Like postage, it seems that once a year, Disney Parks raise their prices and that time has come once again. Here’s their new pricing structure:
Disneyland Resort Ticket Options
Ticket
Ages 10+
Ages 3-9
5-Day Park Hopper
$300
$279
5-Day 1-Park Per Day
$265
$244
4-Day Park Hopper
$285
$265
4-Day 1-Park Per Day
$250
$230
3-Day Park Hopper
$260
$244
3-Day 1-Park Per Day
$225
$209
2-Day Park Hopper
$210
$197
2-Day 1-Park Per Day
$175
$162
1-Day Park Hopper
$137
$131
1-Day 1-Park
$92
$86
All multi-day tickets expire 13 days after first use.
Disneyland Resort Annual Passports
Premium
$669
Deluxe
$499
Southern California*
$359
Southern California Select*
$279
Annual Passport Block-Out Day Ticket
$84
*Valid proof of Southern California residency required for purchase and use.
Disney Premier Passport
Disney Premier Passport
$979
Theme Park Parking
Auto/ Motorcycle
$16
Oversized Vehicles/ Motor Homes/ Tractors w/o Trailers
$21
Buses/ Tractor w/ Extended Trailers
$26
Annual Passport Parking Pass
$139
What do you think about this annual practice? Is the increase of AP events keeping you coming back for more? What about those of you with Premiere passes? $130 is quite the hike but you’re getting unlimited access to the parks for a whole year.
The Disney Parks seem to also continuously push back their 20%-off deals for AP’s and are increasing the frequency and availability for AP exclusive events. Disney seems to stand by their value and they have been feverishly adding new areas and exciting attractions. It seems to be a Catch-22 as well as a probable solution to the saturated AP market. Luckily they have that amazing 0% interest monthly payment plan to keep it manageable.
Will you be renewing your pass this next year or might you consider downgrading or even not renewing? The new prices take effect tomorrow, June 2, 2013. Might be worth a trip to the park just to renew early!
The wife and I just booked our trip to Japan, which I will gush about in future posts but today has been replete with Mystic Manor news, announcements, updates, and now: A VIDEO!
This looks absolutely incredible and yet another trackless ride system from Disney’s Imagineering team! I had never even heard of trackless ride systems until researching our Tokyo Disneyland trip but now this is something I KNOW we need here in the US parks. Robert told me that TOT in Florida is a trackless system which I had no clue but these have come quite a way in 20 years!
I am surprised it’s in English although I have done little to no study on the overseas parks. Disneyland Resort Paris had a few rides that offered an English experience and Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea parks seem to be mainly in Japanese (with the option of picking up “story papers” at City Hall.) Also, Danny Elfman’s score is a fitting choice for this attraction and it offers a great new soundtrack for those attraction audiophiles out there!
Mystic Manor is China’s first foray into the Haunted Mansion-type attraction. However, from what I can tell and have heard, ghosts are a big taboo in China so the imagineers thought up a clever workaround using a cute, mischievous, and marketable monkey and a mysterious music box that is a recent addition to Lord Henry’s collection of antiquities.
Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland’s new Mystic Point area officially open to the public May 17, 2013.
This is something special. From their Facebook page: “‘TS Project’ started production in late June 2010 by Jonason Pauley, (then 17), and Jesse Perrotta (18).” Uploaded just 5 days ago, this 2.5-year-long project was finally uploaded to YouTube and has already garnered 5.5M views!
I am 23 minutes in and just astonished with what these kids pulled off. The Buzz flying scene was quite the feat! While not the prettiest thing, I can’t imagine the techniques they picked up on while making this — coverage, stop motion, reveals, etc. Incredible story-telling school in the span of 2 and a half years — and some crazy dedication.
I’d love to sit down with these guys and hear how they pulled some of this off, their inspirations, and some technical specs! The full feature is embedded below — enjoy!
I know I am behind the times but I only just watched the original live-action black and white Tim Burton production of Frankenweenie from 1984 and I absolutely LOVED it! It’s available on your “Nightmare Before Christmas” DVD, if you own it.
If not, check it out below! It is seriously one of his best films and really shows his love of monster movies of the 30s and 40s as well as his potential as a blossoming director. Unfortunately, he was fired from Disney soon after this film in an almost Ed-Wood-ian fashion for wasting the studio’s time and resources. For a long time, it had only been screened in the UK before “The Neverending Story” as both films starred Barret Oliver. It was later released in a re-edited and censored form to try to recoup some money most likely. Then, after being shelved for a long time and Tim Burton’s enormous success, it was released in its original uncensored form with the “Nightmare…” DVD.
After seeing the extended preview now playing at DCA, I can say that the new film seems to stay pretty true to the original down to the tiniest details! So, if you have not seen this original masterpiece and want to be surprised by the 2012 feature-length remake, I would suggest steering clear. I cannot confirm that the ending is in any way similar in the 2012 version but I want to give fair warning that this version has an ending that I was very happy with and would be excited to see in a stop-motion remake.
And now, sit back, grab some cocoa and enjoy Frankenweenie (1984):
What did you think of the film?! Leave your impressions below or, obviously, in the YouTube comments page! I would have to say that this film has shot up into my top 5 of Burton’s films.
Well it has officially begun: the holiday season at the DLR! While weather-wise, Anaheim is still scorching, Haunted Mansion Holiday, Ghost Galaxy, the Halloween Tree and the giant pumpkin on Main Street have returned. New this year are the Halloween Carnival at the Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree and the Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition over at DCA.
The Partners among the happiest pumpkin patch! (2011)A Ghostly Mickey (2011)Ghost Galaxy: easily one of the most thrilling experiences all year at Disneyland! (2010)HMH — the main event for the holidays!
Also new Halloween merchandise has arrived and we always get giddy about this stuff! Tombstones and mummies are among the many offerings!
These are almost too awesome!One of those things that makes you re-evaluate your current shelving situation at home!
Along with the special events that are for the public, there’s also Mickey’s Halloween Party (a separate ticketed event) and the Happiest Haunts tour which, while open to the public, fills up quickly. We hear nothing but amazing things about that tour and hope to take it some day soon — maybe this year! Be sure to contact guest services to reserve a spot!
What are your favorite aspects of the holiday season at Disneyland?
Wow — just wow. This show’s dramatic soundtrack mixed with the Glow With the Show ears is mind-blowing.
We got to the park, checked in, and got a spot along the Rivers of America by 8:15 pm. The park was delightfully empty for a summer evening and we landed an incredible spot front and center. Thinking back on it now, I suppose we got there pretty early but considering the check-in started at noon and I am not typically off work until 7, I figured we would get a good spot near the back which would offer an incredible perspective of the Glow With the Show experience.
Anyway, we took turns leaving the spot to run some errands — picking up Halloween stuff for our new home, replacing some defective first-run GWTS ears (the first batch were rushed and are inherently defective. You can get a voucher to replace them from City Hall and take it to any GWTS ear outlet for a replacement — FREE!*), and getting some Pumpkin Fritters which are getting justifiable internet buzz.
Pinocchio merchandise voucher!Pumpkin. Fritters. — Better than you’re imagining if you can believe that.
New ears in-hand, epic spot secured, we were then met with some of TDA’s inhospitable customer service follies: everyone on the Rivers of America were required, when the park closed, to clear the area and reenter to ensure no one was getting into the show that was not an AP that had RSVP’d and wearing a wristband. Even more ridiculous, I had my wristband checked every time I would leave and reenter the area. It was severely unorganized and not a single person was ok with the decision. We even witnessed a cast member forcing someone in a wheelchair to walk up the steps to wait with the rest of the crowd and everyone in the area was utterly confused as to how this made any sense. I understand the idea of checking wristbands but the person that cleared us out could have, instead, just checked the wristbands one by one. It was not overly crowded and it did not seem that anyone was outnumbered or overwhelmed. It seemed like a gross exercise of power and mismanagement. One may never understand their rationale once something that seemed like a good idea on paper in-turn becomes a terrible idea in practice. It seems that reason goes out the door and people will only do what they’re told as opposed to stepping back and finding an alternative. We need, and frankly expect, more improvisation from our TDA leaders with the ability to adapt at a moment’s notice. Anyway, everyone got back to their original spots so all-in-all it worked out in their favor but my wife said that while she offered her wristband upon reentering the area, not a single cast member checked it or lit it up with a flashlight.
Once back in the area, I was worried about the quality of the show. While it appeared everyone in the area had their ears out and on, it was not as impressive as the WoC display. Was the area not large enough? Had people not brought or bought ears?
While not a bad image, it was not nearly as impressive as one may have expected.
That is, of course, until the show started. Just — wow. Everyone had their ears on and synced up with the show. Every music cue was accented by the GWTS ears and the vocal response from the AP’s solidified, we were a part of something so special. I’ll follow this review up this weekend with video coverage of the show to hopefully drive the point home that this was an incredible experience and should not be missed! I can’t help but think GWTS will be added to “Wishes…” this holiday season and how incredible that’s going to look!
Fantasmic! GWTS
* I did not pay for my original ears — they came from the GWTS premiere with World of Color at DCA. I was never asked for proof of purchase but cannot guarantee everyone’s experience will be the same.
The Disney Parks blog posted a sneak peek at this year’s Haunted Mansion Holiday’s Gingerbread House. Here is a diagram of how the house will be built.
Such Detail!
Wouldn’t you love to take a bite of that nightmarish treat? I know I would!
Every year, the Gingerbread house which is featured in the grand ballroom of the Mansion is different. And besides that, it’s real! Disneyland bakers create unique masterpieces every year complete with its own animation!
I’m thinking about past Gingerbread houses that have been on display inside the Haunted Mansion. Who can forget the mini Mansion complete with a set of munching jaws? Or who can forget the spinning Oogie Boogie themed cake?
Which was your favorite Gingerbread house from the past?
As promised, here is the second part of our DCA grand re-opening coverage. While I was not able to go on the 15th, I did go all day both Saturday and Sunday and let me tell you — first thing I noticed was that I did not get tired of being in the parks for the bulk of both days. This is no longer a half-day park as far as I can tell. This is a complimentary park that I have even seen begin inspiring trends over on Main Street, U.S.A.
RSR Fastpasses!
Of course the first thing we did was rush to get Fastpasses for RSR as well as jump in line for the new E-Ticket attraction. Our impressions can be found in Part 1 of our coverage but let’s just say that it’s an incredibly large ride that’s full of visuals and incredible animatronics. I really really love this ride and at night it’s incomparable with the lighting the Imagineers and designers pulled off.
We then headed into the shops on Buena Vista Street and while they are definitely sparse to say the least and chock full of a lot of your standard Disneyland merchandise, their more period pieces like the Red Car Trolly Ears and Carthay Circle themed merchandise. One of my favorite details, though, are these classic looking mannequins. Can you spot some pseudo-celebs?
Who…Are…You??
Then we just had to check out the Carthay Circle Lounge. Was there a bar right there in Carthay Circle? Yes — and it is GOOD! They also serve incredible food in not only the restaurant, but in the lounge as well. We will cover the food in the next post.
Pictured here: a Tequila Daisy and a Ginger Rogers
Next, we had to check out Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree. I had been hearing the songs playing from the ride for a while while walking by and seen the ride system making me cautiously optimistic about the ride. It was incredibly fun! It’s a super intricate ride system that I hear caused a lot of problems but in the end, WOW is this ride fun! It whips you to-and-fro along with some pretty funny songs from what’s arguably my least favorite character in all of Disney film history. Somehow, they made this ride and that character lovable and fun in this incarnation. Very very well done!
“Sumthin’ sumthin’ sumthin’ dag’gum!”
Next was a stop by the Cozy Cone as we had a little buzz from our drinks at the CC Lounge and that spin on Mater. So many great looking options! We decided to get both of the Chili Cone Queso offerings. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food! I got the standard Chili Cone Queso offering while Suzi tried the Chipotle Chicken Cone and both were wrapped in a fresh pretzel cone-shaped bun. What a great idea and great treat accompanied by a Pomegranate Lemonade!
So Many Cones!Chipotle Chicken ConeChili Cone Queso
Not to overwhelm ourselves, we left Cars Land and headed back to some classic DCA rides and around through what’s becoming our favorite spot – Carthay Circle. I just love the characters’ and their costumes here!
Look at these guys! Adorable.A dapper copper!Got nothin’ but a suitcase and a dream!
Luigi’s Flying Tires is another incredible time in Cars Land! This remaining of the Flying Saucers from Disneyland back in the 1960s returns with a revamped ride system that’s truly an incredible experience. Look at the detail that went into the queue — the best in all of Cars Land if you ask me.
Tail-light flowersTry on some new tires!Car-shaped topiary. This will look great once it’s fully grown, I’m sure.The Loading AreaThe exit queueRe-admit for when the ride stops because of unruly guests
This is a truly great ride but with an 8-minute start-stop-reload time for guests, prepare to wait a while!
At night, there are some incredible sights to be seen. One of which is the nightly lighting ceremony in Cars Land and a ride down Hollywood Blvd. on the Red Car Trolly as seen in our previous post. This is a beautiful park that is only just beginning to stretch it’s legs. More to come! Stay tuned!
A week ago, the all new Disney California Adventure opened its gates to the public!
Waiting for the Gates to Open!
We decided to make our way down to the park around 1am to get in line for the opening. Along with many others, we slept all night in between Disneyland and DCA. What fun is that! A Disneyland sleep over! There was a huge screen which displayed promos for the upcoming Buena Vista Street and Cars Land.
Sleeping Over
Our Big Screen Nightlight
Around 8am, they finally let us in! Upon entering its gates on an overcast morning, we were treated to an incredible sight. The all new Buena Vista Street!
It’s Open!
Buena Vista Street is a beautiful addition to Disney California Adventure with details around every corner. Whether it’s the Five & Dime store, Elias & Company, or the Chamber of Commerce building, you will be in awe.
Five & Dime
Mortimer’s Market
Oswald’s Gas
Of course, motion is in effect in the new DCA. The Red Car Trolley made its way down the street complete with newsies singing their song. It was so fun to finally see the trolleys in action.
All Aboard the Red Car!
Clank, clank, clank with the Trolley!
Near the end of Buena Vista Street, the new Storytellers statue featuring a young Walt and Mickey was finally unveiled. It’s an incredible work of art. Make sure you look all the way around the statue for the subtile details, especially on the suitcase!
Storytellers
Partners Forever!
Buena Vista Street ends with the new Carthay Circle Theatre which is a restaurant and lounge. Inside, I was shocked to see the amount of elegance and history. It was as if I had gone back in time to the 1930s and I was in high society, dining with the Hollywood elite. Entering Carthay Circle Theatre is one of the best examples of time travel Disney has ever given.
Carthay Circle Theatre at Night!
Food and Drinks in the Lounge!
After walking down Buena Vista Street, we headed for Cars Land. Wow. I can’t believe the amount of detail the imagineers put into this place. It’s incredible. The best part about the new land is the mountain range. It’s shocking to believe you are in the middle of Anaheim, California with this beautiful huge mountain range. I was so surprised by the shear size and beauty of the range. I must admit that I was a bit worried that it was looking a bit flat from the areas that you could see while under construction. But boy was I wrong. I really can’t wait to go back and just look at everything.
We are in Radiator Springs!
Beautiful Landscaping
Some of the Best Rock Work I Have Ever Seen
The Waterfall is a Great Highlight!
Walking down the main street in Radiator Springs brings back memories from Disney/Pixar’s Cars. Every detail is here. Ramone’s is here. Luigi’s is here. Flo’s Cafe is here. It looks exactly like the movie and not one detail is missing.
Ramone’s!
Luigi’s!
Flo’s!
At the end of the land is the grand new attraction, Radiator Springs Racers. This ride has the same vehicle as the cars in Epcot’s Test Track, but that’s the only similarity. You begin your journey by taking a cruise through the incredible mountain range and coming right up along side a beautiful waterfall. Soon you are in doors and parts of your favorite “Cars” moments are brought to life through the wonders of audio-animatronics. These are some of the best animatronics to date. The way they move is so fluent and natural. I couldn’t believe it. I never would have thought that bringing an animated film to life could be accomplished this well. Near the end of the interior section, you line up with another car and get ready to race. After a countdown, you are off! You are zooming through that great mountain range, making your way to the finish line. It’s awfully fun to see who is going to win. You never know who it will be. Finally, you enter Taillight Caverns and you exit your vehicle.
Radiator Springs Racers
The Race is On!
Radiator Springs Racers is a great E Ticket attraction. It combines thrill with detail only Disney knows how to do. The only thing that didn’t meet my expectations was Taillight Caverns. I had hoped that there would be lots of detailed caves with waterfalls that we would see on our journey. Unfortunately, the caves are only at the ride’s exit. Still, it’s a wonderful ride.
Part of the Excellent Interior
At night, a new sort of magic is in the air in Cars Land. Just like in the movie, 1950s music plays and each building’s lights come on, one at a time. It’s a special moment and the neon is remarkable. They do this every night, so be sure to be in Cars Land at dusk, right before they turn the lights on!
Cozy Cone at Night
Ramone’s at Night
Flo’s at Night
This is just the beginning of what’s new at Disney California Adventure. In part two, we will discuss the other new Cars Land Attractions, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and Luigi’s Flying Tires, we will discuss a sit down dining experience at Carthay Circle Theatre, and we will also talk about the interiors of all the Buena Vista Street buildings, among other things.
Part Two will include a review of Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree!
And a Review for Luigi’s Flying Tires!
Disney California Adventure has always been a great park to me. It did have its problems, but now those problems have been fixed. It is an excellent park that Disney should be proud of. Just think of the great things you can do there now. Walk down Buena Vista Street and see what Los Angeles was like to a young Walt Disney. Enjoy a delicious meal at Carthay Circle Theatre. Take flight on Luigi’s Flying Tires. Zoom through the mountains of Radiator Springs. These are just some of the things you can do at the all new DCA. I can’t wait to go back and experience it for years to come.
Remember: Keep an eye open for Part Two of our DCA Grand Re-Opening Coverage!
After a lengthy refurbishment, the Matterhorn as returned to thrill guests of the Magic Kingdom!
The Mountain is Back!
The biggest change were the bobsleds themselves. No longer will passengers be able to sit in the lap of a loved one. Each seat is individual now. Unfortunately, the single seats are very small. I’m only 5’10” and I had a hard time being comfortable inside. With the old bobsleds, I could extend my legs all the way. But I assume the bobsleds are safer now which is always a good thing.
The All New Bobsleds
Once inside the Mighty Matterhorn, you will notice an updated audio system. The roar of the abominable snowman is booming now. It really makes you fear for what you know is coming. The abominable snowman for the first time really scared me. I loved it. Also, since the audio is so loud, we can once again hear the roar throughout Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. I have always loved hearing that while walking through the park. When we see the abominable snowman himself, you will notice some lighting changes to really amplify his presence. He looks great.
The Abominable Snowman
Now we all know that the Matterhorn was repainted during this refurbishment and it looks amazing. This is the best I have ever seen the Matterhorn look. There are wonderful contrasts and details of snow throughout the mountain.
Looks Great!
Now for a blast from the past! Once again, there are people scaling the mountain! It is a great sight to see these people swinging down the majestic peak. To go along with the Matterhorn climbers, there is also a yodeler! A man stands on the edge of the mountain and yodels while playing an accordion! At one point, I also saw him blow that giant horn that swiss people do. RICOLA!
Preparing for their Descent
Can You Find the Yodeler?
How about now?
So while the new bobsleds themselves are a bit of a let down, the attraction looks better than ever. It is a classic Disney attraction in every sense of the word and it really deserved this lengthy refurbishment. With the return of the climbers and yodelers, the Matterhorn is really back as the king of the Disneyland Mountain Range!
