AUTHOR: Tom Bell

Tom is the former host/producer of the Disneyland Edition podcast and is currently the co-host of the Connecting With Walt podcast, plus is also providing Disneyland content from the parks. He enjoys traveling with friends and spending time with family, including his son and grandson. In his spare time he volunteers with Scouts BSA and Cub Scouts, and helped found his son's former Cub Scout Pack. His favorite Disneyland attraction is Space Mountain.

Disneyland fans respond to new “MaxPass” system

By Tom Bell | Published January 12, 2017

This week, the Disneyland Resort announced a new way for guests to use their smartphones while in the Parks: Disney MaxPass, which combines elements of both PhotoPass and FastPass…for $10 a day. Disneyland fans all over social media and elsewhere on the internet were quick to share their opinions about the new option, and posters on … Disneyland fans respond to new “MaxPass” system

Disneyland is getting new FastPass locations and new digital FastPass option

By Tom Bell | Published January 11, 2017

The Disneyland Resort is adding two new FastPass attractions, one in each Park, and later this year will be launching a new digital FastPass service! Very soon, FastPass will be added to Toy Story Midway Mania in Disney California Adventure and Matterhorn Bobsleds in Disneyland Park, bringing the total number of FastPass attractions to 16. … Disneyland is getting new FastPass locations and new digital FastPass option

New Disneyland ticket offer for Southern California residents

By Tom Bell | Published January 10, 2017

The Disneyland Resort has released an exciting new ticket offer aimed at Southern California residents! Beginning today and continuing through May 22, 2017, Southern California residents can purchase a 3-Day 1 Park Ticket for only $150 (regular price is $255 for adults) or a 3-Day Park Hopper for only $189 (regular price is $295 for … New Disneyland ticket offer for Southern California residents

SeaWorld San Diego to get new coaster

By Tom Bell | Published January 4, 2017

SeaWorld San Diego has begun its move away from Shamu and toward more thrills with the announcement of a new roller coaster coming in 2018. The Electric Eel includes loops, twists and a 150-foot ascent before sending guests into an inverted roll that will give them an upside-down view of Mission Bay.  The coaster will … SeaWorld San Diego to get new coaster

Disney animator Tyrus Wong passes away

By Tom Bell | Published December 31, 2016

Tyrus Wong, a Disney Legend whose artistic style heavily influenced the classic Disney animated feature “Bambi,” has passed away at age 106. As a child, Wong immigrated to America with his father, leaving behind his mother and sister.  Wong’s talent and interest in art emerged at an early age and his father encouraged it by … Disney animator Tyrus Wong passes away

Fan organizes lightsaber tribute to Carrie Fisher in Downtown Disney

By Tom Bell | Published December 29, 2016

Nearly 100 fans gathered in Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort on Wednesday night for a lightsaber tribute to Star Wars icon Carrie Fisher. After a similar event fell through Tuesday night, Anaheim resident Jeff Rowan took to social media and organized the event himself. Fans gathered near Tortilla Jo’s restaurant, then at 7pm all … Fan organizes lightsaber tribute to Carrie Fisher in Downtown Disney

Big Thunder Trail reopens giving Disneyland guests a look at Star Wars construction

By Tom Bell | Published December 28, 2016

During one of the busiest times of the year, Disneyland Park has reopened, at least temporarily, the Big Thunder Trail. These pictures from @ParksAndCons Twitter feed show that guests are getting a sneak peak at the construction happening inside the new Star Wars themed land as they walk the Trail. The Big Thunder Trail ran … Big Thunder Trail reopens giving Disneyland guests a look at Star Wars construction

2017 Rose Bowl teams to visit California Adventure

By Tom Bell | Published December 27, 2016

Coaches and players from the Penn State Nittany Lions and the University of Southern California Trojans will visit the Disneyland Resort today as part of the lead-up to their appearance in next week’s Rose Bowl Game. In their only joint appearance during bowl week, the teams will be welcomed to Cars Land in Disney California … 2017 Rose Bowl teams to visit California Adventure

Remember…Dreams Come True Fireworks Returning to Disneyland!

By Tom Bell | Published December 22, 2016

‘Remember…Dreams Come True’, the fireworks show created for Disneyland’s 50th birthday, will soon return to the Park. After the holidays, Fantasy in the Sky fireworks will be presented on the weekends, then on February 3, 2017, ‘Remember…Dreams Come True‘ will return to Disneyland. “‘Remember … Dreams Come True‘ features Tinker Bell’s flight, brilliant fireworks, soaring … Remember…Dreams Come True Fireworks Returning to Disneyland!

Special Entertainment at California Adventure for New Year’s Eve

By Tom Bell | Published December 20, 2016

Disney California Adventure has announced some special entertainment to help guests ring in 2017! A new stage will be installed at the end of the street in Hollywood Land and DJ Roueche will be providing music all night long.  The stage will also be used for special performances by Disney Channel star Olivia Holt (“Kickin’ … Special Entertainment at California Adventure for New Year’s Eve