During the amazing June 2012 relaunch of Disney California Adventure, most media coverage focused on Cars Land (
we wished it a Happy First Birthday this past Saturday). The other new land, Buena Vista Street, took a stalwart back seat while performing its vital role perfectly.
One year and two days ago, Disney California Adventure gained something it never had before: a heart. That's what Buena Vista Street brought to the park.
Looking back at the Street's terrific first year at the resort, we're listing our Top Ten favorite elements the new land has brought to the reborn park.
1) A HOME BASE
When DCA opened in 2001, its entry area, Sunshine Plaza, greeted arriving guests with a hodgepodge of pop culture imagery, a miniature Golden Gate Bridge, and an odd-looking sun fountain. To many, it came across as sterile and cynical. Buena Vista Street took its cue from Disneyland's Main Street and transformed DCA's entry land into a welcoming trip back to an idealized Old Los Angeles. The relaxing, welcoming atmosphere, sparked with a theme of enterprise and enthusiasm, provides a perfect "home base" for a day at the revitalized DCA.
2) OSWALD
As you enter the park, you see Oswald before you see Mickey. That's a terrific bit of subtle history right there. Everyone knows the line, "It all started with a mouse." The mouse started because Walt lost the rights to his rabbit. Now the rabbit has come home, and his shop begins your journey into DCA, where, a short distance away, you will next encounter Walt and Mickey. I love this. And speaking of Walt and Mickey....
3) STORYTELLERS
The statue of young Walt and Friend greets guests at eye level.
I've written a bit about this before, and I can't think of much else to say, except that it looks as if the two are ready to discover the park
with us. The story begins...
