Disneyland photography blog
The one ride we didn’t make it on last Saturday was Luigi’s Flying Tires. I can’t wait to go back and try my hand at gliding on air while pegging fellow park goers with beach balls. Until then I’m left with the magical neon glow of Cars Land burned into my memory like rubber from tires spun on asphalt. I think one of my favorite neon signs would have to be this one from Luigi’s. Every time I see it I hear Guido saying “pit stop!”
I was a bit of a skeptic back when I first heard there was a whole land being built for Cars. I had seen the movie once but hadn’t connected with it at the time. I grew up right off of Route 66 between Victorville and Barstow with a pretty poor outlook of my hometown and its surroundings. That’s not to say that I didn’t love the old buildings along the road, the unique people, the rusty signs, I did. But I grew up feeling it was inferior and almost ashamed to answer the question, “Where are you from?”
The announcement of Cars Land piqued my interest and I sat back down to watch the movie. The second go round was a different experience entirely. I found myself deeply moved with some sort of approval to appreciate the beauty and stories I grew up immersed in. In some way it made me feel more whole, more free.
Yesterday we stepped into Cars Land for the first time. Almost ninety minutes from where I grew up, I felt like I was home. There is an authenticity to this place that cannot verbally be conveyed, it has to be experienced. It’s impossible to miss the love that has gone into this new land. I didn’t want to leave and was more than content to spend most of the day there. To everyone who had a part to play in this, thank you from the bottom of my heart. In Cars Land life really is a dream.
The Disney Junior Queue is not something I spend time in, but I adore its art deco adornments. With the addition of the Carthay Theater, this little area has been beautified and made more interesting. I’m a sucker for all the Birds of Paradise.
The Golden Zephyr is not a ride you often have to wait for. It’s pretty tame and short. Despite this, I always find myself drawn to it. I especially love the way light glistens off the sleek shape. Keep this one in mind if you head to DCA this summer. It’ll be a relaxing break from the crowds!
This sign used to mark the entrance to Condor Flats but recently made its departure. One late afternoon on passing by, I was struck by the alignment of the streaking clouds with the condor and the plane. It really emphasized the idea of flight and immediately I was transported with the idea of soaring into the sunset.
Soarin’ Over California is one of my favorite Adventures in DCA, especially on a hot day. There are so many neat things in the queue to keep your attention and of course the ride itself is incredible. It’s a perfect respite from warm weather with the chilled air and the many refreshing scents blown your way. I’m not sure I could name a favorite scent though. Could you?
