Little known attractions at Disneyland/CA

[Jim]

What are some of the best, little known or obscure things at
Disneyland/California adventure? You know, the kind of ride/show/eatery
that is off the beaten path that most people aren't aware of?

[RanchoDoug]

Post by Jim
What are some of the best, little known or obscure things at
Disneyland/California adventure? You know, the kind of ride/show/eatery
that is off the beaten path that most people aren't aware of?

IMHO a lot of the little special things in Disneyland have been
eliminated in favor of high volume, big buck things.

A couple places to look (I think all have links to other sites):

http://www.yesterland.com/yester.html - old attractions

http://www.hiddenmickeys.org/ - hidden mickes and various secrets

http://www.waltdisneyhistory.com/ - history & stuff

http://www.mouseplanet.com/ - current stuff

http://www.scottware.com.au/theme/linkage/index.htm - links

Also, if you can find Randy Bright's book "Inside Disneyland" there's
a lot of interesting information.

[gjw]

Post by Jim
What are some of the best, little known or obscure things at
Disneyland/California adventure? You know, the kind of ride/show/eatery
that is off the beaten path that most people aren't aware of?

Small things:

If you look in the large mirror behind the counter at the Mad Hatter
hat shop in Fantasyland, you'll see the Cheshire Cat materialize now
and then...

Also in Fantasyland, look up above the Snow White ride, and every now
and then you'll see the Wicked Queen open the drapes and appear in a
window.

Don't miss the Disney Gallery, somewhat hidden at the top of the
stairs above the Pirates ride. Rotating exhibits dedicated mostly to
artwork of previous Disneyland attractions (often including those that
are no longer around, and those that were planned, but were never
completed).

"Club 33" is a very private restaurant inside Disneyland, which is
only open to club members and their guests. (And it's the only place
that serves alcohol inside of Disneyland.) You will find the door to
Club 33 just to the right of the entrance to the Blue Bayou restaurant
in New Orleans Square. But they won't let you in. ;)

The bottom section of the Hungry Bear restaurant's dining area (in
Critter Country) has an interesting atmosphere (but avoid the food).
With a path filled with old ferns, mossy logs, a host of hungry ducks
waiting for food, and the Mark Twain passing by regularly, it makes
for a quiet, shady, out of the way spot of nature that many miss.

[Jim]

Thanks. How does one become a member of this Club 33? Sounds interesting,
but expensive.

Post by gjw

Post by Jim
What are some of the best, little known or obscure things at
Disneyland/California adventure? You know, the kind of ride/show/eatery
that is off the beaten path that most people aren't aware of?

If you look in the large mirror behind the counter at the Mad Hatter
hat shop in Fantasyland, you'll see the Cheshire Cat materialize now
and then...
Also in Fantasyland, look up above the Snow White ride, and every now
and then you'll see the Wicked Queen open the drapes and appear in a
window.
Don't miss the Disney Gallery, somewhat hidden at the top of the
stairs above the Pirates ride. Rotating exhibits dedicated mostly to
artwork of previous Disneyland attractions (often including those that
are no longer around, and those that were planned, but were never
completed).
"Club 33" is a very private restaurant inside Disneyland, which is
only open to club members and their guests. (And it's the only place
that serves alcohol inside of Disneyland.) You will find the door to
Club 33 just to the right of the entrance to the Blue Bayou restaurant
in New Orleans Square. But they won't let you in. ;)
The bottom section of the Hungry Bear restaurant's dining area (in
Critter Country) has an interesting atmosphere (but avoid the food).
With a path filled with old ferns, mossy logs, a host of hungry ducks
waiting for food, and the Mark Twain passing by regularly, it makes
for a quiet, shady, out of the way spot of nature that many miss.

[b***@gmail.com]

Check out the Club 33 fansite: http://www.disneylandclub33.com/ There
is a link at the bottom of the left column for membership information.
You can also find pictures at my DLR web site:
http://members.cox.net/dl.album/ Click on the Club 33 logo.

- Barry

[Patty Winter]

Post by gjw
The bottom section of the Hungry Bear restaurant's dining area (in
Critter Country) has an interesting atmosphere (but avoid the food).
With a path filled with old ferns, mossy logs, a host of hungry ducks
waiting for food, and the Mark Twain passing by regularly, it makes
for a quiet, shady, out of the way spot of nature that many miss.

I also saw a couple of egrets as I went by on the Mark Twain the
other day.

Although not quite in the "ride/show/eatery" categories originally
requested, here are two other ideas:

* The Big Thunder Mountain Trail between Frontierland and Fantasyland.
Much less crowded than going through the castle, and a relaxing walk
along the water and past Big Thunder Ranch. (Where the national turkeys
and a bunch of reindeer are currently holding forth. Also, the cow is
wearing a Santa hat. ;-))

* PUSH, the talking, rolling trashcan in Tomorrowland. I ran across
him a couple of times on this trip. I even got some photos of him with
Wendy and Peter and a couple of princesses.


Patty

[Corey]

To: patty1
Re: Re: Little known attractions at Disneyland/CA
By: patty1 to alt.disney.disneyland on Thu Dec 01 2005 12:3
8 pm

Post by Patty Winter

Post by gjw
The bottom section of the Hungry Bear restaurant's dining area (in
Critter Country) has an interesting atmosphere (but avoid the food).
With a path filled with old ferns, mossy logs, a host of hungry ducks
waiting for food, and the Mark Twain passing by regularly, it makes
for a quiet, shady, out of the way spot of nature that many miss.

I also saw a couple of egrets as I went by on the Mark Twain the
other day.
Although not quite in the "ride/show/eatery" categories originally
* The Big Thunder Mountain Trail between Frontierland and Fantasyland.
Much less crowded than going through the castle, and a relaxing walk
along the water and past Big Thunder Ranch. (Where the national turkeys
and a bunch of reindeer are currently holding forth. Also, the cow is
wearing a Santa hat. ;-))
* PUSH, the talking, rolling trashcan in Tomorrowland. I ran across
him a couple of times on this trip. I even got some photos of him with
Wendy and Peter and a couple of princesses.
Patty

saw thos egrets too. a CM told me, We have no egrets around here...
hmm, I thought she ate that hat last week.

[gjw]

On Fri, 02 Dec 2005 00:47:19 GMT, "Corey"

Post by Corey
To: patty1
Re: Re: Little known attractions at Disneyland/CA
By: patty1 to alt.disney.disneyland on Thu Dec 01 2005 12:3
8 pm

Post by Patty Winter

Post by gjw
The bottom section of the Hungry Bear restaurant's dining area (in
Critter Country) has an interesting atmosphere (but avoid the food).
With a path filled with old ferns, mossy logs, a host of hungry ducks
waiting for food, and the Mark Twain passing by regularly, it makes
for a quiet, shady, out of the way spot of nature that many miss.

I also saw a couple of egrets as I went by on the Mark Twain the
other day.

saw thos egrets too. a CM told me, We have no egrets around here...
hmm, I thought she ate that hat last week.

They have egrets. Shot a photo of one about a year ago. Saw one
again last week. Over by the Hungry Bear.

[Patty Winter]

Post by gjw
On Fri, 02 Dec 2005 00:47:19 GMT, "Corey"

Post by Corey
saw thos egrets too. a CM told me, We have no egrets around here...

They have egrets. Shot a photo of one about a year ago. Saw one
again last week. Over by the Hungry Bear.

When I told a friend who has an AP and visits the park a couple times
a week that I'd seen two different kinds, he said, "Oh yeah, probably
a snowy egret and a great egret." He wasn't at all surprised. Dunno
why a CM who works in the area wouldn't have noticed them.


Patty

[Bruce L. Bergman]

Post by Patty Winter

Post by gjw
On Fri, 02 Dec 2005 00:47:19 GMT, "Corey"

Post by Corey
saw thos egrets too. a CM told me, We have no egrets around here...

They have egrets. Shot a photo of one about a year ago. Saw one
again last week. Over by the Hungry Bear.

When I told a friend who has an AP and visits the park a couple times
a week that I'd seen two different kinds, he said, "Oh yeah, probably
a snowy egret and a great egret." He wasn't at all surprised. Dunno
why a CM who works in the area wouldn't have noticed them.

I live my life with no egrets at all - no fish in our pool... ;-P

But Disneyland has had several egrets hanging out there for years.
Let me dig through the picture pile on the hard drive, I have proof.

And why not? Private lakes for your own 'territory', stocked with a
variety of small fish for mosquito control - and lunch, lots of trees
and little scrubby areas for nesting and concealment, people dropping
stuff if you've developed a taste for people foods, no big predators
running around to worry about (unless you count a 6-foot Mouse in a
tuxedo)... For a bird, what's not to like?

--<< Bruce >>--

[Patty Winter]

Post by Bruce L. Bergman
Private lakes for your own 'territory', stocked with a
variety of small fish for mosquito control - and lunch, lots of trees
and little scrubby areas for nesting and concealment, people dropping
stuff if you've developed a taste for people foods, no big predators
running around to worry about (unless you count a 6-foot Mouse in a
tuxedo)... For a bird, what's not to like?

:-)

I was thinking just that the other day while eating lunch at the
Pacific Wharf Cafe. I was at the last table on the back deck, and
there was a duck asleep on a rock in the water. I thought, "Wow,
tough life." :-)

I wonder whether the egrets ever discover the koi in the waters
next to the Big Thunder Trail.


Patty

[Corey]

To: patty1
Re: Re: Little known attractions at Disneyland/CA
By: patty1 to alt.disney.disneyland on Fri Dec 02 2005 07:54 pm

Post by Patty Winter

Post by Bruce L. Bergman
Private lakes for your own 'territory', stocked with a
variety of small fish for mosquito control - and lunch, lots of trees
and little scrubby areas for nesting and concealment, people dropping
stuff if you've developed a taste for people foods, no big predators
running around to worry about (unless you count a 6-foot Mouse in a
tuxedo)... For a bird, what's not to like?

:-)
I was thinking just that the other day while eating lunch at the
Pacific Wharf Cafe. I was at the last table on the back deck, and
there was a duck asleep on a rock in the water. I thought, "Wow,
tough life." :-)
I wonder whether the egrets ever discover the koi in the waters
next to the Big Thunder Trail.
Patty

prolly, I did see a crow discover a chipmunk once by the HM.

[Bruce L. Bergman]

Post by Patty Winter

Post by Bruce L. Bergman
Private lakes for your own 'territory', stocked with a
variety of small fish for mosquito control - and lunch, lots of trees
and little scrubby areas for nesting and concealment, people dropping
stuff if you've developed a taste for people foods, no big predators
running around to worry about (unless you count a 6-foot Mouse in a
tuxedo)... For a bird, what's not to like?

:-)
I was thinking just that the other day while eating lunch at the
Pacific Wharf Cafe. I was at the last table on the back deck, and
there was a duck asleep on a rock in the water. I thought, "Wow,
tough life." :-)
I wonder whether the egrets ever discover the koi in the waters
next to the Big Thunder Trail.

I think they're a little out of an egret's league...

<2-Lb. Koi:>
"Are you looking at me, bird? Are You looking at ME?! Yeah, you just
try something and I'll slap you so hard your grandma will feel it..."
</2-Lb. Koi>

Fry, yeah, but that's why they hide in the rocks. But the bigger
koi only have to worry about raccoons and bigger predators.

--<< Bruce >>--

[Mr. Disney Wizard]

It's a joke people, "No Egrets" for "No Regrets"
but for a place built by a mouse they sure do have a great many cats and
mousetraps....

Jokes aren't funny if you have to explain them - Wiz

Post by Corey
To: patty1
Re: Re: Little known attractions at Disneyland/CA
By: patty1 to alt.disney.disneyland on Thu Dec 01 2005 12:3
8 pm

Post by Patty Winter

Post by gjw
The bottom section of the Hungry Bear restaurant's dining area (in
Critter Country) has an interesting atmosphere (but avoid the food).
With a path filled with old ferns, mossy logs, a host of hungry ducks
waiting for food, and the Mark Twain passing by regularly, it makes
for a quiet, shady, out of the way spot of nature that many miss.

I also saw a couple of egrets as I went by on the Mark Twain the
other day.
Although not quite in the "ride/show/eatery" categories originally
* The Big Thunder Mountain Trail between Frontierland and Fantasyland.
Much less crowded than going through the castle, and a relaxing walk
along the water and past Big Thunder Ranch. (Where the national turkeys
and a bunch of reindeer are currently holding forth. Also, the cow is
wearing a Santa hat. ;-))
* PUSH, the talking, rolling trashcan in Tomorrowland. I ran across
him a couple of times on this trip. I even got some photos of him with
Wendy and Peter and a couple of princesses.
Patty

saw thos egrets too. a CM told me, We have no egrets around here...
hmm, I thought she ate that hat last week.

[MummyChunk]

Post by Jim
What are some of the best, little known or obscure things at
Disneyland/California adventure? You know, the kind of ride/show/eatery
that is off the beaten path that most people aren't aware of?

Disneyland and California Adventure are packed with hidden gems that often fly under the radar, and discovering these lesser-known spots can make your visit even more magical. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path favorites that many guests might overlook:

Disneyland
The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln: Located on Main Street, this attraction combines history with Disney magic. It features an impressive audio-animatronic version of Abraham Lincoln and a museum showcasing Disneyland's history. It's a great spot to relax and learn something new.

Tiki Room Tropical Hideaway: Near the Enchanted Tiki Room, this small outdoor eatery serves up delicious Dole Whip and other tropical treats. It's a quieter alternative to the busy stands and offers a lovely spot to enjoy a snack.

Snow White's Grotto and Wishing Well: Tucked away near Sleeping Beauty Castle, this serene spot features a charming fountain with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. It's a peaceful place to take a break and make a wish.

The Court of Angels: Located in New Orleans Square, this picturesque courtyard is a hidden gem for photos. It's a quiet, romantic spot that feels like stepping into another world.

Flag Retreat Ceremony: Every evening on Main Street, Disneyland holds a flag retreat ceremony to honor veterans and active-duty service members. It's a touching and often overlooked tradition.

California Adventure
Animation Academy: Inside the Animation Building in Hollywood Land, this interactive experience lets you learn how to draw a Disney character from a real animator. It's fun for all ages and a great way to take home a unique souvenir.

Sonoma Terrace: Located in the Pacific Wharf area, this wine and beer garden offers a relaxing spot to enjoy a drink and some light bites. It's a quieter alternative to the busier eateries.

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail: This outdoor play area in Grizzly Peak is perfect for kids (and kids at heart) to explore. It's a great spot to burn off some energy and enjoy some shade.

The Bakery Tour (Pacific Wharf): This quick, self-guided tour of the Boudin Bakery shows how their famous sourdough bread is made. Plus, you get a free sample at the end!

World of Color Viewing Spots: While the World of Color show is popular, many people don't realize there are alternative viewing spots that don't require a FastPass. Ask a Cast Member for tips on where to stand for a great view without the crowds.

Bonus Tips
Hidden Pascals: In Fantasyland, keep an eye out for tiny Pascal (from Tangled) figures hidden around the restrooms near the Tangled-themed area. It's a fun little scavenger hunt!

Secret Menu Items: Many Disneyland eateries have secret menu items. For example, ask for a "Neapolitan" Dole Whip at the Tiki Juice Bar for a swirl of pineapple, vanilla, and strawberry flavors.

Exploring these lesser-known attractions and spots can add a whole new layer of magic to your Disneyland or California Adventure visit. Let us know if you discover any other hidden treasures!

Have a magical time,


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