Mickey's ToonTown
After years of roaming the park, it was only natural that Mickey and his friends should long for a place to call their own. Thus was born Mickey's ToonTown, the first and only land (thus far) to "breach the berm" and be located outside the original perimeter of the park. Toontown, of course, was always there, just outside Disneyland. It was only a mater of time before the 'Toons were willing to break down the earthen berm, and allow Disneyland visitors into their home town.
In the distance behind ToonTown, you'll see the towering hills, with the ToonTown logo. These hills grew even larger a couple of years ago, to hide the Team Disney Building that was erected in what used to be part of the employee parking area and "backstage" space on the north side of Disneyland.
ToonTown was largely inspired by the community of the same name in "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" but was also developed in response to the demand that Mickey should be found in one location at any time by his friends and fans.
The most noticible thing about Toontown is the lack of straight lines: Most building tilt, sway, sweep, and generally ignore the laws and rules that most structure must obey. Additionally, most things that are static in other lands are not here: mailboxes and man-hole covers (mouse-hold covers here) talk. Packages produce unusual noises, and many of the store fronts are interactive. The Fireworks Comapny regulary explodes but only when a plunger is depressed in front of the building, and not every time.
Here you can find Mickey's house (be sure to read the book titles on the shelves in his library), as well as Minnie's residence, Donald's boat (the Miss Daisy), Goofy's Bounce house, Chip and Dale's tree house, Gadget's Go Coaster, and perhaps one of the better "dark rides" in the park, Roger Rabbit's Cartoon Spin.
While adults will find the architecture and colors amusing, the "residential" part of ToonTown is strictly for the younger kids.
ATTRACTIONS
Roger Rabbit's Cartoon Spin
Essentially a "dark ride" (one where the room is dark but figures are illuminated in fluorescent paint) but you can point your ToonTown Cab in any direction as your drive through Toon Town, on the trail of the weasels and their deadly load of "Dip." Probably the best effect of the ride/show is the escape you make through a portable "hole" just like in the movie! However, the pre-show in the queue area inside is perhaps the best part.
Gadget's Go Coaster
A thrill ride for the under 7 set. A one-loop coaster that takes about 30 seconds to ride. But hey, it IS for kids.
Jolly Trolley
Cute little trolley car complete with wind-up key on top that navigates from one end of ToonTown to the other in undulating style. More for atmosphere than transportation, but cute.
Mickey's House and Movie Barn
A "Must-See." Everyone wanted a place to meet Mickey, where they were sure he could be found. This is that place. Mickey's on-hand here everyday, and just about every minute the park is open. The touches within his home are great, creating a "yeah, Mickey really lives here" look. As you wind your way through the house and garage, you'll come to Mickey's Movie Barn. Here you'll see a few clips (very short) of Mickey's old movies, and then be ushered in to meet him between takes of a "new" movie. Mickey will be happy to pose for photos that you take, or you can buy a photo that the Disney photographer takes. It will be ready for you when you leave the park later in the day. DISNEYLAND SECRET**** There are actually more than two separate Mickey "Meet and Greet" studios after the screening room. Sliding film racks conceal the doors when you come in, but this is so it looks like there's only one real place to meet Mickey. This allows multiple parties to meet Mickey and have the photo session at the same time, accommodating big crowds on busy days. Remember, Mickey is an individual, and can't be seen in more than more place at one time; this answers that need, while allowing many people to see and have their photos taken with Mickey at the same time.
Minnie's House
The other "Must-See." Minnie isn't usually in attendance within, but is frequently in the back garden area for photos. Another walk-through attraction that leaves no doubt that this is Minnie's House.
Donald Duck's Boat, the Miss Daisy
Yes,it's a large boat in the middle of ToonTown, and yes, overall, it does look like Donald. Of course he lives on a boat. Why do you think he always wears a sailor suit?
Goofy's Bounce House
While the adults can laugh at all of the visual puns built into the exterior of the house and garden, kids can literally bounce off the walls inside, which are soft and cushioned for that purpose. A Castmember is always at hand to supervise even the most boisterous.
Chip 'n Dale's Tree Slide and Acorn Crawl
For VERY young kids, probably three to six or so. A slide built into a tree, and a large pit filled with large plastic acorns to skoosh about in. Not much different than the playground at your local McDonald's. (Yawn)
FOOD
Pluto's Dog House
One of several eateries surrounding town square, you can get your hot dog here, but little else.
Daisy's Diner
Specialty sandwiches and side orders, and cold beverages sold here. Not bad, but just remember that people don't come to ToonTown to eat.
SHOPS
Gag Factory
The best variety store (and ONLY variety store) in ToonTown. As the name implies, lost of gag supplies, plus general merchandise like hats, t-shirts and other clothing, toys and games, and souvenirs. Quite a good selection here. Pay attention to the Gag Machine overhead.
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