visitors said there were not enough rides and excitement for kids at California Adventure, so they built A Bugs Land! Kids love a Bugs Land and I do too! It’s a great place for kids and adults. After taking a walk down Buena Vista Street and through Hollywood Land, we spent some time exploring A Bugs Land and even waited in a short 15 minute line to get on the Heimlich’s Chew Chew Train.
My biggest mission was to go to Cars Land, a true masterpiece! Walking through this area makes you really feel like you are in the Disney Pixar’s hit movie, Cars. We made it to Cars Land right before sunset and enjoyed dinner at Flo’s V8 Cafe. The roast beef and cheddar with a side of mashed potatoes was delicious, complete with a perfect view of the exciting Radiator Springs Racer. I cannot say I have been on this ride, but it’s definitely at the top of the list for my visit next week! The line was a two hour wait and we couldn’t miss the night time Diamond Celebration festivities! But my enjoyment of walking around in this movie-turned-to-life gave me enough excitement to refuel my energy for the rest of the night!
Paradise Pier was a perfect place to visit as the sun was setting. It is a lovely area with twinkle lights and tranquil water that is meant to resemble the Santa Monica Pier or Santa Cruz Pier. Here you will find classic carnival games and prizes. We were lucky enough to ride California Screaming (the only place in the park you can go upside down), and it was a blast with a great view! It’s a must for anyone looking for a little extra adrenaline. I felt like Paradise Pier was a perfect place for date night and dinner.
The Diamond Celebration’s World of Color takes place nightly right in the middle of Paradise Pier. We had to choose between World of Color or the Paint the Night Parade at Disneyland and we did the latter. Next week I will be back to see World of Color and will be sure to share my experience!
And last but not least, Soaring Over California. I think it’s safe to say this is my favorite ride in California Adventure. They do a fantastic job of bringing California to life in this unique ride that makes you feel like you are flying over California with all the sights, sounds, and even smells!
I had not been to California Adventure in many years, and it really blew me away. It does not get as much credit as it should, for its wonderful scenes, rides, and experiences. I am looking forward to going back very soon! And you should too. Join us in the fun by purchasing a single day ticket or getting a park-hopper ticket and enjoying both parks in one day.
Written By: Jennifer, Director of Marketing
