The all new Disney California Adventure

Spent the day (and night) in the park with the Lovely Wife™ on a recent Saturday.  The new Carsland area is quite impressive, especially the rock work for the ‘E’ ticket Racers ride.  I really like the new ‘main street’ they have created, called Buena Vista Street. 

I took a few pictures which will follow.  Keep in mind that I went for a different view of the park(s) – you all know the famous images.  If you really want to know the goings on of all things Disney, then go here (http://miceage.micechat.com/) and have fun! They cover Disney like no other.

Early morning arrival for us; a sad departure for others. Either way, blue skies.

Right off the bat we walk into everyone’s favorite mouse, singing.

Breakfast?  I wish, but sadly, no. Granola Bar.

If and when you get to the new DCA and walk through the stores, look around. 
And up. Note the old radio’s, lights – the attention to detail is impressive.

The pict does not really capture the look, no matter how hard I try.

Nice Ride!  Hot Babe!  What’s not to like?

Great signage and window treatments all over the place. 
And this one you really have to look for. The E in Walt E. Disney.

More of the same, this time a billboard. And we just rode the rails, so appropriate for us. 
I wonder if that balcony has an actual room attached to it?

This is the display above the cash register in a  clothing store on BV street.  Very retro and very cool.

You try belting out a rousing, roaring twenties tune before noon, on a hot day, with gloves on!  She rocked.

For Lorraine :)

Really nice ceramic tile artwork on a wall. Not your everyday tiles from Home Depot.

Once again, we are waiting for the train/streetcar.

Not showing off or anything, but the Lovely Wife™ has her picture in the display at Blue Sky Cellars.
Part of there ‘how it was made’ attraction for Carsland.  And yes, she happily signs autographs.

Someone in Imagineering has a great sense of humor.

As you might expect, we have an affinity for Radiator Memorabilia.

More hidden gems.

Good luck trying to get on Radiator Springs Racers.  Bring sunscreen...and patience.

Fast passes run out by 9:00 AM – and the park opens at 8:00.  Hotel guests get in an hour early, get a
FP and then stand in line. That way they get two rides in one day.  At this moment the Wait Time for Racers
was 185 minutes – just over three hours.

Opted to be nice and act like a tourist to a fellow cast member.

Did I mention to always look up?  What is behind the green door?
Note the work on the trim.

More fine work and cool signage.

Yet more hidden wall art.

Pimp my ride! 
Waiting for our first bus ride up Main Street, Disneyland –
we just missed the train, so opted for wheels.

It was very hard for her not to grab the wheel and go.

Our driver – Vern was a great guide.  Say hi on your next visit.

On the way back we took the horse train.

This Cast Member was eyeing a bunch of kids who just couldn’t keep there hands and feet inside the car.  She got absolutely no help from any of said kids parents.

At the Grand Californian Hotel.  To answer your burning question,
yes it worked and I knew how to operate it.  I dialed 0 for operator.

A room with a view.  California Adventure Paradise Pier area;
in the background is Saddleback Mountain (actually a hill, but don’t tell it). 
Now I really see why I can hear the Disney Fireworks most nights.

Turn down service with Chocolate.  How did they know?  More Disney Magic! 
And no, I could not eat it.

Late afternoon snack while prepping for dinner at Carthay Circle Restaurant, DCA.
Thanks for the cheese plate, Marc.

You have heard of hidden Mickey’s?  Find the (not so) hidden me. 
Cathy checking email, perhaps?

That is it.  Show is over.  We had a great dinner at the Carthay Circle Restaurant.  With Cathy’s charm we were able to secure on of  the private dining room’s.  Normally for four or six, but we were only two.  Thanks to Restaurant Manager Jose.

A note on the restaurant – the food was outstanding.  Both in presentation and taste. 

The service, with one or two exceptions, was WAY less than adequate. Especially those at the front reception. If Disney hopes to make this a destination resto, they are going to really have to work on their game.  No pictures from there, however.  Maybe another time.
UPDATE: Just want to clarify that I hold Disney management responsible, not the staff itself.  Where is the lauded Disney training?