DCA won't be DCA for long...

[PeoplemoverMatt]

After reading this little tidbit:



This logo change wasn't done by accident, as the long term plan WDI and TDA suits are now working with assumes that the DCA name will be permanently shelved by the end of this decade. With the blessing of Michael Mendenhall, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing for the Resort, they are trying to distance themselves from the DCA "brand name" and lessen any budding brand identity the public may have with the struggling Park.

The DCA name is now thought to be so tarnished and damaged (It's too late to prevent it from becoming an easy and regularly recurring laugh on The Simpsons), that the long term plans for the Park call for a new name and a new identity. This isn't quite as sweeping a change as the original WDI plans to re-theme the entire Park, but it would obviously be a major change for Disney to undertake. Just the fact that the name was so inelegant and clunky that even Park visitors now call it by the acronym "DCA" is worrisome to the marketing department.


Since just about everyone except lost soul Barry Braverman now admits that the DCA brand identity ranks only slightly better than New Coke and the Edsel in the history of failed American product launches, it's probably for the best that the Park name is changed. The name change won't come any time soon, as they will likely need to have several new attractions in the pipeline before they attempt the massive PR campaign to re-brand the Park with a new name. But it's a concept that definitely has traction in both Glendale and Anaheim, with a reluctant group of Burbank executives slowly beginning to agree.

Stock up on anything that still has the Disney's California Adventure name slapped on it while you can. It might all just be destined for eBay.



...it sounds like a new name is coming to DCA, eventually. But, what name fits? What do you call the park after Monsters Inc, probably Cars and a few other attractions have opened? I fear that if a new agreement is signed, "Pixarland" or something to that effect, will be a reality.

-- Peoplemover "Who thought it was a good idea to have a CA-themed park in CA, really?" Matt

[DisneyResurrection]

I think they should pack it all up, truck it to BC Canada, and rename it Disneys Canada Adventure park. :biggrin: We have grizzleys... and bugs too! Gets my vote!

[NCTJoe]

Well thats a very disparaging rumor indeed. With Screaming out of commission I suppose it does seem like DCA is under a crisis. Hopefully when its back in operation, and Monsters Inc is open, and the 50th anniversary is over, attendence will go up. If worst came to worst, I hope they wouldnt get rid of the California theme. I for one like it.

I guess im just hoping that Al Lutz is just being... well... Al Lutz.

[superman436]

I think they should pack it all up, truck it to BC Canada, and rename it Disneys Canada Adventure park. :biggrin: We have grizzleys... and bugs too! Gets my vote!

*pictures DCA on the back of a truck driving up I5*...LoL

but, no, you can't have it. it might not be a success, but it's anaheim's, and I love it.

And please no Pixarland!!!! I have no idea what other theme they could come up with for that park though, it's kinda set as CA... but I have faith that Matt can do something with it!!! (just not a whole park devoted to pixar)

[carlosbrown45]

thats no surprise that they are changing the park's name. i dont kno why it was call DCA. i wouldn't like it if it was called "pixarland" that would kinda suck. i have no idea wat they should call it. :icon_ques

[Piglet]

How about Pixar Park or Pixar Park Resort? I dunno......I say leave the name alone. I love California Adventure and we always have a great time there. I'll admit, I am tired of so many things being closed, like basically the entire far end of Hollywood Picture Backlot, to the left of Hyperion theater, but the GOOD aspects of DCA I really like. Now they just need to keep building on that.

[Piglet]

After reading this little tidbit:



...it sounds like a new name is coming to DCA, eventually. But, what name fits? What do you call the park after Monsters Inc, probably Cars and a few other attractions have opened? I fear that if a new agreement is signed, "Pixarland" or something to that effect, will be a reality.

-- Peoplemover "Who thought it was a good idea to have a CA-themed park in CA, really?" Matt

Matt, where did you read this anyway?

[hawkster9542]

Will a name change really do anything in the long run? People will still know that it's the same park after they arrive, no matter how much money and new attractions are pumped into it. It was like Pantera changing their name to Damageplan... and then their guitarist was killed :icon_cry:. I can understand if there was going a MASSIVE (read: complete) overhaul of the park, but a name change makes no sense to me now.

[NCTJoe]

Matt, where did you read this anyway?

Its the new Al Lutz article.

But note... Al Lutz has been very vocal and blatantly obvious in his dislike for California Adventure, so whenever he blogs on it, its always shown in the worst light.

When California Screamin' broke down initially he said

"Disney aficionados watching the coverage at home, as well as a few folks in TDA and Glendale, noticed how unattractive the Paradise Pier area of the park looked on TV. During the media coverage on Friday night, as well as in the follow-up pictures in the next day's newspapers, the images shown to millions of people looked like an un-themed, fading steel rollercoaster on a tacky beach boardwalk. Of course, that's what California Screamin' and Paradise Pier is, but the images shown made DCA look particularly ugly and drab"

The ratio of news/personal opinion is a lil bad for my tastes. But he has been known to successfully report some rumors before they were officially announced. So really Im not certain how credable this name change rumor is.

[carlosbrown45]

i think that its going to change to disney's florida adventure. thats wat my cuz said.he says because people complained that it should be florida not california. :icon_roll

[linklewtt]

i dunno, it seems way too extravagant. a new name would mean redoing THE ENTIRE entrance area, since that entrance literally says California. it seems too fishy and way too expensive of a project to undertake by even the most daring of disney execs. i think this is a world-class rumor and nothing more.

[Wendy Darling]

I can see why they might change the name, but I sure hope that it doesn't have the name Pixar in it. THAT would be way too much Pixar. I can deal ok with the rides and everything, but I hate to see pixar take over. I do kind of like the Canada idea, that way they don't have to change the name that much. But I would hate having to go there just to ride a few rides that I like. I am putting my trust in disney to do the right thing though...

*DELETE, DELETE, DELETE!!!*

[sorcerormickey]

It would be definelty interesting to see what the Disney Execs come up with. But yah a very good point was made in that for them to have to change the name they might have to rework the whole entrance plaza area in fornt of DCA. But please no PIXAR land or PIXAR park. I think that the attendance would drop if they did that.......for the time being just a rumor.............................:p

[DisneyResurrection]

I can see why they might change the name, but I sure hope that it doesn't have the name Pixar in it. THAT would be way too much Pixar. I can deal ok with the rides and everything, but I hate to see pixar take over. I do kind of like the Canada idea, that way they don't have to change the name that much. But I would hate having to go there just to ride a few rides that I like. I am putting my trust in disney to do the right thing though...

*DELETE, DELETE, DELETE!!!*

Yeah! Soarin Over Canada! BC Grizzley River Run. Instead of the Matorhorn like DL they can have the Rocky Mountain Ride in DCA. lol. Did I mention we got bugs? Plus they would only have to make a D and an A, the rest of the letters are in California (Canada). Woo Hoo!

[sorcerormickey]

Maybe you shoudl be one of the people in TDA that look for new locations to build them parks in. I live in California so as much as I don't really like DCA and think that it would be weird to not have it any more. It would be even weirder if it packed up and moved to Canada it would stil be called DCA though. Disney Canadian Adventure just I would have to think about what the attraction would be just becuase the climate is much different hear in CA then in Canada I believe. But It would be interesting to see. :p

[DisneyResurrection]

Maybe you shoudl be one of the people in TDA that look for new locations to build them parks in. I live in California so as much as I don't really like DCA and think that it would be weird to not have it any more. It would be even weirder if it packed up and moved to Canada it would stil be called DCA though. Disney Canadian Adventure just I would have to think about what the attraction would be just becuase the climate is much different hear in CA then in Canada I believe. But It would be interesting to see. :p

Keep it there and change the theme to Canada. Not that it will ever happen lol. But I just realized I think I am getting off topic, sorry to the thread starter.

[VioletPrincess]

Not that I'd think it could actually happen, but I visited Vancouver last summer, and thought it was awesome. I'd love to see a Canada themed park. And it'd certainly boost attendees from our neighbors to the north, not to mention make it more international.
But that's so unrealistic, I just think it'd be cool . . .

[SurfedUpDane]

If/When DCA does change its name, the new name will surely have something to do with an equally new direction that the park will be headed.

Edit: Please stray away from shooting down ideas without a good reason. "(Name) is just stupid" is not a good reason.

[Executioner]

Name change for DCA huh? It does seem like it would be way to costly to change things around from DCA considering everything in it is themed for CA. Well, I guess we shall find out in the future if it really happens. On a side note, for a while I was not sure if I was ever going to get to go to DCA at all and had this dream (just after DCA had opened) that I was finally able to go and when I got there the whole place was torn down and all that was left was this giant lake where PP was. Kinda a wierd dream. Maybe fortelling the death of DCA? Not saying it is going to be demolished, but changed, cause dreams do have meanings. Of course I could just be a loony. That is probably it.

[Piglet]

How about Pixar Park or Pixar Park Resort?

Of course you all know I was being sarcastic here, right??

[DisneyResurrection]

If/When DCA does change its name, the new name will surely have something to do with an equally new direction that the park will be headed.

Edit: Please stray away from shooting down ideas without a good reason. "(Name) is just stupid" is not a good reason.

And neither is insulting Canadians. Thanks DCA Fan.

[protostars]

I think they should just call it Disney South!
(location, attendance, and overall everything about the park is south of disneyland)

[CA Screamin Dude]

No.

This thread will now move to the Rumor Mill.

[BigMikeSD]

Consider this:

The buildings in hollywood backlot are themed to look like sound stages. Indeed, many of the buildings throughout the park look like sound stages. Soarin' looks much more like a sound stage than a hanger.

With Disney/MGM studios in florida droping MGM, my feeling is that if they were to retheme DCA it would become "Disney Studios California".

[DaynaTheDisneyDork]

I've actually thought this over. My friend and I have come up with a few names for DCA, keep in mind, this was in the hands of two 15 year olds with no lives and insanley odd personalities:

Disney's World of Californian Luxury
Disnar
Pixney
Cally Forny Uh
Land of Smog and Fog
Not Knott's
Land of not-much-to-do...yet

-WOOOOOOOOO 200th POST!!!!-

[taronga]

Given the parks history as a parking lot & the planned attraction of Disney/Pixar's Cars - why not call it : Disney's CarPark . :icon_lol:

[Executioner]

It had more attendance when it was a parking lot. I'm sorry. I just had to. As for the Disney Studios California idea... It sounds good, but at the same time it reminds me to much of the Burbank Studios and people would get confused. But That is the best name I have heard so far.

[Wendy Darling]

yeah, I liked Disney Studios California best of what I heard as well. It's close so it won't be too confusing, and yet different. Disney probably won't use it though. Disnar wasn't too bad...lol...if only it didn't have to do with pixar...

*checks things off the camping list*

[ShrunkenNed]

Pixarland doesn't have a great ring to it. How about Lasseterland? Or would Steve Jobs object?

[ScaryTrees]

How about just Californialand thats what i call it now anyway because im too lazy to say Disney's California Adventure

[kates4u]

They should just connect both parks and have it be one HUGE park imo. And they could have the monorail stop over there and have little transportation cars to and from between the esplanade. That's just what I think...

[disneyfreak59]

agg my parents and i were talking about this a few days ago in disneyland...lets just name the park pixarland and get it over with.

[disneylover]

I feel that changing the name will be even more confusing to people. A lot of people I talk to have never been to DCA or the DLR in years. If they have heard of DCA, I think that changing the name will cause more confusion. I just don't feel that changing the name will help DCA's image. I guess it also depends on how drastically they are planning on changing the park. :icon_roll

[Disneyland_Wolf]

What themeing will it be? When DCA's name will be change. It will be not Cailfornia-themed park anymore.

[bcmommie]

I feel that changing the name will be even more confusing to people. :icon_roll

Don't forget this park is just miles from the Angels...I mean the California Angels, no...I mean the Anaheim Angels...no I mean the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim...

All of their games are sold out and they are doing well (for now...)

I actually (gasp) enjoy DCA...no, it's no Disneyland, but I don't seriously think people go to Disney World to see Epcot...or Animal Kingdom...or any of the other satellite parks without the primary objective of the trip being the visit to the Magic Kingdom.

[simba_one]

Well, I have to say I still (and always will) love the name Disney's California Adventure. I love saying DCA. But out of the ones people have suggested so far I think the Disney Studios is probably the best. I have to admit I do likt taronga's idea of Disney's CarPark too though!!!! :icon_lol: It's soooooo cheesy but it has a story behind it and if a ride similar to WDW's TT opens and they theme it around cars then why not?!

[taronga]

Simba_one thanks for supporting my idea. :cool:

[simba_one]

Simba_one thanks for supporting my idea. :cool:
NP!! :wink: I'm really liking the idea. And when you first hear names you always think they sound rubbish but when you hear loads of different people say it, they begin to sound better. Disney can make pretty much anything work (well, they don't seem to be able to make DCA work but we all know what it needs to get more visitors - more attractions and to make use of those areas they have but just don't use whatsoever - such a waste :icon_cry:) though so I'm sure if they chose to call it Disney's CarPark (wouldn't it be cool if they did?! :icon_lol:) they'd make it work... somehow!!

[AmandasDad]

Eliminate park hoppers. Have one ticket to all attractions on both sides of the esplanade. Refer to the different themed areas of DCA as lands. Call the whole thing "Disneyland"

[PeoplemoverMatt]

^ About 90% of what you just said happens right now. I don't think more than 500 1-day 1-park ticket are sold each day, so 55,500 park-hoppers/APs are being sold. When was the last time you heard someone say "I'm going to Disney's California Adventure!" Thats right, you hear "I went to Disneyland on Friday! Oh, did you go to DCA? Yeah, Tower was fun!" You never hear "I went to Disney's California Adventure on Friday! Oh, did you go to Disneyland Park? No, there was too much to do @ Disney's California Adventure!" Even corporate does that by having Disneyland Park & Disneyland Resort be the same logo just with those different words.

-- Peoplemover "You know you've gone too far when you've written a fairly decent stand-up routine about Disneyland :icon_lol: " Matt

[111702]

For some reason, I know I probably shouldn't be, I am excited to hear what name they come up with!:biggrin: But like some people said, It might be a HORRIBLE mistake:icon_redf (like DCA itself, in most ways, not all). We'll just have to wait and see.:tongue:

[arrowfanman]

-- Peoplemover "Who thought it was a good idea to have a CA-themed park in CA, really?" Matt

California is such a large and diverse state, that I personally believe that it COULD HAVE worked very well if they properly executed it.

Their problem is that they are afraid to localize attractions. The attractions are themed around general symbols of California: Hollywood, the beach, the mountains, the desert. Both you and me live in Santa Clarita, where we can go to the REAL Hollywood, beach, mountains, or desert in less time than it takes to get to DCA! What they should have done is focus less on these personality lacking symbols, and more on the stories that make California unique. Stories that we cant expirence in real life.

In every city in the State, there is a story to tell! But they chosed to ignore that, and focus on "Hollywood is in California"..."Beaches are in California". Dont believe me? Than look at Santa Clarita itself (brings out 3rd grade 'History of Santa Clarita' book).

-You have Vasquez Rocks, beautiful rock formations off the 14 freeway, where Mexican outlaw Tiburcio Vasquez set up a headquarters. He hid all of his stolen goods in and around these Rock formations. Although a lot has been found, people claim that there is still more plunder hidden up there.

-St. Frances Dam was located in the San Fransiqito canyon, and was build by William Mulholland as a resivoir storing water for Los Angeles. However, the dam broke, carring a wall of water all the way from the Canyon, down through the Ventura canyon all the 53 miles to the ocean. This, being CA's second largest disaster, and America's worst Civil Engineering failure, ended up ruining Mulholland for life, and everything was stripped from him, with the exception of the Drive that bears his name.

-The was an Old West-style train robbery in Saugus, that actually involved flipping the locomotive onto its side, and stealing from the passengers as the were conversing on the accident.

Sorry to go all out, but that is a large sample of stuff, in ONE TOWN in this state. And I am willing to put money on the fact that each town in California has a story like this to tell, that would make for a GREAT ATTRACTION! Not only that, but an attraction worth traveling for, because you cant necessarily expirence it like that anywhere in the state!

However, as I said, Disney is afraid to use NAMES! Thats why they stick to these symbols---symbols that will definitely not attract any locals to the State of California.




Well, there is my off topic two cents...sorry!

-Jahan

[simba_one]

Great post arrowfanman - I totally agree. Although I love the fact that the park is based around "classic" California, I think it could have become a completely different park (and a very good one) with some of the ideas you suggested. I'd still like it to feature what it has now though. I mean I know it must seem boring to you guys as you live in CA and can visit the real places anytime you like but for people like me who travel thousands of miles, having Hollywood incorporated into the park seems like a good idea. Just because they're the most well-known places doesn't mean they have to not appear at all. A mix of both would have been great. You should pitch your ideas to Disney. :wink:

[linklewtt]

i dunno, it sounds too informative to me which equals classic EPCOT: boring. i think they should have put a wild west section. i mean cali was known as the frontier and we did have the gold rush and stuff. they should have visited cali's history and made a land devoted to that. it could have a mine ride or something. but the west should have been featured in the park, just as long as they don't make it too informative

[arrowfanman]

Too informative? Yea, and when Walt pitched the idea of a "pirate wax museum", I am sure that sounded too informative.

I am not saying that they should have used those ideas. I am using those as examples, of how much other stuff is in California that we dont now about!

I am not even saying to use the story of Tirbucio Vasquez or William Muholland. The trick is to use the landmarks, and the tie in a different story! How do I explain what I am trying to say...this is hard.

A good example is this: The Hollywood Tower of Terror. Think about the STORY of that attraction. The story isn't themed around Hollywood, its themed around The Twilight Zone. In fact, when your on the ride, I dont believe that there is ANY reference, made to the fact that you are in Hollywood! The only clue that you are in Hollywood, is that the hotel your in is called the "Hollywood Tower", and that your in HPB. "Hollywood Tower Hotel" is what they use to ANCHOR it to the land, so they can go off and tell a completely different story--the Twilight Zone. Another example is "Its Tough to be a Bug." The entrance just looks like a little pit next to a farm. Thats to tie the story in and make it seem like it is themed around California. It ANCHORS the ride to the California theme. Then, as you progress through the queue, you find a story completely irrelevant of anything about California!

So just because I said theme it around Vasquez Rocks doesn't mean I say that it should be the story of Tirbucio Vasquez. I mean to just use the Rocks as an ANCHOR TO THE PARK. Then you can go off and tell a more interesting and non-boring story. Or, say, use the Mission...The California Missions. Dont do a ride about the Missions! That would be boring! Use a Mission as an ANCHOR to the park (and an entrance to the ride), and then go off and tell a more interesting story.


Ok...I appologize for taking it way further off topic....lol.

[PeoplemoverMatt]

I am not even saying to use the story of Tirbucio Vasquez or William Muholland. The trick is to use the landmarks, and the tie in a different story! How do I explain what I am trying to say...this is hard.

A good example is this: The Hollywood Tower of Terror. Think about the STORY of that attraction. The story isn't themed around Hollywood, its themed around The Twilight Zone. In fact, when your on the ride, I dont believe that there is ANY reference, made to the fact that you are in Hollywood! The only clue that you are in Hollywood, is that the hotel your in is called the "Hollywood Tower", and that your in HPB. "Hollywood Tower Hotel" is what they use to ANCHOR it to the land, so they can go off and tell a completely different story--the Twilight Zone. Another example is "Its Tough to be a Bug." The entrance just looks like a little pit next to a farm. Thats to tie the story in and make it seem like it is themed around California. It ANCHORS the ride to the California theme. Then, as you progress through the queue, you find a story completely irrelevant of anything about California!

So just because I said theme it around Vasquez Rocks doesn't mean I say that it should be the story of Tirbucio Vasquez. I mean to just use the Rocks as an ANCHOR TO THE PARK. Then you can go off and tell a more interesting and non-boring story. Or, say, use the Mission...The California Missions. Dont do a ride about the Missions! That would be boring! Use a Mission as an ANCHOR to the park (and an entrance to the ride), and then go off and tell a more interesting story.


Yes, the theme serves as the anchor of the attraction, what else were you expecting? Tower of Terror is a Twilight Zone episode whose setting is a hotel in 1929 Hollywood. It's a setting, not the story itself. The real characters are the 5 in the first elevator, and of course, you. DCA's Tower is in Hollywood Pictures Backlot & MGM's Tower is on Sunset Blvd. Both places are CA-themed settings for a story whose setting is the Hollywood Tower Hotel 1929 & present. Themes are always the setting, background, backstory even maybe, but never the story itself.

I think you're overthinking the plumbing here a bit. You have to remember that anywhere in the world other than right here, people only think of those "symbols" when they think of California. Those of us lucky enough to live here know a lot more & rightly we should because its our home. But when we think of a major destination theme park, hopefully the people who go aren't entirely familiar with where they are, so a story about Vasquez would just come off as weird and "Ok why do I care?" So I don't fault WDI planners for themeing parts of a CA-themed park to Hollywood or the beach or the redwoods at all, I think that all made good sense to do.

What doesn't make any sense to me is putting that park in CA itself. DCA's guests will 1) be locals who are all too familiar with the real California, so all they'll do is notice how your park is different from the real thing & wonder why they're paying to enjoy something they can just drive to the beach or Hollywood or Redwoods & enjoy. Or 2) they'll be visitors from outside the state. Well, when people come to CA, they come to see much more of the real thing besides Disneyland. They go to see the real beach, the real Hollywood, the real Redwoods & having a CA-themed park will never be an incentive to skip the real thing & visit the park with the real thing being so close. So they end up with the same problem the locals have.

Disney Managment also apparently forgot that DLR will never be WDW, even with another gate & 2 more on-property hotels. DLR's main audience will always be locals with a few out-of-towners sprinkled in. Locals will never have any real interest in a theme park themed to their very home, unless it really delivers the thrills & we all know DCA tries but comes up well short. So why build a CA-themed park in CA itself? I just don't get it.

-- Peoplemover "I'll build a theme park & theme it all up about beaches, hurricanes, Dan Marino, alligators, etc; call it Disney's Floridian Adventure...where to put it? Ooh! I know! Walt Disney World!!! :icon_roll " Matt

[arrowfanman]

This is just my general thought.

First off, the problem with these symbols of California, is that they have run out of them! So do you know what we get, to satisfy? Monsters Inc. Cars.

But your right, the symbols of California are appropriate for out of town guests. However, Disneyland, unlike WDW, is completely surrounded by residence. The majority of its revenue is comes from local communities. Why would I go to a park themed around California, when I live in California? For a couple of reasons. 1) Rides. 2) Because their version is better than the real version. 3) Because I get to learn and expirence elements of California that I dont normally get to, on a day to day basis.

Well, DCA is only able to satisfy one of those three (#2), and therefore, they cant draw in crowds...partially due to an outrageous price.


And I would want DCA anyday over Wescot. I wouldn't mind something else other than the two, but between them, I root for DCA.

[NCTJoe]

I would love it... if they changed the name of the park to Disney's California, and just dropped the "Adventure" part of it.

Personally, I think Disney's California sounds better than Disney's California Adventure, even the initials DC seem a lil cooler and edgier then DCA.

Plus that means that they wouldnt be changing much to the park.

[simba_one]

Why would I go to a park themed around California, when I live in California? For a couple of reasons. 1) Rides. 2) Because their version is better than the real version. 3) Because I get to learn and expirence elements of California that I dont normally get to, on a day to day basis.
I totally agree with that. Coming from a tourists perspective I have to say that I greatly enjoyed DCA. I did do many a day going around SoCal looking at the sights and stuff (Iam absolutely fascinated with CA) but experiencing the most well-known aspects of CA in one place with rides and the whole Disney atmosphere all in one place was amazing. I can see why CA residents may find it a little irritating going to a park themed around the State they already live in but remember... Disney isn't just about the locals. A huge portion of their guests are tourists. The DLR may not get as many tourists as WDW does but it still needs to be themed on something that will interest tourists too. I agree with arrowfanman when he says that rides can be themed in the setting of a place and not just about the actual incident that made the place famous. And again, theme parks are all about rides. The lands or areas are there to theme the rides around. Fair enough you may be able to go to the real places as you live there but can you experience them all in one day and ride world-class rides to boot?! Plus, at the end of the day rememebr it's all about fun. It's a theme park and it's there to be enjoyed. Enjoy it. :smile:

[taronga]

Another alternative is a simple name exchange. They could rename DCA to Disneys Fantasyland, then in Disneyland rename fantasyland to :animated kingdom (with it being behind the castle).

[simba_one]

Another alternative is a simple name exchange. They could rename DCA to Disneys Fantasyland, then in Disneyland rename fantasyland to :animated kingdom (with it being behind the castle).
I don't think that would work at all - IMO. Fantasyland belongs in the MK. I think Fantasyland I think all the 'lil rides and Dumbo and such. The only name I would be pleased (well, I won't be pleased if they change it at all actually - DCA is fine in my book :rolleyes:) with is if they were to rename it the Disney Studios. And like others have said, what with the buildings looking rather like stages, that's probably the most likely. Plus the fact they have another two parks named Studios.

I still don't think a simple name change will do anything though. More rides is what it needs.

[Disneyland_Wolf]

How about Disney's Tropical Adventure?

[emman]

i think renaming the park wouldnt be enough if you dont have the right stuff, they should be tnhinking of great innovative rides instead of renaming the park, specially to pixar, cause theres only abugs life in there

[simba_one]

How about Disney's Tropical Adventure?
Ooh I quite like that. They'd have to add some tropical stuff though... :icon_lol:

[taronga]

The only name I would be pleased (well, I won't be pleased if they change it at all actually - DCA is fine in my book :rolleyes:) with is if they were to rename it the Disney Studios.

I thought you also liked my idea of Disneys CarPark.

I don't think Cali. is very tropical.

[simba_one]

I thought you also liked my idea of Disneys CarPark.

I don't think Cali. is very tropical.
I do also like your Disney's CarPark idea. It has history and I love that - I doubt Disney would ever call it that though. Studios is gonna be the obvious choice. :icon_roll

[Disneyfan 92]

I say tear the whole thing down and build something else. I can't stand DCA!
P.S. Except for Soarin' cause kinda cool

[simba_one]

I say tear the whole thing down and build something else. I can't stand DCA!
P.S. Except for Soarin' cause kinda cool
Are you serious?! It's not that bad. It isn't bad at all in my opinion. I love it!!!!! Makes me sad that people hate it so much!! :icon_cry:

[Clotho]

i think renaming the park wouldnt be enough if you dont have the right stuff, they should be tnhinking of great innovative rides instead of renaming the park, specially to pixar, cause theres only abugs life in there

Okaaaay...so let's all go back and read the original topic and clipping Matt posted.

They will NOT just be changing the name. They would develop some new attractgions, to draw crowds and show that the park has changed and improved. The name would be changed to reflect the new direction and theming. So, they will not just change the name. And any name they choose would become more clear and appropriate once those new rides are in...and who knows what they will be?

I do like Disney Studios California. I thought the same thing, theme-wise, and you put it into words for me.

[seeyoubreezn]

I think that they need to annex the park and make it part of Disneyland in some way.

[Teebee5]

I think they should pack it all up, truck it to BC Canada, and rename it Disneys Canada Adventure park. :biggrin: We have grizzleys... and bugs too! Gets my vote!

I have to agree here... it would be better than Playland and probadly get a better turn out too.

Disney Canada all the way!;)

[alissa08]

Ok, personally, I hate California Adventure. It is a disgrace to the Disney name. And like someone else said earlier- Why would you put a California themed park in California? I mean seriously. Most of the time I feel like I am at a carnival. I think that they should just demolish it all and build an epcot. Who cares how expensive it is.

[disneyfreak59]

you mean dislike right? anywho, its fun to a certain extent. it needs more thirll rides and its basically becoming a pixar park. i can see pixar in big letters instead of california lol

[lablkilz699]

Maybe take out a bunch of the parking lot behind Screamin' and Tower Of Terror and make a Wild West Land. It would need a better name than that but whoever thought of this idea, its a good one. I think another land with 1-2 more big rides could be a big help. Also...they need to somehow make it more like....."enclosed" feeling....it feels really open and unsheltered. Do you know how when you walk into Disneyland you are completely cut off from the rest of the world and forget your only about a block or two from the I-5 freeway and traffic and busy city intersections?


Bottom line is, DCA just donsent "feel right" like Disneyland does. It hasnt got the charm Disneyland does. Plus its pretty hard to live right next door to the greatest theme park to ever grace the earth...

Its almost unfair. It has no chance pretty much. Its like when you walk up buy a ticket and think..."hmmmm....Disneyland...or DCA...Disneyland or DCA....DISNEYLAND!!!"

There has to be something to create memories and make the place more memorable. It has to touch you emotionally. Thats why Disneyland and the Disney brand is what it is and why Six Flags and other theme parks are what they are....Do you ever feel like you have been changed for the better by going to any other theme park but Disneyland? NOPE...if theres one place that can cure all your problems its Disneyland. Thats why DCA cant compete with it. It has no personality or history. Just looks like a candy coated attempt at a theme park with no real content....its a little bare also....It COULD be saved though....somehow.

[bluechaos1]

I dont really think they would or should re-name it because they would have to remove many things. And i just watched the video about Disneyland And DCA. The Imagineers said that the whole theme of the park was to express californian glory. I think that would be very stupid to change the name. All that they have worked for they would have to remove many things. If its pixar land well then what the heck is playhouse disney doing there or what is muppet vision doing there. You see my point. And many announcements i have heard have ended up being false. So i may be a junior member but im not dumb. Do you get my point? Why rename it? And plus come on guys DCA Just opened give it some time to get more stuff and attractions so if you think it sucks just wait. DCA will become better just like disneyland did.... But if only Walt was alive.

[kates4u]

Ok, personally, I hate California Adventure. It is a disgrace to the Disney name. And like someone else said earlier- Why would you put a California themed park in California? I mean seriously. Most of the time I feel like I am at a carnival. I think that they should just demolish it all and build an epcot. Who cares how expensive it is.

Where should someone put a California theme park?...In Florida? or Texas? If they took out DCA and put in an Alabama Adventure park or a Mississippi Adventure Park people would say why put that in California?. I personally like DCA and I can't wait to see what happens in the future with it because it can only get better! (Hopefully)

[bartholomeo]

Maybe take out a bunch of the parking lot behind Screamin' and Tower Of Terror and make a Wild West Land. It would need a better name than that but whoever thought of this idea, its a good one. I think another land with 1-2 more big rides could be a big help. Also...they need to somehow make it more like....."enclosed" feeling....it feels really open and unsheltered. Do you know how when you walk into Disneyland you are completely cut off from the rest of the world and forget your only about a block or two from the I-5 freeway and traffic and busy city intersections?


Bottom line is, DCA just donsent "feel right" like Disneyland does. It hasnt got the charm Disneyland does. Plus its pretty hard to live right next door to the greatest theme park to ever grace the earth...

Its almost unfair. It has no chance pretty much. Its like when you walk up buy a ticket and think..."hmmmm....Disneyland...or DCA...Disneyland or DCA....DISNEYLAND!!!"

There has to be something to create memories and make the place more memorable. It has to touch you emotionally. Thats why Disneyland and the Disney brand is what it is and why Six Flags and other theme parks are what they are....Do you ever feel like you have been changed for the better by going to any other theme park but Disneyland? NOPE...if theres one place that can cure all your problems its Disneyland. Thats why DCA cant compete with it. It has no personality or history. Just looks like a candy coated attempt at a theme park with no real content....its a little bare also....It COULD be saved though....somehow.
i agree just give DCA some time

[ryguy222]

If you think about it DCA already has thrill rides, somone in this thread said it didn't, GRR is one TOT, California Screamin, is soarin consirdered a thrill ride? Mohlolland madness, Maliboomer theres plenty and theyd need at least three or four more rides for it to be pixarland, i think its a great park, if you think about it There aren't too many river rapids with drops, Knotts dosn't have it sea world no and the Kali River rapids at WDW has a drop big but not very steep so it is orginal i think and soarin no one else has it

[k_peek_2000]

who wrote that, it sounds like another bs'er

[Chatterbug]

I like the idea of the park improving over time. By time I'm thinking over many years it should only be changed if done with all the care to do it right. Disneyland is celebrating 50 years after all! It may take time but as long as people still have imagination, as so many just on this site, I believe it can. This is one of the things I enjoy about this site, people still have a need to imagine and create. My first time to Disneyland was in 1966 I have certainly seen allot of changes and improvements in that time. I love the Western History idea why not have some fun with this. New Orleans has HM and POTC. Why not California Gold Rush CGR, and how about a Ghost Town? May need a movie or two to help support the themes. If Disneyland is the Star everything else the supporting role, then maybe DCA needs more support. OK, I could just go on and on and I haven't even been to DCA yet first time will be next month and I'm excited. Although not as much as seeing Disneyland again.

[disney_fanatic]

hmm I think that DCA should be left alone...I like it...and its in CA, becauses its about there past! jeez leave the poor disney park alone. but is it true that screamen' has broken down? for how long??

[Chatterbug]

I have been reading about DCA so much and I am sorry that I jumped in earlier on this post as I wrote. I haven't even been to DCA yet so I need to see it for myself before getting excited about any additions more is not always better.

[mstapley]

I agree- I love DCA! Of course it will never be the Disneyland we all grew up in and love, but you can get a tasty glass of wine at DCA and who can be upset about that!

[simba_one]

I agree- I love DCA! Of course it will never be the Disneyland we all grew up in and love, but you can get a tasty glass of wine at DCA and who can be upset about that!
:icon_lol: I can - because I'm 19 (will turn 20 during my next trip next Summer but still won't be able to drink) and can't drink in the States yet!!! Not that I care though 'coz I'm T-Total. Been able to drink legally in the UK for over a year now and I still haven't had a drop. Never want to. Smells vile. The Winery looks preddy though so hey!!! ;)

That's another thing that makes DCA so different - it celebrates California's history of wine making. It's an educational theme park!! :smile:

[v00d00]

I've never been to DCA, and I'm not an executive making decisions for the park, but I guess I fall under the school of thought of...why in world does Disney really think that changing DCA's name will have any impact on attendence there? Are these guys on drugs? Listen folks, it seems pretty simple to me that IF you decide that you are going to place another park next to one of the most timeless and "magical" parks on the face of the planet, then you sure the heck better have some awesome ideas about how you're going to draw people to it (Hint-It's not the name!). Didn't anyone think that maybe that was a pretty tall order? Next thing you know, they offer up the name to a major sponsor like so many of the NFL teams have done, and instead of DCA, we'll get something like "Cheverolet Park" or "Chevyville". Maybe if I change my name I'll be able to increase my earning capacity too.......

[disney_fanatic]

hmm I've been to DCA lots of times and I love it! I've even been to the sneak preview that was held january 19 2001...it was awesome!

[DaddyB]

Has anyone pointed out that the title of this thread is in itself, incorrect? As reported by Al Lutz, they'd probably change the name around the end of the decade... so that's still a while off. It doesn't come close to "not being DCA for long".

I think we'll be looking at some major additions to this park in the next couple/few years. Matt Ouimet knows it can't stay like this forever, and I'm looking to be severely underwhelmed by the new "Monster's" ride, much like I was underwhelmed at "Bug's Land" and even somewhat from DCA's version of "ToT".

[PeoplemoverMatt]

The end of the decade will be here sooner than you think :wink:

-- Peoplemover "The sooner they drop that 10 syllable name, the better" Matt

[terryb]

I always wondered why have a California theme in California. I could go on and on about it (at least that's what my wife says). I hope they design it with the thought - Why does DCA have fewer people than Disneyland? Remember the Magic!
But ... Soarin Over California was the first ride I ever applauded to at the end.

[NCTJoe]

Has anyone pointed out that the title of this thread is in itself, incorrect? As reported by Al Lutz, they'd probably change the name around the end of the decade... so that's still a while off. It doesn't come close to "not being DCA for long".

I think we'll be looking at some major additions to this park in the next couple/few years. Matt Ouimet knows it can't stay like this forever, and I'm looking to be severely underwhelmed by the new "Monster's" ride, much like I was underwhelmed at "Bug's Land" and even somewhat from DCA's version of "ToT".

Very good points DaddyB

I think one of DCA's problems, is that management seems to always be looking for a quick fix.

Bugs Land was a cheap way of saving the Bountiful Valley Farm, as it was plagued with complaints of how boring it was. It was also a quick response to complaints that there weren't enough little kid attractions. If they spent just one more year working on it, I have no doubt in my mind that could have been a really magical land for kids, comparable to toontown.

I think what the management needs to do, is to put all complaints aside, and forget the urgency they feel to save the park, and genuinely commit a large amount of time, money, and energy to its attractions for now on.

[disneys-pirate]

This thread reminds me of when Walt built Disneyland, Everybody said it would flop! Fifty years later........:old_wink:

[linklewtt]

^^i know what you mean. Disneyland started off a bit crappish, but it picked up. Although i'm not in any way trying to compare Disneyland itself to DCA, i'm just saying that maybe the park needs some time to grow. But anyways, changing the name seems stupid. We all know it as DCA, and the Simpsons won't care what the new name is cuz they'll still make fun of it. that park is known as DCA so just leave it that way. fix the inside not the outside.

The end of the decade will be here sooner than you think :wink:

-- Peoplemover "The sooner they drop that 10 syllable name, the better" Matt
lol, i'm imagining you sitting at the computer counting the syllables on your fingers. lol. anyways i did and i only found 9

[debijeanm]

Hey, WDW experts! I've never been to Florida. Would an Epcot-type park fit in the DCA lot? Maybe with some re-working it could be a blending of the two, although I think adding some ocean stuff (ala DisneySea) might be a way to go, too.

[PeoplemoverMatt]

^ Actually, it's DCA that can fit inside Epcot, Epcot's Showcase Lagoon specifically.

-- PMM :cool:

[dctrdez]

This thread reminds me of when Walt built Disneyland, Everybody said it would flop! Fifty years later........:old_wink:

True, yes, but Disneyland was doing quite well at its own five year anniversary, which cannot be said about DCA considering all the fuss being made over it.

For good reason, unfortunately. Cute idea, WDI, sorry it didn't play out that well, chaps. WestCot, anyone?

[norcal1219]

^ Actually, it's DCA that can fit inside Epcot, Epcot's Showcase Lagoon specifically.

-- PMM :cool:

Wow!!!

[disneys-pirate]

True, yes, but Disneyland was doing quite well at its own five year anniversary, which cannot be said about DCA considering all the fuss being made over it.

For good reason, unfortunately. Cute idea, WDI, sorry it didn't play out that well, chaps. WestCot, anyone?

And, Disneyland did not have big brother next door to it on its fifth anniversy with everybody comparing the two. Disneys California Adventure park is a complement to Disneyland, not another Disneyland!:cool: I also find it interesting that everytime I go in to DCA, its crowded! Does not strike me as a park in decline?

[dctrdez]

^^^You have a good point. My point is, tell that to WDI and the theme park bureaucracy. In WDW, they're having similar problems with AK and MGM (which aren't exactly ghost towns either), which are also currently under the label "half-day parks." And those parks haven't recieved half the flak DCA has gotten. It seems marketing DCA as "Disneyland's Little Brother" isn't a sound strategy. It makes DCA (while I personally believe it untrue, I like the place a lot) seem somewhat, for lack of a better term, inferior to DL-Original.

California Adventure is such a novel idea, it theoretically cannot be compared to Disneyland. Alas, people have been comparing it, and maybe indirectly undermining the concept through the comparison (meaning, in order for it to work, DCA has to have no ties to the original Disneyland, from reference to casual conversation; if it does, poof! No competition). That's why I think WestCot would have been a safer idea (i.e. Magic Kingdom + Epcot = good and proven idea / Disneyland + Westcot = ?).

[PeoplemoverMatt]

^ I believe the genesis of the DCA <=> DL comparisons was the fact that they've had the same 1-day admission price since day 1. Remember for a long time, the only way to get into DCA was by AP or 2+ day park-hopper. 1-day hopper's did not exist, the 1-day crowd began to scream, and the rest is history.

-- PMM :cool:

[disneys-pirate]

^^^You have a good point. My point is, tell that to WDI and the theme park bureaucracy. In WDW, they're having similar problems with AK and MGM (which aren't exactly ghost towns either), which are also currently under the label "half-day parks." And those parks haven't recieved half the flak DCA has gotten. It seems marketing DCA as "Disneyland's Little Brother" isn't a sound strategy. It makes DCA (while I personally believe it untrue, I like the place a lot) seem somewhat, for lack of a better term, inferior to DL-Original.

California Adventure is such a novel idea, it theoretically cannot be compared to Disneyland. Alas, people have been comparing it, and maybe indirectly undermining the concept through the comparison (meaning, in order for it to work, DCA has to have no ties to the original Disneyland, from reference to casual conversation; if it does, poof! No competition). That's why I think WestCot would have been a safer idea (i.e. Magic Kingdom + Epcot = good and proven idea / Disneyland + Westcot = ?).


Was not "Westcot plans" scrapped because of complaints from Disney neighbors? I think you have some good points. I for one would not spend the extra money on a one day park hopper. I know from experience you might only see 30% of Disneyland alone in one day. Maybe they should just make it one price admission to both parks and open the center area so you do not have to wait in line to jump from one park to the next.;)

[dc8781]

Wow!!!

thats it Walts Other World....hahahaha:old_wink:

[Disneylands50th]

They need to make the actual theme of DCA larger than California and its sights and history. Why don't they pull an Epcot over there instead on DCA??? It would attract sooooooooooooo much attention too. I mean come on, who doesn't like Epcot.

[disneyguy]

^ You mean WESTCOT... :biggrin:

-DG :wink:

[debijeanm]

That's It!

[Jeremy]

I've never been to DCA, and I'm not an executive making decisions for the park, but I guess I fall under the school of thought of...why in world does Disney really think that changing DCA's name will have any impact on attendence there? Are these guys on drugs? Listen folks, it seems pretty simple to me that IF you decide that you are going to place another park next to one of the most timeless and "magical" parks on the face of the planet, then you sure the heck better have some awesome ideas about how you're going to draw people to it (Hint-It's not the name!). Didn't anyone think that maybe that was a pretty tall order? Next thing you know, they offer up the name to a major sponsor like so many of the NFL teams have done, and instead of DCA, we'll get something like "Cheverolet Park" or "Chevyville". Maybe if I change my name I'll be able to increase my earning capacity too.......

Yeah changing the name isn't gonna do much. Let's say I have a big bucket of sewer water. But I decide to stop calling it big bucket of sewer water and call it cool refreshing water instead. It's still sewer water no matter what I call it. I need to do things to the sewer water to improve it before I can call it cool and refreshing. This is exactly the case with DCA. DCA is the sewer water and just naming it something different isn't going to help.

[chelsealela]

You have gotta be kidding me they are NOT gonna change the name! Disney's Cali Adventure FOREVER!!!

[RollingBoulder]

Yeah changing the name isn't gonna do much. Let's say I have a big bucket of sewer water. But I decide to stop calling it big bucket of sewer water and call it cool refreshing water instead. It's still sewer water no matter what I call it. I need to do things to the sewer water to improve it before I can call it cool and refreshing. This is exactly the case with DCA. DCA is the sewer water and just naming it something different isn't going to help.
I would agree if they were only changing the name. But they are also improving the theming inside the park as well, so I just think of it as part of the whole package. That is, if they actually do change the name.

[disneyfreak12]

i dunno, it sounds too informative to me which equals classic EPCOT: boring. i think they should have put a wild west section. i mean cali was known as the frontier and we did have the gold rush and stuff. they should have visited cali's history and made a land devoted to that. it could have a mine ride or something. but the west should have been featured in the park, just as long as they don't make it too informative


the wild west section would be like fontierland,the mine ride to much like BTM

[wdwmickeyfan]

Can someone do a comparison of the old/new logos?

[ministrychick77]

i like the idea of DisneyStudios.... maybe make the park a little like parts of the florida parks for those who can't make it out there.. i've heard it's kinda nice out there...