One step inside of Disney California Adventure’s new Cars Land and I was immediately taken back to the town of Radiator Springs from the Disney Pixar movie “Cars”. Cars Land let’s you experience Route 66 in a magical way that is fun for both kids and adults alike. I had the time of my life there!
Cars Land, a 12-acre expansion of Disney California Adventure Park, features 3 super fun family-friendly rides:
Radiator Springs Racers – Radiator Springs Racers is a high speed car ride that takes you through the dips and beautiful scenery of Ornament Valley and into Radiator Springs where you’ll see the likes of Mater, Lightning McQueen, Sally Luigi, Mack, Guido, Ramone and Doc Hudson.
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree – A tow-tappin’ square dance hosted by Mater from Disney Pixar “Cars”. Prepare to zip around in circles on a trailer pulled by an adorable baby tractor and enjoy hoedown style music sung by Mater himself.
Luigi’s Flying Tires – Float on a cushion of air aboard a larger-than-life Fettuccini-brand Brand tire, thanks to Luigi from the Disney Pixar movie “Cars”. Slide and glide around Luigi’s 8,000-square-foot Italian garden and tire storage yard. I didn’t get a chance to go on this, but it looks like a lot of fun.
photo credit: Wikepedia
Where to Eat – Inspired by the timeless drive-up diners along Route 66, Flo’s V8 Cafe serves up classic American cuisine with a twist. While I was there, I enjoyed the home-style Rotisserie Pork Loin meal and it was delicious. The menu offers something for everyone, including a vegetarian Veggie-Tater Bake.
photo credit: miscfinds4u.com
The Inspiration – Everywhere you look inside Cars Land are architectural details, art work, and images reminiscent of “Cars” the movie and Route 66. During my trip I had the privilege to meet with Kathy Mangum, Vice President of Walt Disney Imagineering and Executive Producer for Cars Land. It was fascinating to learn where Cars Land got it’s beginnings and all of the work that went into designing and creating the park. The Disney Imagineers began plans for Cars Land 2 years before the “Cars” movie was released to theaters. They even took a trip down Route 66 for inspiration. When you visit Cars Land and go on the rides, you might notice the original voice talent from the movie “Cars” flowing from the speakers.
photo credit: miscfinds4u.com
Shop, shop, shop till you drop – I love shopping at Disney theme parks and the shopping at Cars Land does not disappoint. You’ll find all the Disney and Cars memorabilia you want at Courthouse, Ramone’s House of Body Art, Sarge’s Surplus Hut, and Radiator Springs Curios gift shops.
You never know when you’re going to see Mater himself driving down the street in Cars Land!
Disney California Adventure Park’s Cars Land is a very family focused park. I had such an amazing time experiencing Route 66 at Cars Land and really look forward to going back with my family!
Disney provided travel and accommodations for this trip. All thoughts are my own.
The Cars rides all look fun. Wish we could go again. Last time we were in California’s Disney was a really long time ago..but it was memorable, especally the underwater submarine ride.