Cars Land!

No one exceeds expectations like Disney and you'd think as a seasoned Disney travel professional I would have a solid grasp of that reality. So why is it that the expansion in Disney California Adventure shocked me? I was keeping track of the progress of Cars Land, I toured Blue Sky Cellar and saw the expansion plans, I followed the Disney blog, I searched for photos and updates but stepping onto Route 66 for the first time literally took my breath away.

I was smitten with the detail and imagineering that went into making Cars Land come to life and felt like I should be on four wheels to cruise down Route 66.

Aside from the immaculate theming and intricate designs I was certain that Radiator Springs Racers was going to be fun; but I envisioned it to be the Cars version of Test Track. I have never been more pleased to be wrong in all my life. I couldn't believe how many of the Cars made an appearance throughout the attraction and how fun it was. The rock work alone is astounding but the ride itself is so interactive and fun.

I was delighted to find out that there were two tracks for the race preparation; body paint with Ramone or tires with Luigi....I must say I prefer the tires but then again I'm partial to European men.

The ride prior to the race is fantastic and you're so carried away in the attraction you forget there is actually supposed to be a race. Just about that time is when your opponent revs their engine up along side of you and you're off in a race to the finish.

The view as you're racing through ornament valley is just as remarkable as your journey to get the experience will have you saying "ca-chow".

Be sure to get your fast pass for racers first thing in the morning because the fat passes are limited and when we were there on Saturday they were gone by about 9:30am. The fast pass distribution is near the entrance to Bugs Land; not to be confused with the fast pass-esquire machine that's near the attraction inside of the "stroller parking" garage. The station inside of the stroller garage is for guest with special needs who are utilizing guest assistance card.

Luigi's flying tires is also a great attraction but takes a little getting used to. So plan on riding that more than once if you really want to get the hang of it and watch and learn from the other tires who are really floating around.

Don't miss out on the lighting of Cars Land, which happens nightly 2minutes after the astronomical clock declares it night (for us it was 6:58pm).

Of course my Cars Land experience is fully documented on film but those photos will be uploaded later from the laptop when i'm in a land with free wifi. Stay tunes for updates for the inaugural voyage of the Pixar cruise as we sail the California Coast!!!!