Update: Pixar Pier Now Open!
Yes, you read that right. California Screamin’ will permanently close January 8, 2018.
Disneyland in Anaheim, California is undergoing some dramatic changes to prepare for FOUR new themed neighborhoods. The first to of these is going to be the newly named, Pixar Pier, which is set to open in the Summer of 2018. During the time of construction, California Screamin’ will be transformed into the Incredicoaster, inspired by the Pixar movie, The Incredibles. Along with a new look, the coaster will feature a mid-century-modern-style loading area, new character moments, and a new look for the ride vehicles. As sad as it will be to see California Screamin’ leave, I am really excited to see Pixar Pier all finished.
Other neighborhoods that will be added will be a “Toy Story” – inspired neighborhood surrounding the popular Toy Story Mania! and a new “Inside Out” – inspired neighborhood. “Inside Out” will be found on the western side of the boardwalk and will welcome a new family-friendly attraction.
The fourth neighborhood will be all about your favorite Pixar movies. Mickey’s Fun Wheel will be getting a new look. Each of the 24 gondolas will represent different Pixar characters. Not to worry, though, Mickey Mouse will remain on the Paradise Bay side of the wheel. At the Games of the Boardwalk, which includes the Bullseye Stallion Stampede game, all of the midway games will be inspired by Pixar characters. In preparation for changes to come, Mickey’s Fun Wheel, Games of the Boardwalk and Sideshow Shirts will close January 8, 2018, to begin the dramatic transformation.
If that wasn’t enough, Ariel’s Grotto restaurant and the Cove Bar will also be transformed into a new lounge and grill, overlooking Paradise Bay and Pixar Pier. These locations will also close January 8, 2018. Cove Bar will reopen briefly in April, however, it will close again for its permanent transformation. Guests interested in reserving “World of Color” dining packages after January 7, 2018, may want to consider Carthay Circle Restaurant or Wine Country Trattoria.
The current Paradise Pier, including Paradise Gardens, Silly Symphony Swings, Jumpin’ Jellyfish, Goofy’s Sky School, Golden Zephyr and The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, will be renamed as a new land called Paradise Park.
Pixar Pier will open for the Pixar Fest celebration, which begins April 13, 2018. The celebration will include the new “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” fireworks spectacular as well as the return of Pixar Play Parade and “Paint the Night” parade.
For more information, you can visit the D23 webpage. You must be a member to view, but you can join for as little as $0.00, when you sign up for a General Membership. Other paid memberships are also available on Shop Disney.
Attractions closing January 8, 2018
- California Screamin’
- Mickey’s Fun Wheel
- Games of the Boardwalk
- Sideshow Shirts
- Ariel’s Grotto Restaurant
- Cove Bar
