MEW's Dream Disney Resort - The Final Chapter - Winner of a Lemon Tree Award, Sponsored by Applebees

[Twilight_Roxas]

Cool so its going to have fireworks, and mapping projections or is there more than those in Live the Magic?

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

Cool so its going to have fireworks, and mapping projections or is there more than those in Live the Magic?

Given the size of the moat surrounding Snow White Castle, Live the Magic will have enough space for fireworks, projection mapping and mist screens among other things. The honor of "Fantasmic-style" show will go to a different nighttime production in a different area of the park.

Also, it should be noted that my version of Paint the Night will take more inspiration from Tokyo's DreamLights than Paint the Night. Certain floats that come to mind include Moana in her sailing skiff, the "I Just Can't Wait to be King" sequence from The Lion King and Rapunzel's Tower, complete with lanterns and glowing hair.

Update, one other notable detail left out of the Hub post on the previous page, is that as guests approach the entrance to each land accessible from the Hub, subtle details begin to overwhelm the surrounding area. I.e., tikis in the foliage near Adventureland, crashed meteorites near Tomorrowland, canoes near Westernland, etc.

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

So lets see.

Fireworks-check
Mapping Projection-check
Mist Screens-check
fountains-check
lasers-check
fire-check

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

Next is Fantasyland, followed by Adventureland.

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

cool. Are the segments already planned out or is it still in concept mode?

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

cool. Are the segments already planned out or is it still in concept mode?

Yeah, there will be an order to the release of the project. It might jump around from time to time, but generally, I'll stay within the same vicinities of the park. I know for a fact that Adventureland will be to the northwest of the park, neighbored by Westernland to the south and Fantasyland to the east.

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

I meant the segments of Live the Magic. ^^'

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

I meant the segments of Live the Magic. ^^'

Got it. There is a rough order, but I won't be posting that until the end of the project.

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

Okay because I could suggest some to help with Live the Magic depending on the theme with each segment.

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

I'll be posting Fantasyland either tonight or tomorrow. Stay tuned.

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

sweet

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

And now for something completely different. Brace yourselves... Fantasy is coming.

I've decided to start a new trend in my updates: dedicating a land to a certain user. Today's update is going to be dedicated to @DisneyManOne, a longtime friend and all-around great guy. Fantasyland is dedicated to you, buddy. Also, he is responsible for the name "Pooh's Most Grand Adventure."
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Fantasyland

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9012SGz-yY

“Here is the world of imagination, hopes and dreams. In this timeless land of enchantment, the age of chivalry, magic and make believe are reborn - and fairy tales come true. Fantasyland is dedicated to the young and the young-at-heart - to those who believe that when you wish upon a star, your dreams do come true.” - Walt Disney

"Someday my prince will come
Someday I'll find my love
And how thrilling that moment will be
When the prince of my dreams comes to me..."

Everywhere you look, the stories of fantasy and make-believe are made real.

Fantasyland is often labeled as Walt's favorite, the timeless realm of his already-famous and most-beloved canon and characters, a land that Snow White, Mr. Toad and Mary Poppins might call home. "When we were planning Fantasyland," Walt said, "we recalled the lyrics of the song 'When You Wish Upon a Star.' The words of the melody, from our picture 'Pinocchio,' inspired us to create this land. What youngster, listening to parents or grandparents read aloud, has not dreamed of flying with Peter Pan over moonlit London, or tumbling into Alice's nonsensical Wonderland? In Fantasyland, these classic stories of everyone's youth have become realities for youngsters - of all ages - to participate in."

Snow White Castle

The tallest - and largest - Disney Castle in the world, the impressive Snow White Castle transports us from the classic Americana of Eliasburg and into the age-old pages of a childhood storybook. Here, magnificent mosaics, golden spires, lavish tapestries, imposing gargoyles, and ornate latticework compose a symphonic atmosphere reminiscent of the grandeur and romance of the Renaissance. As we cross over the stone bridge and through its towering portico, we hear one of two familiar themes; "When You Wish Upon a Star" and "Someday My Prince Will Come."

An ornate chandelier illuminates the spacious portico in a warm, yet ethereal glow. A spiral staircase winds upward for what seems to be an eternity, playful gargoyles and the light of dim sconces beckoning for us to climb toward whatever mysteries and magic may preside above. Having climbed the staircase since, we first visit the second floor residence of the Royal Banquet Hall.

Amid soaring archways and cathedral ceilings, we dine "happily ever after" in a fantasy feast for the eyes and tastebuds. Ornate windows overlook the landscape of Fantasyland, whilst flags and shields bearing the namesake of many a medieval nation hang proudly above us. Her Highness, Snow White is holding a feast in honor of the world's best-loved princesses - and we're invited. As such, we are to expect a visit from the world-famous Disney Characters, namely Snow White, Ariel, Mary Poppins, Elena, Mulan, Merida, Rapunzel, Tinkerbell, Princess Minnie, and Princess Daisy. Of course, these same friends can be found in the adjacent network of private chambers and winding corridors, the appropriate setting of The Disney Princess Royal Gathering.



Having returned to the foyer, we find the Castle Heraldry Shoppe, aptly marked by twin suits of armor and an antique collection of medieval weaponry. With the assistance of ancestry.com and just a little bit of Pixie Dust, we are able to trace our ancestral origins, as well as purchase replica swords, daggers and shields, in addition to family crests, tapestries and other historic replicas. The Wishing Well, a charming boutique with a faux garden, waterwheel and wishing well acts in lieu of your typical "fantasy" gift shop, with Olaf dolls, princess gowns and magic wands.

An askew corridor leads into a previously unexplored section of the castle’s foyer, where stone griffins appear to follow our every move, illuminated by the flicker of crackling torchlight… We hear the rush of ghostly wind, the screeches of a raven and the upsetting cackles of an Evil Queen. Before us is the entrance to Snow White’s Scary Adventures, a Fantasyland favorite.

Set to the timeless score of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, we board a mine car named for one of the Dwarfs, poised to embark on a musical journey through this age-old tale of beauty and romance. We watch as the lovable Dwarfs "dig-a-dig-dig" in their glistening Diamond Mine. But, one wrong turn past a crashing portcullis whisks us into the dark catacombs of the Evil Queen's Sorcerery Chamber. After a shocking transformation and harrowing chase through skeleton filled dungeons, our adventure concludes in the midst of a stormswept gorge, just in time for the Queen's timely demise. With the arrival of Prince Ferdinand and true love's first kiss, we safely return to the relative safety of Snow White Castle, "happily ever after."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHbuIh2p-SI



A guided tour of the castle is cut short when the Magic Mirror appears, transporting us deep into the castle's basement... We have just entered the accursed, underground domain of the Disney Villains… Maleficent, having already transformed into a dragon, rests within a volcanic grotto, anxiously awaiting her next meal… The Horned King conjures the dead from his Black Cauldron… Madame Mim morphs into various creatures before our very eyes… Oogie Boogie’s lair sits aglow in fluorescent neon and blacklight... A walk-through attraction, the Snow White Castle Mystery Tour is led by a fearless maid or butler, right alongside the ever "charming" Magic Mirror. Given this is a trip through Fantasyland's seedy underworld, we also encounter Jafar, Hades, Dr. Facilier and Chernabog.

One of Fantasyland's most popular shops, Villain's Lair finds its home at the exit of the Mystery Tour. Inside, all manner of strange novelty items and merchandise harken to the bad-guys of Disney canon, marked by interior decor reminiscent of the Gothic and occult. An Old Hag, one and the same with Snow White's stepmother, appears locked within a miniature birdcage, begging and bartering for her freedom. Diablo, Maleficent's trusty raven keeps watch over the cashiers, often dozing from apparent boredom. A warning sign indicates that Shere Khan the tiger has been locked in the shop's cellar, his audible growls and piercing, yellow eyes backing this claim with horrific confirmation...

Storybook Harbor





In an all-too-dramatic, "topsy-turvy" departure from your "typical" Fantasyland, this particular Fantasyland appears as somewhat of a cross between Epcot's World Showcase and Tokyo DisneySea. Rather than opening into a medieval festival, enchanted forest or Bavarian village, Snow White Castle leads us toward the shores of a sizeable lagoon, Fantasy Bay. The various realms of fantasy lay centered around the lagoon, much like a miniature World Showcase. From Storybook Harbor, our adventure begins.

Cast beneath the impressive shadow of Snow White Castle, Storybook Harbor recalls a quaint, medieval seaport from a bygone, perhaps romanticized era. Architecture reminiscent of Bavarian, Swiss and Dutch influence crafts the whimsical atmosphere of this seaside village, a decided glimpse at what life during the Black Plague might have looked like were it to clash with the madcap whimsy and ideals of Mickey's Toontown. Here, music of the Renaissance and Black Plague - in actuality, stylized instrumentals of Disney favorites - fills the air. In this proud seaport, many a classic fairy-tale has found its beginning, from the voyages of Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid to the daring quest of Geppetto to find his son, Pinocchio. Even Clopin, the macabre-humored narrator of The Hunchback of Notre Dame has found a place in Storybook Harbor...



"Morning in Paris the city awakes
To the bells of Notre Dame
The fisherman fishes, the bakerman bakes
To the bells of Notre Dame..."

In what appears to be the hideaway of runaway gypsies, we hear the warm music and unmistakable laughter of a celebratory feast... Perhaps a feast of fools? Indeed, we have discovered the entrance to the world's first dark ride themed to Victor Hugo's classic novel and 1996 animated film, The Hunchback of Notre Dame. In The Bells of Notre Dame, we climb aboard a winged gargoyle for an unforgettable retelling of Quasimodo's inspired tale. We soar through the ancient arches, hulking bells and towering pillars of Notre Dame Cathedral. We sail above the color and mayhem of the Feast of Fools. We fight alongside Quasimodo and Esmerelda as the sinister Claude Frollo gives chase through a sea of molten lead. We dine at our own feast "for fools" immediately following our journey.

Clopin's Festival of Foods offers a wide selection of quick, easy French cuisine, all beneath the color and whimsy of intricate tents and canvas awnings. Stockades, gallows and prison carts add to the atmospheric delight of this vibrant gypsy gathering.

A proud galleon, circa 19th Century Denmark, appears docked near the shoreline, aptly christened The Little Mermaid. The old galleon belongs to none other than Prince Eric, even featuring a nautical figurehead with a near-exact resemblance to Ariel. A closer glimpse of the shores below reveal that, in addition to a large cluster of purple clamshells, a shimmering fork, or "dinglehopper" has also washed ashore... Opposite the old galleon presides Ariel's Under the Sea Adventure, held within the weathered castle of Prince Eric himself.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoZWJrPD8K4

Aboard a "floating" clamshell, we sail through the fantastic undersea world of Ariel, Sebastian, King Triton, Flounder and Ursula - without getting wet - in a musical adventure awash with scenes from the animated classic. We relive all the magic and romance of the 1989 classic, from Ariel's gadget-filled grotto to a sinister eel-infested lair. This classic attraction takes inspiration not from the existing Little Mermaid attractions, but instead from the never-built Disneyland Paris attraction of a similar name.

Scuttle's Galley, owned by everyone's favorite seagull, sells drinks that, while familiar to us, are clearly unfamiliar to Scuttle. The result? Ridiculous names for the menu items. Here, "hot chocolate" is "hoot chalkboard." Here, "lemonade" is "lime grenade." Mmm-mmm, good.

Back ashore, we find a familiar sight: the warm homestead of Geppetto the toymaker. In the tradition of Central Europe, the storefront window of Geppetto's Toy Shoppe appears laden with countless marionettes, cuckoo clocks, music boxes and peculiar toys - but mostly marionettes. On the highest windowsill, Figaro the cat enjoys an afternoon snooze, blissfully unaware of the cheerful bird just inches from his reach... Inside the workshop, we find a collection of unique toys and gifts, handmade and handcarved, some imported from Central Europe. Although, the real attraction here is found deep within the workshop...



Another classic, The Adventures of Pinocchio puts us aboard an enchanted woodcarver's cart where, against the warnings of Jiminy Cricket, we venture to Pleasure Island, narrowly evading the claws of the evil Coachman and a rather "salty" fate. After a daring escape from a gloomy shipping dock, seedy billiard hall and eerie puppet wagon, we just miss the waiting jaws of Monstro the Whale, all before a safe return home with the help of the kindhearted Blue Fairy. Upon our return, we find that Pinocchio has indeed become a real boy. Near the edge of Fantasy Bay, one might spot the wreckage of Geppetto's sailing vessel, still tattered from its "deep-sea" excursion inside Monstro's belly...

Of course, what Fantasyland would be complete without the inclusion of the Pinocchio Village Haus? All real boys and girls can feast upon Italian favorites in this quaint cottage. Italian cheeses, panini sandwiches, seafood, pastas and stone-cooked pizzas are just a few of the available selections. Aside from lavish murals harkening to Walt Disney's classic Pinocchio, large windows provide ample viewing of the nighttime spectacular held upon the reflective surface of Fantasy Bay... But we'll look into that later...

A stone maypole built to resemble Rapunzel's Tower of Tangled stands near the entrance to the fourth and final dark ride found in Storybook Harbor. A Tangled Tale transports us into the exciting world of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider, a first ever in a Disney Park. Amid the stunning music and vivid settings of Tangled, we discover this timeless tale of bold adventure, swashbuckling bravery, dark villainy and fairy-tale romance. Naturally, the unfortunate wanted posters for Flynn Rider find their way around and about the attraction's distinctly Bavarian facade, as does Pascal, well-disguised in a multitude of colors throughout the surrounding area.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGo_qe-DOtY

One of the most technically advanced shows in the world, The Magic of Dreams takes us into the bedroom of Sarah, a nine-year old girl, as her father tucks her in for the night - but not before a good bedtime story. After wishing for the fairy-tales in her storybook to come to life, Captain Hook arrives aboard the Jolly Roger, kidnapping her under the false pretense that she is Wendy Darling. After stumbling upon Hook’s treasure cache, Sarah unintentionally rubs a certain magic lamp, freeing a familiar Genie from his containment. With the guidance of Genie, we embark on an epic musical and pyrotechnic adventure through countless animated classics, including, but not limited to Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, The Jungle Book, Moana and Sleeping Beauty, all culminating in one final clash between Mickey Mouse and Maleficent, a la Fantasmic! And to think, it all unfolds in Fantasyland upon the waters of Fantasy Bay.

Tall walls and lookout-turrets surround the perimeter of Storybook Harbor, perhaps built to protect the town in the advent of invading pirates or attacking enemy nations. Despite their standing, the massive gates have been left open for travelers, allowing us to step toward the east and into the second sub-land of Fantasyland: the Enchanted Forest.

The Enchanted Forest

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnwGKKiZers

In this lush, near-endless oasis of towering treetops and chirping wildlife, we first visit the country chateau of Cinderella. At Cinderella’s Chateau, the iconic pumpkin-turned coach is parked out front amidst a quiet pumpkin patch. A quick tour of the Tremaine household takes us through a setting that unveils the story of Cinderella, utilizing live actors and stunning special effects. At the hands of her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella transforms before our very eyes, leading to a hands-on training session with Fairy Godmother to prepare Cinderella and her newfound coachmen for the ball. No visit is complete without a visit to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where any child can be made to resemble their favorite Disney character by a Fairy Godmother of their own.

A wooded path leads us past Mr. McGregor’s, a roadside produce stand owned by Mr. McGregor, the “villain” of Peter Rabbit. As expected, said stand sells fresh fruits and veggies straight from the farmer’s garden. This same path leads us to the delectable Gingerbread House belonging to the Witch of Tim Burton’s Hansel & Gretel, a well-disguised candy shop with static figures of Hansel and Gretel out front, recklessly munching away at the house’s infrastructure. Little do they see the audibly-laughing, candy cane-nosed silhouette of the Witch lurking behind her front window...

Having crossed a bridge guarded by a wisecracking troll (The Three Billy Goats Gruff), we come across The Snuggly Duckling, built precariously close to the tallest, most twisted tree in the forest. This “rough n’ tough” inn takes us back to a simpler time when outlaws on the run preferred to sing about their dreams rather than act upon them. The legitimately hook-handed pianist will gladly sing about his dreams if you ask him, as will the barkeep...and the janitor, and the bouncer, and...well, just about everyone here sings about their dreams. Anyone and everyone is welcome at the Snuggly Duckling, but only if you’re ready for rowdy musical numbers and the finest in German pub food. Those with a background in piracy, debauchery, buggery, and dental problems are more than welcome to dine-in, no musical talent required.

Sleeping Beauty’s Cottage, found in a wooded clearing, introduces us to Flora, Fauna and Merryweather, who are throwing a surprise party for Aurora, celebrating her sixteenth birthday - which she ironically doesn’t make it to. We get to surprise and meet Aurora for ourselves, mixing and mingling among the other guests and fairies at her magical “sweet sixteen.” No, Maleficent was not invited. Yes, she is not happy about it.

Humpty Dumpty, sat on a wall, already bandaged from a previous fall, points the path toward the cottage from Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Three Bears and a Goldy is found inside the quaint homestead, a one-stop shop for linens, rugs, blankets, sheets, quilts, etc., but never any bearskin rugs... Although the second floor is inaccessible to us, we can clearly hear the Three Bears investigating their bedroom before waking up an audibly frightened Goldilocks. The sturdy Brick House of Practical Pig emits a jolly rendition of “Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf” as we walk past, despite the presence of the Big Bad Wolf hiding in a faux tree stump nearby.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GE-NqgXvG8

Belle's Village

The foliage gives way to yet another clearing, this time seeming to be straight from the French countryside. Here sits a fairy-tale village of sorts. Unsurprisingly, we have entered Belle’s Village from Beauty and the Beast. Beneath the shadow of the Beast’s Castle, we first encounter Bonjour! Village Gifts, a small shop for all our Beauty and the Beast needs. Maurice’s Cottage with its whirring gizmos, buzzing contraptions and smoking chimneystack welcomes us inside for a quick tour of the family’s living space, ending in a meet 'n' greet with Belle in her “village attire.” Cracked gargoyles and beastly statues point the forested path toward the Beast’s Castle which, ironically, is wide-open for visitors. Inside we find a musical world to rival even that of Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion: Belle’s Enchanted Journey. Aboard an enchanted serving dish, we embark on a musical journey through the world of the Academy Award-nominated animated film.

As we “dance” and careen through the enchanted castle, we follow Belle as she sings her way into the Beast’s heart. Along the way, rousing musical numbers and not-so-chance encounters with Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts and Chip make Belle’s Enchanted Journey a must-see for any fan of the animated classic. No Beauty and the Beast experience would be complete without a big production number of “Be Our Guest” led by Lumiere and his band of enchanted dishware.

The castle isn’t the home of just an attraction - oh no - this is Disney's Kingdom of Dreams. Everything here is “go big” or “go home.” A separate queue takes us into the magnificent Be Our Guest Restaurant.

Inside the iconic ballroom of the Beast, we sit down to a feast of French fare for a quick-service breakfast or lunch, or a fabulous sit-down dinner in one of three dining areas - the Grand Ballroom, the West Wing, or the Castle Gallery - each meticulously designed and crafted for the exquisite “French” diner in all of us. From the Castle Gallery (the Beast’s Library), one might catch a glimpse of riders as they careen by in Belle’s Enchanted Journey. In the West Wing, a destroyed portrait of Prince Adam keeps watch over diners as the petals of the enchanted rose lightly fall from a pedestal below. The baroque Grand Ballroom with its domed ceiling, lavish chandeliers, and snow-laced arches recreate the setting of that iconic waltz we have all come to love. No meal would be complete without the grey stuff - it’s delicious!

Back in town, the cobblestone pavement leads us to a delightfully humorous fountain featuring the dashing Gaston standing high atop the bumbling LeFou. This sets the foreground for Gaston’s Tavern, Fantasyland’s second rough 'n' rowdy inn. In this antler-lover’s paradise, a massive portrait of Gaston overlooks the bar from above the fireplace mantle, a slain black bear at his feet. Menu items include turkey legs, pork shanks, jerky snacks, meat pies, drinks (alcoholic or otherwise), hummus, and warm cinnamon rolls. Gaston himself has been known to make an appearance or two right outside his tavern, often engaging in push-up contests with men or a game of flirtatious wits with beautiful ladies.

Wonderland

“Oh, by the way… If you’d really like to know… He went that way… The White Rabbit. However, if I were looking for a White Rabbit, I’d ask the Mad Hatter. Or, there’s the March Hare in that direction. Of course, he’s mad too. Most everyone’s mad here. Hahahahaha! You may have noticed that I’m not all there myself…”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iIlWVpTs50



Wonderland, based upon the hyper-realistic world of the 1951 classic, Alice in Wonderland, brings us into a realm quite unlike any other. The realistic trees and foliage of the Enchanted Forest subdue into curious topiaries, giant leaves of varying colors, oversized mushrooms, twisted trunks, and bonsai tree-like growths emitting from all manner of locations where one would not normally expect to find a tree. From the start, the grinning face of the Cheshire Cat greets us, pointing to a clearing in this unnatural wood. His ghostly appearance alone can only mean one thing - we’ve fallen down the rabbit hole, through the looking glass, and into the peculiar world of Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland. Our slightly askew adventure begins amid the hedges and topiaries of Alice’s Curious Labyrinth.

The floral face of the Cheshire Cat overlooks a sea of hedges and maze-like paths, wildly spinning his pupils in 360° circles. In the labyrinth, we embark on a curious journey through Tulgey Wood past random doors, cartoonish plants, and bizarre fungi of unusual sizes. An oversized Alice bursts through the house of the White Rabbit, while the dreaded Jabberwocky (based on a deleted character for the 1951 film) resides in a smoky cavern, reciting wacky poetry by his lonesome. Along the way, peculiar creatures and conflicting signage take us to the lair of the Cheshire Cat and the Queen of Hearts’ imposing castle which provides not only a mirror maze with gags and funhouse mirrors, but also a fantastic view of Wonderland and Fantasy Bay. Petrified Card Soldiers paint the roses red and sing together in sorrowful harmony, the Queen of Hearts springing from behind a nearby hedge, throwing her fists in the air with a loud “Off with their heads!” Near the labyrinth’s exit, The Walrus & the Carpenter overlooks Fantasy Bay, the structure itself being built from various ship parts and scraps of junkyard metal. Inside the ratty-old shack are nautical artifacts and memorabilia typical of what one would find in Wonderland, as well as a menu teeming with oysters, clam chowder, mussels, lobster rolls, lobster bisque, and crab legs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdVoZCxmn38

Greeted by audio-animatronic figures of the Cheshire Cat and Caterpillar atop giant mushrooms, the Mad Tea Party invites us to pour ourselves into a giant teacup for a mad rotation around an amalgam of color and sound. Banking turns and sharp corners create a harrowing platform for our personal teacup to spin in wild circles - at our own discretion. Overhead Chinese lanterns illuminate the tea party whilst a large table set for tea sits in the center of the “dance floor.” The Mad Hatter and March Hare stand on top, toasting and singing to “A Very Merry Unbirthday." The Dormouse also joins in on the fun, poking in and out of a large kettle, drunkenly singing along with his trademark inaudible hiccups and giggles.

Naturally, Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire Cat, the White Rabbit, TweedleDee, TweedleDum, the Walrus and the March Hare all wander about Wonderland like a bunch of lunatics. There are no boundaries here. Just plain, good old-fashioned fun.

Small World Plaza

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3dwNpLw69Y



Located to the northernmost tip of Fantasy Bay, our next sub-land takes us far from the forests of enchantment and mythology and into an open-air esplanade of childhood wonder and intrigue, as designed in the abstract mind of Mary Blair. In its foreground, a proud fountain presides, crafted to resemble the upper-half of the globe, a small sailing ship filled with children from around the world at its peak. Unique topiary gardens and kinetic towers point our direction toward the kinetic facade of It’s a Small World, the star attraction of Small World Plaza.

In this palace-like facade, stylized icons representing international landmarks - the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, the Temple of Heaven - surround the smile of the 30-foot clock tower that sounds off in a musical procession of toys and dolls every fifteen minutes, imagery straight from Babes in Toyland. The magnificent, Rube Goldberg-esque Tower of the Four Winds stands guard over the attraction’s entryway, functioning as a real weather vane on a most spectacular scale.

Since 1966, guests to the original Disneyland have been captivated by the original “it’s a small world.” Today, It’s a Small World continues to stand as as a salute to the children of the world, a delightful voyage that speaks the international language of goodwill. “The Happiest Cruise That Ever Sailed” takes us on a voyage across the world were it to be seen through the eyes of a child. Over 300 audio-animatronic children are found in their respective countries, all singing that famous melody in their native tongue. From the North Pole to South America, It’s a Small World is a fantastic journey that mustn’t be missed by the young or the young at heart.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NH77XpItxqw

Every winter, the venerable classic is transformed into the spectacular It’s a Small World Holiday, where the children of the world anxiously await the arrival of Santa Claus as he readies for his Christmas Eve departure. The ornate turrets and landmarks are lined with thousands of colorful lights, while the Santa Hat-topped clock tower unleashes a festive “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers." Inside, the holiday traditions of many nations are fancifully displayed amid stunning decorations, winter wear, charming toys, and holiday magic, the famous anthem beautifully integrated into such seasonal favorites as “Deck the Halls” and “Jingle Bells.” The colorful canvas of the facade is used further through a nightly projection show that temporarily turns the palace into a wonderland of holiday imagery, inspired by the music of The Nutcracker and Babes in Toyland.

The Kingdom Railway makes one of several stops throughout the park in Small World Plaza at the aptly dubbed Small World Station, access to Fantasyland and its many realms of magic. As such, the departing trains then traverse through the exterior facade of It's a Small World, a Disneyland staple.

Arendelle

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOReid0vEwY



Stretching to the northwestern reaches of Fantasyland, the kinetic formations and open-air walkways of Small World Plaza transition into a fjord reminiscent of 19th century Norway. Chalets and shops typical to a seaside village in the Scandinavian region line the streets (reindeer-tracks embedded into the pavement) as we cross a footbridge and enter the frosty kingdom of Arendelle. In the misty mountains to the north, the Ice Castle of Queen Elsa glimmers in the shimmering sun, while the cozy alleys and close-knit streets lay adorned in wood-carved trolls and vikings in the stead of shopfront decor, a la Epcot’s Norway Pavilion.

The waters of Fantasy Bay create a “natural” fjord beneath a timbered bridge. Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post sits just south of the bridge amid a grove of tall pines, always seeming to have a year-round “BIG SUMMER BLOWOUT.” The friendly shopkeeper sells us any and all things Frozen, in addition to fresh carrots and special winter-wear designed exclusively for the park. A gazebo, clearly inspired by the Gol Stave Church in Oslo, Norway, provides a set of ornate telescopes for fantastic views of the mighty castle across the waters of the fjord.

Arendelle Castle, the humble abode of Queen Elsa and Princess Anna, stands as yet another major castle in Fantasyland. At first glance, a flurry of snowflakes appear to constantly flow heavenward from the highest tower, perhaps the doing of an unseen Queen Elsa. Regal bunting bearing the back-to-back silhouettes of Elsa and Anna lead a cobblestone road to the threshold of the castle, where the gates are indeed open. But before we explore the castle, we’ll continue to explore the shops and eateries of Arendelle in all its magical splendor.

Troll Handel (“The Troll’s Dungeon”) is first seen upon crossing the bridge into the northern side of town. With handmade clothing, miniature trolls, authentic glassware, and other items pertaining to the Scandinavian culture, Troll Handel provides the best in the real-life art and traditions of the Norwegian people. Restaurant Ved Elven (“Restaurant by the River”) overlooks the fjord from a dockside dining area, its menu consisting mostly of Norwegian fare; lefse for breakfast and meatballs for dinner. Smak av Norg (“Taste of Norway”) fills the air with the enchanting aroma of freshly-baked goods, but mostly the favorite of Elsa and Anna - chocolate. Anna and Elsa’s Royal Treasures, the ultimate Frozen superstore, would make any fan of Frozen lose their mind...or their money.

A quick trip inside Arendelle Castle would make any fan go even crazier, as the castle itself is the respective home of Frozen Ever After.

Boarding a sleigh embroidered with Scandinavian designs, we embark on an adventure into the wondrous, wintery world of Arendelle. After meandering a bit through the spacious halls and chambers of Arendelle Castle, we set out on a course for the “Summer Snow Day,” a summer celebration of ice and snow hosted by Queen Elsa and Princess Anna. A sleigh ride through an icy willow forest takes us into the mysterious expanse of Troll Valley, followed by a mountain top climb to Elsa’s Ice Castle where she sings that famous (or infamous) song hated and despised by parents all around the world. Arriving by sleigh back in town, the Summer Snow Day festivities continue as Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, Sven, and all the gang partake in a brand-new song penned by Robert and Kristen Lopez specifically for the attraction.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Li9Vi_-Nufk

Of course, not all of Arendelle’s stories find their roots in the mythos of Frozen…

We find a small boathouse nestled along the water’s edge, a proud Viking ship anchored near its docks. Displays and murals in the queue exhibit the rich history and culture of the real Norway, making it clear that this is not a Frozen attraction. Aboard Maelstrom, we hoist the sails on a miniature Viking ship of our own, casting off into the mystical realm of Norway and back into the time of trolls and Vikings. When was the last time you rode a waterfall backwards? Had your life threatened by a three-headed troll? Came within the whisker of a 12-foot polar bear? Witnessed a battle between Norse gods among white water? The last time may be the first time you ride Maelstrom.

Forgotten Kingdom

Of course, not all the locales around Fantasy Bay delve entirely in childhood wonder and enchantment...

From Arendelle, a winding, dark and forested path leads us through a thicket of gnarled trees and the charred skeletal remains of knights and horses alike. In the distance, an unseen wolf howls, followed by the mournful echo of a wayward banshee deep in the forest… As the dead trees begin to clear, steam vents and volcanic rocks create a somewhat primeval atmosphere, where charred suits of armor and equally-charred weaponry lay plunged into the molten earth. A crumbling stone castle stands high above the clearing, an intimidating sight among the general peace and sanctity of Fantasyland. We have discovered a Forgotten Kingdom.

A Stonehenge-like plaza stands in the foreground of a twisted castle, built around the fossilized remains of what appears to have once been a fire-breathing dragon. Flaming torches and jagged rocks protrude from the steaming earth, pointing upwards towards a cavernous opening in the castle’s front. Suddenly, a white-hot fireball blasts out from the cave, accompanied by a bloodcurdling roar of dinosaurian proportions. This is none other than the infamous Dragon’s Keep of Fantasyland lore, stronghold of treasure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4-u6BMnXsI

Thus we embark on a quest deep within the haunted remains of this long-forgotten castle, the final remnants of an abandoned civilization lost in time. Tattered tapestries and claw-slashed portraits of a vanished Royal Family adorn the crumbling walls, lava-filled craters and faultlines shaping the once-lavish carpets and floors. Clues hint at a dark past involving some draconian creature invading the castle and taking the kingdom for itself… Giant claw-prints and scorch-marks link the clues together… Steam hisses from the earth as we stumble into the secret hideout of a band of thieving anthropomorphic bats - the Dracula Six. The Dracula Six will stop at nothing to steal the dragon's vast heap of ill-gotten treasure accumulated from other fallen kingdoms, including their own kingdom - Transylvania. Enlisting our help, we climb inside a black cauldron - suspended in midair by a set of mechanical bat-wings - taking to the skies of the forsaken palace.

After a quick trip through winding chambers and crumbling corridors past red-eyed skeletons and crumbling ceilings, we come face to face with the fire-breathing dragon itself, none-too-pleased with our uninvited presence. In a jaw-dropping display of indoor-pyrotechnics, the dragon gives chase, thus sending us on the roller coaster ride of a lifetime, ending in a climactic drop from ceiling to floor. Naturally, both ourselves and the Dracula Six live happily ever after, reclaiming a number of shimmering gold and jewels right underneath the dragon’s nose...er, I mean...snout?

Dumbo's Circus

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1D5Sa2Yq-2g

The next sub-land, just south of Arendelle, marks a colorful transition between the Scandinavian port and the neighboring sub-land to the south. Placement aside, the second-to-last leg of our journey takes us to the threshold of Dumbo’s Circus, a storybook spin on a childhood favorite.

“Retro”circus marquees - “The Reluctant Dragon: Fire-Eater,” “Lambert the Sheepish Lion: Man-Eater!” - and tournament flags welcome us to the candy-striped tents and spires of an old-timey circus, nestled cozily within a hamlet of orange trees. Upon entry, we immediately face a mighty fountain built to resemble a series of elephants standing on top of one another (each in visible discomfort). Dumbo stands at the tip of the “iceberg,” proudly clutching his magic feather with Timothy Mouse in his hat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v2exWrsGOc



Dumbo The Flying Elephant, undoubtedly the star of Dumbo’s Circus sits atop an elevated platform, where we hop aboard “a Dumbo” of our own and take off for a joyful flight around the skies of Fantasyland amid the jubilant sounds of a nearby circus organ. Dumbo The Flying Elephant invites us to share in the magic of that moment when Dumbo first discovered the gift of flight. The gold-flecked carousel in use is a piece of art all its own, dropping jaws and inspiring countless passengers to follow their dreams and shoot for the stars no matter what…even if the audio-animatronic, crows perched in a tree near the queue like to say otherwise…

Big Top Treats sells your typical carnival fare - cotton candy, popcorn, circus peanuts - while The Ringmaster’s Bargain Bin delves in the sale of circus-themed souvenirs inside the Ringmaster’s private caravan, although many of these items aren’t actually sold at a reasonable bargain (this is Disney, after all).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bM9B3mY3JfA

The Casey Jr. Circus Train sits at a miniature railroad crossing, constantly billowing smoke and quite literally tooting his own horn. Being a family-friendly roller coaster through the hills of Fantasyland, the Casey Jr. Circus Train is an attraction for all ages! From inside an animal cage or ornate sleigh, we wildly careen through the hills and woods on a harrowing trip through a tunnel infested with train robbers, a portion of track drowning in rainwater, and the near-impossible: a hill that might be just a little too steep for Casey to climb. Is he gonna make it? Do you “think he can?”

Being a “circus,” it seems only appropriate to have an entourage of actual clowns engaging in mischief and mayhem throughout Dumbo’s Circus. The Giggle Gas Gang create musically melodramatic mischief every now and then, often engaging in slapstick humor and bad jokes with those who are unafraid to watch and willing to partake in their clownish nonsense. Be forewarned - the lady clown is always looking for a little “lovin’” from an unsuspecting male spectator…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hc-9KiBRYps



Mickey’s Madcap Circus is a wild dark ride through a nonsensical circus run by Ringmaster Mickey and headlined by the venerable Donald Duck, currently entertaining as a sea lion tamer. The antics in store are too many to count in this fast-paced adventure. Boarding a circus caravan, we embark on a three-ring tour of Mickey’s expansive circus, searching for a mischievous baby sea lion currently on the lamb from Trainer Donald. During our search we encounter a menagerie of savage beasts, an unintentional sweep through the clown’s dressing room, an accidental leap on board the animal and prop-filled Casey Jr. Circus Train, and a climactic finale in which the entire circus is plunged underwater from an overflowing dunk-tank, resulting in a shark, fish and mermaid-infested “submarine voyage” reminiscent of the old Silly Symphonies. Boy, all this for a baby sea lion?

Cherry Tree Lane

"Chim chiminey
Chim chiminey
Chim chim cher-ee!
A sweep is as lucky
As lucky can be..."

Lastly, we explore Cherry Tree Lane, a fitting portal between Fantasyland and the neighboring realm of Adventureland to the west. In representation of jolly old London and the many fairy-tales it has shared, we meander through cobblestone streets and a seamless blend of varying architecture from the various periods of England's history.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4I-b_GJ4ltk



Timbered Tudor and a soaring clock tower mark the entrance to Jolly Holiday with Mary Poppins. Weather vanes reference the story, a carousel horse, a penguin and Mary herself, umbrella at hand. Inside the presumed residence of the Banks Family, we climb aboard an enchanted carousel horse for an unforgettable, musical holiday through the peculiar world of P.L. Travers. In the curious world of Mary Poppins and Bert, we encounter dancing penguins, tapping chimney sweeps, nonsensical vocabulary and a grand finale featuring hundreds upon thousands of soaring kites.

Soot-stained chimneys protrude from the red-bricked rooftop of Toad Hall, the home of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. In this updated spin on the classic Disneyland attraction, we board a motorcar for a manic drive through the English countryside, "merrily on our way to nowhere in particular." Albeit, a dueling, family-friendly thrill ride through the English countryside with three-dimensional sets, characters and props. Truly, this spin on the old standby harkens more to the extinct Walt Disney World version, featuring two tracks, two different experiences and an endless array of banked turns, little drops, and sudden surprises...

We are able to indulge in a yard of ale at Admiral Boom's Pub, named for the eccentric naval commander and neighbor of the Banks Family, Admiral Boom. Also on the menu - fish and chips, black pudding, bangers & mash, and more. Sea chanteys and dramatic murals portray life in the Royal Navy.

Deep in the Hundred Acre Wood, where... Well, let's start that over. Deep in the Tudor farmhouse near the border of Adventureland, where Christopher Robin may or may not play, we find the enchanted neighborhood of Pooh's Most Grand Adventure.



Having meandered through a traditional English farmhouse, we enter the playroom of Christopher Robin, where the inanimate figures of Pooh, Tigger and all the friends of the 100 Acre Wood appear stagnant, readied for a most grand adventure. As the giant pages of a storybook begin to overwhelm the queue, we suddenly hear the rush of a stream, followed by the sight of overturned umbrellas the size of lifeboats sailing down the rushing waters. We board an umbrella for ourselves, only to witness our favorite scenes and memories of Winnie the Pooh and Tigger, too. From a Blustery Day in the 100 Acre Wood to a nightmarish vision of Heffalumps and Woozles, it all culminates in a miniature drop into a flooded neighborhood amidst a rainy day. Of course we exit through Pooh Corner, the ultimate bakery and Pooh superstore, home of the world-famous "Tigger Tails."

A quaint garden of shaped topiaries and tall hedges provide an appropriate meet 'n' greet for Pooh and Friends, occasionally joined by Mary Poppins, Bert and a dancing penguin or two...

The last attraction in Fantasyland, the Fantasyland Theater finds its home on Cherry Tree Lane, Victorian, proud and rivaling even that of Snow White Castle in its regal appearance. Now then, the question of "what show would be appropriate for such a regal establishment" comes to mind. You see, the minds of WDI thought real carefully about this one. So carefully in fact that...well, I think I'll just let you figure this one out for yourself.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLnG2vquD80

Monty Python's Spamalot, Presented by a Big Business Arrangement Between Disney and Monty Python might boast the longest title of any Disney Park attraction in history. Based on the Broadway musical of the same name, Spamalot follows the quest of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table in their unending quest to find the Holy Grail, along with the overlooked Patsy, the diva-licious Lady of the Lake, the kooky Black Knight, and the foul-hearted French Taunter. Curious for a Fantasyland attraction, but nonetheless a fun one, not to mention the perfect place to conclude our tour of Fantasyland, the happiest land of them all.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Credit goes to @Basketbuddy101 for the Madcap Circus concept art. All rights are reserved to him. We came up with the attraction many, many years ago. Back when VF was still a thing. Yikes haha.

Also, this post has taken me almost six hours to finalize. I had no clue that there was a 20 image limit on posts. -_-

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

This is really good even if there isn't a Peter Pan attraction. Great job though.

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

This is really good even if there isn't a Peter Pan attraction. Great job though.

Don't worry, Peter Pan will be found in Adventureland. There's a reason it was mentioned that Cherry Tree Lane is a "seamless transition" between Adventureland and Fantasyland.

Adventureland will be the next portion posted, most likely within the next week. However, I will have to do it in my parts due in part to the 20 image limit... My ultimate goal is to post everything on one page by the end of this project.

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

Okay. Is it going to be like the classic one or more like the Shanghai Disneyland version?

 

[DisneyManOne]

I honestly feel so honored to have Fantasyland dedicated to me. You really inspired me back when I was starting out in the Armchair Imagineering business. And BTW, you did an amazing job with Fantasyland! Can't wait to see Adventureland!

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

More like the Shanghai version, Roxas. I want it to be a true E-Ticket, given the fact it isn't found in Fantasyland.

Of course, DisneyMan! You da man! Haha. I'm glad you liked it. I feel as if I'll add even more to it once it is officially finalized in a shared Google Doc. Would love to have more input from you along the way.

Ideally, by the end of this project, I'd like to go through and take one last look at the Google Doc where the final draft is kept. Once it's done, I'll provide a link to the finalized document so you can all see the official final product. Truth be told, the Fantasy Bay idea only hit me yesterday, so even the "final draft" is a bit behind the times. Yikes, I was up from 9 PM to at least 2 AM finishing Fantasyland. In case you couldn't tell, Cherry Tree Lane is a bit half-baked... Lol. Forgive me, I was exhausted. I've taken two naps today because of it.

Today's update is dedicated to a personal friend and longtime collaborator of mine, @TheOriginalTiki. Given the whole Tiki Room theme of today's post, it's only fitting to dedicate Adventureland to you, my friend. Tiki and I go waaaaaaay back, like 2008. We've been friends ever since and have even hung out at Disneyland on two separate occasions. This one's for you, my friend.

Also, I'd love to hear some more feedback from all you readers. There is nothing more fulfilling than feedback.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The world of dreams can take on many forms. Some project us into mysterious and exotic locales, far from the everyday. These are the dreams that become real in… Adventureland.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Adventureland

“Here is adventure. Here is romance. Here is mystery. Tropical rivers - silently flowing into the unknown. The unbelievable splendor of exotic flowers...the eerie sound of the jungle...with eyes that are always watching. This is Adventureland.” - Walt Disney

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q26A5mDsvCI

Primeval, exotic and mysterious, Adventureland is a wonderland of both fact and fantasy. In this timeless realm of exploration and discovery, we leave the everyday world far behind, for here the atmosphere is filled with the sights and sounds typical of an isolated trading post on some hidden jungle waterway. Our senses are stirred by the sights of lush jungle foliage, the harrowing sounds of not-too-distant wild animals, and the aromas of tropical blossoms.

“The spirit of adventure is often linked with exotic tropical places,” Walt wrote. “Many of us dream of traveling to these mysterious, far-off regions of the world. To create a land that would make this dream a reality, we pictured ourselves far from civilization, in the remote jungles of Asia and Africa. The result is Adventureland, ‘the wonderland of nature’s own design.’”

We answer the call to adventure via boardwalk, akin to a distant port of call in some exotic region, seldom seen by modern civilization… Exotica of Africa, Asia and the South Pacific - masks, spears, tikis, torches, shields, swords, human skulls - line the confines of the bridge. A makeshift archway crafted from bamboo and the metallic scraps of an aquatic vessel label the title of the impending “land” with weathered rust. In the intense foliage below, unseen creatures snarl and screech, the Plaza Swan Boats drifting by in blatant caution of their surroundings. An old fisherman sits upon the cool waters in his rowboat, just dead tired; his sun-bleached bones still clutch a fishing rod cast out into the abyss. On the opposite shore, C-3PO, the biplane of Dr. Henry “Indiana” Jones has docked. Our adventure is about to unfold...

Mystery, danger and haunting romance lurk around every corner on the shores of this remote desert island, circa 1935. Freedom Island, as the colonists call it, resides somewhere in an uncharted region of the South Pacific, an untamed, unknown frontier where the post-World War II phenomena of “Tiki Culture” lives on. It is here where we discover the rundown settlement of Paradise Springs.

In 1930, the S.S. Misfortune set a course from England for what its passengers still thought was called the “New World.” As to why they thought America was still called the "New World" is anyone's guess... One thing led to another and, by the second day of sailing, the entire ship had led a mutiny against its absent-minded captain. Old Betty, the ship’s no-nonsense cook took charge. But before the Misfortune could “discover” America, a freak typhoon hit, tossing the poor ship so far from its course in the North Atlantic that it subsequently crashed on the shores of an uncharted island, somewhere in the remote South Pacific.

Amidst the island’s menagerie of wild animals, savage natives and ancient ruins, Old Betty christened this “New World” as “Freedom Island,” for it was this land that would be her people’s free country. Despite the appearance of lions, tigers, elephants, apes, giraffes, alligators and just about every other exotic animal imaginable, the settlers still believed that they had shipwrecked along the coast of North America… Oy.

Paradise Springs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prCaTEc_a0c

“We’ll meet again
Don’t know where
Don’t know when
But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day…”

Now, a hazy mist rains down from the trees as we enter the rundown colony, where tangled wires and excavation lamps illuminate the muddy streets and steamy swamps, flickering and fading in sync with a churning power generator in the heart of town. Crackling phonographs and old radios churn out big band rhythms of the ‘30s and ‘40s. The decrepit Statue of Old Betty trickles water from its foundation, depicting her legendary duel with a fearsome tiger. Tattered canvas awnings, collapsed ruins and rusted excavation equipment establish a theme among the symphonic chatter of exotic birds, mischievous monkeys and the rhythmic beating of distant tribal drums. Lush waterfalls, rushing streams and lazy bayous flow into cattail-infested bogs, where leeches and crocodiles undoubtedly lie in wait of blood. On the horizon, a crumbling, centuries-old temple looms before the haunting sunset. This is Paradise Springs, 1935.

Amidst architecture reminiscent of British-Colonial India, the Caribbean and French-Polynesia, we first come across the entrance to Tropical Imports. In this vibrant merchant’s stall of fresh fruits, refreshing drinks and the elusive Dole Whip, various artifacts and exotic antiquities can be seen roped to the rooftop, including Pele, Tiki Goddess of Fire and Volcanoes.

“I am Pele, Goddess of Fire and Volcanoes. Some say I torment poor Ngendei the Earth Balancer, for when my violent temper rises, the Earth trembles at its foundation!”

Adorned with the hulking, skeletal jaws of a great white shark, Typhoon Saloon invites intrigue and exploration, recalling the same storm responsible for the foundation of Paradise Springs just five years prior. Inside, the skeletal remnants of various undersea killers - piranhas, barracudas, hammerhead sharks - hang from the ceiling, whilst rusted anchors, barnacle clusters and nautical paraphernalia provide thematic decor. Of course, "Piranha Pete," the gristly shopkeep, finds it fitting to display his still-living catches in the front window, a motley collection of piranhas and electric eels... Fortunately, the delectable sushi selections make up for the grotesque display.

A weathervane, shaped in the likeness of Colonel Hathi, teeters from the highest point of a crooked clock tower. Weathered planks and moss welcome us to the jungle's finest arcade, Colonel Hathi's Safari Club, an old-time, one-of-a-kind arcade, purported to belong to the pachyderm colonel himself. Mosaics of Baloo, Bagheera, Louie and Hathi grace the facade, while inside, unique "video" games and vintage machines line the rotted walls. As the rule goes, Walt never wished for an "off-the-shelf" arcade game in his park. Instead, every game found in the Safari Club has been built just for Adventureland.

Pulsing drums and a mysterious mist invite us to stand in a gathering of towering totems, the weathered, wooden faces of a primeval culture. As the drumming of the Ancients echoes amid an ethereal fog, look out - the mischievous tiki gods are poised to burst in a torrential "flood." Located near the heart of town, the Liki Tikis is a Polynesian-inspired water playground for explorers looking to relax, refresh and enjoy a break from the dreadful weather of the mighty jungle. Nearby, the Statue of Old Betty continues to trickle water from its foundation, when - wait a minute - did that stone tiger just blink?

Across from Colonel Hathi's, a near-collapsed packing house, still laden with crates of fruit, plays home to our favorite Jungle Friends, in particular, a famous orangutan, a groovy sloth bear, a sly meerkat, a militant elephant, a musical gorilla, and a wise mandrill. Tarzan, Jane and Mowgli all join their animal comrades in the moss and vine-draped dwelling of the old structure. The Adventureland Swingers, a Dixieland band inspired by ole’ King Louie himself, provide jazz and swing throughout the town, aptly draped in tattered clothing, withered moss and sticky cobwebs. Crocodile Mercantile, a rather scaly shop, sells the goods of a Natural History Museum - statuettes, fossils, gemstones, photographs, books - products aimed toward conservation efforts. Of course, the namesake crocodile can be seen waiting for a handout in the bog beneath the shop...

From here, a sheltered portico provides ample passage between Adventureland and Westernland to the south, a la the Magic Kingdom's own Adventureland. Making the most of this peculiar transition, the world-famous Adventurer's Club makes its triumphant "Grand Re-Opening," following its original closure in 2008. Built from the salvaged hull of the S.S. Misfortune, we find the beloved restaurant/theater/pub/museum/attraction set to the askew, macabre-humored rhythm of this pulp adventurous world that "never was." Amidst the decorative likes of artifacts, photographs, specimens, statuettes, dioramas, masks, sarcophagi, fossils, idols, gems, statues, diamonds, jewels, trophy heads, ribbons, medals, actual trophies, paintings, and acquired - stolen or otherwise - "gifts" from varying international expeditions, we "kungaloosh" into the romanticized era of the pith helmet.

Managed by S.E.A. - Society of Explorers and Adventurers - the Adventurer's Club opened in light of the recent discoveries at the fabled Temple of the Four Winds. Acting as a bit of refuge for intrepid explorers, weary archaeologists and raging drunks alike, we are first greeted by Colonel Critchlow Suchbench, Club Glee Meister and retired British colonel.

After a series of "rousing" anthems, courtesy of Suchbench, we meander thru a multi-tiered complex of rooms and displays, each named for the various realms of adventure: the Main Salon, the Relic Room, the Arctic Room, the Orient Room, the Dinosaur Room, the Library, and the Zebra Mezzanine. Ancient relics and artifacts allude to past discoveries, some successful, others, such as an expedition detailing a trip to Everest, anything but.

*In a thematic lift from Expedition Everest, “Mystery of the Lost Expedition,” displayed on a wall in the Arctic Room, converts the “found” objects into period antiques of the early 20th Century, converting the photographs to black-and-white. The exhibit’s placard reads:

“The remains of the ill-fated Forbidden Mountain Expedition of 1928. The only clue to the disappearance of the entire party may be contained in these photographs, recovered from a shattered camera found at the ruined campsite. But don’t believe everything you read. - S.E.A. Historian Committee”

The old-fashioned elevator, adorned with magnificent paintings capturing the long-since past adventures of Harrison Hightower III and Smelding*, is apparently haunted by the wayward ghost of Hightower himself. Apparently, old Hightower is doomed to wander the earth for all-time, seemingly attached to the eerie Shiriki Utundu idol kept within a birdcage of the Relic Room. Other familiar friends include the Yakoose, a mounted animal head with unbeatable wit, Babylonia, a talking stone head, Fingers Zambezi, a haunted organ that plays itself, Jules Arronax, a giant squid that lives above the bar - able to pour shots with his tentacles - and Marcel, an unknown prancing about in an ape suit...

*The elevator features paintings of Hightower and Smelding’s adventures abroad, direct lifts from Tokyo’s Tower of Terror. As the elevator has four walls, only four paintings are carried over: Romania, Egypt, Greece, and India. You can see these paintings at http://ksean.com/blog/?cat=24, the official blog of K. Sean Sullivan, the artist responsible for the gorgeous pieces.

Of course, there are a few house rules to be had at the Adventurer’s Club:

“House Rules! Please Observe, Follow and Share:

1. Blow Dart Guns Are Not To Be Used As Drinking Straws
2. Cannibals May Not Serve People!
3. *This rule is crossed out*
4. Do Not Provide Alcohol To On Duty Jungle River Cruise Skippers. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!
5. Call Bartender If Schweitzer Falls
6. No Poison Dart Games Or Wild Animals On Premises
7. Management Is Not Responsible *part of sentence is crossed out again* Under Any Circumstances!
8. Headhunting Is Strictly Prohibited!
9. If Marcel The Ape-Man Is Spotted, Please Call Management Immediately, Ext. 7119
10. Do Not Look Into The Eyes Of The Idol!!

Most Importantly, Have Fun! - Management”

At the exit of the much-loved Adventurer's Club, we find Bamboo Alley, an intimate selection of authentic goods crafted in China, Japan and Southeast Asia; jade jewelry, oriental carvings and other products of the Far East. Next door we find Trader Sam's Outpost, the ultimate venue for Hawaiian attire, plush animals, tikis, masks, imitation shrunken heads, pop-guns, faux rifles, pith helmets, sunglasses, rubber snakes, plastic insects and other peculiar gifts. Though Sam is out on "business" in the jungle, the "Head Salesman" runs his shop with utmost pride, his own collection of shrunken heads and skulls hanging from his favorite chandelier. Shrunken Ned is the true reason to visit the trading post. The obvious victim of a headhunting incident, the jungle witch doctor is the island’s only self-service practitioner, offering unhelpful wisdom and macabre medical advice at the drop of a coin. “Oh no,” Ned says from his perch - a rusted meat hook - as you display your tongue for examination. “It is worse than I ever imagined - we’ll have to remove the ENTIRE head! Luckily in your case, you won’t miss it! Haha! Yes, a bit of jungle humor there, eh, what?”

We wander past the bazaars and small cafes, and make our way down a flight of stairs toward an old boathouse, worn from years of monsoon damage, now rotting and entangled in rich foliage. What lies ahead is anyone’s guess… Native masks, hanging cargo nets, dusty photographs, timber canoes, preserved specimens and wooden crates stand out among the interior decor of this foreboding explorer’s launch. Before us is the world-famous Jungle River Cruise.

“Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd - Est. 1934
‘World Class’ Riverboats Departing Daily - and Nightly - from Paradise Springs Harbor
Passengers - Freight - Pets - Feed - Cursed Relics and Wild Animals by Permit Only
Deep Jungle - Water Hole - Lion Territory
‘Guaranteed Safe’ Passage Thru Hippo Swamp & Cannibal Country
Connecting with Riverboats to Schweitzer Falls & Temple of the Four Winds”

“You know, we always turn and take a last good look at the dock and wave goodbye, cause we may never see it again…”

As we leave the last outpost of civilization, we venture out into the exotic heart of darkness, where beautiful plants, fearsome beasts and other remnants of a pulp fictitious yesteryear reside… Aboard one of sixteen 30-passenger riverboats, we travel down twisted, “danger-filled” rivers through impenetrable jungles and mysterious waterways, where dancing natives and charging hippos roam. A band of exuberant gorillas invade a deserted safari camp, while a frenzied rhinoceros attempts to teach a misguided film crew the point of “location, location, location.” Per tradition, waiting around the final bend is Trader Sam, “Head Salesman in the Jungle,” offering his collection of shrunken heads in a climactic “Two for One” sale.

Come October, the shadow of night casts far across the treetops, perhaps a little darker than usual… The low rumble of the riverboats grows distorted and eerie, while the sound of pulsing native drums echo in a suspenseful crescendo. This is the Jungle Terror Cruise.

Here, we sail down the cursed waters of a rainforest forsaken with the black magic of a voodoo priest. The normal innocence of wildlife and sight gags are swapped in favor of imminent dangers and frights, including “living” vines, skeletal zombies, mythical beasts, and upset spirits, all set to an original score by Mystic Manor’s own Danny Elfman.

In alternative to the exotic horrors of the Jungle Terror Cruise, the Jingle River Cruise brings tidings of comfort and joy to the jungle, when a plane carrying a shipment of holiday decorations crashes into a thicket of carnivorous plants, incidentally dumping its entire load of goodies throughout the jungle. With displaced polar bears, wild “bell-ephants” and dangerous fruitcakes around every turn, the Jingle River Cruise is a must-see for those few explorers seeking a little winter magic among the dreadful humidity of Paradise Springs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trtJMX90Etw

Back ashore, our travels bring us to the end of town, where we find a nineteen-foot Balinese Temple, conjoint closely with a lavish spirit house, highly recalling the peoples and architecture of Papua New Guinea. Here, the Tropical Serenade - also known as “The Enchanted Tiki Room” - features the singing of some 225 tropical birds, flowers and tiki gods. The macaw hosts of our show - José, Michael, Fritz, and Pierre - have welcomed hundreds of thousands of guests into their special “world of joyous songs and wondrous miracles.” According to the birds, their show is designed to “fill you with pleasure and glee because if we don’t make you feel like that, we’re gonna wind up on a lady’s hat!”

Given the unusual nature of the Tropical Serenade, a boater and bow tie-clad Barker Bird sits perched outside the temple, providing a comical, nonsensical preview of the magic and marvels found inside. “I have a few thousand things in my feathered brain to tell you about Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room!” Given the wild popularity of Dole Whip, an additional Dole Whip stand can be found near the entrance to the Enchanted Tiki Room, aptly named - wait for it - the Tiki Juice Bar. Unlike Tropical Imports, the Tiki Juice Bar sells a "Citrus Swirl," in addition to Dole Whip Floats, made with real pineapple juice.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79DijItQXMM

The romance of Hawaiian steel guitars provide a musical backdrop for this lush oasis of swaying palms and colorful tiki gods. In a natural extension of the Enchanted Tiki Room, the lavish locale of the Polynesian Terrace evokes the ambience of a South Seas paradise, with lush foliage, cascading waterfalls and exotic blossoms. Amidst a feast of authentic Hawaiian barbecue - roast pig, pineapple and more - we sit back, relax and enjoy a musical retelling of Moana. In this luau of joyous song and wondrous magic, beautiful hula dancers, torch twirlers and fire walkers join Moana and Maui as they sing and dance their way through the various hurdles of their daring adventures. Of course, Moana and Maui can both be met immediately following their performance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKQc-cbAvdQ

Adventureland is perhaps one of the most detailed lands ever conceived for a Disney Park. From the crumbling statues of panthers and apes scattered throughout the underbrush to the faux storefronts helmed by unseen adventurers who always seem to be off on some fool’s quest. One such detail is that of an old phone booth, crawling in moss, plopped in a nook near the entrance to the Jungle River Cruise. Although the payphone is clearly labeled as “Out of Service,” picking up the receiver will barrage one’s ears with chatter and transmissions from various tropical outposts in the surrounding region… “Aloha! This is the operator from the Remote South Seas Islands Outpost. I’m sorry, but we have been unable to find the Swiss Family Robinson. Thank you. Mahalo!”

Meanwhile, Wishbone Bridge leads our travels deep into the heart of Freedom Island, where a wild, untamed rainforest awaits. Though the name "Wishbone" might be purely by coincidence, a small cargo ship has overturned in the waters beneath the bridge, its cargo of squawking chickens and geese drifting precariously close to a waiting pair of crocodiles... A radio, having floated downriver, attempts to make contact with the absent captain. "Hello?! Captain?! Are you there! Yes, yes. This is Colonel El O' Fever of the Adventurer's Club. I must remind you not to sail beneath Wishbone Bridge. I repeat, do not sail beneath Wishbone Bridge. Crocodile have been reported near Wishbone Bridge. Jungle River Cruise skippers report crocodiles overturning boats near Wishbone Bridge. Once again, do not..."

Having left town, we venture deeper and deeper into the jungle, past crumbling ruins and ominous stone creatures, relics of a long-forgotten civilization. Miniature waterfalls and trickling streams point the path toward the deepest, darkest jungle, where we find Crazy Eddy's Safari Supplies, the decided last outpost of civilization...

Evidently, Crazy Eddy has been through heck and back - his truck is ridden in poison darts and arrows - but nonetheless, good ol’ Eddy still sells a multitude of lotions, sunscreens, fedoras, pith helmets, sun hats, and such to provide shelter from the brutal sun.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw8U7vpK094

About a year ago, in 1934, world renowned archaeologist, Dr. Indiana Jones, accompanied by Sallah, washed ashore after an artifact trade with René Belloq on a passing airship went awry. Soon taken in by the friendly folks of Paradise Springs, Indy recognized the island as the location from the little-known “Legend of the Four Winds,” believing that the mythical Temple of the Four Winds could indeed reside deep within the island’s jungle. Sure enough, it did, and by 1935, word had spread across the globe, turning Paradise Springs into an overnight tourist destination.

“Dateline: Freedom Island, 1935. Visitors to the Temple of the Four Winds continue to arrive by the hundreds. They’ve all heard the tantalizing tales of fantastic gifts from the gods… However, darker tales have emerged. Visitors are claiming their loved ones to be disappearing inside… Could this be the work of faulty mechanics? Or the dirty work of supernatural forces? Reports have returned to world famous archaeologist, Dr. Indiana Jones, the man responsible for this great discovery. Jones returns to the site of the temple, assuring he will crack the case of the missing tourists. Our newsreel cameras follow Dr. Jones as he enters the temple. Two weeks later, and still, no Indiana Jones. His faithful friend Sallah stands vigil. Will Jones solve the case of the missing tourists? Or will he join in on an eternity of peril? When, and if he does, we will be there… Waiting.” - Newsreel Bulletin, 1935

Nestled along the banks of a misty, forgotten river engulfed by a symphony of waterfalls, an overgrown bamboo forest gives way to the Garden of the Four Winds, a lasting tribute to the island’s patron deities: North, South, East, and West. Crumbling statues and cracked columns point a path toward the most daring attraction in all Adventureland: Indiana Jones Expedition.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzLZJaAm2hw

We follow Indy's footsteps into the dig site, where deadly booby traps, ancient relics and mysterious tales await. Study carvings and frescos unveil the story of the Four Winds - four brothers with unlimited control of the elements - North, over the ice and snow, South, over the fire and magma, West, over the ocean and river, East over the sand and earth. A struggle for power between the supernatural siblings led to their concealment within the hulking temple, just centuries ago. Legends remain that, upon their release, the world would fall into a catastrophic apocalypse at their hands...

Undeterred by these warning signs and eager to make a profit, Sallah organized tours and set up shop deep within the temple, assuring would-be adventurers that treasures beyond their wildest dreams would await them inside... Despite Indy's initial reluctance, tourists began to disappear without a trace. Even so, Indy went into the temple to investigate, and hasn't been seen since...

Unearthed artifacts and the remnants of an archaeological dig lead us toward a rusty motor pool, where well-worn troop transports await us for an unforgettable journey through a fantastic subterranean world. An off-road trip across a rickety suspension bridge leads us through ancient jungles and into the heart of the age-old Temple of the Four Winds.

Inside, our most incredible expedition begins.

With Indy's help, we escape the supernatural wrath of the Four Winds - whose powers lead to eternal torment. We careen along precarious precipices that plummet into molten lava, avoid the screaming undead mummies of the temple's past victims, evade the waters of a torrential flood, swarms of insects and evil wraiths, a deadly sandstorm, the awe-inspiring, elemental power of the Four Winds. Only one man is brave enough - or crazy enough - to save us... Indiana Jones! Naturally, we exit through a gift shop; Sallah's Souvenirs to be precise; the ultimate Indiana Jones gift shop.

Ancient legend recalls a temple, not far from the Temple of the Four Winds, that was built in tribute to the legendary Stone Tiger, guardian of all life in the jungle. It is said that the patron deity is one and the same with the tiger that Old Betty wrestled with so long before. Curse of the Stone Tiger takes us on a wild roller coaster ride through an indoor-outdoor temple, where raging spirits, sudden corkscrews, and an appearance by the legendary Stone Tiger prove that adventure really is out there.

Hungry from our adventures with Indy, we march our herd down to the curious, yet familiar Adventureland Veranda.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wv3nBpvOAXs

Inside this collage of tropical patterns, intricate tiles, weather-worn latticework, and French-colonial lighting fixtures, we discover all the sounds of Hawaii with all the culinary flavors of China. This melting pot of Eastern influence rests on a vine-entangled pier high above a gooey patch of swampland. Chinese offerings - stir fry, orange chicken, walnut shrimp - and quaint refrains of the South Seas are all apart of the immersive dining experience. Overhead compartments filled with suitcases and excavation gear complement kitschy wall decor found in the form of period license plates, international flags and military memorabilia. From the outside veranda, interspersed scenery hint at an ongoing archaeological dig in the swampland below. Ancient statuary, picks, shovels, lanterns, and a fedora-clad skeleton all set an intriguing tone, as do a tower of rickety crates addressed to several notable figures.: Lord Henry Mystic (Mystic Point, Peru), Club Obi Wan (Shanghai, China), and Roland Gracey (Hollywood, California). The latter address is a bit mysterious as - if the Hollywood tabloids are true - Roland Gracey recently perished in an apparent suicide...

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Stay tuned! More sub-lands for Adventureland will be posted in time.

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

Cool with S.E.A I created a member that connects to Tower of Terror were his daughter disappeared within the elevator due to a curse place on the owner.

 

[MANEATINGWREATH]

I like it! Maybe she can have a cameo somewhere in the Adventurer's Club.

Though not mentioned in the initial Adventureland post, it is for certain that a S.E.A. Hall of Fame will be featured in the Adventurer's Club. Imagine, if you will, a short hall lined with portraits and photographs of S.E.A.'s finest: Harrison Hightower III, Lord Henry Mystic & Albert, Barnabas T. Bullion, Master Roland Gracey, Jason Chandler, Mary Oceaneer, Jock Lindsay, Albert Falls, Colonel Suchbench, and new members - Charles Muntz, Indiana Jones, Henry Jones Sr., and - wait for it - Trader Sam, honorary member.

 

[Twilight_Roxas]

Robertson Blakewood is part of the S.E.A, and owner of the Lilian Tower Hotel who he name after his daughter Lilian Blakeswood. Robertson took his own life after Lilian Blakeswood disappeared on December 27th 1898. Isabelle Stockwell the daughter of Robertson's assistant Jefferson Stockwell reopen the abandoned hotel to honor Lilian's memory. If you want you could include my Tower of Terror attraction along with its Halloween maze that connects more clues to the Lilian Tower Hotel. Although don't know where you'll put it since its part of Disneysea with a event during Halloween call Fear Harbor.