Adventureland
One of the original five lands created in 1955, Adventureland has gone through little change until 1995. The centerpiece attraction, The Jungle Cruise, was originally conceived with live animals instead of animated hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. But advisors convinced Walt that the animals would most often be sleeping or hiding, so the idea was abandoned. However, the nurseries of Southern California were depleted to populate this jungle. While the Jungle Cruise seems somewhat dated, it is still loads of fun with the right guide.
The Enchanted Tiki Room was added to the perimeter of Adventureland in 1963, with the multitude of talking and singing Audio-Animatronic birds. The Jungle Cruise was expanded twice. The most recent addition was the "African Veldt" and a few enhancements along the way. Adventureland used to host one of the better sit-down restaurants in Disneyland, the Tahitian Terrace. But it, alas, gave way to the more expensive and annoying Aladdin's Oasis, which has been open, closed, open from time to time, and who knows what will be next.
ATTRACTIONS
Jungle Cruise
A lot of fun, and a great way to get off your feet for ten minutes and enjoy some corny jokes. You'll see the jungles of India, Africa and the Far East, and also the back side of water.
For more in-depth information on this attraction, click the picture above.
Tarzan's Treehouse
Inspired by the movie, this attraction features an enormous artificial tree, constructed of steel, concrete and 300,000 plastic leaves, rising more than 20 feet above Adventureland. Originally added in 1962 as the Swiss Family Treehouse, this adventure/attraction underwent a facelift in 1999, adapting its features to the Disney Animated Move, Tarzan, from the Summer of 1999. This Disneydendron semperflorens grandis (giant everblooming Disney tree)is a 150-ton structure with roots reaching 42 feet into the ground. Among its branches, which span 80 feet from side to side, are scenes from the movie and furnishing salvaged from ship.
FOOD
Originally the Tahitian Terrace, which I believe they should bring back, this area was re-designed in a Middle Eastern motif with space for a rather dopey Aladdin floor show. Coupled with the show was a meal, quickly churned out with very little variety. The worst part was the price. Picture this: you're inside Disneyland, which wasn't a cheap thing to do anyway, and now to see the show and have a meal you're going to peel out about $26.00 per group member. ("It's not a pretty picture. I don't like doing it!") For now, this eatery is closed as a restaurant and is used as seating only for those who buy food elsewhere and just want a place to eat it during the peak periods at the park. At this point, it's unknown what the plans are for the Oasis.
Bengal Barbecue
Very small with outdoor service only, but you can frequently find a seat under a nearby umbrella. Features barbecued meats, some fruit specialties, and cold drinks. Not too expensive if you want a quick substantial snack. By the way, the Tiger Tails are breadsticks, but more like sandwich rolls, really. Service is pretty fast, even when there's a line.
SHOPS
Adventureland Bazaar Very large variety of items not found elsewhere in the park. Lots of imports from around the world, particularly India and the Far East. Very nice selection of brass items, and eastern clothing. Check the carved jade jewelry and trinkets, and the ebony items too. Unique among the shops of Disneyland.
Indiana Jones Outpost
Sort of an Annex to the Adventureland Bazaar, as it is connected through the interior, this shop features clothing and a few accessories. Most items are now linked or inspired by the Indiana Jones films and associated attraction, so you'll find lots of stuff with the Temple of Doom or Indy logo, including copies of that famous fedora.
South Sea Traders
Located directly between the Bazaar and the Outpost, this shop has still more clothing, fit for the beach or a typical sunny day at Disneyland. Of course that Hawaiian shirt will go with your plaid pants.
Tropical Imports
Sitting squarely in front of the Jungle Cruise along the dock, this outdoor shop features rubber snakes, rubber shrunken heads, rubber rats and rubber spiders. And puka shells. Cheesey enough for you? Then how about a few rolls of film or a visor. They sell those too.
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