Adventurer’s Club & BET Soundstage Coming Down as Hyperion Wharf Goes Up

WDWNT on June 11, 2011

That’s right, the Adventurer’s Club and the BET Soundstage buildings are about to come down at the former Pleasure Island. But what will be replacing them? For now, just grass:

“Seed & Mulch”, the same that can currently be found on the plots that were Rock ‘N’ Roll Beach Club and Motion. Now a new patch of grass will appear temporarily at the other side of the island. Fans of Comedy Warehouse will be happy to know that the building will remain in-tact and is labeled as a “Future Entertainment Parcel”.

You may recognize the photo above as the plaza and small elevated stage between Portobello and Fulton’s. Thankfully, this area is getting a new look as well:

A good portion of this project has already been completed (namely, the new bridge to Marketplace), but there is still a bit to go.

This layout shows the new park area on the waterfront between Paradiso 37 and the former Rock ‘N’ Roll Beach Club, as well as the new path that will allow guests to walk past the left side of Portobello directly into the heart of the island. Let’s take a closer look at the new park:

Expect to see much of this work begin very soon. The entire document with these plans can be found at this link. Stay tuned to WDW News Today as we keep you updated on the transition from Pleasure Island to Hyperion Wharf!

KACHOW! Downtown Disney Celebrates Cars 2 May 13th-15th

WDWNT on April 28, 2011

As if May 13th through the 15th wasn’t busy enough with the D23 Destination D festivities and the PIXAR 25th Anniversary Weekend at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, Disney has piled on yet another event that Disney fans may want to attend. From the Disney Parks Blog:

Attention all “Cars” fans – I’ve got a great announcement for you tonight. The Disney Parks Blog just got word that the gang from Radiator Springs will head this way next month for a brand new event – Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend – which will take place May 13-15.

Four-time Piston Cup Champion, Lightning McQueen, Mater and British super-spy, Finn McMissile will hit the road to celebrate the release of Disney•Pixar’s “Cars 2.” At Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend, families can hang out with Lightning, Mater and Finn McMissile, plus take part in all sorts of fun “Cars” activities, including a video kiosk, e-photo opportunities and games.

Along with meeting some their favorite characters from “Cars,” families can “test drive” and purchase new “Cars 2”RIDEMAKERZ models. Always wanted to see what Mater would look like as a 4×4? Mix, match and design your very own unique “Cars 2” vehicle.

Families can also throw their love for cars in “reverse” and go back in time to check out dozens of classic cars on display that helped shape the vehicles we drive today. Or check out the original “Cars” film, which will play on the big screen all weekend at the AMC Pleasure Island 24 Theatres Complex.

We got an early preview of the new Cars 2 RIDEMAKERZ a few weeks ago, you can check them out towards the end of this video from the WDWNTube:

Two New Merchandise Locations Opening At Downtown Disney

WDWNT on March 7, 2011

From the Disney Parks Blog:

Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort

Do you enjoy shopping at the Downtown Disney District in Anaheim? Here are two more reasons to visit: Sanuk, a footwear store, and BLINK, a denim apparel shop. These retail locations are coming to Downtown Disney this spring.

Sanuk’s new flagship location will offer the largest selection of products available outside of the company’s online store, including flip flops, surf sandals and other innovative beach footwear, such as their signature yoga mat flip-flops.

Sanuk first joined Downtown Disney in 2010 – that pop-up was the company’s first retail store. Its success paved the way for the new, larger space.

Did you know the Sanuk name comes from the Thai word for fun?

Also coming to Downtown Disney this spring is BLINK, a denim-focused pop-up concept owned by Wet Seal. BLINK features the latest trends in denim, with an assortment of fashion tops and accessories.

At BLINK, “Denim Experts” will be available to offer service and product knowledge about dozens of styles from various fashion brands.

Sanuk will be replacing Basin which closed in January and BLINK will be replacing Anne Geddes which closed this past week.