Disneyland vacation packages and other great offers on top California tourist attractions

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Making its debut this year at Disney’s California Adventure is “World of Color,” a spectacular nighttime water show. Prepare to be amazed! Prepare to be dazzled! Prepare to want to return for more! This show will astound you with its magnitude and creativity.

“World of Color” will bring Disney animation to life like never before. Powerful fountains become stars of the show as they create the world’s largest projected water screen. Combining hundreds of magnificent fountains and sparkling colors with a kaleidoscope of audio and visual effects, “World of Color” takes water-infused entertainment to a new level of artistry.

Silly Symphony Swings replaces the Orange Stinger in Paradise Pier. The name is taken from Walt's ground breaking Silly Symphonies animated series in the mid thirties.

Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, a beloved Disneyland attraction for nearly 45 years and a historic landmark in the development of Audio-Animatronics technology, reopened Dec. 18 at the Main Street Opera House in Disneyland. The Lincoln figure is more lifelike and expressive than ever before.

Newly enhanced special effects - including a giant dragon, the Sea Witch's slithering eels from "The Little Mermaid," and a new look for Captain Hook's crocodile nemesis -are among the highlights of the spectacular "Fantasmic!" show on the Rivers of America in Disneyland. For Summer Nightastic! at Disneyland, the show's projected scenes of classic Disney characters have been converted to high-definiton digital video, making the images practically jump off the giant mist screens. Read More

A spectacular new dragon joins “Fantasmic!,” stretching as high as 45 feet tall and breathing great plumes of fire on the Rivers of America at Disneyland. Performances of the show have been extended nightly through Sept. 7, and will continue weekends – Friday, Saturday, Sunday – as well as during holiday periods through the end of 2009. Nighttime Disneyland guests can also enjoy the “Magical” fireworks show, which has been extended through Labor Day and weekends thereafter through Sept. 20. Both Tinker Bell and Dumbo the Flying Elephant make special appearances in “Magical.”

· The new dragon is a fully animated three-dimensional design that replicates the movements of the dragon in “Sleeping Beauty.”

· Maleficent, a classic Disney villain, transforms into a dragon during “Fantasmic!” – just as she does in the famous Walt Disney Pictures film.

· The “Fantasmic!” dragon is 32 feet wide and weighs approximately 18,000 pounds.

· When she stretches to full height, the dragon stands 45 feet tall.

· When she “lurks” beneath the “Fantasmic!” stage prior to appearing, the dragon contracts to 22 feet tall.

· During the spectacular finale, she rises to stage level in 35 seconds on a custom-built elevator.

· Tri-color LED lighting fixtures put the gleam in the dragon’s eyes.

· In her spectacular appearance, Maleficent breathes a plume of fire 35 feet long, lighting the Rivers of America on fire for 25 seconds during the show.

· During the show, the dragon is controlled and monitored by four computer systems.

· The dynamic and menacing animation of the dragon is achieved via 18 axes of motion which enable a wide rangeof movement in her eyes, ears, mouth, tongue, neck, wings.

Everyone who visits a Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get in free, as Disney Parks embrace a family travel trend called “celebration vacations.” American families are hitting the road to mark life’s special occasions with a “celebration vacation.” In 2009, the Disneyland Resort will lead this growing trend with new entertainment and services that allow guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences. To receive free admission to one of the Disneyland Resort theme parks on your birthday in 2009, register at www.disneyparks.com.

To celebrate the animated film “Tinker Bell,” Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her best friends are featured in an all-new meet-and-greet experience at Disneyland Park. Guests enter a magical forest called “Pixie Hollow,” a special place deep in the heart of Never Land. They will get the strange feeling that they are shrinking to fairy size as they make their way to Tinker Bell’s home where they will meet Tink and her pixie pals.

In the wondrous world of Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Green Army Men, guests can don 3-D glasses and experience an energy-filled toy box of fun with the debut of Toy Story Mania!. Celebrating the Disney•Pixar classics “Toy Story” and “Toy Story II,” Toy Story Mania! raises the bar for interactive ride-game attractions. It’s a high energy, immersive adventure that makes guests a key part of the action as their game play triggers special effects that provide a fourth dimension of fun. Read More...

The Disney Gallery returns! Long a favorite of Disney fans and collectors of Disney art, The Disney Gallery has reopened in its new home – next to the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland in the space originally occupied by the Bank of Main Street. (Don’t miss the special pieces on display inside the old bank vault!) The Gallery’s inaugural show, “Enchanting the Classics,” focuses on how the artists at Walt Disney Imagineering have kept beloved Disneyland attractions, such as Jungle Cruise, Submarine Voyage and Pirates of the Caribbean, fresh and exciting over the years with enhancements and surprises.

Next door to The Disney Gallery, in the Lobby of the Main Street Opera House, is The Disneyland Story, an immersive display that takes guests behind the scenes in the 54-year history and development of Walt Disney’s original theme park. A highlight is the continuous screening of “Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years,” co-hosted by Steve Martin and Donald Duck.Mr. Lincoln Returns to his Main Street Address! The beloved Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln has returned to the auditorium of the Main Street Opera House. Walt Disney Imagineering has enriched this classic inspirational presentation, augmenting fondly remembered show elements with the most advance Audio-Animatronics technology, artwork and other enhancements.

Preview the expansion at Disney’s California Adventure! In Blue Sky Cellar at Golden Vine Winery, the Imagineers’ workshop offers guests a wide-ranging preview – featuring models, concept art and film – of what’s coming to Disney’s California Adventure, including “World of Color” in 2010; a new ride in 2011 that takes guests into the undersea world of “The Little Mermaid,” and the new, 12-acre Cars Land in 2012. For additional information, visit disneylandresort.com.

“King Kong 360 3D” Created by Peter Jackson, combining thrilling visceral effects with the world’s largest Surround Digital projection system, will roar to life at Universal Studios Hollywood in Summer 2010 as part of the signature Studio Tour. Visitors will experience Kong like he’s never been seen before aboard the iconic trams - newly equipped with state-of-the-art, flat-screen Hi-Definition monitors and digital playback systems. Guests who purchase a full-priced one-day admission ticket by April 30 can enjoy the tour and theme park again and again with the “Buy A Day, Get 2010 Free” annual pass featuring no black-out dates. Visit www.universalstudioshollywood.com. Read More

Dolphin Stadium at SeaWorld San Diego will undergo a complete transformation for a new dolphin show called "Blue Horizons," scheduled to open May 2010. The new set, shown in this model image, will include high-tech water features; a new sound system; and trusses and diving boards for aerialists.

"Blue Horizons," a spectacular new show featuring energetic dolphins, soaring birds and amazing acrobatic performers, is scheduled to open at SeaWorld San Diego May 2010. The set, which will include high-tech water features, a new sound system, and trusses and diving boards for aerialists, is depicted in this photo illustration from SeaWorld Orlando, where the show has been a hit since 2005.

Set aboard an authentically replicated 18th-century Spanish galleon measuring 46 feet long, 18 feet wide with 40-foot masts, the ship is anchored in a 250,000-gallon indoor lagoon with night sky lighting. Surrounding the lagoon is a six-sided showroom of six additional ships where the audience is seated.

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Hang on to Your Hat... This is as close as you'll ever get to the Cockpit of an F16 Fighter Jet

California's most unique entertainment venue. Eight authentic F-16 jet fighter cockpit simulators allow individuals and groups to experience the thrill of airport take-offs, aerial maneuvers, air-to-air combat (dogfighting) with guns and missiles, and aircraft landings.

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Flightdeck Air Combat Center (Located in the shadows of Anaheim Stadium)
1601 S. Sunkist St. #A
Anaheim, Ca. 92806
(714) 937-1511

Dive into the world of aquatic medicine at the Aquarium’s brand new 14,000 sq-foot Molina Animal Care Center. Did you know that seas lions and otters see thier dooctor for physical exams, shark take vitamins, and sick fish take medicine and sometimes need surgery? The Molina Animal Center, caring for mammals, birds, and fishes, enables visitors to see daily animal care shows with education staff, watch the Aquarium's veterinarian conduct medical exams, and learn more about the world of aquatic medicine. The Aquarium features new exhibits and programs about animal care geared to all ages. For more information, visit www.aquariumofpacific.org.

Art-A-Fair, now in it's 44 th year, is one of Southern Caiforniia's most popular art festivals. The juried art of 125 renowned artists from around the world, local artists promises to stir and bring forth passion to all who visit. Walk leisurely among the artists and learn what inspired them as they work on their oil paintings, watercolors, arcylics, drawings, photography, digital art, mixed medial, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, glass and wood, all available for purchase. Season pass adults $7, seniors, military adn students are $4, children 12 and under are free. For more information visit. www.art-a-fair.com

The Sawdust features fine art and craft of more 200 Laguna Beach artists and is sure to be the highlight of your summer adventures. Art enthusiasts, collectors, and novice artists have come to the Sawdust since its beginning in 1966 for its mix of fine art and craft. Media include hand-blown and fused glass, painting, jewelry, surf art, ceramics, clothing and textiles, wood and metal sculpture, scrimshaw, photography, and so much more. Sawdust artists are eager to share their creative process with you, so feel free to ask exhibitors questions, take an art workshop, and enjoy our live art demonstrations. Admission $7.75 adult one-day; $6.25 senior one-day (65+), $3.25 children (6-12), free children (5 & under); $15.00 season pass; $20.00 annual pass. For more information, visit www.sawdustfestival.org.

Discover the gross, the sticky, and the icky side of how your body works at Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body! For more information, visit www.discoverycube.org.

Tinkertoys are a favorite of the young and old alike! There’s no limit to what you can do when you use teamwork and creativity in this new traveling exhibit based on the classic building toy adored by generations of children. The exhibit features TINKERTOY in educational and fun activities inspired by GE’s successful “imagination at Work” campaign – showing how innovation can positively influence everyday life and create solutions to real world challenges. For more information, visit www.discoverycube.org.

The new, permanent Boeing Rocket Lab has five interactive learning zones designed for kids (and kids at heart) who love all things space, and want to learn about the science of space, rockets, and engineering. Channel your inner astronaut at the Blast Zone, refuel at the Rocket Fuel Station, take off at the Rocket Launch Station, and even Design Your Own Rocket! For more information, visit www.discoverycube.org.

The Cities of San Clemente of Dana Point, The Dana Point Harbor Association and its sponsors are proud to present the 2010 July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza. Anticipated every year to be one of the largest celebrations in Orange County, it can be viewed from virtually anywhere in in San Clemente or Dana Point Harbor. In San Clemente, stake out your spot on the beach early. Set up on either side. The show takes place at the end of the pier, so anywhere along the beach will give you a perfect vantage point. Two of the most popular locations at Dana Point are Heritage Park and Lantern Bay Park, both located on the cliffs above the Harbor. Dana Point restaurants and along the water also offer a spectacular view. Dana Wharf Sportfishing offers harbor excursions. For San Clemente information visit SanClemente.com or call 949-361-8200. For Dana Point fireworks show information, call 949.923.2255 or visit www.danapointharbor.com

Attention Young Explorers! Get ready to travel through time to discover the arts and cultures of ancient civilizations. Expeditions depart weekly! The Bowers Kidseum in Santa Ana offers weekly summer art camps for children to discover art from many diverse countries. Geared for kids ages 6–12, the camps focus on a different part of the globe each week. Camp instructors inspire children to engage their imaginations while working on art projects and archaeological experiences based on ancient history and contemporary indigenous life. Campers are exposed to culturally diverse views of life, everyday activities, rituals, food and celebrations. Camps are offered weekly from 9 am – 12:30 pm for $130 or 9 am – 3 pm for $175.

July 5 – 9 Himalayan Adventure
July 12 – 16 Mediterranean Odyssey
July 19 – 23 Voyage to the Pacific Islands
July 26 – 30: Modern Art Explorations (July 26 - 30)
August 2 – 6: Land of Aztecs, Mayans and Sun Gods

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., the Festival of the Arts in Laguna Beach is the longest running outdoor fine art exhibition in California. Every art medium is an original and available for purchase. Guided tours, demonstrations, and visual and performing arts entertainment are offered. Enjoy blues and jazz festivals, wine tasting, culinary arts demonstrations, and more. Season pass of $7 for general admission, $4 for seniors and students, children under 12 are free. Beginning July 7 at 8:30 and continuing nightly during the summer season, the Festival of Arts presents the Pageant of the Masters. Enjoy 90 minutes of "living pictures," faithful art re-creations of classical and contemporary works with real people posing to look exactly like their counterparts in the original pieces. An outdoor amphitheater, professional orchestra, original score, live narration, intricate sets, sophisticated lighting, expert staff, and hundreds of dedicated volunteers all combine to create an unforgettable experience. For tickets and information, call 949.494.1145 or visit www.lagunafestivalofarts.com.

Mission San Juan Capistrano hosts its 2010 Music Under the Stars summer concert series, offering something for everyone, no matter what age or musical taste. Dance to a variety of live music, including Latin and jazz, Motown, soul, R&B favorites, pop, rock, and tributes galore! Bring a picnic with family and friends to this historical setting, and sit at a reserved table or view the concert more casually from the comfort of your own lawn chair. Consider touring this historic California mission before a concert. It’s open daily 8:30 – 5 p.m. For concert tickets, table reservations, and general information, call 949.234.1300. 2010 line-up includes:

Saturday, July 10th
HOLLYWOOD U2: A Tribute to U2
Saturday, July 24th
THE DEREK BORDEAUX GROUP: Motown, Soul & R&B, the Right Way
Saturday, August 7th
HOT AUGUST NIGHT: A Tribute to Neil Diamond
Saturday, August 21st
SAVOR: A Tribute to Santana
Saturday, September 4th
THE FAB FOUR: The Ultimate Tribute to the Beatles

“The Beat Goes On” this summer at the OC Fair! On opening day, Friday, July 16, enjoy free admission and parking during the opening hour, from noon to 1 p.m. Take advantage of the OC Fair “Super Pass,” and for $30 (adult price), visit every day. The Fair is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Check out the Michael Jackson Laser Spectacular on July 21 in The Hangar, the OC Fair’s newest, coolest performance venue. The 2010 Summer Concert Series is geared to provide a premier concert experience at a fan-friendly ticket price and, as always, concert tickets include Fair admission. Headline acts include Styx, Faith Hill, John Legend, The B-52s, Adam Lambert & Orianthi, ZZ Top, LeAnne Rimes, with more to be announced. Of course, the Fair would not be the Fair without its abundance of contests, exhibits, carnival rides, and of course food! Approximately 80 vendors offer choices, including barbecued beef, giant turkey legs, corn dogs, cinnamon rolls, lemonade, deep-fried Twinkies, avocados and much more. The OC Fair is located off the 405 and 55 freeways at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. For more information and complete schedule of all Fair events, visit www.ocfair.com.

Young Frankenstein, a new musical comedy based on the Oscar-nominated hit 1974 film, is led by the creative team of the 12-time Tony® Award-winning smash The Producers, and features music and lyrics by three-time Tony Award winner Mel Brooks. Clive Barnes of the New York Post called Young Frankenstein, “the Broadway musical at its dizziest, glitziest and funniest.” Tickets start at $15 and will be available July 18. For tickets and a schedule of all performances at OC Performing Arts Center, visit www.ocpac.org.

Spa Week Fall 2010
Taking place September 13th-19th in Southern California, this Spa Week will double expand its reach across North America resulting in thousands of participating spas. As always, Spa Week will provide the latest and greatest in spa, beauty and fitness services to consumers nationwide for just $50, affording them the ability to experience the health benefits of the spa lifestyle. From luxurious body treatments to Yoga Sessions and Acupuncture, Spa Week offers something for anyone in need of some serious pampering on a budget! A complete list of participating spas and their treatments will be posted on www.spaweek.com August 16th in order for consumers to book their appointments in advance.

Celebrating its 22nd year, local Newport Beach eateries offer a delectable mix of good food, drink, music and fun. This very popular event is staged on Newport Center Drive at Fashion Island. For more information, call the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce at 949.729.4400 or visit www.tasteofnewport.com.