Tim Alcoser 8/14/12 Earl of Sandwich & Pins Photo Report

Tim gives us some beautiful photos from his recent trip to Disneyland. Progress on the Earl of Sandwich construction plus images of the new Pin location in Frontierland. We also have some images of the Court of Angels before it gets turned into the Pirate League. Not to mention maintenance on the World of Color, images of Mark Twain’s Riverboat and beautiful shots of Fantasmic!

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

Construction progress over at the Earl of Sandwich

Uva Bar looking good after its recent reopening

Grow, baby vines, grow!

Grow, baby vines, grow!

View of Soundsational Parade

 

Court of Angels

Court of Angels

Court of Angels

Soon to be retrofitted for the Pirate League.

Court of Angels

Tombstones on back of Tom Sawyer’s Island

I don't see these guys out very much.

I don’t see these guys out very much.

 

The new pin store and trading wagon.

The new pin store and trading wagon.

All closed up now.

All closed up now.

During their last performance.  Just as dedicated and motivated as their first.

During their last performance. Just as dedicated and motivated as their first.

Half-staff, even at Sarge's for the shooting victims in  Wisconsin.

Half-staff at Sarge’s for the shooting victims in Wisconsin.

Concrete Jungle

Concrete Jungle!

Spectacular sunset.

Spectacular Sunset

Disneyland fireworks from DCA

Time for some Fantasmic.

Time for some Fantasmic

The UVA bar is even more alive at night.

The UVA Bar is even more alive at night!

Thanks for reading!

Thanks for reading!

Tim Alcoser’s 8/30/12 DLR Photo Report

Tim was at The Disneyland Resort yesterday and grabbed some pictures of some newsworthy stuff so lets take a look…

Disney Half Marathon starting point bridge, located at the Mickey and Friends Parking Center Tram Stop.

Its that time of year again when traffic around Disneyland is going to be a mess

Yup, marathon

Very, very unique name...

Disney Half Marathon equipment being staged at the Lilo Parking lot near Downtown Disney.

Heavy construction work on the Disneyland Hotel.

Climbers on the Tomorrowland Side

I caught a glimpse of Cinderella, unaccompanied, as she was walking away.

“Hello Future Rocks”

Haunted Mansion is Closed for Holiday Install

The only time of year when Fastpass is open for Haunted Mansion

Wrapping the report up with some pictures of DCA’s flag retreat

Oswald Merchandise Coming to Disneyland Resort

From Steve Miller of Disney Parks Blog:

As my fellow author Jennifer Fickley-Baker recently shared, this week marks the debut of Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. At Disney Theme Park Merchandise, we’ve introduced a variety of Oswald merchandise this past year in honor of his 85th anniversary. Being a fan of Walt Disney Company history, I find it wonderful to see so many new items featuring this classic character. Here is a quick look at some of the Oswald merchandise.

One of the more celebrated (and highly desired) items created this year was an Oswald hat. The hat was created for our partners with Disney Interactive Studios to celebrate the upcoming release of Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two on November 18. The hats were distributed at the Electronic Entertainment Expo and at San Diego Comic Con this past summer. I’m happy to report a Disney Parks version will be released in late October/early November. The hat features a different Oswald logo than the previous hat but is still just as awesome (I intend to wear it while playing the game).

This past summer also saw the opening of Oswald’s on Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure park. This new location contains a variety of “road trip essentials” including autograph books, hats, bag and more. During a recent visit to the park, I spotted the amazing vintage-inspired knitted Oswald plush. Denise Edelmaier, product developer for plush, said that the knitted plush was in development for about three years as they finally found a way to make the plush extra soft (early versions were too coarse).

Oswald also found his way onto a popular men’s tee-shirt and a collectible big figurine (or “big fig” as we sometimes call it) designed by Disney Design Group artist Randy Noble.

Disney pins started celebrating Oswald in January by releasing an 85th anniversary pin. We also released an open-edition pin, a limited-edition pin and a Hidden Mickey pin for Disneyland Resort. Look for another open-edition pin next spring.

But one of my favorite items (besides the hat) will be a new 3-inch Vinylmation figure from the Classic Collection series designed by Disney artist Eric Caszatt. Planned for release in early November, Oswald will be the mystery chaser figure. I know, it’s a spoiler but I couldn’t resist – the figure looks great!

Tim Alcoser’s 9/14/12 DLR Photo Report

Tim gives us a detailed look at the Big Thunder Ranch Halloween Roundup, the Halloween decorations in Disneyland, plus a look at the changed windows down Buena Vista Street.

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

Construction of an outdoor patio/dining area.

Earl of Sandwich construction

Halloween Roundup at Big Thunder Ranch

Ghost Galaxy is back for the holiday

Pumpkins are everywhere to decorate Main Street

The iconic & popular photo spot during Halloween

City Hall still under wraps

Half Staff for Ambassador Stevens.

Half Staff for Ambassador Stevens over @ DCA

Entrance to Turtle Talk with Crush next to the restrooms in between Off the Page and Disney JR on Stage.

Entrance to Turtle Talk with Crush next to the restrooms in between Off the Page and Disney JR on Stage.

The merchandise which has been added to the Buena Vista Street’s artistically designed windows. It’s disappointing to see Imagineer’s hard work covered up by generic merchandise.

Thanks for reading!

Conner Purzycki’s 7/7/12 DLR Photo Report

I was a the Disneyland Resort few days ago and captured some newsworthy items including the new Disney Gallery exhibit. On to the photos…

When I walked by Luigi’s Flying Tires, the ride was down but cast members set up a little play area with the chains in front of the ride and had some of the balls from the attraction for kids to throw around. AWESOME!!!!

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

In Pacific Wharf Cafe, they now how Lighting McQueen bread to go with the Mater bread… Want.

Over in Disneyland, the new exhibit Crowing Achievements has opened in the Disney Gallery

The exhibit’s theme is Disney castles

Artist David Avanzino doing a signing in the gallery

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

Over in Innoventions, because you enter through the top floor now, the pre-show with Tom Morrow is turned off. So I wanted to see if he was still here.

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

Yup. Tom Morrow is still behind the curtain. It’s a real shame because he is a fantastic animatronic.

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

Thanks for Reading

New Options for PhotoPass

From Kelly Glassburn of the Disney Parks Blog:

If you haven’t heard, we’ve launched our Disney PhotoPass+ for Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort! And today, I wanted to share a new way to save on PhotoPass+ packages at both resorts this summer – it’s by pre-ordering online before your next visit.

It’s easy to pre-order. Just visit our special Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney Resort PhotoPass+ pages and look for the “order” button. We’ve also included more details on the benefits, but here’s a quick look at what’s included:

  • A voucher to exchange for your Disney PhotoPass+ card
  • Disney’s Photo Gallery CD with hundreds of stock photos
  • A unique code to create and order a Photo CD
  • Print packages at select dining locations
  • Digital photos from select attractions

8 Game Plans For Your Trip to DCA

From Disneyland News:

What Fun Itinerary Will You Plan at the Newly Expanded Park?

Anaheim, CA  (June 25, 2012) – The grand reopening of Disney California Adventure Park brings new adventures for guests of all ages, including the exciting Cars Land, Buena Vista Street and Carthay Circle Theatre. All the new attractions, entertainment and experiences complement the classic favorites, offering something for everyone – from the thrill seeker to the guest who likes to play after dark.

To help Disneyland Resort guests plan a full day of their favorite experiences, here are eight themed itineraries to try – and build upon – for an upcoming visit to Disney California Adventure. With new, extended hours, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. all summer long, guests will have more time to enjoy all the fun.

Thrill Seekers Adventure

Already home to six of the highest-rated attractions at the Disneyland Resort, Disney California Adventure is a thrill seeker’s paradise.  With the new “E Ticket” Radiator Springs Racers at Cars Land, this itinerary is packed with flying, spinning, screaming, soaring and racing fun that any thrill seeker would love.

  • Radiator Springs Racers (new at Cars Land)
  • Twilight Zone™  Tower of Terror
  • California Screamin’
  • Soarin’ Over California
  • Silly Symphony Swings
  • Goofy’s Sky School
  • Grizzly River Run

The Show Stopper

This show-stopping itinerary is worthy of an encore. From “A Whole New World” to “World of Color,” Disney California Adventure features some of the best entertainment the Disneyland Resort has to offer. Head down the rabbit hole or be immersed in storytelling as nearly 1,200 fountains light up the night with these interactive, immersive shows.

  •  ”Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular”
  • “Red Car Newsboys” (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • Five & Dime (new singing act on Buena Vista Street)
  • Ursula’s Grotto, Sorcerer’s Workshop (Disney Animation Building)
  • “Pixar Play Parade”
  • “Disney Junior – Live on Stage!”
  • Mad T Party (new at Hollywood Land)
  • “World of Color”
  • “Phineas & Ferb’s Rockin’ Rollin’ Dance Party”
  • Live music on Paradise Pier (At the gazebo near Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta and Paradise Garden Grill)

The Night Cap

When the sun goes down, Disney California Adventure sets the stage for a magical, nighttime experience. Watch as Cars Land flips the switch from day to night and enjoy the illumination of Route 66 with its amazing neon signs.  Don’t miss a twinkling view of the skyline from the top of Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror and catch all the fun, music and games at Mad T Party.

  • Cars Land Neon Lighting (new at Cars Land)
  • Dinner at Carthay Circle Restaurant or Golden Vine Winery, with reserved viewing for “World of Color”
  • Carthay Circle Lounge (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • Twilight Zone® Tower of Terror
  • Hot Chocolate, Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop (new at Pacific Wharf)
  • Mad T Party (new at Hollywood Land)
  • “World of Color” (with new update from DisneyPixar movie “Brave”)

Nature Lovers

This itinerary invites nature lovers to “branch out” and experience the beautiful horticulture that spreads across Disney California Adventure.  More than 450 new trees have been planted in Cars Land alone, and the additon of trees throughout the park adds shade for more guest comfort. From the tall pines around Grizzly Mountain to the small cacti in Cars Land, guests will enjoy all the beautiful surroundings in the park.

  • Golden State Winery Cork Oak at the Golden Vine Winery (Pacific Wharf)
  • Grizzly Peak Pine Trees (Grizzly Peak)
  • Ficus Auriculate – Roxburgh Fig (“a bug’s land”)
  • Cars Land “Ironwood” Tree – Olneya Tesota (new at Cars Land)
  • Cars Land Claret Cup Cactus (new at Cars Land)

A Day With Character

Getting up close and personal with favorite characters is one of the best ways to enjoy a day at Disney California Adventure.  Guests will enjoy being immersed in the stories of classic Disney characters and Pixar pals, plus there are many opportunities to greet favorite characters. Guests may talk with Crush, sing along with Minnie and go under the sea with Ariel on this character-filled itinerary.

  • Greet Lightning McQueen and Mater (new at Cozy Cone Motel, Cars Land)
  • Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree (new at Cars Land)
  • The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
  • Minnie’s Fly Girls Charter Airline (new at Condor Flats)
  • Toy Story Mania!
  • “Pixar Play Parade”
  • Redwood Creek Challenge Trail with Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s “Up”
  • Turtle Talk with Crush at Disney Animation Building
  • The Beast’s Library, Sorcerer’s Workshop, at Disney Animation Building
  • Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
  • Muppet*Vision 3D
  • Ariel’s Grotto Princess Character Dining

A Shopper’s Paradise

With the additions of Buena Vista Street and Cars Land, guests  have even more opportunies to shop to their heart’s content. Whether it’s at Radiator Springs Curios or Big Top Toys, the new shops are a great place to find a souvenir that reflects a day filled with memories.  Add that to the classic merchandise experiences of Disney California Adventure and this itinerary will be added to everyone’s shopping list.

  • Oswald’s (new on Buena Vista Street featuring autograph books, hats, bags and souvenirs)
  • Los Feliz Five & Dime (new on Buena Vista Street featuring t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, figurines, souvenirs and character merchandise)
  • Big Top Toys (new on Buena Vista Street featuring interactive toys, games and plush)
  • Elias & Co.  (new on Buena Vista Street featuring posters, clothing, souvenirs and collectible items)
  • Radiator Springs Curios (new at Cars Land featuring souvenirs)
  • Ramone’s House of Body Art (new at Cars Land featuring clothing and souvenirs)
  • Sarge’s Surplus Hut (new at Cars Land featuring clothing, hats, toys and plush)
  • Seaside Souvenirs (featuring Paradise Pier themed souvenirs and merchandise)

A Tour Full of Flavor
Sometimes it’s all about the vittles – and Disney California Adventure is a foodie’s paradise.  Comfort food, gourmet meals, regional specialties, signature cocktails and even delectable vintages are all available on this tour through the park.  From small bites to fine dining, guests’ palates will be met with some of the best food and drink options from around the Resort.

  • Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • Trolley Treats (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • Flo’s V8 Café (new at Cars Land featuring Route 66 inspired comfort food)
  • Cozy Cone Motel (new at Cars Land featuring “cone” themed snacks)
  • Fillmore’s Taste-In (new at Cars Land featuring fresh fruits, juices and water)
  • Wine Country Trattoria (featuring Mediterranean style cuisine)
  • Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
  • Carthay Circle Restaurant (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • The Cove Bar (featuring American style bar appetizers)
  • Pacific Wharf Café (featuring salads, soups and bread bowls)
  • Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop (new at Pacific Wharf)
  • Corn Dog Castle
  • Ariel’s Grotto (featuring character dining for breakfast and lunch)
  • “World of Color” picnic dinners; includes reserved viewing for the show

Child’s Play Tour

 

 

 

This itinerary is a good fit for parents and grandparents who are entertaining younger guests.  These attractions are fun for all ages and cover the entire park.  Whether it’s floating on air at Luigi’s Flying Tires or playing at bug’s eye-level in “a bug’s land,” there are so many places to make memories together for the entire family.

  • Luigi’s Flying Tires (new at Cars Land)
  • Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree (new at Cars Land)
  • “Dancing with Disney” (new at Stage 17)
  • “Instant Concert … Just Add Water,” daytime fountain show at Paradise Bay with Maestro Goofy
  • Heimlich’s Chew Chew Train
  • Flik’s Flyers
  • King Triton’s Carousel
  • Golden Zephyr
  • Games of the Boardwalk featuring beloved Disney characters
  • Toy Story Mania!
  • Animation Academy (Disney Animation Building)

Tim Alcoser’s 08/1/12 DLR Photo Report

DLNT Reporter Tim Alcoser visited the Disneyland Resort on Wednesday and has some newsworthy photos to share with us:

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

Live birds in front of Rainforest Cafe

Work progressing on Earl of Sandwich while the nearby merchandise booth is vacant

Flowers in bloom all around the park

Work on the Fantasy Faire progresses

The Jungle Cruise has added safety nets and boat bumpers to avoid guests getting their hands stuck between the boat and the dock

It can make the attraction hard to see for younger guests

A look from inside

We’re zooming off!

“The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition” Coming to Disney California Adventure Park September 14

From Erin Glover on the Disney Parks Blog:

Calling all you Tim Burton fans! In addition to Haunted Mansion Holiday, guests will be able to step into another world of award-winning film director Tim Burton when “The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition” comes to Hollywood Land during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort. From September 14 – November 5 at Disney California Adventure park, you can see the touring art exhibit, along with a special, extended sneak peek of Tim Burton’s animated feature film, “Frankenweenie,” releasing on October 5.

 

 

“The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition” captures the magic of filmmaking and gives an exclusive glimpse into the stop-motion animation process brought to life by visionary filmmaker Tim Burton. From original sketches drawn by Burton to extensive props, sets and puppets, the exhibition showcases the artistic detail and vision that has gone into telling the tale of a boy who, inspired by science and the love of his dog, brings his beloved pet back from the dead. Here’s a quick peek:

 

The exhibition launched in Barcelona, Spain, at CineEurope on June 18, and stops in the U.S. at the Disneyland Resort from September 14 – November 5. When the tour is complete, it will have visited seven countries including Spain, France, England, Japan, Mexico, Canada and the U.S.

Be sure to catch “The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition” during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort – which also includes Haunted Mansion Holiday, Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and more!

 

PICTURES: First-Look Inside Radiator Springs Racers!

We may be just days from the opening of Cars Land’s E-ticket attraction Radiator Springs Racers, but we’re just now getting our first look inside this gate-busting extravaganza:

RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Disney California Adventure park guests will pass under a themed archway to enter Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land at the Disneyland Resort. The

The sign for the attraction

RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15, 2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

The mountain range is as close to the real thing as you can get

ORNAMENT VALLEY -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15, 2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

Right out of the movie

ORNAMENT VALLEY -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15, 2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15, 2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15, 2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

ORNAMENT VALLEY -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15,  2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

Even the bridge with the waterfall from Lightning and Sally’s drive is here

ORNAMENT VALLEY -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15,  2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

As day turns to night, the facade takes on a magical appearance

ORNAMENT VALLEY -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15,  2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

ORNAMENT VALLEY -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15,  2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

ORNAMENT VALLEY -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15,  2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

ORNAMENT VALLEY -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15, 2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

DOC HUDSON IN RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

Inside Radiator Springs Racers, Doc Hudson talks you through a tire change

RED IN RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

Through a projection effect, Red is watering his plants

LIZZIE IN RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Coming to Disney California Adventure park June 15, 2012, Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

Lizzie at the Curio shop

RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

SARGE AND FILLMORE IN RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

Sarge and Filmore at Flo’s V8 Cafe

TAILLIGHT CAVERNS IN RADIATOR SPRINGS RACERS -- Cars Land features three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the Disney-Pixar film,

The finale of the ride, your car rolling through taillight caverns