Buena Vista Street
Buena Vista Street is the first land to greet visitors entering Disney California Adventure. Just as Main Street USA across the way at Disneyland represents Walt Disney's childhood memories of his home town, Buena Vista Street represents California in 1923, when Walt first arrived to begin his career as an animator. Although, it wasn't always like this.
Originally, guests crossed beneath a replica of the Golden Gate Bridge, past some large, gaudy souvenir stores, and into Sunshine Plaza, where the large, golden "Sun Icon" was situated. Aside from a nice little bakery, it was poorly themed and was a lot of wasted space.
In an effort to revitalize the failing park, the new Buena Vista Street was the first part of a $1.1 billion expansion plan for the park. Named after the street in which the Walt Disney Studios is located on, Buena Vista Street was modeled after the Silver Lake and Altwater Village neighborhoods where Walt set up shop upon his initial arrival in Los Angeles.
Architectural styles range from Spanish Colonial Revival and Mission Revival to Art Deco...all reminiscent of the styles from the mid 1890s to the late 1920s.
The area is decorated with tile and art glass, antique lighting fixtures, and other industrial design elements typical of the era.
One of the most ornate restrooms you're likely to find in a theme park.
Much of the signage has ties to the Disney Company's history. The names on this sign were actual company lawyers.
The Chamber of Commerce building serves as the information center and guest services.
The very art deco Storage Lockers building.
Just like Disneyland next door, Disney California Adventure also has its dedication plaque.
Colorful street entertainers add to the charm of the land.
More to come...
