What are your thoughts on the evolution of Disney California Adventure into a Pixar/Marvel park?

Image: DisneyKristen: I think it’s important that Disney keeps evolving and updating to bring new life to its theme parks. Don’t get me wrong, I love the “classics” but I like to see new experiences offered that are more in line with our current generation. Since there are some limitations for the Orlando parks due to licensing agreements with Universal, it only makes sense to bring that fandom to California. I already have plans in the works for my FIRST Disney California trip in 2019 so I’ll let you know what I think then! 

Melissa: I think that it is a very exciting time for Disney California Adventure! In the past, DCL has struggled with strong theming and suffered from criticism and comparison to other Disney Theme Parks. I think that by focusing on building up the brand of Pixar and Marvel, they will begin to see an increase in crowed attendance and satisfaction.

I have heard amazing feedback from the beloved Cars Land as well as the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission Break Out (even though people were hesitant at first). Thus, with this positive feedback, it makes sense that they would expand Pixar/Marvel theme.

Image: DisneyPersonally, I love seeing original characters such as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck; however, Pixar is beginning to have a stronger presence in what Disney means to me. I can imagine that future generations are also more heavily exposed to Pixar and Marvel, so this integration will be very exciting for them.

On a personal note, I think the revamp of Paradise Pier with all of the bright colors, the Pixarmonic Orchestra, and the introduction of some pretty fun food items is going to make for an amazing experience.

Paul: I think Disney is making a great strategic move in making these changes at DCA. Marvel is all the rage at the movies and Disney would be foolish to not leverage the brand. The Marvel additions will help draw a demographic away from Universal that is looking for an edgier experience than classic Disney can provide. At the same time, Pixar Pier draws those that are looking for a more classic experience.

Image: DisneyMarissa: Being from California, I can remember the day that DCA was opened.  It was exciting to have a brand new park added within walking distance of Disneyland. I was younger and personally I LOVE being able to walk through and see all the different areas of California and being from Northern California one of my favorite parks was walking into the Golden Gate Bridge at the front entrance.  On top of all of that, my favorite ride was The Tower of Terror.  So, I am sad to see DCA go away as it has some fun memories for me. 

With that said, I was able to go back a few years ago when Cars Land was added and it was AMAZING - the land, the ride, and the attention to detail were incredible.  I think if Disney is going to continue the same quality style transformation of Cars Land to the rest of the Pixar/Marvel upgrades, then it will be an extremely exciting transformation.  Being a "boy mom," I can't wait to go back and bring my son with all the fun Pixar and Marvel additions.