Listen to our Show
We welcome back historian & author Jim Korkis to discuss what was happening at Disneyland in 1971. We also catch up on
that’s new at the Disneyland Resort, as alwa
ys.
***Disney Resort Updates***
Check back daily as information is changing rapidly.
Due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 (Corona) Virus, Many Disney Parks, Cruise Lines, and Disney Vacation Club Resorts will be closed until further notice:
Please be sure to follow CDC and your State's guidelines during this crisis. We will get through this.
Shanghai Disneyland • Shanghai Disneyland is now open. Be sure to check their reservation system which requires everyone, including infants, to have a reservation. The resort capacity is 50%. You must go to Shanghai's web page for advance reservations. Please visit their site for details.
Walt Disney World • All 4 Walt Disney World theme parks are open.
• Additionally, Disney Vacation Club properties at Walt Disney World and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground have begun to reopen to Members and Guests. Disney Springs has already begun to reopen. Upon reopening, theme parks, Disney Resort Hotels, restaurants and other offerings may be modified, limited in capacity and subject to availability or closure. You must have an advance reservation and valid ticket.
• Face masks are no longer required in "Outdoor Common Areas" and "Pool Decks". You may temporarily remove your face covering while actively eating, drinking or taking an outdoor photo, but you must be stationary and maintain appropriate physical distancing during this time. Masks must be worn at all other times.
• Park Hopping is allowed within strict rules:
1. You must make a reservation at one of the Parks. They do still require this as a private company.
2. You must go to that Park first.
3. Park Hopping does not start until 2PM.
4. Access to Parks is still limited to their maximum occupancy. Check the Park you want to go to before traveling to it to make sure it is accepting Hopping guests.
5. Check the Walt Disney World Park Hopper web page for updates to Park Hopping rules.
Disneyland • Disneyland is now OPEN!!!!!!! Sadly only to California Residents for now.
• Ticket Sales have begin. Only California Residents will be allowed to enter the Parks and groups may not be larger than 3 households until further notice.
• Like Walt Disney World, you must have a valid ticket AND make a Park reservation for the day you are interested in attending. Park reservations can only be made 60 days out at the present time. Be sure to check availability of the dates you are interested in before purchasing tickets.
• Disneyland Park President Ken Potrock announces there will be a new form of annual passes. Detail will be announced later this year. "Legacy" Pass holders are still getting dining and merchandise discounts.
• The Grand Californian is open.
• The State of California has updated it rules for Theme Parks and Stadiums to reopen. The new rule took affect April 1, 2021 and Disneyland opened at 25% capacity as long as the county stays in the Orange Tier.
• The Downtown Disney District including Buena Vista Street only of DCA are open. Some table service is available following state and local rules.
• The State of California has announced guidelines for the opening of amusement parks.
Hong Kong Disneyland • The Park is officially reopened. Advanced reservations with names and contact numbers are required. The Park will be closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays except major holidays. Please visit their web site for current requirements.
Disneyland Paris • Due to conditions, Disneyland Paris is still closed. However, their page currently states,"We can't wait to welcome you back to Disneyland Paris! Just a little more patience, we are putting the final touches on the magic and will share our reopening date with you very soon." (5/13/2021). Please visit their web site for up to date information on if the Park will reopened and requirements.
Disney Cruise Lines • UPDATE 3/9/2021 SHARE HOLDERS' MEETING - CEO Bob Chapek Just said he has no date for the Cruise lines, but hopefully if trends continue to be positive, maybe next Fall or later.
• Disney Cruise line has suspended US cruises at least through June 2021 and European cruises through October 9, 2021.
• They will be begin accepting bookings for Summer 2022. Early booking May 17th and general booking May 27.
Aulani Resort • Phased reopening began November 1, 2020. The state of Hawaii has strict travel requirements which include a 10 quarantine or negative test within 72 hours of your arrival. Please visit HERE for the latest details.
Walt Disney Family Museum • The Walt Disney Family Museum is open but you must have reservation to enter the building. They will not admit you after 4p, even if you have a reservation. Please see their Welcome back page for details. They continue to provide virtual content. San Francisco County was recently moved into the Orange Tier, so please check their web page for current status. The World War II Special Exhibit opened March 19th in the Diane Disney Miller Exhibition Hall. See web page for availability and restrictions.
INFORMATION CORRECT AS OF May 15, 2021. Please check individual Resorts web pages for restrictions, requirements, and changes.
Disneyland Resort Current Event
California on Track to Drop Capacity Limits and Most Mask Mandates by June 15
May 12, 2021
“Although capacity limits may be lifted on June 15 for theme parks if current trends hold, it’s unknown if the Disneyland Resort and other theme parks would open up to full capacity or gradually increase over time.”
Laughing Place
Sat, May 1, 2021
Campus Tour Highlights! Take a Closer Look Inside Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure Park
by Gabriel Gibaldi, Public Relations Director
“Calling all Super Hero recruits! We recently shared first-look images of Avengers Campus, opening at Disney California Adventure park on June 4. Today, I’m excited to take you back inside of Avengers Campus for a closer look at just some of the details you may come across as you visit the different addresses. But first, did you know that Campus stands for Centralized Assembly Mobilized to Prepare, Unite, and Safeguard? Now you know!”
Disney Parks Blog
Everything Disneyland changed in the Haunted Mansion and the backstory behind it all
Walt Disney Imagineering worked on the latest refurbishment of the Haunted Mansion that started in January 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic closed the park.
By BRADY MACDONALD
PUBLISHED: May 11, 2021
“‘Our fans are amazingly in love with the mansion,’ Walt Disney Imagineering producer Michele Hobbs said. ‘It’s always been steeped in this mystery.’”
...
“The layers of intrigue and mystique with the Haunted Mansion extend from the pet cemetery and tombstone tributes to something as simple as the exterior paint color.
“‘There are multiple colors of white on the mansion,’ Hobbs said. ‘If you stand and look at it, you probably couldn’t tell. But if you get closer, you can see there’s a little bit of perspective and eeriness there in each of those different colors that gives it that look.’”
Orange County Register
Disneyland reimagines Snow White ride just as Walt would have wanted
Review: The revamped Snow White’s Enchanted Wish dark ride now feels fresh and current while still retaining the reverence due an opening day Disneyland classic.
By BRADY MACDONALD
PUBLISHED: May 6, 2021
“Walt Disney famously wanted Disneyland to continue to grow and Imagineering has made the old boss proud with a fantastic remake of the classic Snow White dark ride that seamlessly combines old and new tech into an update for the ages that will delight generations to come.”
...
“The new digital projection scenes and audio-animatronic figures are surprising yet appropriate. The Fantasyland ride seems like the old favorite fans will remember from their childhoods with just enough newness to convince die-hard Mouseheads to get back on the ride again for another spin.”
...
“Imagineering ‘plussed’ 90% of the scenes in the attraction with updated physical sets, practical and audio-animatronic figures and sophisticated projection mapping technology.
“The narrative of the Snow White ride has shifted through the years. In the 1950s, riders assumed the point of view of Snow White. In the ’80s, riders shared Snow White’s experiences. Now, we are observers through milestones in Snow White’s journey.”
Orange County Register
Disneyland polishes Fantasyland’s crown jewel with carousel makeover
Review: Fantasyland’s pulsating heart once again brings the fairy tale themed land to life.
By BRADY MACDONALD
PUBLISHED: May 8, 2021
“If Sleeping Beauty Castle is the focal point of Disneyland, then King Arthur Carrousel is the centerpiece of Fantasyland — and the pulsating heart of Fantasyland is once again bringing the fairy tale themed land to life.”
...
“The refreshed ride looks stunning. The freshly painted horses gleam in the midday sun. The gold leaf trim that adorns the mesmerizing ornate carvings inside the canopy glistens amid rows of amber lights. Purple bunting flutters as matching canopies slowly sway in the breeze.”
...
“In 2002 and 2003, King Arthur Carrousel underwent an extensive yearlong restoration project that rebuilt the rotating platform and added a computer-controlled ride system. New bench seats reduced the number of steeds from 72 to 68.
“The carousel was moved farther away from Sleeping Beauty Castle in 1983 as part of the New Fantasyland project. A 1975 overhaul of the carousel painted all the horses white and added custom-designed color schemes and decorative jewels to the bridles, saddles and breastplates.
“The most recent makeover included touch-up paint for the horses and ride structure along with a new metal canopy. The canopy roof panels were painted in place to ensure a consistent look of the design elements.”
Orange County Register
Disneyland tests virtual queue with Indiana Jones Adventure ride
Disneyland will begin testing the Indiana Jones Adventure virtual queue on Tuesday, May 11 as a temporary measure to alleviate foot traffic pinch points in front of the attraction.
By BRADY MACDONALD
PUBLISHED: May 10, 2021
“When the Indy virtual queue is turned on, visitors will be able to get a return group number via the Disneyland app — just like booking a boarding group for Rise of the Resistance.
“Since this is a test, Disneyland could turn on and off the Indy virtual queue at any time. There will be no set times for turning on the virtual queue like there currently is for Rise of the Resistance.”
Orange County Register
Indiana Jones Adventure Virtual Queue Debuts at Disneyland
May 11, 2021
“Early in the morning, the attraction had been down. Once it came up for the day, they started off by using a traditional standby line before moving to the virtual queue system.
“Also, note that when the virtual queue system is in use, there is no standby line for the attraction. You’ll want to make sure to get a boarding group if you want to ride.”
...
“Once in the virtual queue, you’ll be given an estimated wait and your group number, along with what group is currently being called back.”
...
“After being notified that your group can enter, Guests are being directed through the Jungle Cruise queue.”
Laughing Place
Disneyland teases Indiana Jones-themed bar for expansion project
Disneyland teased Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World as one of the potential restaurant concepts that could be part of the proposed DisneylandForward expansion plan.
By BRADY MACDONALD
PUBLISHED: May 14, 2021.
“Disneyland teased Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World as one of the potential restaurant concepts that could be part of a proposed expansion plan during a DisneylandForward webinar.”
...
“Disney has not announced any new attractions, lands or restaurants as part of DisneylandForward. Concept art included in DisneylandForward presentations are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to represent any specific projects in the works.”
...
“Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar opened in 2015 at Disney World’s Disney Springs, Florida’s version of the Downtown Disney outdoor shopping mall.
“The Walt Disney Imagineering-designed restaurant and bar is themed as an airplane hangar belonging to Jock Lindsey, Indiana Jones’s pilot in ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark.’”
...
“From a storytelling standpoint, the Hangar Bar serves as a watering hole for members of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers traveling the world.
“Imagineers created the Society of Explorers and Adventurers as a backstory for several attractions at Tokyo DisneySea, according to Theme Park Insider. Since then, SEA storylines have been incorporated into the Mystic Manor attraction at Hong Kong Disneyland, the Skipper Canteen at Florida’s Magic Kingdom, the Tropical Hideaway eatery at Disneyland and Jungle Cruise and Big Thunder Mountain rides at Disney parks around the world.”
Orange County Register
Disneyland sets reopening date for Blue Bayou with booze — plus a passholder exclusive returns
Other eateries returning as part of the phased reopening of the Disneyland resort: Napa Rose, Storytellers Cafe, Paradise Garden Grill and Alfresco Tasting Terrace.
By BRADY MACDONALD
UPDATED: May 11, 2021
“The Blue Bayou will begin serving meals along with beer, sparkling wine and Hurricane cocktails when the New Orleans Square restaurant reopens on May 27.”
...
“The return of the Blue Bayou is part of phased reopening of more than 30 Disneyland and Disney California Adventure food and beverage locations that remained shuttered when the parks reopened on April 30 after a yearlong coronavirus closure.
“Disney California Adventure will bring back the Alfresco Tasting Terrace on the second floor of the Golden Vine Winery exclusively for Legacy Annual Passholders on May 20. DCA launched the AP exclusive tasting terrace in January 2020 just two months before the pandemic forced the closure of the park and year before Disneyland killed its annual pass program.
“The Paradise Garden Grill eatery will reopen at DCA on May 13.
“Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel will reopen the Napa Rose and Storytellers Cafe restaurants to the general public on May 28.“
...
“Online reservations for the Blue Bayou, Napa Rose, Storytellers Cafe and Alfresco Tasting Terrace are available starting on May 18. The GCH Craftsman Bar at the Grand Californian Hotel will start taking online reservations on May 28.”
...
“Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will reopen on June 15 — the same day Gov. Gavin Newsom plans to end mandates in the Blueprint for a Safer Economy and fully reopen the state economy. The PCH Grill, Surfside Lounge and Sand Bar at the Paradise Pier Hotel will remain closed for now.
“Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel reopened with limited capacity on April 29. A reopening date has not yet been announced for the Disneyland Hotel.”
Orange County Register
Alcohol Offerings Revealed for Blue Bayou Restaurant at Disneyland
May 11, 2021
“The Disneyland Resort has updated the menu over at the Blue Bayou Restaurant to now include alcohol, as the restaurant gets ready to reopen for Guests.”
Laughing Place
Thu, May 6, 2021
News from the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort! Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel Reopening June 15; More Restaurant Dining Returning to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
by Valerie Lee, Public Relations Manager, Disneyland Resort
“Get ready to enjoy summer fun at the Disneyland Resort! As we continue the phased reopening of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, we are thrilled to announce Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will reopen and welcome back guests starting June 15, 2021, with limited capacity. Guests can also look forward to the return of some favorite dining locations, including Napa Rose and Storytellers Café, starting May 28, 2021, at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa! The Disneyland Hotel will reopen at a later date.”
Disney Parks Blog
Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel Reopening on June 15 With More Dining Options Coming to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
May 6, 2021
“Disneyland Resort has announced that Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will be reopening to Guests starting on June 15, 2021. More dining locations are also opening over at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa including Napa Rose and Storytellers Café, starting May 28, 2021.”
Laughing Place
Dateline Disneyland: A Mostly Magical Homecoming!
By Andy Castro -May 3, 2021
“Disneyland is back! After three days of Cast Member previews, Disneyland Resort’s theme parks officially reopened on Friday to eager crowds. The emotional homecoming included a warm morning welcome from park cast members and Disney executives alike. Join us today as we take a look at Disneyland’s big reopening after being closed for over 400 days and what the new operations look like. Is it time to make a return trip to Disneyland, or should you wait? Let’s find out…”
MiceChat
Disneyland Update! What’s New and What’s Next at the Happiest Place on Earth
By Andy Castro -May 4, 2021
“Disneyland has reopened its gates after a closure that spanned more than 400 days. While the gates were shut, Disney continued with various changes and projects in its Anaheim theme parks. Today, in a special edition of Dateline Disneyland, we take a look at what’s new and what’s next at the Disneyland Resort. From Avengers to frogs, Cast staffing to an all-new happily-ever-after in Fantasyland, there’s a lot to see. Let’s get started!”
MiceChat
Disneyland Update – Hurry Back!
By Dusty Sage -May 12, 2021
“Disneyland has been reopened to guests for just a little over a week now, and there’s lots of news and information to share. While everyone has been focused on small crowds and short waits, that’s not the full story. I’ll show you how things are really going at the Resort and the patterns developing that can help you avoid some pitfalls. I also hope to answer a few questions for you about the parks that many of you have been asking and give a bit of advice. We also have a couple special treats for you, including some glorious photos inside Disney’s iconic dark rides and a journey into the secret crypt which bypasses the Haunted Mansion stretching rooms!!!”
MiceChat
Disneyland Reopened – Highs and Lows & What You Need To Know
By Brian Pinsky -May 14, 2021
“Walking back into Disneyland after a year of being closed has been euphoric for all of us here at MiceChat. Each one of us has a deep connection and love for this resort, its rich history, and the significance Disneyland has to millions the world over. The long line of employees and management greeting guests on opening day was an emotional example that the cast and crew of Disneyland feel exactly like we do.”
MiceChat
The Beginners Guide to Disney’s Society of Explorers and Adventurers (S.E.A)
By Shelly Valladolid -May 13, 2021
“The S.E.A., or Society of Explorers and Adventurers, evolved rather organically from Pleasure Island to Disney Parks all over the world – and even on the Seven Seas! What started as a tribute to the members of the dearly departed Adventurers’ Club at Walt Disney World, the S.E.A. now spans across every corner of Disney experiences. With the Jungle Cruise’s upcoming new storyline more heavily featuring S.E.A. characters, I thought you might enjoy this beginner’s guide to the who’s who of S.E.A. and how it’s all connected.”
You can listen to show 309 on iTunes or go to Libsyn service here.
Show Notes for Episode 309
Disneyland 1971